Naval Battle

Ok

perfect taste and sweet aroma

This smells and tastes a bit like graham crackers. Often, I like to mix this with Orlik Gold. I usually add a bit of the smokey Match 965. But it's also very nice on its own.

Very nice right up there with Stokkbye luxury navy flake.

Ok but not a favorite. Would by if something else was out of stock.

One of best bulk flakes available. It's my all day smoke. It maintains its character through the entire bowl. I prefer it in a deep, small diameter bowl. It really softens up when there's a little ash on top.

Pleasant, but very mild.

Excellent and easy to stuff my pipe. Even my wife likes the smell of it and planning to order this again. Easy smoke and nice aroma and lights good.

Fold and stuff, anchors away mates. Don't puff too hard; enjoy.

Not much flavor

I really like the graham cracker smell and taste from this one. only complaint is its a bit bitey

I'm enjoying this blend and figuring it out. The bag note has a strong musty perique smell leading you to think it's going to be spicy but there's virtually no spice in the smoke. The Virginias are very mild so that the first half of the bowl is pretty mild overall. In the second half of the bowl, the stewed fruit of the perique starts to shine. It's the second half that keeps me coming back. Overall a light, all day VaPer that is easy to enjoy. This would gain a star for me if the Virginias were more distinctive.

Navy flake is my everyday smoke. This blend holds it's own against the most pedigreed of Navy flake and at price that truly makes it an affordable everyday smoke. No nonsense. So if you are looking for a real treat maybe you should look elsewhere. Lol. If you want a no nonsense, affordable, everyday tobacco this would make an intelligent choice.

Not much of a navy flake

Probally my favorite if it's packed right it hits strong. It takes a bit of relighting to get it going because of its fresh cut. It has a sugar marshmallow taste and out of the bag it smells like grahm crackers. Pairs good with a campfire and a cookout. It won't burn away too much if you put it down.

Using it for a personal blend. Always on the money!

I’ve been trying a little bit of everything here lately and I’ve got to say this is definitely on the top of my list. I enjoy everything about this blend, it’s definitely a great all day smoke. I purchased an ounce of it to see if I’d like it and it didn’t last but a couple days. Needless to say I’ll be stocking up on this one. I’m very curious to see how this one ages also. The trick will be staying out of it long enough to do so.

Nice, no nonsense smoke for just about anytime......

This is one of my favorite flakes. I really like to smoke it in a cob pipe, I think it helps that sweetness really come across in a pleasant way. Nothing harsh or bitter about this tobacco, as long as you smoke it slowly, the quality really shines through. When I bought it, I thought that it would be a lot like Stokkebye Luxury Navy Flake, but it isn’t. It has its own thing going, it is mild, grassy and sweet and just hits the spot for me. I will be stocking up with more in the near future.

I’m settling on Virginia flakes right now as my go to, and this one fits the bill nicely. Enjoy the bright flavor, a little hay like, good all day smoke for when I’m on the river fishing.

Pleasantly grassy, woody with a himt of sweet, with a bread finish!

Am anxious to try this blend.

Good but a just a little bite for me.

Tasty blend. Smokeable without drying. Burns cool.

Great smooth smoke.

nice blend

Good fruit cake flavor

Flavorful but not as perique rich I was hoping for like Peter Stokkebey navy flake. Smokes more like round slices or bullseye flake. Not bad for a substitute while your favorite is backordered.

That sweet va/per experience your looking for but just unique enough to be its own. Though my cake was more ready rubbed then cake, more cake pieces with mostly ready to pack tobacco.

This is my stand by.

Sweet, doughy, chewy, some cinnamon and faint grassy notes here and there. Pick up 1/2 lb and jar it, forget about it for 6-12 months then enjoy.

Absolutely delicious and well worth the cost. It was so good I jarred up a batch back in 2009 and decided to open up the 12 year old Mason jar last night. It tastes even better than I remember it! The only difference is the fig/plum flavors seem to pop a little more and the tobacco has even more mellowness. I'm glad P&C decided to continue making this lovely stuff. Give it a try, especially if you are a VaPer fan, you will not regret it,

I'm a long time aromatic smoker, one of my favorites was 1q/BCA in a 1-to-1 mix. I decided it's time to see what other tobaccos are like and so this was one of my first dips into the perique family. the tin note is almost fruity (hints), the Virginias can burn hot so please be mindful of your cadence. The perique isn't too strong and has a neutral taste. the room note is that of incense. if you want to try perique but not something crazy go with this.

I have liked this tobacco and the story of its semi accidental beginnings when your tobacco shop was on Rte 5 in Albany and I was working there for an engineering firm. To date it is still one of my favorites because of its balance between spicy and smooth characteristics. When rubbed out and let dry for a few minutes there is nothing much better.

A great Virginia flake, moist, and tasty with no bite. Great price! I will buy this again. I use this tobacco to mix with Mac Baren HH Old Kentucky fired. It is a great combination. Sometimes I add a bit of Turkish ribbon tobacco.

love htis well be getting more

Great when mixed with Mississippi River. Just for a change. By itself is great too.

Golden Grahams in the tin. Sweetness throughout.

Slow burn. Nice aroma.

Great tobacco

This tobacco is good IMO. I like vaper tobacco anyway but this is good quality for a surprising price. I stocked up and will have some to compare years from now.

This one has definitely made it in my permanent rotation. Excellent blend, sweet aroma and taste. I stocked up on this one because I have a feeling this one will only get better with age. Smells like graham crackers in the jar, so sweet and smooth without a bite. Burns nicely. Try it or don't so that it stays in stock.

Wait six months while this simmers in jars. It's a very tasty Virginia flake, slightly more honey toast than lemony tea flavors like the more expensive flakes, but out of the box it tends to be a bit nippy. Wait for it to turn a golden brown instead of bright tan and this is a friend no one can afford to be without.

Very nice and tasty blend. Kind of unique for a VaPer and that's appealing to me. I ended up buying a cheap dedicated cob to smoke this mix as it leaves a presence in my briars. Enjoyable all the same. Probably would buy again.

Yet to smoke this batch, but it looks and smells good.

Always a favorite of mine. I have been smoking this blend off and on for years. Great Virginia and perique blend. Solid and meaty.

Did the "Counterpunch" challenge and this one came in second, but not by much. Love it!

It takes a moment for the flavor to unleash, I've noticed. This stuff is amazing if given the time to enjoy. It comes very moist and needs dry time. It has very unique flavor of red wine with a light bready toasty-ness. Definitely worth a try and an open mind/palate. Not an every day smoke for me but an enjoyable one nonetheless.

Close but not like the taste of P. Stokkebebye.

This flake is pretty much a straight-up Virginia blend; mix of bright and reds. The pouch note is very fragrance as if it were slightly cased but that is not so. The flavor is very light and uncomplicated. A nice study in the native nuisances of Virginia tobaccos. The experience is pleasant and enjoyable but this is not going to strike one as strong, full or complex. It is what it is a straight Virginia. Nice all day smoke. Very meager room note. If your are looking for a VaPer comparable this mixture is not it. It is unassuming and basic to the tobaccos used. Nice nonetheless.

Excellent pipe tobacco. I love it. One of my regular purchases, and I always keep it in my stock. If you like this, consider trying Peter Stokkebye's Luxury Twist Flake or Rattray's Bagpiper's Dream.

This i liked!

Fantastic blend, I bought this as my first Virginia blend and I could really taste the grassy, citrus-y and hay-y flavors come through, the nicotine isn't really a punch to the face either, would definitely recommend for newer and intermediate smokers

I love the unique sweet, raisin bread smell this has when you open the jar. Smokes very smooth, my go-to for blends and beautiful on its own. Smokes perfectly, easy to rub out and retains that same raisin bread note when you smoke it too.

Smell

Taste

Fold and stuffed after a bit of drying. Mellow sweet with a little spice. Will buy more.

My favorite virginia burns clean.

08 OCT, 2020 Can you say "BLUEBERRY MUFFINS" This is the note that I get from the baggie. It is a very sweet smell which includes Honey, bread dough and minimal spice. This seems like it will be a very light smoke. I am hoping the bread dough comes out in the smoke. One other item, I do not detect any grassy hay or citrus like odors and I do believe rum has been incorporated. This does smell very appealing and it is going to be a treat when I get to it which will be very soon. I fired up my Scott Hudson poker loaded with SNF. It is very gentle and smooth, tastes like a fresh slice of bread from the oven. This is delicious to say the least. This blend does get a little spicy around the first quarter of the bowl and maintains this spice till last puff. Not much of a NIC hit until you get to the end of the bowl and then watch out. Your head may be swimming. This is definitely a Virginia lover's tobacco.

This was not my cup of tea but was of good quality.

03 OCT, 2020 The tin note is chocolaty, much like fudge brownies. I also pick up on the fig aroma and a hint of Perique... This smells wonderful. My jowls are watering with anticipation. Under match you are instantly hit with chocolate and then some spiciness from the Perique. This is quite good and I like it a lot. It is cool smoking, flavorful and burns well, down to the bottom of the bowl. You really can't ask for much more from a blend of this nature. I am impressed and will likely add more. This is very, very good.

Not really sweet but flavorful and smooth,

My new fav. Plain flake, hay and grass flavor

Yum

Any better, I’d have to marry them!

I enjoy this a lot it has a wonderful back taste and heavier than a all Virginian something else like it has Perique but it's not.It is like a long fully aged Virginian that costs a lot more.

One of my all time favorite smokes. I rub it out and let it sit for a 1/2 hour or so before packing. Lights well, burns long, great taste with little to no tongue bite (and I smoke pretty hot). Must have smoke for any flake enthusiast.

Considerably lighter in both room note and flavor than what I've come to expect from a Navy Flake. Much more of the brown sugar and nutty flavors than the spice of something like Gawith Luxury Navy Flake. Very enjoyable though. Definitely worth trying.

delicious when mixed with black! very very good tobacco.

I could smoke this blend alone for a long time and not get tired of it. If you like a sweet, natural smoke this is a must.

I ordered 2 oz. of this tobacco to try it out. The beautiful, long, dense flakes were delivered to me with an absolutely perfect moisture content and smoke well right out of the bag. The flakes smoke equally well rubbed out or folded and stuffed. The tobacco ignites and stays lit easily; it provides a slow and cool smoke if I don't push it too hard. When pushed hard, it gets a little hot and bites slightly, yet it's still one of the best behaved Virginia flakes that I've ever smoked. The flavor is delicate, however, and smoking too quickly will bleach out the flavor profile. When puffed moderately, though, the flavor starts out light and builds in richness and creaminess throughout the bowl; the last 1/3 of a bowl is a real treat. Winston Churchill supposedly said that to make the ideal Martini, one should “whisper 'vermouth' to a freshly poured glass of gin.” This seems to be the philosophy used in blending this navy flake; there's just a “whisper” of sweet rum notes on top of the tobacco's natural flavor. I will definitely order more of this stuff, and it may very well become my go-to Virginia flake. I highly recommend it.

Excellent tobacco. Crumble ,pack the bowl.a nice change from lane tobacco.

This is one of the best tobaccos I have tried yet. This is an aromatic without any topping. The tobacco mixture itself is very sweet tasting and has a nice room note. It burns slightly hot but does not bite. The taste gets sweeter towards the bottom of the bowl. I was not impressed at all at first. It was like an expensive Carter Hall. I left this open in a jar for two weeks to dry. I would check it, mix it up and eventually sealed it back up thinking I had an unimpressive blend. Feeling disappointed, I opened the jar and packed a bowl. My oh my was this ever good. I’ve asked my children and wife for more for Father’s Day. I hope it’s back in stock soon. This is fabulous!

At first I wasnt impressed by this masterpiece of blending until I threw it in the microwave for 15 seconds and then smoked it in a cob and omg sweet tangy brown sugary goodness ordered more to cellar

I bought two pounds of Anniversary Kake, after trying a small sample. The tobacco came to me very wet, and needed some drying time to make it smokable. The cakes were loosely pressed, and I got a few larger cakes and a lot broken cakes I'm smoking my first bowl in a small churchwarden pipe that I made myself. This pipe is reserved for Virginia and VaPer blends. After it settled in, and got into the zone, it's a very nice smoke. This one will heat up if you're not careful, but smoked slowly it has a rich and sweet flavor. It's definitely different than many other VaPer's, the bag/jar aroma and smoke flavor suggests a mild topping, that is quite pleasant. It is a bit cinnamon'y and peppery, there is obviously a good dose of Perique in it. My two pounds fit into two quart and one pint mason jars. I plan to age the quarts and smoke the pint young. I'm very pleased with this purchase, and I look forward to seeing how it changes with age.

Understated and natural tasting tobacco

A wonderful, rich Virginia tobacco! It is listed as a Navy Flake, but the Navy element is slight. If you enjoy Peter Stokkebye Luxury Twist Flake you will love the depth and richness Newminister No 400.

Very good fresh. Can't wait to crack an aged tin.

Awesome stuff would highly recommended with a dram of whiskey

This tobacco is really good! Always have some in my rotation. Fits my palate nicely

It's good, I like alittle more plum rum taste

An amazingly smooth and balanced blend! I finished an ounce within 3 days

This is a good navy flake. A lot less expensive that than what you get in the Red Can.

First of all, I have no idea why this is called a "KAKE" style tobacco as the 1OZ sample I received had not 1 pressed chunk, is more of a ribbon cut than anything. Have only smoked a little bit of this blend so take this review for what it's worth. So far on my pipe smoking journey I have tried somewhere around 50 different blends and counting, just to give a little background. The aroma is sweet and would consider this a mild aromatic for sure. The taste is decent and sweet, although this one can bite and is part of the reason for a lower star review. I will continue to experiment with this Anniversary Kake as the flavor is quite good. For the price I would recommend giving it a try and who knows, it just might become one of your favorite blends! Happy piping!

Quite possibly the best HH baccy out there.

Great Tobacco, sure do like it a lot.

This is my go to, love it.

After smoking for 40 years, I switched to Vaping seven years ago. Three years ago I began extracting my own tobacco flavors (cold Maceration). Anniversary Kake is one of my Keepers ! The Virginia is not grassy or overly sweet, it just provides a smooth blend of light tobacco flavor. The Perique is blended into the flavor, slightly less than say Louisiana Red. Neither tobacco dominates, but rather they are married together in a mild and smooth tobacco flavor. Because there are no added sugars or flavorings, this extracted tobacco flavor is very clean, which is important to Vaoers - because of their gear. H&H Anniversary Kake is always one of the first selections I look for with each order. I have given the extract to several other Vapers who enjoyed it, and a couple more have asked for it. Even in the Vaping Community, H&H Anniversary Kake is starting to build a reputation as a clean and delightful tobacco flavor !

Good so far.

Good, solid navy flake. Plenty of sweet Virginia flavor without being overbearing. Very nice burning characteristics. Cool smoke. Was a Capstan Medium smoker for some 30 years, this is now my standby Virginia flake. Could have arrived a hair bit moister, my only criticism.

I have been really enjoying this tobacco. The tobacco was perfect straight out of the bag. The tobacco also burns relatively slow, cool, and I enjoy the flavor.

Much like how I enjoy the notes of different coffee beans. This also gives certain note that a normal aromatic smokers can enjoy. Some call it a grassy/sweet taste. But I've found it to be much more like graham crackers. It is the perfect crossing point when you want to step away from your usual aromatics. Break some off and rub it out is the best way I've discovered to use it.

This Navy Flake gives a mild cool slow burn. I put flake in the buttom half of my favorite long stem pipe, then fill up the remainder with either Newminster No. 31, or sutliff mellow, or Lane burley and black. Makes for a good smoke.

Slightly tart smelling in container,this smoke has just enough perique to let you know it's there..slightly peppery and mixed with a deep ripe fruit,prune/raisin essence to me. I really enjoy this one..mild nic hit, but very mellow overall.

A very nice and easy smoking Virginia Based Flake that has moved into my top 5 list.

I like va/per and this does not disappoint. No bite, good taste, great price, big flakes!

this is nearly an exact replacement for McClellands 2010!! Smooth and tasty and smells heavenly!

Nice Vaper at a good price

Exactly what I was looking for

Smoke this one slow it bites

I bought this tobacco, and it was suggested to me to let it age for a few years. I stored the Anniversary Kake in Mason jars and dated them. Well, over nine years later (dated 04/06/2010), I decided to open one of the jars and try it. The smoke is unbelievably smoothe, and the taste is excellent and mild! I purchased 2 lbs, so I have vintage, top quality tobac for quite a while.

I really enjoyed this tobacco...great flavor will be smoking it again

Oh so good.

The topping is sweet and it's a decent smoke when it dries. Really does bring to mind a yellow birthday cake and smells a bit like baked goods as well. A little frilly and flowery, which can be nice, but not something I'd smoke all day. Probably wouldn't buy it again.

so cool

My husband loved it!

This tobacco came to me a bit wet. I let it sit out before smoking and it hits the spot after a meal. It is a strong tobacco but not too strong. I don't get tongue bite with this one. It is smokey and spicy without being overpowering. I will definitely order more.

once you get the hang of packing it is a good long lasting smooth smoke..stays lit well

Good Smoke

I'll take the kake over the flake, but also I lat bombed these lightly with punch and it is amazing.

So this came very very wet. Tried smoking right away and it was just too moist wouldnt stay lit etc. Dried some out over night which obviously fixed that problem. Once died out burns great out is a decent smoke but not quite as flavorful as i had hoped. I never get excited about smoking it but work it in to the rotation because it's not bad and i want to use it up.

It has a very pleasant sweet smell out of the bag(bought it bulk). It smokes almost like it taste. A very good Navy Flake. Not my personal favorite but I could see other people really enjoying it.

This is the first non aromatic i have ever smoked. And i dont think i will be going back to aromatics anytime soon. This tobacco is sweet with a little bit of spice. Really tastey and i see why people seem to like this one. Shipping was quick and painless as always with pipes and cigars.

Anniversary Kake is a great VA blend.

This is an unusually interesting venture for those who like VA tobacco, with layered flavors. Definitely on the naturally sweet side.

Im not real good at describing all the nusnce of a blend but I will say this meets all my expectations of a good smoke.

Two very good Naval flake tobaccos great flavor and aroma.

Smooth real tobacco flavor, and thanks for the quick shipment of my order $

This is one of those blends that shows on the mellow side of the VaPer scale. While not lacking in tobacco flavor, it wont wear on your pallate like a more complex or full bodied blend. This blend doesnt rquire your full attention , but wont leave you disappointed while watching your favorite show , or reading. Its Mildly sweet, bready and has a bit of spice toround out this blend. I bought 8oz in bulk , and the bag contained a solid 3x3x.75 (approx) cake along with broken cake and ready-rubbed like pieces. It did come a little wet, amd requred about 15-30 mins of dry time I enjoy this best in a pot shape pipe while watching netflix in my recliner. A solid 4 star blend

Tastiest tobacco I ever smoked

Easy to pack. Very mellow and pleasant aroma

Great flavor, maybe a bit much. Accumulated much water in pipe regrettably.

Wow, is all I can say on this. The tin note had hints of chocolate, cinnamon, maybe little bit of fudge brownie would be better discription. I have never had this or any kake type tobaccos. I got 3oz just to start of bulk which the moisture was good. It required minimum drying time and soaked cool. The taste was not brownie, but cinnamon, maybe nutmeg on the retro hale, simisweet. I finshed only half the bowl and the second Haden the next day. It was still good, a little bit of a bite at first relight, but then got good again. I have read somewhere the this was the base for Russ' Fire Strorm, which I can see. I think I prefer this of FS.....strong close second.... I will be buys a few lbs of it when I get the chance...

If you like nave flakes you will love this one. Good room note and a satisfying smoke pipe after pipe.

This is a very good flake if you like light Virginia. I got it to see how good the quality is and it is pretty good. I usually smoke heavier hitters but I enjoy this for the first bowl in the morning. It is clean burning but needs to be rubbed out. I have tried fold and stuff at all moisture levels and it just gets too wet by half way down the bowl. It has a yummy toast flavor that gets sweeter as you go. To me it burns a little warm and does bite if you don't use a slow cadence. All in all its a a nice smoke just not my go to blend.

I bought / Cellared several pounds 11/2011 and i can say as of 9/5/2018 its a WONDERFUL smoke. I've smoked on 2 of the mason jars through the years off and on and it hasn't changed much after the 8th month or so Cellared. The one thing it did was blend in well and become a wonderful smoke. I suggest still taking it nice and slow otherwise it can and will bite you but i'm going to have to order more because i'm down to 3 of the large mouth big jars of it.

enjoyed it a lot, should have bought more.

After 25+ years smoking a pipe; best I've had!

This is a great blend that's like nothing else

If you like your va/per tobacco moreally sweet then spicy this is it. Not as sweet as marlin flake but close, similar to McClelland's 2015

I tried 2 oz of this on a whim as I am searching for new standbys to replace my beloved McClelland's blends. Sorry I only ordered 2 oz. As soon as it's back in stock I'll be ordering at least a pound!

I ordered 34 oz and this shipped in two bags of 16 oz and one bag of 2 oz. I am working my way through the 2 oz small bag. The Kake is very moist and so must be broken up and should be aired a bit or one will have difficulty keeping it lit. It is a good, tasty tobacco like all blends that Mr. O. invented. I prefer Anniversary Flake, but the Kake is a good tobacco.

Lovely stuff

This is a great blend that I'd recommend to be in everyone's rotation. Next time it's in stock I can see at least and 8oz order happening.

My all time favorite tobacco. Some call this too sweet, but I think it's just right. The perfect amount of perique, as well. The tin note is amazing, and I could smoke this all day, every day. It will bite if you smoke it too hard. Anniversary Kake is the VaPer by which I judge all others.

Just kidding, it isn't but that isn't fair, because not much is. What I will say is that is is a sweet, mellow, and extremely pleasurable smoke. Get it while you can.

Orders on a whim based on the positive reviews. Great smoke, burns even throughout. Complimented by the wife in the room note. Will definitely buy again.

If you haven't tried it I recommend that you do. The only problem is that it sells out as soon as it is back in stock. A great mellow enjoyable smoke.

Bought this last month for the first time. I've tried several other Navy Flakes before and this one is my new favorite. Avery nice smell to it and a pleasant aroma. Burns well, right to the end with little dottle. A little moist upon arrival, you may wish to dry it a little.

newminster navy flake is a great tasting flake tobacco and the largest flake that i have seen. arrived nice and moist and fresh .it is sweet with a little hay maybe citrus through out the bowl. i smoked it in my mark twain half a flake filled it very well .i have been very impressed with the newminster products i have tried . great job pipes and cigars my order was complete and shipped on shedual thank you

Didn't pack down and it burned very well

If you like Virginias, this is a dream. There is a reason this flies off the "shelf". Russ Oulette is a legend!

I'm a pipe smoking newb and this was my first VA flake. I enjoyed this smoke, stays lit and burns evenly. I've read posts where people say 'smokes down to a fine ash', but never experienced that until this tobacco. Smoke it slow and no tongue bite. I'm definitely going to buy more.

A very unique VaPer. Pleasant sweetness to it that I've not experienced in any other VaPer. The Perique definitely exhibits its ability to complement a sweeter Virginia. In the raw, you'd think it was an aromatic. But, upon first light, you realize that you've found one of the most interesting non-aromatic blends ever created.

The Newminster 400 Navy Flake is my faborite pipe tobacco. It tastes like clean, dry hay smells. The description says it should age well, but it never lasts long enough fior me to find out.

My all time favorite tobacco. I’ve searched for something similar, but nothing else has the perfect sweetness and wonderful taste of this blend.

A sublime blend with excellent balance. The strenght is just right, the perique is applied with a light hand, which is just right (IMHO). This is a good cellar builder for all the right reasons and it is DENSE. If you buy any kind of weight of this, you will wind up with some serious bricks. Toss them in a jar and smoke the loose. BOOM.

First, I should explain my rating system. *****= all time favorite, ****= I've bought many times, ***= is a good tobacco I enjoyed but may or may not buy again, **= not necessarily bad, but not my thing (others may love it!), and *= a bad tobacco by any standards. That said, Anniversary Kake is a solid three stars. I'm not a huge fan of VaPer blends, so I may not be the best reviewer if you are a fan, but I am familiar with the flavors and delights of them. I liked it. It's obviously a good blend by my limited field of comparison. The Perique is not too figgy nor too spicy, and well balanced with the Virginias which are the true star here, IMO. It's a rather mellow smoke and quite relaxing. It is after all Hearth & Home, so you know it's quality. I'd have to say this is on the mild side of VaPers I've tried with only the slightest of headiness. This could be a good entry point for those looking to try a VaPer blend for the first time. Hope this helps.

Deliciously smooth, full, flavorful like creaminess. No bite!

I came to know from one of mine friend that you must try this tobacco and I am thankful to him. This is very smooth blend and if you smoke slow with slow deep puff...it will give you the best smoke.....

Really like this tobacco! Wonderful aroma when opening the bag. Easy to prepare and stays lit to bottom of the bowl. Has a nice room note also. No bite either. Will be ordering more! A nice all day tobacco!

This has to be one of the few at the top of my all-time list. Rich but caressing, lovely texture--if you can ever call tobacco smoke creamy, this is it. Like a good wine, it covers the whole palate, meaning that it has a melange of flavors, a touch of tree fruit, different wood fragrances, and a bit of spice-box. Bravo, Russ!

I got a hold of a couple ounces of this from a fellow member at Fair Trade Tobacco Forums. He gave up pipes in favor of cigars, win for me,right? I have acquired my dads vintage pipe collection and so I brought out the old Harriels Meerschaum lined full bent to try this Anniversary Kake. What a pleasant smoke. Mellow and lightly sweet cold aroma . Took a few lights to get it going but once it caught (I'm smoking it as I type) its great. It reminds me of stuff my grandfather used to smoke. Not a heavy room note but definitely has the figgy aroma of the St James Perique in the blend. I can see why this is one of their best selling blends.

This Va/Per is nice once it marries. The sharpness of the Perique mellows to a sweetness and ties with the Virginias to create a sweet cocoa-like flavor. It's not bad at all, but it's not a favorite for me because I don't care much for a sweet smoke.

This was a surprisingly great smoke! Great flavor!

I purchased this tobacco in 2014 and cellared it. After almost 3 years it has gotten much tastier. I initially bought a bunch because it looked delicious and was at deep discount. It tasted ok. Very bready. But now with some age it sure burns nice and taste has vastly improved imho. Glad I have over a dozen jars.

It's a nice blend of raisin & chocolate that's not too strong or too mild. My only concern is that I wish it had a more pleasant room note.

Just bought more.... a pound.... this Va flake punches above it's weight. Folks I've smoked it around tell me it smells "like something's baking". ... in a good, sweetish, toasty - bread sort of way. The pouch / jar aroma had me stumped for a description for a bit... then I got it .. ripe pineapple rind with fig notes ... not overpowering, yet alluringly mouth watering. The flavor when smoked.... to me, a mellow Va sweetness .. not too much citrusy tang here.. more of a subtle cinammon toasty impression without the cinnammon... all tasting notes are very subjective ... everyone's different... but I'm quite taken with this tobacco. A true no-compromise value to my tastes... put it in a tin with a fancy label, I'd pay more for it. Looking forward now to folding & twist stuffing it into a pipe now.. if you like Va flakes, I don't think you'll be disappointed. My purchase came at just the right moisture level out of the box. ... mmmmmmm with coffee, bourbon, scotch... you get the idea.

Just a very nice Virginia flake. Smoking out on the deck my pipe & I were banished to, a lady stepped out to join me and thought the neighbors were baking bread or pastry next door... she was surprised to find it was my pipe . I'm ordering a pound now. if you enjoy lightly sweet, toasty Virginia, I'd recommend trying a couple ounces of this.

Soft, puffy tobacco. Smooth and tasty. Great tasting VaPer for those looking for a solid anytime tobacco. Excited to see what this tastes like with some age to it and thinking about pressing some just to see what comes if it. Russ said it's the base for his Fire Storm blend which I have heard great things about as well.

I wanted to give this a solid five stars, but all throughout the bowl, I kept hoping for something more pronounced. I found it very one dimensional, which wasn't a bad thing. It's just that after reading all of the high praises, I was waiting to hit a home run, and only made it to third base. I enjoyed the Classic Burley Kake a whole lot more. Maybe, with a little cellaring time, this stuff might surprise me. Only time will tell?

Terrific. Wonderful taste. Nice pouch aroma, although I found it to be somewhat faint. Had to really get my nose in there. But after just a few puffs I realized why it has good reviews. Wonderful non- biting feel with just enough spice to satisfy. Glad I bought it.

If ever there was a Va/Per blend for a pipe smoker to start with, this is it. The pouch aroma is fantastic with hints of fig and chocolate. As with most blends a few minutes drying time is in order. What my thoughts are is on lighting up the Virginia's used are the first then quickly followed by the goodly amount of Perique. The components of this blend as mixed, makes for a more than satifying smoke anytime of the day. Russ hit it out of the ball park with this fantastic all day smoke.

This blend has a pleasant fruity aroma similar to raisins or dried plums. It smokes smooth and mellow with a bit of fruitiness and just the right amount of spice in the taste. A really great VaPer and a new regular in my rotation.

This was my first VaPer. It was very good, both flavor and smoothness were very pleasant. Highly recommend...

So glad to find this blend again. Used to get it in Albany NY where it was a favorite when I worked there.

My tobacco arrived in good order. #400 Flake is excellent. Mild, grasslike and does not bite. Even better with a pinch of Picayune. Will order again, and again, and again........ BG Southeast Missouri

Has a very nice sweetness in the background - If you like Peter Stokeby's version you'll like this Also great to fix up a blend that's mediocre

My order arrived in Excellent condition. The Newminster 400 is an excellent smoke. Does not bite, and is not too strong. Reminds me of the tobacco smell when I used to be a roust-a-bout at the North Carolina auction floors. This tobacco will give satisfaction and is well worth the money. Mix it with a little D&R Picayune and you are in pipe heaven.

if someone were to ever say to me, " do you like the smell/taste of figs mixed with grass, sugar and a little vinegar"? i would most definitely say no. ask me the same question about my virginias and va/pers? Yes Ma'am! there is something special about virginias. they are picky but if done right, very very satisfying... This isn't a five star restaurant, or a burger joint, or that cafe down the road that does good thai. its your mother's soup. its grandma's pot roast. nothing fancy, nothing boring, nothing that particularly stands out, but all of the flavors all together make for something that is special. figgy grassy, a little ketchupy, sweet, and satisfying. i know why they sell loads of this stuff and why people like it.

Simply delicious, marvelous, straightforward navy flake.

Smells great , smoke good with little bite, great in a cob.

Very sweet tasting! One of my favorite pipe tobacco's.

Yeah. I'm a heavy Latakia smoker, currently was smoking Pirate Kake. However there are times when I want a change of pace. I purchased a pound of anny kake during a holiday special just for aging purposes. Well I recently dug into this blend just out of curiosity and now I can't stop smoking it. It's been sitting for about 4 months and I'm quite impressed. The charring light is a bit cigarette like but after that it's all smooth sailing. Medium bodied, very smooth, light sweetness, great flavor thru the nose. I find most vapers sting thru my nose but not this one. Light coco and dried fruit flavor. Very consistent as well, I've tried it in briar and cobs, big bowls and small. Just a great all around all day blend. I may have to order another pound as this "aging" blend is dwindling away.

Burns great, no bite, pleasant taste and room note.

My husband was happy when he opened the box Christmas Day! Thank you!

Just tried this tobacco and I have to say love this blend taste great and burns well not bite try this you will not be sorry.

An excellent blend that smokes well, it's a real special treat!

This is my first VaPer. I think I may have found my genre of blend. Those Virginias are delightful. Maybe my palate is underdeveloped, but I don't get any of the tangy or spicy flavors that are alleged to signal the presence of Perique. Regardless, it's a wonderful smoke. I'm excited to further explore the VaPer world.

As always the service from pipes and cigars.com was very fast and correct. On the the review. I hesitated to buy Anniversary Kake as I had been out off by another VaPer blend that was supposed to be the measurement of what all VaPers are graded against. I finally pulled the trigger on AK and I bought an ounce. I am hooked now! I have already smoked almost all of it and I placed another order already to get more on its way! I'm not sure what it is about this blend but I love it and it is now a part of my daily rotation! Kudos to Russ O. On this fine blend! I am hooked!

Excellent Service, quick,accurate and courteous. The products are outstanding and I plan to do a lot of future business with Pipes and Cigars. The prices for the quality are nice. Richard Webb

Has a creamy smoothness the differentiates it. The long flakes can take some getting used to if you are used to "Z" folding.

Excellent balance of Perique and Virginia Flake. Hearty, but approachable. I will definitely buy more soon!

From the standpoint of service, I found this experience very nice -- of course, I always have in the past. In terms of the product, I found it had a somewhat "bite" to it that I am not used to with PS Navy Flake. In fact, I would not have ordered the Newminster if the PS was in stock. Keep up the good work in terms of offering a quality product at very, very affordable prices.

Different strokes for different folks, I hear. Anniversary Kake is a little mild for my taste. I like something with a definite room note and a taste that gets your attention. This is not it. I do, however, like the way it burns and the unlit aroma and texture.

My mid rating is not because of the tobacco itself. It is an excellent tobacco, but it took a lot of drying for me to get it to smoke well and the taste was not what I was expecting. But then I am new to these tobaccos. It was a great tobacco and a great price.

Uplifting fragrance, but tends to be a bit too heavy with perique, I think. It did not exactly bite, but it seemed to burn hot. I think the only way to smoke this is to nurse it very slowly. I cannot smoke it regularly, but only as a change of pace.