Rattray's Black Mallory Pipe Tobacco

I find it very comfortable and I do not mean that in a bad way. It just feels right and relaxing. It is also very refined if that makes any sense. The flavor seems to teeter on full rather than medium but it in no way is assertive. Yes, it is latakia forward but very proper, again refined if you will. This could easily be my go to English (really Scottish) blend and maybe depending on availability of both it and the funds to lay a little in reserve for the future.

I must be honest here, I'm only on my first tin of this wonderful tobacco. It will not be my last. I fell in love with Black Mallory from my first bowl. One of my all-time favorite blends is Butera's Pelican, and this is the closest thing I've found. While not identical, Black Mallory has much of what I love about Pelican. It is a smooth, somewhat stronger than average Balkan style blend with a sultry aroma and taste. And, while Black Mallory isn't always easy to find, it's easier than Pelican by far. If I'm not mistaken Black Mallory has been around much longer too and seems to be a fan favorite of the Rattray's line going way back. The blend came with perfect moisture and there was noticeable suction release to the lid upon opening. I doubt my tin was very old though since the tin sports new artwork (not as pictured). But, it tastes like it's mellowed from age. It is so easy to smoke I find myself getting lost in its richness. No bite, no sharpness, no adjustments necessary... it agreed with me in every way as if smoking a life-long favorite blend. The Latakia is upfront and balanced perfectly with the Orientals. The smokey Latakia is both rich and mellow, not at all overdone, but definitely stronger than you'd expect. The Orientals come across as creamy and incense-like without any annoying perfume chemical twinge. This IS the definition of “balanced blend”. Every component is supporting the others and is a relevant and crucial element. Any one component is hard to find, but the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Fans of Latakia mixtures and Oriental blends should try Black Mallory for sure. Luckily, it still manages to fly under the radar so-to-speak. It's an old classic but enjoys slight niche anonymity. Enjoy.

This is a great Scottish blend and is well balanced. Nice Latakia, but not overpowering, nicely balanced by the Virginia, Cavendish, and Orientals. I think it has better balance then Frog Morton, a tad less Latakia up front as Frog, but if you wanted a Frog replacement add some straight Latakia and you pretty much nail it. This my one true daily smoke. I hate to give it top marks or mention Frog because it already seems to sell out quickly enough.

A nice full flavored tobacco with a smokey deliciousness. With a pleasant aroma. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys cigars. This is an easy transition to an amazing English blend.

If you're worried about never smoking Frog Morton again don't fret this is fantastic. Smooth, Cool Tasteful smoke on another level. You will not be disappointed on this one. I would have given it 6 stars had they gave me the option.

This tobacco hits ALL of the right notes to qualify as a favorite and part of my regular rotation. Over the pat few months I've come to love any tobacco with Cavendish (especially black Cavendish) and this hits all of those "quality" marks. The generous amount of B. Cavendish adds just the right note of natural sweetness enhanced by the VA.'s in this mixture... I can't see myself smoking this delightful blend on a regular note to get-off my day to a stimulating and fulfilling morning off properly! The Latakia, mixed w/ the B. Cavendish is the true kick-starter to my day... Enjoy for yourself and see why this tobacco is an old stand-by for many a year now!!!

A Beautiful dark tobacco greets you when you open the tin, and the aroma of Latakia is a dream come true for lat. heads. So much flavor you wonder if you have a bowl big enough to hold the entire tin, This tobacco is meant to be savored for sure . I like a bowl as my last smoke. It has taken spot in rotation, with dedicated pipe. Enjoy

I was really taken back by the depth of flavors in this blend. Very much a full flavored blend, though it was smooth and tasty. Lots of little characteristics to explore. This is a blend that I plan to have on hand at all times.