Hearth & Home Marquee Series' Fusilier's Ration is in a category all its own. This easy to prepare crumble cake begins with plenty of rich Cyprian Latakia and some of the most fragrant of all the Oriental varietals. Zesty, sweet yellow Virginia is added to brighten the flavor. Some mellow, unflavored black Cavendish is included to add body. The finishing touch is the subtle and complementary, old-fashioned top note. It accents the flavor and aroma while never being clearly noticeable.
Fusilier's Ration was created by Russ Ouellette as a tribute to one of his all-time favorite blends - Bengal Slices. Connoisseurs from all over have tried this "homage" blend, and have raved about the bright, smoky flavor, and the incense-like aroma. It burns cool, has lots of flavor and has a short, clean finish. If you like Latakia blends that aren't too heavy, with a lively aroma, and won't leave your palate muddied, then you're sure to love Hearth & Home Marquee Series Fusilier's Ration. “I'll start by saying that Fusilier's Ration was love at first light. The flakes are pressed pretty densely but break apart like a crumble cake. It packs well and usually two lights will get it going. The taste is very intriguing; very old timey to me." -John F.
Super-duper. I’m a fan of English, and loved Frog Morton’s, Pelican, etc. This one has the top-end spice from the orientals and Latakia without being overpowering. The addition of the cavendish with flavors that are thick, mellow, and lightly sweet. This is a brilliant blend that ticks all the boxes for me. It’ll be a staple in my rotation from now on.
4 out of 5
Exotic, nutty, sweet with an
Jan 18, 2023
Exotic, nutty, sweet with an earthy overtone. It’s cake format, but once prepared it burns very nicely. The room note is probably the only thing to complain about - says my wife - personally I had no issue with it.
5 out of 5
Requested as a gift for
Sep 13, 2022
Requested as a gift for a friend -
He was very pleased with it.
My order arrived as promised and was correct - thanks
5 out of 5
Bengal Slices with a little less tang
Aug 08, 2022
Finally cracked a tin of this and gave it a shot. It is very similar to Bengal Slices (right down to the light anise casing) but a little less tangy. I might prefer this to Bengal Slices as a Summer smoke.
5 out of 5
love it!
Apr 18, 2022
One of favorites blends, i like it a little better than the bengal slices. They are both good.
5 out of 5
Very nice for English blend
Apr 09, 2022
Very nice for English blend fans. Still miss CAO Old Ironsides though.
3 out of 5
Loved it..just wish the blend
Mar 30, 2022
Loved it..just wish the blend had more oriental tobbacco.nice smooth.full body smoke
3 out of 5
I trying flake tobacco for
Mar 24, 2022
I trying flake tobacco for the 1st time and not enjoying the tobacco as it's hard to keep lit. I prefer flake tobaccos.
5 out of 5
difficult to light but once
Jan 30, 2022
difficult to light but once lit it stays lit and taste great.
5 out of 5
This is my all time
Jan 27, 2022
This is my all time favorite blend. Has a thick rich smoke toot and a moderate to strong taste. Will be buying much more of this
5 out of 5
Great smoke!
Jan 13, 2022
Great smoke!
5 out of 5
Probably one of the best
Jan 12, 2022
Probably one of the best tinned tobacco's I've had to date.
5 out of 5
Historical tobacco
Dec 23, 2021
A banger smoke. I feel like an old soldier, (Fusellier), I am, with every pipe. Crumbles easy, burns well and a smoke full of flavour every time. Splendid room note, nose and taste. This version stands alone at he top. A most enjoyable mixture.
5 out of 5
Fusilier's Ration
Oct 26, 2021
This is probably the best English blend I have tried! Very smooth, bite free, great flavor and room note and is a lower cost version of Bengal Slices! Great job by Russ Oullette! Highly recommend!🙂
4 out of 5
Finally one to pair with whisky
Aug 11, 2021
First, I'm not typically a fan of flake tobacco. But I find one application in particularly that this tobacco suits very well. I usually prefer a cigar with my scotch. I've tried various pipe tobaccos and call me crazy, but the English blends and Balkan blends that I favor often present a slight (but repelling) banana note when paired with whisky. Yes, a banana note! I don't care...try it yourself and maybe you'll see. Anyway, I digress. Where was I? O, the fusiliers ration. It pairs incredibly well with scotch. Moreover, I am of the Islay make persuasion, so I'm referring in particular to Laphroaig. Heavy peat smoke, briney seaspray, yes.... Goes remarkably well with the round, dark, fragrant plumes of this earthy tobacco.
5 out of 5
Very much enjoyed the Fusiliers
Mar 16, 2021
Very much enjoyed the Fusiliers Ration. One ounce was backordered and hope to see it soon. Don't want to run out.
3 out of 5
Eh... Not Really My Preferred Type of Tobacco
Jan 29, 2021
Obviously a good quality tobacco and one that I like well enough. However, it wouldn't be my go to choice. I have two tins that I'll complete over time, but I probably won't pursue it further,
1 out of 5
I realize that many people
Jan 25, 2021
I realize that many people very much like and appreciate this blend; but I found it too strong in flavor and did not appreciate the taste very much. I will not be buying it again.
5 out of 5
Mighty tasty balkan flake.
Jan 20, 2021
Smoky, nutty, fruity, sweetness all in balance. Quite rich. Rubs out easily and burns cool. Better than Bengal Slices IMO.
4 out of 5
Cheaper version of Bengal Slices
Jan 18, 2021
Very similar to Russ's Bengal Slices, this blend is less expensive and every bit as good.
5 out of 5
I really tasty Latakia forward
Dec 16, 2020
I really tasty Latakia forward English mix highly recommended.
5 out of 5
An excellent blend.
Dec 15, 2020
A nice, well balanced blend. Not the fullest I’ve had, but definitely up there. Not looking at how well it mimics the original, but rather how good it is just as a tobacco. As to that, I really like it, and plan to purchase more.
4 out of 5
Better than Bengal
Jun 12, 2020
I've never had the original Bengal Slices but I have had the recreation and think this homage is better. It has a deep rich taste and the topping nicely compliments the underlying tobaccos without ever washing them out. A wonderful blend.
5 out of 5
A Welcome Back Treat
Apr 17, 2020
I just got back into pipe smoking while we're all on mandatory time off for covid. I got this as part of the Three Wise Men, and oh my, was it the winner. Lovely cool smoke in my churchwarden, very little condensation, and a flavor to die for. Well done on this blend, I'll be stocking up on the bulk version in my next order and checking out some others from the HH series soon.
5 out of 5
Fusiliers Ration
Mar 13, 2020
I smoke more aromatic pipe tobacco than non, but several times a week, I like to sort of cleanse my palette with Fusiliers Ration. The deep Smokey taste is just what I want. Great tobacco Russ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 out of 5
Fragrant and creamy
Mar 03, 2020
Latakia forward with fine Orientals playing together. Virginia for body and sweetness . Fragrant and rich and creamy. Has a bourbon tasting topping lightly applied . Good smoke . Break it apart gently or it will turn to dust .
4 out of 5
A Very Good English Blend
Dec 26, 2019
Fusiller's Blend from Hearth and Home is a very good English blend. I would classify it as medium strength. It has a good taste and delightful aroma. My personal preference for stronger English blends is the only reason I gave this four instead of five stars. If you like less strong blends, this tobacco is a no-brainer.
4 out of 5
An awesome crumble cake English.
Nov 16, 2019
This is a great tobacco. The tin note is smokey and inviting. All of the tobacco's play well in the bowl and it never become monotoned. I never tried Bengal Slices but if it's like this, then it has to be good too.
5 out of 5
Quality Tobacco with Great Taste
Oct 15, 2019
Great presentation and nose out of the tin in the form of a krumble cake with bursts of smoke, wood, and sweetness. Smokes cool and leaves a wonderful aftertaste. Latakia is the star, but the supporting cast plays their parts well. Definitely a blend I would like to have on-hand at all times.
5 out of 5
Great Choice
Oct 01, 2019
Crumbles nice. Excellent burn. Taste is inviting. The more matured crowd tells me the smell reminds them of old blends.
4 out of 5
Nice old school English
Sep 18, 2019
A nice smooth, mellow English. The Latakia isn't strong and it doesn't have the same punch as something like Plus Pudding, but still very good.
5 out of 5
Yes
Aug 29, 2019
Tin note of smoked brisket! I Love the cut and the cool clean burn of this tobacco. A must try for those who fancy themselves a budding pipe smoker.
5 out of 5
A keeper
Aug 29, 2019
Clean flavor, excellent flake
4 out of 5
Musky and fine..
Jul 24, 2019
This is one I've been asked to smoke outside, which I don't mind at all because the blend is worth the hassle. Smells like musky old man hiding in a dusty used book store but it burns beautifully. It crumbles easily and stuffs nicely. Not a total latakia bomb, but it's there and cool burning. There's a little sweet Virginia in there that evens the thing out nicely. Wish I could try the retro stuff I see the old timers compare this one to.
5 out of 5
An excellent joice. Wish you
Jul 07, 2019
An excellent joice. Wish you sold it in bulk
5 out of 5
Fusiliers Ration
Jul 03, 2019
Nice smoke. Awesome flavor. Very aromatic.
5 out of 5
Damn fine smoke in it's
Jun 22, 2019
Damn fine smoke in it's own right!
5 out of 5
I have had my Ration and I like it!
May 21, 2019
Smokey, slightly sweet, and a very, very clean finish. I ordered a tin and I am very impressed. Now, I am not a heavy latakia fan, but this stuff is great for someone that likes a mild dose of the stuff. I ordered lots more to cellar. Great job Russ. It is a shame it took me so long to try it out.
4 out of 5
GREAT SMOKE
May 04, 2019
good for a evening or after a good meal.full flavor rich and smoky earthy flavor.will be adding more to my celler.
4 out of 5
Smokey and Satisfying
Apr 29, 2019
Very pleasant smoke. Has a nice spice to it, a bit of incense, and a subtle sweetness to back it up. Smooth smoking and interesting to smell, the cake itself is also fragrant and was ready to smoke for me straight out of the tin. Finishes easily enough and requires minimal relights. Would recommend.
5 out of 5
Could become one of my new favorites
Apr 28, 2019
I bought this last month as well as few other tins, this one this far has been the best of the bunch. no bite smooth smoke. like the crumble cake for front porch rocking chair
5 out of 5
Another winner.
Mar 04, 2019
Russ really nailed it on this one. This is one of the best smokes I've ever had. Mouth watering dessert like flavor. I'm always getting remarks on how great the room note is.
5 out of 5
slow smoked brisket
Feb 03, 2019
Fine tobacco this one. Immediately upon opening up this tin I got a wonderful nose full of what I can only compare to smoked brisket! Smoke is smooth, burns cool and consistently. I is one that will likely make my cellar one day.
5 out of 5
Top 5 blends for me
Jan 25, 2019
This is a good smoke from start to finish. Easy to light and stays lit throughout. Again, in my top 5 favorite tobaccos
4 out of 5
Satisfying
Jan 20, 2019
With all the Frog Morton gone. This is does it for me. Not the same of course but satisfying!
Al day smoke no problem.
4 out of 5
Very Good Latakia Blend
Nov 30, 2018
Has some aromatic qualities to it. Smokey and with some sweetness, but not sickly sweet or over topped.
5 out of 5
Excellent
Nov 17, 2018
Excellent some of the best Latakia blends I have ever had. Just ordered two more tins. Need an 8onz tin...
4 out of 5
Tin note of smoked brisket, mmmm...
Nov 17, 2018
When I opened the tin all I could think of when I smelled this was BBQ smoked brisket! Although it doesn't taste quite as fatty and delicious, this tobacco is very tasty, cool smoking and ends with the fine white ash known in fine tobaccos. I like the cake style. Cool looking and it is easy to prepare. Pretty classy smoke. It's a must try on many peoples list and I will agree. I can also imagine this cellering well. Happy puffing!
5 out of 5
Deliciousness!!
Nov 02, 2018
This blend is very similar to Bengal Slices for obvious reasons. I believe Fusilier’s Ration burns a bit better. Wonderful room note and tastes great if you like Latakia. Highly recommend.
5 out of 5
Excellent
Oct 13, 2018
Excellent. Some of the best I have had. Will purchase again.
5 out of 5
This is a damn fine smoke!
Sep 15, 2018
I returned to pipe smoking recently, after being away from it for 40+ years. I ordered a pipe, several "drug store" tobaccos and a tin of Fusilier's Ration. Wow! This blend is terrific! Substantial, robust, satisfying. It didn't smoke hot and there wasn't an issue with bite. I had forgotten how much enjoyment and relaxation could be had from pipe smoking. I'm glad I'm now back in the fold and grateful for P&C. What a resource! A vast selection of pipes & blends, as well as dedicated customers whose input/reviews has been quite helpful to someone like me.
5 out of 5
WOW, what a treat!
Aug 11, 2018
Guys and gals, you have to try this one.
This was my first crumble cake tobacco. I'm only two bowls in (maybe three? Less than five) and already this is going to be one I stack away a few tins of. The sweetness of the cavendish and virginias set a perfect stage for the fevered dance of smoky latakia and orientals, redolent of deep incense.
And on top of it all is....something. Sort of a licorice taste, which dresses out the latakia and orientals very nicely.
I think a reviewer below is on the right track to let this one sit out for a bit after rubbing for moisture control, as I did get a gurgle toward the end. But a bit of drying and it will be perfect. This is going right next to Black House, PS Luxury English, and Star of The East as a favorite to keep plenty of. Now, about that reserve edition....
5 out of 5
Fuselier's Ration would have been a Fuselier's Dream
Aug 02, 2018
Enjoyable all day smoke with no bite and a slow burn. Maybe the subtle topping gives it that extra touch. Great for Latakia lovers like me, but also other sweet aromas in the room note arise probably from the Orientals in the mixture. Used to enjoy Balkan Sobranie, and also the heavy 759 version, long gone. May be a bit overwhelming for some who are not attuned to English mixtures, but if you enjoy English, you should try this one, especially as it is available in bulk and very affordable.
5 out of 5
I’d buy again.
Feb 26, 2018
Gave this a go, liked it, will likely purchase again. FWIW: Check moisture before smoking for best experience. I let my batch dry for a couple hours (not very humid here) resulting in a smooth smoke to the bottom of the bowl.
5 out of 5
Excellent blend
Feb 15, 2018
As a lover of Latakia, Fusiliers Ration hits the spot. I can smoke it without any tongue bite and it smells and tastes great. It could be an all day smoke for me.
5 out of 5
love it
Jan 28, 2018
top 5 blend
5 out of 5
A delicious classic!
Jan 22, 2018
This tobacco has earned its rightful place in the pantheon of delicious blends. There are few others that surpass quality and incense-like aroma. Worth every penny, even at retail price!
5 out of 5
Best Ever
Jan 18, 2018
I honestly do not know what to say about this blend except that I've never had anything like it and it is the best I've ever had.
5 out of 5
A must have for fans of scotch whiskey!
Dec 01, 2017
A spectacular blend, very cool smoking with a sublime mouth feel and finish. I cannot recommend this strongly enough to anyone who enjoys a few fingers of scotch with their evening smoke. The Latakia adds subtle notes of sandalwood to the peaty goodness. I have found no better tobacco to pair with a fine Islay or Skye single malt. The only problem with FR is the absence of a bulk purchase option. I need a pound of this for my cellar asap!
5 out of 5
MY NEW FAVORITE.
Nov 01, 2017
This is my new favorite blend. I have heard it is a copy of Bengal Slices. I have never had Bengal Slices so I can't compare them but the top note on here is just perfectly balanced with the tobacco and makes it nice and smooth and the room note is amazing! I don't love licorice but I love this stuff!
5 out of 5
Very Tasty and Affordable
Sep 18, 2017
I haven't usually liked any Hearth and Home tobaccos I've tried enough to order more, but I really love Fusilier's Ration. It is a creamy and savory tasting English blend (rather than a sweeter tasting blend), which I prefer. The crumble cake form is extra appealing to me as well. I will always keep some of this on hand as I enjoy it quite often.
5 out of 5
I'm Hooked!
Jun 01, 2017
Since I have been smoking a pipe for over 65 years I have tried many varieties of tobacco. Still like the good burleys but when Bengal Slices came out I was hooked. And when they disappeared...i was shattered. I was excited when you came out with a new version of Bengal Slices...very good ...BUT...recently I ordered a can of Fusilier's Ration...and am HOOKED...again! My taster doesn't not completely recall Bengal...but even then, I think I might have switched to Fusilier's Ration had it been available in that day.
3 out of 5
First time with a cake tobacco - different.
Jun 01, 2017
I bought this along with WhiteKnight and BlackHouse as possible replacements for the Balkan Sobranie I remember from the '70s. They were all good mellow smokes and I enjoyed them very much but they didn't seem to match my memories. I will probably buy them again after trying some of the other Latikia mixes. It was my first time with a cake tobacco and I wasn't quite sure how to use it. That may have affected my results.
5 out of 5
Top Ten Tobacco
Apr 08, 2017
This is one of the best tobaccos I've ever enjoyed. The latakia is mixed in so gently that it is present only for its flavor and doesn't take the conductor position. The orientals are present and add the color to the smoke. So nice! The added flavor which is obviously of the anise-licorice sort just rounds it up perfectly without disturbing the components qualities. It's just perfect.
5 out of 5
New favorite tobacco!
Feb 13, 2017
Enjoyable smoke! Delivered quickly too.
5 out of 5
Great service
Dec 26, 2016
Great service, quick shipment
5 out of 5
First Experience with Crumble Cake
Sep 11, 2016
Before I decided to try Fusillier's Ration, I read a lot of reviews. Then I ordered a two-ounce tin...based on what some others were saying about it. I haven't tried the original blend that this one pays homage to, but if its anything like Fusillier's Ration, I think I would enjoy it. I will probably be ordering a couple more tins. This stuff is very good. The aroma from the tin is wonderful. It is easy to prepare and burns very nicely
5 out of 5
A Great Nighttime Smoke
Sep 06, 2016
Years ago, my daughter brought some Bengal Slices for me in England, several tins, and I liked it. Then, I couldn't get it anymore. When the "new" Slices came out, I ordered some from P&C but noticed the Fusilier's Ration as comparable. Frankly, I liked it better: burned better, somewhat better flavor, and crumbled easier. Room note is fine. Plus, it cost less. I may just like the name so I can pretend I am a rifleman guarding the artillery as i puff on it. Regardless, FR is a tobacco I will repurchase and enjoy.
5 out of 5
OUTSTANDING
Sep 05, 2016
Fusiliers ration is outstanding in every way. I have tried it in a number of pipes i own but it always comes through; savory, complex and thoroughly enjoyable. I like it so much that i purchased as many tins as my tobacco cabinet can hold.
Everyone's taste varies but it would be hard to find someone who did not like this blend.
5 out of 5
Hearth&Home's Fusilier'sRation
Aug 31, 2016
Being new to pipe smoking I found out quickly that i enjoy latakia blends so i tried Hearth & Home Marquee Fusilier's Ration and would recommend this tobacco to everyone who enjoys latakia as much as i do.
5 out of 5
If i had to choose only one for the rest of it
Aug 13, 2016
Of all the tobaccos that i buy and smoke, if i had to choose ONLY ONE FOR THE REST OF IT, this would be the one. For me it has it all from wonderful complex flavors to a nice easy burn.
I am saddened that the new government , intrusive , liberty depriving , constitutionally illegal, regulations will cause this tobacco to no longer be available.
I am hurt and depressed that big government can simply deprive me of one of the simple pleasures of life.
I truly understand better now, what was meant when he said "give me liberty, or give me death"
5 out of 5
Original Bengal Slices was great this is Better!
Aug 09, 2016
I smoked a lot of the original Bengal slices through the 70's-80's. I had always added just a touch of unsweetened cavendish for a bit of something different. Fusilier's ration hits it just right, the old Bengal Slices was a great smoke this in my most humble opinion is a bit better, I seldom do this but right after the 1rst bowl ordered several more tins! This is a touch Balkan like in character with an English twist, that added touch of flavoring just runs the bases it hints at the sweetness Bengal lacked, more different nuances throughout the bowl, most excellent Baccy!
Lee
5 out of 5
Five stars!
Aug 03, 2016
This is a very enjoyable smoke, and I will definitely be getting more in the future.
3 out of 5
A little to bitey for
Jul 10, 2016
A little to bitey for my taste
5 out of 5
Very good
Jun 08, 2016
Very good
5 out of 5
Reminiscent of Days Past
Jun 01, 2016
I too am decideing whether this is my new Favorite. My new alternative to Mississippi River and Frog on the Town. I espeacially love this blend while Revolutionary War Reenacting
5 out of 5
I paid promptly. They shipped
Jan 18, 2016
I paid promptly. They shipped correct item promptly. Can't ask for much more than that.
5 out of 5
Can't decide if this is my favorite H&H blend or not! They're all fantastic!
Jan 18, 2016
Another fantastic blend from Russ that is a pleasure to smoke! Rich flavor and should be in your pipe right now!
4 out of 5
Please ignore my orignal review
Jan 14, 2016
I'm sorry to say that my original scathing review of this fine tobacco was not a result of the quality of Fusiler's Ration.
The tobacco did taste horrible; I only finished 1/2 a bowl. But what I didn't know at the time was that the pipe I was using had gone sour.
Regrettably, I can't delete my original review.
I came back to this blend after I had realized what had happened, and found it to be very smooth and tasting modestly floral.
5 out of 5
Glad I finally Pulled the Trigger
Jan 12, 2016
I’d read the great reviews of Fusilier’s Ration but put off buying some for quite some time. Then I was at the CI Super Store with my brother and he asked me to recommend an ‘english’ blend (He’s a 1-Q guy). So I spotted FR on the shelf and recommended he try it. When we got home he popped the tin and we both gave it a try. I was impressed.
A creamy English with an underlying sweetness, FR is flavorful and well balanced. There’s a hint of something that reminds me of Seattle Pipe Club’s Plum Pudding, and also something that has echoes of Frog Morton’s Cellar. But these are fleeting. The side stream aroma is delightful, and there is a somewhat floral topping that adds to the depth and complexity of the smoke.
FR is not a Lat-Bomb, and it’s not a Nic-Bomb either. The Virginias in it are a great foundation and the cavendish is like a dollop of whipped cream. In a month and a half I’ve ordered it twice!
5 out of 5
Well Balanced and Mild
Jan 08, 2016
This is a well balanced, mild English Blend that doesn't loose it's taste yet is not overpowering. Some English blends can be Latakia heavy. This is not one of them. There just seems to be enough to let you know you're smoking "english". This would be a great all day tobacco and perfect for someone new to English blends. I like "rubbing out" my own tobacco so that was an added treat.
5 out of 5
Another good smoke
Jan 02, 2016
I love English blends and this is a really mellow but flavourful blend. Crumble cake that was perfect out of the tin. I will be buying this one again.
5 out of 5
Great Stuff!!!
Dec 30, 2015
I shoulda read the description a little more carefully as this is a crumble cake. I wouldn't have been exactly sure of what that would have been and probably have interpreted it as a solid cake that you would have to cut with a pen knife. I'm now glad I was so careless. It was easy to pack and it was right up there with Blackhouse and White Knight. I have smoked Penzance and all I can say is that all three beat Penzance in price and the taste is as good or better, keeping in mind that everyone has different tastes. Don't drive yourself crazy trying to purchase an overpriced pipe tobacco that seems to be always out of stock everywhere. These three are much better values.
5 out of 5
Amazing
Dec 12, 2015
I love this blend. Full on flavor and smooth as can be. If you rub the chunks out fine it stays lit as well as Dunhill ribbon cut. I love Lancer Slices as well but the slight topping on Fusiliers makes it unique.
5 out of 5
Suits my taste for winter
Dec 05, 2015
This is a nice Balkan blend and very much reminds me of Penzance. I will keep it in my rotation.
4 out of 5
Good Stuff
Nov 04, 2015
This is a quality tobacco with a great flavor profile. Smooth and mellow smoke that is both earthy and slightly sweet. Overall, I really enjoyed this one and would recommend it to anyone that enjoys Latakia blends that are on the sweeter side. This one reminded me of Frog Morton's Cellar, but not quite as aromatic as the casing isn't as pronounced. My only complaint with this one was the presentation inside the tin, it looked as though someone had just wadded the tobacco up inside of a paper ball and tossed it in the tin. I know that it doesn't affect the tobacco in any way, but the presentation is part of what makes smoking a pipe so fun.
4 out of 5
A Blend to Be Enjoyed by Many
Oct 24, 2015
Fusilier's ration is a very nice blend. It strikes a balance between the balkan style blend it was inspired by and the too seldom seen, lightly aromatic latakia blends. The key is balance. The light topping along with the fine tobaccos create a flavorful and enjoyable blend with notes of dark chocolate and red fruits. It's less aromatic and (IMO) cloying than Frog Morton's Cellar but it shares a similar flavor profile. Another blend I might compare it to is SPC's Plum Pudding, but FR's topping is more pronounced. It is a balanced blend that isn't as complex as other full balkans but makes for a fantastic multi-task smoke. Fusilier's Ration rubs out easily and burns well. Of the few Latakia blends with an added topping that I have tried, this is certainly the best and should be an inspiration for other tobaccos of the style.
4 out of 5
Well-Balanced and Satisfying
Oct 15, 2015
Not as savory as my vintage Balkan Sobranie or Lane BS-005, but well-balanced and with satisfying depth. There is a faint flinty note throughout as well as an almost imperceptible note of molasses and scorched brown sugar from the curing. For me this is an enjoyable smoke for the right time and place. I can see some enthusiasts giving it an even higher rating.
1 out of 5
A revolting combination of Listerine and Liquid Smoke
Sep 11, 2015
Before going into my opinon of this blend, let it be known that I have only been smoking a pipe for the last two months, and that this is my first Latikia blend.
Upon opening the tin my first reaction was that this stuff stinks. I don't meen to say that it stinks of smoke, which I actually like in moderation, but rather this blend has a aroma comprised of smoke and medicine-like mint. As one would expect, this unappitizing combination transfers over to the taste while smoking. The best description for the taste is if you were to combine liquid smoke and Listerine.
Like I said, I'm new to the pipe smoking eperience so maybe I should have tried a more tamer blend prior to Fusilier's Ration. Maybe if you absolutely love Latikia you'll love this blend too, but for me, I just couldn't finish the bowl due to the fowl flavoring of this blend.
5 out of 5
Great smokes!
Jul 24, 2015
I searched long for Fusilier's Rations and have discovered another favorite in White Knight. I will be glad when I can buy each in larger amounts against.
5 out of 5
Fusilier's Ration
Jul 13, 2015
I'll start by saying that Fusilier's Ration was love at first light. The flakes are pressed pretty densely but break apart like a crumble cake. It packs well and usually two lights will get it going.
The taste is very intriguing; very old timey to me. The licorice is noticeable and tingly but not overbearing. I have not picked up the tonquin yet but I'm working on it.
I find that a group 4 or 5 pipe will last over an hour and it is a delightful hour.
Fusilier's Ration has moved to the top of my daily rotation. If you're looking for something that is traditionally British then this is the one to try.
Customer Testimonials
This is easily the best tobacco to come from Russ. I'm told it resembles Bengal Slices, but I've never had that. It's tough to get lit, but burns like a tire fire once properly ignited. The only fault is that it's only available in 50gm tins. 8oz tins or bulk would be great.
JW of Wurtland, KY
Since I have never had Bengal Slices I cannot compare them but this had some great flavor. I definitely want more.
SM of San Antonio, TX
What a great blend! The aroma is amazing, and the taste is even better.
AW of California, MO
Excellent medium strength blend. Packs nicely, minimal relighting, and burns to the bottom of the bowl. Spicy enough to be interesting but not overpowering. Love it! If you like the strength of Dunhill's MM965, you're going to like this as it's a bit tastier.
TF of Lake Elsinore, CA
Oustanding blend; Full rich flavor, smooth and delightful. Smokey, sweet and spicy flavors and notes, each in their own perfect proportion. Not to be missed!
AS of Wellfleet, MA
Very good blend, nice sweet balanced taste from the latakia and cavendish. a must try for anyone who likes a sweet full flavored tobacco.
RD of Sun Valley, CA
I really like this blend, a lot! While it is smoky and earthy with Latakia, it has a subtle sweetness to it as well, perhaps the top dressing provides a bit of this. The orientals are top notch, adding the right amount of spice to keep it interesting. I'm sure the Black Cav mellows it all out a bit, but its hard for me to taste. My only disappointment is that it no longer comes in Krumble Kake form, nor is it "oily", both of which were traits of the original Fusilier's Ration (which I never had the pleasure of sampling). Now it comes in a ribbon cut format and is quite dry, ready for smoking right out of the tin. It burns cool and easily, only one good charring light is necessary. If you're a fan of lighter to medium English blends with a whole lot of flavor, give it a shot!!
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