Topping allows energy that would have produced a bloom to promote leaf expansion. At approximately four weeks after topping the tobacco is stalk cut using a knife that is shaped like a tomahawk. Each plant is speared, spiked or spudded onto a stick topped by a metal spear, spike or spud that fits over the stick. Sticks of green cut tobacco are most often allowed to field wilt for three or four days prior to hanging in a barn. Tobacco is allowed to air cure for eight or more weeks turning from the normal pale green to yellow and then to brown. Burley that cures too quickly will retain some of the yellow pigments as well as chemicals that normally break down with a slower cure.
There truly is no exception, and a relationship with your tobacconist is akin to the relationship a gentleman should have with his barber or tailor. It’s worth it to find a tobacconist who knows your tastes and carries a wide selection of blends to choose from. In fact, many tobacconists have house blends and some will even custom blend a batch for loyal customers. This is an all Burley blend for those who like burley without the bite.
Air-cured leaf is packed into large, oak whiskey barrels and placed under pressure where it undergoes anaerobic fermentation. Periodically during fermentation , the tobacco is unpacked, worked to separate the leaves, aired out and then repacked for additional months of pressure treatment. This process greatly alters and amplifies the flavor of the leaf. Perique is intensely flavored and rarely smoked by itself. It is a condiment leaf, usually added in small doses , and it brings a touch of piquancy—a figgy pepperiness, with fermented plum, olive and pine notes.
This can include setting a portion out to dry a little, and taking any remaining moisture into account when packing the pipe. Rich flavored latakia and orientals are cooled vaporizers bongs down with mild plug cut burley and toasted cavendish. A smooth, slow burning mixture enjoyable by veteran smokers and a great introduction to latakia for the neophyte.
Once you’ve chosen a tobacco, pack it into your pipe. You don’t want to pack your tobacco too loosely or too tightly. The density and moisture content in your tobacco will make a difference too. When the bowl is loaded and you’re water pipes ready to fire up, it’s best to use a soft flame lighter or matches. The flame is way too hot and you’ll incinerate your tobacco and your pipe. Once the bowl is lit, control the air flow with a pipe tamper or your thumb.