Made for the founding president of the New York Pipe Club, the late Sailorman Jack, Cornell & Diehl's Billy Budd is a full-bodied Latakia blend with a solid supporting cast of other select pipe tobaccos, but what makes it stand out is the creaminess added by the use of wonderful maduro cigar leaf. Enjoy thick plumes of smoke, great mouth feel, and true depth of flavor with C&D's classic Billy Budd.
My all-time favorite tobacco bar none! This is an exceptional American English blend. The burley is top notch and the Latakia is to die for. The cigar leaf provides that little something that just pushes it over the top. If you are a lover of English blends and like a bold flavorful tobacco. I heartily recommend Billy Budd. I just wish this was available by the ton!
4 out of 5
Smooth creamy, deep bodied smoke!
Jun 22, 2023
Smooth creamy, deep bodied smoke!
5 out of 5
Delicious flavor. Better than expected.
May 19, 2023
Delicious flavor. Better than expected.
5 out of 5
This is a great blend!
Mar 14, 2023
This is a great blend! Can’t go wrong with this one!
4 out of 5
Pleasant savory yet creamy blend. Difficult to stay lit though.
Feb 23, 2023
Nice hearty blend. Rich aroma out of the bag. Unfortunately I had a bit of trouble keeping the bowl cherried, & couldn't accumulate big enough plumes of smoke because of it.
That being said, the flavor notes I got were almost that of a savory beef stew, with a creamy side of buttery mashed potatoes. I think the Maduro cigar filling definitely contributed to the creamy aftertaste.
Hopefully the following bowls will provide an even more enjoyable smoke to get a better taste of the complexities.
5 out of 5
A really good English blend
Feb 23, 2023
A really good English blend tobacco in my opinion better than Peterson nite cap
5 out of 5
Excellent tobacco. Ready to smoke
Feb 15, 2023
Excellent tobacco. Ready to smoke from the tin. My new favorite.
5 out of 5
Age it. Age lots of it.
Feb 09, 2023
Smoke it right away, and you’ll have what is in my opinion a decent but unremarkable lat bomb. Put some age on it, (at least a year but preferably a year and a half, in my experience) and it makes it’s return as a sophisticated masterpiece of spice, incense and charred hardwood, possessing none of the one-note lat bomb characteristics of yesteryear’s can. That cigar leaf they use, as most do, *requires* age to really come into itself; and man is it worth it.
This was PipefriendCHS’s favorite, and he absolutely knew what he was talking about. Age it for one of the finest Latakia blends on the market.
5 out of 5
The spice is right
Oct 12, 2022
The smoke from this blend is rich and robust; the Burley is steady and mellow; the perique spice is just right. A favorite.
5 out of 5
Decent Blend
Aug 29, 2022
It is a great cigar leaf blend. I tend to enjoy these non aromatic blends. It has a deep dark flavor. The room note is tolerable for my wife so that keeps me happy you happy wife happy life. The aftertaste is enjoyable and if you like Burley blends it may be something you will put in your wheel house.
5 out of 5
How So Good?
Mar 19, 2022
Love this stuff. It’s my everyday main tobacco. The little bit of cigar leaf balances the heaps of latakia. So, you can smoke a lat bomb all day without getting latakia overload. Genius. Last thing, if you’ve so far hesitated to try Billy Budd because you heard it’s a vitamin N powerhouse, ignore those reviews. It’s by no means an N overload. In fact, I’m no N heavyweight, and I notice no appreciable difference in vitamin N between BB and, say, Star of the East. So, give BB a try. It might become your everyday smoke.
5 out of 5
For those who prefer aged
Feb 14, 2022
For those who prefer aged leaf without all the infused aromatics. Smokes a bit hot but is still smooth and rewarding
5 out of 5
Send another pound!
Jan 29, 2022
Send another pound! It's a shame I can't afford a ton! As the "Old Swillwaukee" commercial once said, "It doesn't get any better than this". Contrary to the opinion of some, this blend tastes best smoked in a Quality Briar Pipe. My Stanwells', Comoys', Royal Dutch' and Hilsons', love it, and so do I! If C&D ever discontinues Billy Budd, I may give up the pipe altogether, and smoke only cigars again. It really is that good! Regards, Dean
4 out of 5
One of my favorite tobaccos.
Jun 16, 2021
One of my favorite tobaccos. Coming from cigars, I like the cigar leaf and the Latakia blend. The last shipment of 4 ounces I received was a bit dry, and needed some humidification.
5 out of 5
Looking for something close to
Jun 10, 2021
Looking for something close to a cigar flavor, I found this. Really like it. Will be buying more.
5 out of 5
Unique blend
May 29, 2021
I definitely get the Latakia up front with a subtle but noticeable burley undertone. It’s a very interesting creamy but slightly spicy smoke, possibly from the cigar leaf, that changes throughout the bowl. This blend is intriguing and very enjoyable, I’m glad I bought a good bit of it.
5 out of 5
Everyone needs to try this at least once.
May 02, 2021
Absolutely my favorite tobacco. Smells, tastes, and smokes amazing.
5 out of 5
Unique and Big Flavor
Mar 25, 2021
Big, bold and definitely a rich cigar wrapper flavor. The Latakia gives it a good spice. Strong kick and slightly bitter but enjoyable.
5 out of 5
Very good!
Mar 06, 2021
An excellent smoke if you love full flavor or maybe a cigar smoker trying out some pipe toby for the first time.
5 out of 5
Fantastic
Feb 27, 2021
Keep reaching for this one, unique, full flavored, sweet and tangy latakia, has qualities of an infused cigar, slight perfume like aroma, almost cried on the first retrohale, but absolutely choked on how bold and incredible it was. I don't smoke this daily but pretty damn near every other night. Fantastic blend.
5 out of 5
100% buy if you like extra Nic
Nov 10, 2020
Love the cigar leaf, the room note is bold/strong nice heavy blend to end the day/night also love to pair with bourbon
4 out of 5
Cigar lover? Do not overlook this blend
Sep 24, 2020
BILLY BUDD!!!
If you're a cigar lover like I am, and you like the zesty spiciness of an English blend then you owe it to yourself to give this blend a try.
You've already read about the full body taste, the vitamin N content, and the satisfying taste with billows of smoke.
You've also read that its possibly best enjoyed out of a MM cob.
I couldn't agree more with any of those thoughts, I enjoy this blend and find it preferable over, Nightcap, C&D Habana Daydream ,Plumb Pudding, and most other blends that i I've tried to date.
This stuff totally scratches my cigar itch out of my MM Stubby nose warmer.
I will be keeping this stuff on hand for daily consumption.
5 out of 5
Great taste, cool burn
Aug 12, 2020
This is a great blend. The nicotine is a bit hefty, which I like, and in all my pipes it smokes well, stays lit, and satisfies
5 out of 5
Great Tobacco
Aug 09, 2020
If you are a fan of English blends and Cigars this is something you should try.
Fairly full and rich. Heavy on the cigar leaf. I mix it with Peterson’s (formerly Dunhill) Nightcap for a little boost in strength and to round out the cigar leaf.
Highly recommended.
5 out of 5
It is good
Jul 20, 2020
Like the taste of this on a lot.
4 out of 5
Great for outdoors or man cave
May 20, 2020
The wife bought this for me to try. She opened it and banned it from being smoked in the house. Said smelled like old cigars..it does. Tastes like a smooth higher end Opus cigar. Enjoying it as I drive my rig
5 out of 5
Cigar Presence Noted
May 04, 2020
I smoked 2 ounces of this and then 4 ounces of Habana Daydreams and now another 2 ounces of Billy Budd. I found them both to be excellent with the BB having a little sharper edge and a more noticeable cigar taste. My own preference is the Habana as I find it smoother however if you are a present or prior cigar smoker you should really enjoy this. My order arrived promptly and the moisture content was pretty near perfect.
5 out of 5
Perfect
Apr 21, 2020
Started off with Lane BS-005 very nice, however, not always in stock. Found Billy Budd this is even BETTER! Stronger then Lane BS-005, but perfect for me, being an old cigar user.
4 out of 5
C&D Billy Budd, a flavorful smoke
Oct 22, 2019
Right up front, I'm a cigar guy. I like lots of different kinds and styles, the same way with my pipes and pipe tobacco. I came for the Maduro cigar leaf, I'll stay for the latakia, mouth feel, and robust flavor. I dried this a bit (30 minutes), and packed my Stanwell 768 with this somewhat coarse blend, not too tightly, and gave it a charring light. I was met with a very robust latakia smoky flavor. Unlike many tobaccos, it didn't go out right away. After a few pulls on the pipe, I tamped the top and re-lit it. I was careful to "Sip" this tobacco. It rewarded me with a smooth and bite free smoke, with robust flavor, nice nicotine level, and a very full and "chewy" mouth-feel. I never did taste sweet Maduro tobacco, but the burley is recognizable behind the latakia. It's not a cigar, or even close to it, but it is very good robust tobacco for those who enjoy the flavor of tobacco. I wouldn't recommend this to new pipe smokers, lovers of Aromatics, Virginia, or Va-pers. Those who enjoy a powerful English, or Balkan may find it to their liking. That being said, it is neither an English, nor a Balkan. Some might call it an "American-English", but I believe it's too robust for that. I guess I'll just call it "Billy Budd". Regards, Dean
4 out of 5
Needs hydration like most CD bulk.
Jul 15, 2019
Billy budd bulk is good but often comes quite dry. It NEEDS some hydration or else the smoke will be quite harsh on the palate. My solution is to just rub a bit of purified water using just a finger on the inside of my mason jar once every day for a week or so. I'd imagine you could use humidity packets too if you are picky about specific humidity.
Billy budd is one of those tobaccos that you wouldn't think mixes well with cavendish aros, but really does. I'm quite partial to half billy bud and half whiskey aro for a smoke that still has a lot of body and strength and just a hint of the whiskey.
5 out of 5
Billy Budd - Yum!
May 12, 2019
Definitely a good blend for cigar lovers. The cigar leaf does come out on top, but you still get the smoky, creamy incense of the latakia. The other components are there but you have to search for them a bit. Excellent blend! It’s a weekly smoke for me, usually on a Friday evening after dinner.
4 out of 5
Noobs save it for later.
Feb 03, 2019
My rating is higher than my original opinion of this tobacco. I have to say, I probably ordered this one a bit early in my pipe smoking journey. It was the second blend I ever tried and I say now it's not for a noob. I want to try it again, as I have gained ground in my pipe game and think I'd have a different opinion now. I remember it smoking very nicely, but my palate just wasn't ready.
3 out of 5
Billy Budd
Jan 19, 2019
A little too strong for my taste, but a good tobacco. Aromatic with a strong note. It WILL wake up the nose.
5 out of 5
Great tobacco
Jan 09, 2019
Great tobacco
5 out of 5
My favorite
Dec 30, 2018
This is my favorite tobacco hands down!
5 out of 5
Great choice for cigar fans!
Dec 22, 2018
I've enjoyed cigars for 10+ years, but just decided to try a pipe. Went through a few of the classic drugstore aromatics and just was disappointed in the end with all of them. Nothing particularly bad, but nothing that made me want to swap from a cigar. Was recommended Billy Budd by a Facebook group, and it sealed the deal for me! No aromatic fluff here - just full of strong tobacco flavor and smoke. I ordered an ounce of a couple others with it, but of the three this is definitely my favorite.
5 out of 5
Big fan
Nov 29, 2018
I was surprised how much I like it. It's a flavorful blend that you can smoke all day long
3 out of 5
Pretty good
Nov 07, 2018
Not as good as hoping. Still a decent smoke. Has a lot of the cigar leaf in there
4 out of 5
Strong
Aug 21, 2018
A good tobacco but strong cigar presence,taste like a cigar
5 out of 5
Great stiff shot of English with a Cigar
Aug 07, 2018
I went through 8oz of this in not time due to the great and bold flavor. Time to order some more asap!
5 out of 5
PawBoe
Aug 04, 2018
It's not in my top five English.
3 out of 5
PawBoe likes his English
Jul 04, 2018
For myself, just an ok smoke. Not much of a Nic. hit, got more from Crowley's Best. Still looking for the one that compares to DH Nightcap. " The Search Continues. "
5 out of 5
Billy Budd
Jun 18, 2018
I have had this blend in the past and sort of gave up on it but upon seeing an online review decided to give it another go. I loved it! I am a cigar smoker as well as a pipe smoker and the cigar leaf really jumped out at me this time. Also a huge latakia lover so this one has my name all over it! I want to commend you on your quick service. I got my order in record time! Keep up the good work!
5 out of 5
Gateway blend.
May 29, 2018
I had decided to expand from cigars in to pipe smoking to see how I felt. This was one of the first blends I smoked that really struck me. It also helped my to figure out what types of tobacco I like in my blends.
5 out of 5
Great for relaxing in the evening
May 24, 2018
Came in the tin at just the right moisture to start smoking it. Reminded me of Dunhills Nightcap, which to me is a good thing. What sets it apart is that cigar leaf that wasn't overpowering. It definitely still tastes like a pipe blend, but a slight cigar note on the end, that left a creamy mouth feel similar to a Maduro cigar. Will quickly become my favorite evening blend to relax with.
To Any married smokers: my Wife wasn't in love with the room note. She said it didn't stink but it was very strong.
5 out of 5
Billy Budd is the bomb
Feb 07, 2018
Billy Budd is a nice smoke for someone like myself who enjoys cigars slightly more than most Pipe Tobacco. However Billy Budd pleases me seeing how it gives me the best of both worlds in one bowl. Helps me save my cigars for special occasions !
4 out of 5
Very mature and developed flavor
Jan 04, 2018
At first I wasn't sure about this one still being fairly new to the pipe world. At first, it was a bit too much for my mouth to grasp. But, after a few bowls it has totally grown on me. I would probably say to let this one sit a bit in the pipe before lighting, give it a bit of air. A strong smoke, lovely depth in flavor and has become a very enjoyable bowl for me in the evening. My wife says it smells very "Manley" as far as the room note goes.
4 out of 5
for the cigar lovers
Dec 11, 2017
It's a rich blend, very reminiscent of a good cigar. If you like full English, or smoke cigars and you're looking to get into pipes, its well worth a try!
5 out of 5
非常好的賣家 ！good
Nov 17, 2017
very good
5 out of 5
Shiver me timbers
Nov 02, 2017
Having smoked this robust blend before I knew I was in for a solid nicotine hit, was not disappointed! Although not for the faint of heart Billy Buds is fast becoming an all day smoke out of a corn cob for me.
5 out of 5
One of my go-to blends
Apr 06, 2017
Excellent aroma. I love the mild cigar flavor.
5 out of 5
Better than good
Feb 07, 2017
I enjoy the C&D burleys each day. HBS / BnB / OJK / Briar Fox and of course the Billy Budd. Once the Dunhill blends are gone these will be my only tobacco's.
5 out of 5
Former cigar smoker - new pipe smoker that really enjoys this blend
Jan 03, 2017
I am a new pipe smoker, but I was a longterm cigar smoker that preferred more full-flavored cigars. I am leaning towards full-flavored and spicy pipe tobacco and this blend has hit the spot for me. I have enjoyed every bowl that I have smoked and this does remind me of a nice full flavored cigar. I am glad that I ordered 4oz out of the gate and will be ordering more to age some.
5 out of 5
Full Bodied Flavor
Dec 22, 2016
I wanted to try to duplicate a pound of "Best Of The Rest" which I bought from P&C about six months ago. I knew it contained cigar leaf, which I really enjoy. After researching a while, I came across Billy Budd. I was encouraged by the reviews so I ordered a pound. I couldn't be happier. I have 3/4 of it jarred in my cellar while I enjoy the rest in my regular rotation. It's perfect in the late afternoon or evening paired with a dry red wine or stout beer. Tread lightly, because the nicotine content is above average.
5 out of 5
Unique
Dec 20, 2016
Yes I like it - a bit different but very good. My usual are Haunter Bookshop / Big n Burley / Old Joe Krantz. Billy Budd makes an interesting change which I find pleasurable.
5 out of 5
5 Stars
Nov 27, 2016
5/5. If you're looking for an English blend with that little extra kick, this is the product for you. The cigar maduro is just right, doesn't overpower the other tobaccos.
4 out of 5
Cigar in a bowl
Nov 09, 2016
I really enjoy this tobacco. It's the closest to a cigar that I've had. It smokes a little fast though. I will but it again after my 8 oz is gone
5 out of 5
Billy Budd
Sep 01, 2016
Great tobacco. I really like the cigar leaf it gives Billy Bud a creamy mouthfeel/taste which goes very well with the latakia.
4 out of 5
Tasty!
Jun 23, 2016
I just love this stuff! The Nic hit is not what they say it is. I find it smooth and flavorful. The can note is awful, but once you put flame to this blend, it's heavenly!
5 out of 5
billy budd review
Jun 21, 2016
I have to say I enjoyed this tobacco. This was my first try with a heavy latakia blend. I found it smooth and creamy. I could taste the cigar notes and a slight burley presence was there midway to the end of the bowl. Though I enjoyed this blend, I think I would probably prefer it as an occasional smoke. I am very fond of burley and have smoking lots of big and burley lately. I am a fool for good stout burley smokes.
5 out of 5
Great
Jun 21, 2016
By far my favorite this is awsome. What ever is in this , that's what I like. If you are on the fence about Latakia blends you need to try this.
5 out of 5
Favorite so far
Jun 20, 2016
I'm moving from cigars to pipes. I miss the rich flavor of cigars and this pipe tobacco fills that niche very nicely. This tobacco is one of my very favorites.
5 out of 5
C&D Billy Budd
May 23, 2016
I'm not a cigar smoker but I do like one every now and again. Billy Budd is a very good substitute,Plus I can use a pipe. It's different. This is one of my top 5 favorites. Goes great with a cold beer or a nice glass of wine.A+ in my book
5 out of 5
I've been a pipe smoker
May 23, 2016
I've been a pipe smoker for almost 40 years and Billy Bud is absulutly hands down my favorite. If you like Robert Lewis 123 or GL Pease Key Largo you will love this stuff! BB is so much more of a creamy and full smoking .the wonderful aftertaste and slight saltyness on the lips is the hook . You just can't wait for the next puff!
5 out of 5
Thank you sailorman Jack!
May 19, 2016
This is one terrific tobacco!The Latakia is present,but the cigar leaf sends the flavor out of this world.Good kick of nicotine but not overpowering.Easy to light,and stays lit with little trouble.Nice size flakes so packing is easy especially for larger bowls.Got a two ounce tin and I see it not lasting,going to get more so if it's backordered you can blame me!This is what a true tobacco should taste like.
5 out of 5
New star player in my everyday tobacco rotation
May 04, 2016
Awesome English blend will definitely purchase again this one just gained a spot i my everyday tobacco rotation
3 out of 5
A happy customer
Mar 30, 2016
I enjoyed this blend. It's a good smoke for nighttime. The rough cut cigar leaf is what makes this blend. I would not suggest this blend to someone who can't stand the taste of a robust cigar. It's a good blend to have around. Im very happy with this purchase.
5 out of 5
Cigar and Pipe fix in one.
Mar 18, 2016
This is a strong blend, get past the strength factor and you begin to appreciate all the other nice flavors you get from the high quality leaf used in this blend, Ive never had it before but I bought an 8 oz tin knowing I would like it and I have no regrets so far. Try it if you enjoy robust flavors.
5 out of 5
Nice change up
Mar 02, 2016
Very thick and satisfying smoke. I've only had the bulk. C & D 's website states it is full strength, but maybe that is with the tins. I would consider this to be a medium strength full bodied tobacco. The cigar leaf is wonderful smoked out of a MM cob pipe.
5 out of 5
Billy Budd - Ahh
Mar 01, 2016
When you really want a nicotine lift this is it! Either with coffee, a good tawny port or a nice single malt it's a great way to end the day.
3 out of 5
Mixture
Feb 04, 2016
A bit too strong for what I like , I'm using it as a mix.
5 out of 5
WOW !!
Jan 26, 2016
Absolutely love this. Was on the fence with the cigar leaf blends till I had the bowl of this and wow the smooth robust mouth feel coupled with a luxurious creamy taste just amazed me. And it only got better by the third bowl. Tin note is imo a strong leathery thick aroma. Cut is very large but it packs well and stays lit. I have had 4-5 bowls in a day and can't say even with a little abuse it tamps well and stays cool smoking.
Did give some to a friend who loaded a cob vs my thick briar and the general impression was though slightly better in flavour it ran to the hot side. My only regret is I didn't order a few pounds to cellar
5 out of 5
My Ideal Evening Smoke
Nov 19, 2015
This is a fantastic blend. The latakia brings the campfire-esque smokiness, which pairs very well with the cigar leaf. The creaminess mentioned is prominent with a retro-hale, and the aftertaste is similar to a single malt whisky; a nice earthy/wood taste, and no bitterness near the end of the bowl.
5 out of 5
good strong tobacco.
Oct 25, 2015
Highly recommend product.
5 out of 5
Stuff this in your pipe and smoke it!
Oct 24, 2015
I just love this one. I usually vary between aromatics, English and Latakia, seldom smoking more than 1 or 2 bowls; but I have never had a pipe tobacco as satisfying as this one. The first day I went through four bowls and have been smoking at that rate ever since. I can't stop smoking it. I even prefer it to the one I blended for myself. Billy Budd gives me the same satisfaction I used to get from smoking a good cigar.
5 out of 5
Billy bud
Oct 17, 2015
thos is a great blend. It has a nice smoky Latinos flavor but the cigar leaf adds a great flavor unlike other english blends I've had. It's like the taste or a good cigar towards the end kind of musty woodsy and creamy. Very rich and full flavored from start to finish.
5 out of 5
Excellent!!!!
Oct 02, 2015
Bully Bud is a very stout smoke. Has a more cigar flavor to it so the transition for me from cigar to pipe was easy with this one.
4 out of 5
Great English Blend
Sep 09, 2015
This one packs a punch! Lots of good woodsy flavor and plenty of smoke. Definitely not for the aromatic smoker! I wouldn't want a big bowl of it, but for something different, it makes a great change.
Customer Testimonials
Great, five stars, all the spice and body of a cigar here, and the quantity of latakia gives it a nice round finish. the downside? burns a little hot and fast, as it may be expected, maybe because it's really coarse ground, really big chunks. But none of this deprives this blend from being a great experience.
MG of CALEXICO, CA
I love this blend! I am a cigar smoker, and was on the lookout for a cigar leaf blend that could replicate the cigar flavor that I crave. I think this is the closest one yet! I have enjoyed Habana Daydream by Cornell and Diehl in the past, but this is in my opinion better. It is a stronger blend which really brings out the cigar leaf. Don’t let the latakia scare you off. The blend is done in such a way, that I hardly notice the latakia.
DB of Ramsey, MN
Great cigar leaf blend but not too overpowering like some other cigar leaf blends. It was recommended by pipefriend on YouTube and the man knows what he's talking about. the cigar leaf and latikia work off each other. Will order more.
JP of Durango, CO
I was looking for a pipe tobacco that would replace my cigar cravings, which can get a bit pricey ($7-$12 a smoke). Billy Budd is the perfect switch. It's full bodied, a little peppery, a little smokey, and tastes like a medium cigar approaching the darker side of medium. And for $5 an ounce, it's far cheaper than cigars. My only regret is not buying more to increase the bang for my shipping buck.
CG of Valencia, CA
As a former cigar smoker I was curious. This Blend was wonderful rich and full bodied and the cigar leaf sent it over the top. I recommend this to any cigar lover whose is thinking of trying a pipe or any full bodied blend fanatic. Will be purchasing again.
LF of Eldorado, IL
The best of the cigar blend tobacco. Full flavor, and full body smoke. I sometimes mix this with Carter Hall or John Bull because it has alot of latakia in it. For some reason it tastes the best to me in my larger size corn cob pipes. Excellent.
Sign Up for Email Specials
