Peterson Pipe Tobacco: Unique Blends

We know many of you have been smoking Peterson pipe tobacco for years. 

I know we are a little late to this party, but since tobacco is new for us, suffice to say we’ve been trying a lot of it lately--even more than usual. Throughout this process, admittedly a learning one for me, I’ve continued to enjoy Peterson’s blends as consistent favorites. With that in mind, I thought a quick review of some of the more popular Peterson offerings might be in order. If, like I was before we started this process, you are stuck in a one-tobacco rut--smoking your favorite like a comfortable blanket at naptime--maybe this will encourage you to branch out and try something new.

Popular Peterson pipe tobaccos

There is a tobacco in this family of blends for smokers of every ilk. Peterson puts out consistently popular and well-made Flake, Plug, Aromatics and English blends. Though all of them are made with as much attention to detail as you would expect from the famous Irish pipe brand, these three are standouts for me and a quick purusing of the Tobacco Reviews boards proves I’m not alone.

• Peterson Irish Flake - This beloved blend combines Burley, Kentucky and Virginia tobaccos in a variety of 

  techniques to provide a true tobacco taste. It says right on the label, “Recommended for the experienced smoker.” We agree that this one isn’t for most new smokers, requiring patience and a tolerance for its considerable strength. If you’re up for the challenge, it’s Irish and old-school and thoroughly enjoyable.

• Peterson Perfect Plug- This plug is technically an Aromatic, but strong enough to please those of you who turn your nose up at them. Be forewarned, the Peterson 3 P’s has quite the nicotine kick, so start slow and take your time. If you’re willing to do that, you’ll find yourself smoking one of the most pleasant earthy tobaccos out there and no one will complain about the room notes either!
• Peterson Summertime Blend 2014 (Limited Edition) - This limited edition Peterson pipe tobacco is a rare treat--an Aromatic that tastes exactly as it smells from the tin. It reminds me of picking strawberries or blueberries around April here in Florida. For the rest of you, not living in the humid South, you’ll probably recognize it as the smell of summer. This is a true European Aromatic, so the sweetness is subtle and pleasing, requiring a slow smoke to be thoroughly enjoyed. Frankly, I’m tempted to stash our whole inventory away for myself, but alas, Ben says I have to share it with you all.

These three pipe tobaccos, so different in experience, are all the same in one key area--straightforward quality. The tin tells you exactly what you’re getting, no confusing language or obscure references. In the end, that’s a big part of why I love Peterson pipes and tobaccos so much, there is a general lack of pretension--an adherence to an Irish sensibility that stubbornly refuses to be exclusionary, just straightforward perfection.

What’s your favorite Peterson pipe tobacco? Do you think we missed one? Tell us about it in the comments.