This was my go to tobacco back in the days when it was widely available. It was awesome, half of the stuff I smoked was Penzance. Then I made 4 years pause from smoking, just to find out that Penzance is super hard to get when I got back to pipe smoking some 5 years ago. People, if you can get a hold on an ounce or two, don't hesitate. Sweet memories....
Hello John! Excellent as always! Interesting to hear these informations from a "witness" with such great experience! Thanks for always sharing this experience with us - so much appreciated! Take care! Mark
Hi Matches, I've been enjoying your videos for I guess about a year now. Nice to see you're in the woods again. This winter has been a welcome improvement from last year. Thanks for the informative videos! Keep it up!
+PBRstreetgang No one is happier than me LOL. It was 30 degrees out there when I filmed (it was near 60 yesterday), but there is a tad of spring in the air!
Always amazing to hear what you think of some tobaccos! you make them sound so pleasant and wonderful. I have never had this Penzance tobacco but maybe one day I can get my hands on some. Cheers to you John!
Great review... I just love the place you are making your videos!! I tried Penzance for the first time a few weeks ago (Frenchcanadianpiper gave me a sample). That is for sure the best tobacco I have ever had. As you said, every tobacco leafs used are easy to detect and for me, every tastes are subtil , very elegant! Take care!
John just so you know, the 8oz bags of Penzance are still in flake form, the flakes are lined up in a somewhat flexible plastic tray, I just opened one up a few weeks ago to jar it up.
Hi John: From what I have been able to learn about the Esoterica line of pipe tobacco, the reason it is so tasty (and having tried Penzance I completely agree with you, excellent blend) is because they absolutely refuse to release any of their blends until the component tobaccos are aged for a long time, sometimes two to three times longer than most blenders. That is probably why each ingredient stands so nicely on its own two feet. At present my wholesale supplier is sold out of the entire line and hopefully we will be getting some soon but for now, open that 20 year old tin and enjoy! I will be vicariously sharing that bowl with you when you do. Regards, Doug Owen.
+Doug Owen I would really like to take time this year to re-visit these tobaccos as it's been many years and I will probably appreciate them more. Thanks Doug!
Great video. You are by far one of my favourite UA-cam reviewers. I picked up some Germains special latakia flake on the bank of this. I'm hoping it's similar like rich dark flake is to Stonehaven.
+Duncan Fuller Thank you Duncan! Reviews are not my favorite thing to do, but they always seem to generate a lot of views & comments, so it's certainly a worthwhile pursuit for me. Sweet Smokes to you!
I hope you make a video when you crack that 20 year old tin! I just had a bowl that has been jarred since 2011, so about 7 years of age, and it was incredible! Penzance ages very gracefully. Wonderfully smooth, rich, and sweet. Take care, John!
That tin is the gift that keeps giving! I opened it and shared it with Pipes & Kayaks two years ago. I gave him the tin which he brought back up to Sgt. Savinelli's this summer. He also brought some to a meet up we had two weeks ago. Fantastic stuff!
And there is that pipe! I check my email and find a notification of a new video from you, right after I just commented on the other video... Low and behold what do I see-I see the pipe! Love the pipe! Thank you sir for the video, and as always great video!
I love the Penznace...the Stonehaven too. I ignore the hype and the "it's the best ever", but I can't help but think it's one of the best I've ever smoked. It's all about the quality of the leaf and the manufacturing, and JF Germain doesn't skimp on either. Thankfully I'm sitting on a pound of each. I've been smoking these two almost nonstop since the start of the year!
I have one tin of penzance. I bought it in 2011 from a buddy for 5 $. So its probably 7-8 or so years old. I see it on eBay for 35-50 $ a tin. Too many good tobaccos out there to overpay for tobacco. Funny bc I smoked it once in 2011 and didnt really like it. lol. I think my tastes are much different now though. I need to jar it and try it. they do just fine in mason jars and then you have better access to a bowl now and then. take care John!
Man, so great to see you enjoying that John! I feel the same way about the stuff. It really just hasn't been topped in my experiences so far. On another note... Old Time blend, that stuff is great! The cavendish you added is the perfect amount! Thank you kindly for that sample. I'm thoroughly enjoying it. Tonight, we try Engine 99! Peace
+Joshua In The Woods Thanks so much for sending it Joshua! Engine 99 might not be your thing, but you can certainly pass it along (with the Condor ha,ha).
I remember when you could have gotten Penzance anywhere. By the early to mid 2000s total drought on the stuff. No one had it and everyone wanted it. In my eyes as you have said it is the perfect English, if not the perfect tobacco.
+Vince Sun You are so right! When it became such a big deal, I kinda laughed! Hal O the Wynd was the tobacco to get when I first started smoking Penzance.
Excellent review. I couldnt agree more, when im in the mood to treat myself, I break out the penzance and usually smoke it in my hackert. Its my happy place.
As I watch this video, I am enjoying a bowl of Mac Baren Latakia Flake (one of my favorites) in my Savinelli Roma Acrylic 677. I will try the Penzance. 8 oz is 50 USD and 2 oz is 20 USD at Pipes and Cigars, however they are out of each. Darn it!
I love Penzance, and Stonehaven, for very different reasons of course. I'd say it's worth the $50 price I've seen quite a bit around the online shops for 8 oz bags...for a special treat. But $80? Meh, maybe I'm just too much of a cheapskate, when I know I can buy 8 oz of something like Hearth & Home's 10 to Midnight (fairly similar) for $23. Of course, you can find Esoterica 8 oz. bags in Brick & Mortar shops sometimes for less than $40...that's where I'd like to see the price and make my purchases. I definitely agree it's not an everyday smoke...but definitely an experience worth having if you can find it at a reasonable price. Thanks for the video!
+hauntedtank75 Oh yes, I have had Ten to Midnight, but it's been a while. My $80 figure assumes you can't get it anywhere else for less...I'm probably a bigger cheapskate than you!
Hi John my good friend. It's good to see you, great review on Penzance. You are very lucky in the USA, you can get this Tobacco, it's made here in the UK, but we still can not get it. Take good care, and all the very best to you and to your good family. Blessed Be A.J.
+allanjohn61 Hi AJ, from a discussion with one of your countrymen, there is a possibility that Germains Special Latakia Flake may be your "Penzance" in the UK as the recipe has been used more than once by Germain.
+Matches860 Hi John, i will have to look into this tonight and see what i can come up with. Thank you for getting back to me, and also thank you for taking the time to do this video. Take good care my good friend. Blessed Be A.J.
I agree, Penzance is something special. Very delicious! Im lucky enough to have a couple of tins stashed away. That aged tin of yours should be rather spectacular, please share your thoughts on it whenever you decide to open it! Take care. Emil
Hi John......My local brick and mortar had the Dunbar the other day .....I bought it....They had just 1 can.They had a can of Margate......I should have bought it...I think i will when i go back..She thinks she can get some Penzance.......Ill know by Wednesday or Thursday of next week.
Yea thats all ive been hearing. Everyone talks about it. Unfortunately I can never find it of course. But some day ill get lucky..Thanx for sharing. Be safe. Take care.
Great review like always. Luckily I'm able to get Penzance quite easily. I got the local B&M to start ordering it and so far I'm the only one buying it. Hopefully no one else tries it and it stays that way ha! Cheers!
I think any of the Esoterica's are worth trying once. I had some Margate last week, and I just ordered some Woodbridge to try. I'm not a huge Licorice fan, so hopefully its not too potent. I hear Ramsgate and Blackpool are more pronounced. But the hype on Penzance is way too much. It's understandable, sure, but it makes getting it a literal headache and extremely difficult. My advice is buy it when you see it, but don't bother hunting. It's the Big Foot of tobacco. Glad you enjoyed it though Matches!
+Matches860 Fortune smiled on me this week. I was able to procure some Penzance through an online source after I checked my email at just the right moment. I've just finished my first bowl...and what a treat! I now understand the hype a bit better than before. Definitely a premium smoke. Easily in the rankings of the best I've had thus far.
+Grant Grindle Old Times has become a real favorite since I love both burley's in it. I only added the Black Cavendish for normal people who'd like a bit of sweetness LOL
You must post a video when you open that 20 yr old Penzance. I'm begging you! Many say it is best smoked fresh and tends to lose it's mojo over time. Your thoughts would be insightful. Still smoking through a 8oz bag I scored 3 yrs ago. It's always a wonderful experience.
+Braciole76 I can almost taste what the old tin will be like. Yes, the latakia will soften to the point that it's "creamy" and smooth. The Virginias and turkish leaf should really sing after 20 years. I'll do a video for sure, and I'm probably looking at doing it in September.
I dropped the Friday Night Live streams in July and was looking forward to returning to regular weekly video uploads. I was doing well for a couple weeks but all hell broke loose at home so I've been working on that. Live streams may come back, but I don't want to promise anything.
+NavyPipe I really like this spot for a few reasons...nobody around, it shields the wind, it's beautiful, and it's close to home. Yeah, it was a great smoke despite the 30 degree temperature.
G'day John! Well the setting is certainly appropriate for smoking Latakia. A cool morning in the woods? Nice. Is it one of the greats? Yes. Deserving of its accolades? Yes. Deserving of the hype? Maybe kind of no. Deserving of its price? Definitely no. I will say this, if it's a tobacco that you like, then no price will probably get in the way. I think Germain's Latakia flake is the same if not the best substitute. Either way, I like Penzance, just not its elite status. Hope all is well. Glen.
+Brad Howe I agree! I spend my week having to communicate with people and sometimes engage in nerve wracking negotiations. Out here in the woods, you can put all that behind you for the moment.
Great video John. I think it most certainly is a blend that everyone should try (if you can get ahold of it). I am not sure if it is worth the crazy prices it garners but it is tasty. This might be blasphemy but I personally like Margate better....oh well. Enjoy. Clayton
+Clayton Douglas I've got to go back into my earlier smoking diary and find out which one really got my attention...Dorchester perhaps? All I remember is I wanted more, but I moved on to other things at the time.
I've had several 8oz bags of penz through the years, while it's a good blend I tend to prefer stonehaven more. It's amazing to see what some people will pay for a simple bag of tobacco.
+neolexington I suppose I'll need to try Stonehaven while I'm still alive. Yeah, it's funny that when something gets to be in short supply, everyone wants it.
+neolexington Oh, thanks much for the offer, when I decide to re-visit the Esoterica line I'll deal with it then. There's a group of reviews that could take a few months to do!
Hahaha great vid! Should have bought some when I had the chance, I guess I'll have to stick with C&D Star of the East Flake great stuff. Cheers -Dustan
+czerjyo Phew, you know, I almost hate to go that far out on the limb because I think there are a few "Holy Grails" and often times that depends on the smoker. Let's say it's a blend that shouldn't be passed by if you're a serious piper.
I was recently gifted some OJK, Billy Bud, and an unexpected generous helping of Penzance. I can't wait for some nicer weather so I can try this white whale of a tobacco.
I like that sign off and since you help make so many viewers weekends all the better by your Friday videos, I just felt like you needed to hear that little blessing/salutation from someone too! Great video, as always! Not sure how you didn't land in talk radio.
+Padre Piper Oh my, the college I attended had an FM radio station and I was asked to sit in a few minutes one evening in between shifts...trust me, this is 500% easier!
Great video John. It's Friday and you are smoking the wrong pipe. LOL I order a tin of Peterson Irish Flake and I might smoke it tonight and try it and see if I like it.
+Peter Parker I've heard of folks smoking 30-50 year old pipe tobacco, however, they say that any changes due to aging is complete by 10 - 15 years, possibly less.
Wow! No Snow? What a difference from last year huh? Looks like a very pleasant day there in the woods. I've got 1 tin of penzance left and I can't bring myself to open it.The last batch I had was coated with beautiful white sugar crystals and it was awesome! I gifted some and kept some but I consider it a treat when I can get it.Be well John!
+Smokin' Briar I wouldn't tell everyone this, but as a newbie I knew nothing about plume on tobacco and chucked out a whole tin of Penzance back in the day...Oh, I'm cringing at the thought!
+Pipes And kayaks The more you get involved in YTPC, the better your chances are in getting some from somebody. Many of these guys know when it will be available, then they sit on their phones with the vendor to be first in line. It generally sells out in a matter of minutes.
Hmmm.... OK definitely... I'm relatively new in the community I've only been smoking pipes now for about 6 months but I've been around on UA-cam quite a bit I will definitely keep my eyes open it must be tremendous stuff I hope I get to try it at least once hey thanks again for your advice I'm very grateful
+Matches860 thank you!..that would be great unfortunately the only video I have that works right now is my phone ..but will make the best of it and send one this week ...waiting on this New England snow storm ..........
Yes, I shared a few bowls with Pipes&Kayaks one year and I gave it to him. We still share a bowl of it when we get together. The transformation is magical! The latakia just turns everything to a creamy smooth flavor.
Fantastic, John :) I know exactly what you mean when you say you are in heaven... Coincidentally, I'm just about to pop a new tin of Germain Special Latakia Flake, which I am lead to believe is the same thing. It's in my top 3, and I love it! I have two tins cellared and I've been carrying around another one in my bag for the last month trying to decide whether or not to pop it... :) Enjoy, my friend!
+Leo Aldopold I was surprised to read that the recipe for Penzance is quite old so it wouldn't surprise me to find that J.F. Germain & Son also have the same thing under another name. I shall have to try the Special latakia flake...I believe I have a tin here.
+Leo Aldopold Yes, Esoterica Tobacciana (as I understand) was a line created for a U.S. chain of tobacco shops that went under. Three of the Esoterica blends are long time recipes from Germain, Penzance being one of those.
+Matches860 I think Rich Dark Flake is supposed to be our equivalent of Stonehaven, but there seem to be differing opinions.. 😂. In any case, I haven't tried a Germain's blend I haven't loved
+TRON8882 For some reason, I'm not bothered nor do I really detect ghosts from English blends cause I guess I smoke them enough not to make a difference.
Thanks for the clip. I like Margate(more latakia and much stronger) as a surrogate because Penzance is so bloody difficult to get.Last time I smoked Penzance was few years ago at my 50th birthday,since that I haven't had a change to get it.Have a pleasant weekend.
Yes you are indeed in heaven, my friend.
This was my go to tobacco back in the days when it was widely available. It was awesome, half of the stuff I smoked was Penzance. Then I made 4 years pause from smoking, just to find out that Penzance is super hard to get when I got back to pipe smoking some 5 years ago. People, if you can get a hold on an ounce or two, don't hesitate. Sweet memories....
Penzance is pretty hard to come by alright...it is a wonderful smoke!
Hello John!
Excellent as always! Interesting to hear these informations from a "witness" with such great experience! Thanks for always sharing this experience with us - so much appreciated!
Take care!
Mark
+Bremen Pipe Smoker Thank you Mark!
God Bless you Sir.
Hi Matches,
I've been enjoying your videos for I guess about a year now. Nice to see you're in the woods again. This winter has been a welcome improvement from last year. Thanks for the informative videos! Keep it up!
+PBRstreetgang No one is happier than me LOL. It was 30 degrees out there when I filmed (it was near 60 yesterday), but there is a tad of spring in the air!
John every time I smoke this I will definitely be thinking of you🙏🏻✋🏻
Always amazing to hear what you think of some tobaccos! you make them sound so pleasant and wonderful. I have never had this Penzance tobacco but maybe one day I can get my hands on some. Cheers to you John!
I like almost everything and try to find something good in each blend. Penzance has been a long time favorite.
Great review... I just love the place you are making your videos!!
I tried Penzance for the first time a few weeks ago (Frenchcanadianpiper gave me a sample). That is for sure the best tobacco I have ever had. As you said, every tobacco leafs used are easy to detect and for me, every tastes are subtil , very elegant!
Take care!
+Gilles Cassidy I made a video about this park called "Suburban Park" if you'd like to get more info. on it. A perfect place for a bowl of Penzance!
Love watching your videos sir. I find myself getting sucked in and losing track of time.
+Mark Sylvester Thanks so much Mark!
Of the various intros (title and music), I like this the best followed by the latest version. Enjoying the stories!
Thanks for sharing matches I've been looking and waiting 2 years to try Penzance with no luck glad you found it to enjoy stay safe
Thanks brother much appreciated!,
John just so you know, the 8oz bags of Penzance are still in flake form, the flakes are lined up in a somewhat flexible plastic tray, I just opened one up a few weeks ago to jar it up.
+PipeLeisure Oh thanks, I never bought a bag!
Man I dig where you live, what a beautiful quiet serene setting Matches! Perfect for the Penzance! happy puffing, long time no see.
I never regret moving to CT...the landscapes run the full spectrum of everything possible.
Great review John. I am going to have to look for a tin myself, sounds like a great blend.
Hi John: From what I have been able to learn about the Esoterica line of pipe tobacco, the reason it is so tasty (and having tried Penzance I completely agree with you, excellent blend) is because they absolutely refuse to release any of their blends until the component tobaccos are aged for a long time, sometimes two to three times longer than most blenders. That is probably why each ingredient stands so nicely on its own two feet. At present my wholesale supplier is sold out of the entire line and hopefully we will be getting some soon but for now, open that 20 year old tin and enjoy! I will be vicariously sharing that bowl with you when you do. Regards, Doug Owen.
+Doug Owen I would really like to take time this year to re-visit these tobaccos as it's been many years and I will probably appreciate them more. Thanks Doug!
I love this churchwarden from Savinelli, the Qandale. I have this exact model. Just wish I had some Penzance to fill it as well. Great video ;-)
+Ricardo L. Yes, the Qandale is getting more action since I got the longer pipe cleaners.
What a peaceful vid and something to look forward too if I can ever squire it!!! Thanks! John
Thanks for watching John, it seems if you forget about trying to get it, all of a sudden some will appear!
Hi John. Great stuff that Penzance is, I have a few pounds stashed away. Great video as always. Cheers 🍻
Great video. You are by far one of my favourite UA-cam reviewers. I picked up some Germains special latakia flake on the bank of this. I'm hoping it's similar like rich dark flake is to Stonehaven.
+Duncan Fuller Thank you Duncan! Reviews are not my favorite thing to do, but they always seem to generate a lot of views & comments, so it's certainly a worthwhile pursuit for me. Sweet Smokes to you!
Thanks for the review. Is a churchwarden pipe a cooler smoke than a more traditional length stem?
Yes, you're further away from the heat and the smoke is cooled down over the added distance.
I hope you make a video when you crack that 20 year old tin! I just had a bowl that has been jarred since 2011, so about 7 years of age, and it was incredible! Penzance ages very gracefully. Wonderfully smooth, rich, and sweet. Take care, John!
That tin is the gift that keeps giving! I opened it and shared it with Pipes & Kayaks two years ago. I gave him the tin which he brought back up to Sgt. Savinelli's this summer. He also brought some to a meet up we had two weeks ago. Fantastic stuff!
Have a bag sitting that I refuse to open at this point, but I have been greatly looking forward to it.
+Colin Kelly LOL, that's how I feel about my cellared tin...they may end up burying it with me.
What other blends would you put in your ultimate blend category?
Oh my, there are many! Solani ABF, Wessex Burley Slices, C&D Epiphany,DaVinci,Billy Budd, Edgeworth Sliced, to name a couple.
And there is that pipe! I check my email and find a notification of a new video from you, right after I just commented on the other video... Low and behold what do I see-I see the pipe! Love the pipe! Thank you sir for the video, and as always great video!
+Joe Puentes Thanks for your support Joe! I found our thinking on the same plane to be quite humorous!
Another great review, John! It's always great to hear your very astute opinions. Love seeing you enjoying the Penzance so!
+michellev222 It was really great to be outside, even if it was a tad chilly!
+Matches860 I felt the same way the other day as our temps dropped. It just felt great to be outside!!
I love the Penznace...the Stonehaven too. I ignore the hype and the "it's the best ever", but I can't help but think it's one of the best I've ever smoked. It's all about the quality of the leaf and the manufacturing, and JF Germain doesn't skimp on either. Thankfully I'm sitting on a pound of each. I've been smoking these two almost nonstop since the start of the year!
+The Joy Of Piping I tend to over indulge and I could easily smoke this straight until I didn't want to see it anymore...what a scary thought!
I have one tin of penzance. I bought it in 2011 from a buddy for 5 $. So its probably 7-8 or so years old. I see it on eBay for 35-50 $ a tin. Too many good tobaccos out there to overpay for tobacco. Funny bc I smoked it once in 2011 and didnt really like it. lol. I think my tastes are much different now though. I need to jar it and try it. they do just fine in mason jars and then you have better access to a bowl now and then. take care John!
+pipeheadOR I'm certainly a believer in changing tastes as mine have changed in the past few years as well. Always good to see you Gil!
Man, so great to see you enjoying that John! I feel the same way about the stuff. It really just hasn't been topped in my experiences so far. On another note... Old Time blend, that stuff is great! The cavendish you added is the perfect amount! Thank you kindly for that sample. I'm thoroughly enjoying it. Tonight, we try Engine 99! Peace
+Joshua In The Woods Thanks so much for sending it Joshua! Engine 99 might not be your thing, but you can certainly pass it along (with the Condor ha,ha).
+Matches860 Oh right, the Condor! I think I'm actually just as excited to try that! Ha! Peace my friend
+Matches860 that Joshua is one hell of a guy!!
what a compliment, you make me wanna Penzance!
I remember when you could have gotten Penzance anywhere. By the early to mid 2000s total drought on the stuff. No one had it and everyone wanted it. In my eyes as you have said it is the perfect English, if not the perfect tobacco.
+Vince Sun You are so right! When it became such a big deal, I kinda laughed! Hal O the Wynd was the tobacco to get when I first started smoking Penzance.
Excellent review. I couldnt agree more, when im in the mood to treat myself, I break out the penzance and usually smoke it in my hackert. Its my happy place.
+BayAreaPiper We all need that happy place for sure!
7:07 r.i.p ♥️
As I watch this video, I am enjoying a bowl of Mac Baren Latakia Flake (one of my favorites) in my Savinelli Roma Acrylic 677. I will try the Penzance. 8 oz is 50 USD and 2 oz is 20 USD at Pipes and Cigars, however they are out of each. Darn it!
Couldn't agree more! Love the stuff! Shame it's so hard to come by! All the best 😊
+Puffing Billy Yep, it always seems to be sold out...I think someone's hoarding it!
Could't agree more - Penzance is a special blend. Great review.
+Pat Higgins Thanks for stopping by Pat!
What a review! I'm sold! Hopping online to buy some now, no questions asked!
Best of luck! Very hard to get
You most likely need to pay 30 times the original price nowadays
I fully agree I got 3 cans (2 ounces) and smoke it on special occasions Penzance is fantastic
❤️
Happy weekend to you too. Thanks for sharing. Be well.
+Papa Chubby Thank you Papa!
I love Penzance, and Stonehaven, for very different reasons of course. I'd say it's worth the $50 price I've seen quite a bit around the online shops for 8 oz bags...for a special treat. But $80? Meh, maybe I'm just too much of a cheapskate, when I know I can buy 8 oz of something like Hearth & Home's 10 to Midnight (fairly similar) for $23. Of course, you can find Esoterica 8 oz. bags in Brick & Mortar shops sometimes for less than $40...that's where I'd like to see the price and make my purchases. I definitely agree it's not an everyday smoke...but definitely an experience worth having if you can find it at a reasonable price. Thanks for the video!
+hauntedtank75 Oh yes, I have had Ten to Midnight, but it's been a while. My $80 figure assumes you can't get it anywhere else for less...I'm probably a bigger cheapskate than you!
Hmmm...I suppose if I knew they were done making it, I might pay $80...
Hey John, I just released your intro on my page and left your link in the "bucket." ;) Gorgeous pipe BTW! Keep it up!
+Joseph Hein I referred someone to your website this past week...I hope it works out.
Hey, awesome! Thanks for spreading the love!
Hi John my good friend. It's good to see you, great review on Penzance. You are very lucky in the USA, you can get this Tobacco, it's made here in the UK, but we still can not get it. Take good care, and all the very best to you and to your good family. Blessed Be A.J.
+allanjohn61 Hi AJ, from a discussion with one of your countrymen, there is a possibility that Germains Special Latakia Flake may be your "Penzance" in the UK as the recipe has been used more than once by Germain.
+Matches860 Hi John, i will have to look into this tonight and see what i can come up with. Thank you for getting back to me, and also thank you for taking the time to do this video. Take good care my good friend. Blessed Be A.J.
I need to try this stuff. The tin looks gorgeous also.
Everyone should try it at least once!
I agree, Penzance is something special. Very delicious! Im lucky enough to have a couple of tins stashed away. That aged tin of yours should be rather spectacular, please share your thoughts on it whenever you decide to open it!
Take care.
Emil
+TinFoilHatPipeDude I really should open that this year...perhaps in September when I go on vacation. Thanks for watching Emil!
I finally got an 8 oz bag, one of the best tobaccos I've smoked. The best thing is it only cost me about $25.
You are lucky to find it! I reluctantly gave a bag away to a friend and two weeks later received another bag from someone else LOL.
Hi John......My local brick and mortar had the Dunbar the other day .....I bought it....They had just 1 can.They had a can of Margate......I should have bought it...I think i will when i go back..She thinks she can get some Penzance.......Ill know by Wednesday or Thursday of next week.
I highly recommend ANY Esoterica blends. I'm not a real Virginia smoker, but they know how to do tobacco right.
who needs Penzance when you have prince Albert joke whenever a pipe smoker hears Penzance people go flocking around
Great vid Matches. Congrats. I liked it alot. Thanks.
This was a fun review to do, normally I don't really feel comfortable doing reviews.
what a beautiful channel you have..thank you always,greg
+NYC drums Well thank you for that! Very much appreciated!
+Matches860 NYC drums is a great guy
+PipeLeisure Yes he is!
+PipeLeisure Thanks brother
What an awesome tobacco. Enjoy John and have a great weekend.
+Bearcat Piper You have a fantastic week-end my friend!
Yea thats all ive been hearing. Everyone talks about it. Unfortunately I can never find it of course. But some day ill get lucky..Thanx for sharing. Be safe. Take care.
Great review like always. Luckily I'm able to get Penzance quite easily. I got the local B&M to start ordering it and so far I'm the only one buying it. Hopefully no one else tries it and it stays that way ha! Cheers!
+lunchie83 I can still see the piles of Penzance in the local shop back in the '90's...I bet I paid next to nothing for it too!
awesome you had a great smoke there.
greetings from Holland, Kitty.
Oh yes, what a grand time it was!
Thumbs down? They must have pressed the wring button. Great video as always. Hollywood of pipe video makers 😊
+Graham Wilson Well, you can't please everyone. Someone doesn't like me, or the Penzance...or both.
I think any of the Esoterica's are worth trying once. I had some Margate last week, and I just ordered some Woodbridge to try. I'm not a huge Licorice fan, so hopefully its not too potent. I hear Ramsgate and Blackpool are more pronounced. But the hype on Penzance is way too much. It's understandable, sure, but it makes getting it a literal headache and extremely difficult. My advice is buy it when you see it, but don't bother hunting. It's the Big Foot of tobacco. Glad you enjoyed it though Matches!
+NOLA Pipe Smoker Yeah, I hope to revisit the Esoterica line soon.
+Matches860 Fortune smiled on me this week. I was able to procure some Penzance through an online source after I checked my email at just the right moment. I've just finished my first bowl...and what a treat! I now understand the hype a bit better than before. Definitely a premium smoke. Easily in the rankings of the best I've had thus far.
+mgvsquared As I said, all the Esoterica's are worth trying. Glad you were able to experience the Penzance!
Nice video John, I'll have to try the others you mentioned. By the way, how's Old Times?
+Grant Grindle Old Times has become a real favorite since I love both burley's in it. I only added the Black Cavendish for normal people who'd like a bit of sweetness LOL
Not a fan of penzance ..but wow I think even the cheapest tobacco would be a delightful experience sitting out there. Enjoyed your time
LOL, for sure, cow manure would have tasted good!
You must post a video when you open that 20 yr old Penzance. I'm begging you! Many say it is best smoked fresh and tends to lose it's mojo over time. Your thoughts would be insightful. Still smoking through a 8oz bag I scored 3 yrs ago. It's always a wonderful experience.
+Braciole76 I can almost taste what the old tin will be like. Yes, the latakia will soften to the point that it's "creamy" and smooth. The Virginias and turkish leaf should really sing after 20 years. I'll do a video for sure, and I'm probably looking at doing it in September.
John, are you still doing you Friday videos? Or am I just missing them. Also are you planning on doing any more live videos?
I dropped the Friday Night Live streams in July and was looking forward to returning to regular weekly video uploads. I was doing well for a couple weeks but all hell broke loose at home so I've been working on that. Live streams may come back, but I don't want to promise anything.
thank you my friend I will actually try to get to that video today wasn't much of a snowstorm I think my camera will be much worse than the storm
What a great scenery, fantastic!! hope it was a great smoke, sounds like a hell of a deal :)
+NavyPipe I really like this spot for a few reasons...nobody around, it shields the wind, it's beautiful, and it's close to home. Yeah, it was a great smoke despite the 30 degree temperature.
+Matches860 Hopefully spring will come round fast and warm up for you. I do enjoy a place where noone is around.
G'day John! Well the setting is certainly appropriate for smoking Latakia. A cool morning in the woods? Nice. Is it one of the greats? Yes. Deserving of its accolades? Yes. Deserving of the hype? Maybe kind of no. Deserving of its price? Definitely no. I will say this, if it's a tobacco that you like, then no price will probably get in the way. I think Germain's Latakia flake is the same if not the best substitute. Either way, I like Penzance, just not its elite status. Hope all is well. Glen.
+Pipe Nutter You're right, a tobacco is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it! Good to see you Mate!
Excellent Review John, Love Penzance,
+Jeffers 58. Many thanks my friend!
Looks peaceful. Nothing like a smoke in nature
+Brad Howe I agree! I spend my week having to communicate with people and sometimes engage in nerve wracking negotiations. Out here in the woods, you can put all that behind you for the moment.
Great video John. I think it most certainly is a blend that everyone should try (if you can get ahold of it). I am not sure if it is worth the crazy prices it garners but it is tasty. This might be blasphemy but I personally like Margate better....oh well. Enjoy.
Clayton
+Clayton Douglas I've got to go back into my earlier smoking diary and find out which one really got my attention...Dorchester perhaps? All I remember is I wanted more, but I moved on to other things at the time.
I've had several 8oz bags of penz through the years, while it's a good blend I tend to prefer stonehaven more. It's amazing to see what some people will pay for a simple bag of tobacco.
+neolexington I suppose I'll need to try Stonehaven while I'm still alive. Yeah, it's funny that when something gets to be in short supply, everyone wants it.
+Matches860 John, shoot me an address in a message and I'll send you a couple bowls worth.
+neolexington Oh, thanks much for the offer, when I decide to re-visit the Esoterica line I'll deal with it then. There's a group of reviews that could take a few months to do!
Officially on wish list! As always... Great review!
+Leon Moody I was gonna mention that newbies should certainly feel ok with smoking this. It's light and not totally complex.
Matches860 Im going to start looking for it. thank you!
Hahaha great vid! Should have bought some when I had the chance, I guess I'll have to stick with C&D Star of the East Flake great stuff. Cheers -Dustan
Yes, if you ever have the chance, try it!
Great video. Matches. I live near Penzance.
+terry kemp I'll bet it's a beautiful place too!
I bought an 8-ounce bag from my local pipe and tobacco shop I smoke a bowl once every 6 months great stuff
That's the way to do it! I never want to get tired of it.
Thanks for the review, I'll take 5 tins John ;) hahaha have a great weekend!
+Richard T He,he...talk to Pipe Leisure, I think he has it all!
Wow! Lot of videos on that blend from december to date. Some people says holy grial of tobacco!! Are you agree?
+czerjyo Phew, you know, I almost hate to go that far out on the limb because I think there are a few "Holy Grails" and often times that depends on the smoker. Let's say it's a blend that shouldn't be passed by if you're a serious piper.
I was recently gifted some OJK, Billy Bud, and an unexpected generous helping of Penzance. I can't wait for some nicer weather so I can try this white whale of a tobacco.
+Erk Pik Billy Budd is right up there too in my book! You've got three winners there!
I'm a HUGE fan of Penzance and I will admit that I have a Penzance hoarding problem, I'm lucky enough to have quite a bit of it stored away.
+PipeLeisure Shhhh, you're the one everyone is looking for!
+Matches860 me and my big mouth
And a happy weekend to you to, my friend!
+Padre Piper LOL, I'm not sure what I was thinking at the end (obviously nothing), but that's not my usual sign-off. Thanks for watching Padre'!
I like that sign off and since you help make so many viewers weekends all the better by your Friday videos, I just felt like you needed to hear that little blessing/salutation from someone too! Great video, as always! Not sure how you didn't land in talk radio.
+Padre Piper Oh my, the college I attended had an FM radio station and I was asked to sit in a few minutes one evening in between shifts...trust me, this is 500% easier!
Is that churchwarden gurgle'ing on you in this video? I think i can hear it when you puff. My churchwarden gurgles too.
Cotwoo Probably. I tend to get that problem when the pipe figures out we are filming.
Great video John. It's Friday and you are smoking the wrong pipe. LOL I order a tin of Peterson Irish Flake and I might smoke it tonight and try it and see if I like it.
+Pipesmoker Cowboy Chris Hi Chris! The Friday Sav. got smoked to and from the filming location so not to worry! You may see it next Friday!
A twenty year old tin! wow. How long can you keep a sealed tin or jar of tobacco anyhow?
+Peter Parker I've heard of folks smoking 30-50 year old pipe tobacco, however, they say that any changes due to aging is complete by 10 - 15 years, possibly less.
+Matches860 make sure I'm sitting right next to you when you pop that tin buddy
Wow! No Snow? What a difference from last year huh? Looks like a very pleasant day there in the woods. I've got 1 tin of penzance left and I can't bring myself to open it.The last batch I had was coated with beautiful white sugar crystals and it was awesome! I gifted some and kept some but I consider it a treat when I can get it.Be well John!
+Smokin' Briar I wouldn't tell everyone this, but as a newbie I knew nothing about plume on tobacco and chucked out a whole tin of Penzance back in the day...Oh, I'm cringing at the thought!
+Matches860 My condolences John :-)
I hope you were knocking on some damn wood after saying that, we are in the 50's in February here in the NE...woohoo
+PipeLeisure After last winter, you guys up north deserve it :-)
+Smokin' Briar saw a thing on Facebook today, last year at this time Boston had 100" of snow already
Any advice how to find it looked everyplace on the web ....no dice! Wow it must be great
+Pipes And kayaks The more you get involved in YTPC, the better your chances are in getting some from somebody. Many of these guys know when it will be available, then they sit on their phones with the vendor to be first in line. It generally sells out in a matter of minutes.
Hmmm.... OK definitely... I'm relatively new in the community I've only been smoking pipes now for about 6 months but I've been around on UA-cam quite a bit I will definitely keep my eyes open it must be tremendous stuff I hope I get to try it at least once hey thanks again for your advice I'm very grateful
+Pipes And kayaks Make a video, introduce yourself, and I'll send you some.
+Matches860 thank you!..that would be great unfortunately the only video I have that works right now is my phone ..but will make the best of it and send one this week ...waiting on this New England snow storm ..........
+Pipes And kayaks I'll hold on to the Penzance for you!
sound good
This sounds absolutely beautiful and delicious.
It's terrific stuff if you can find it!
Did you ever open the 20 year old tin? How was it?
Yes, I shared a few bowls with Pipes&Kayaks one year and I gave it to him. We still share a bowl of it when we get together. The transformation is magical! The latakia just turns everything to a creamy smooth flavor.
I think you just added a few more dollars to the price John!
+Kernicus Rax LOL, I am kind of adding fuel to the fire huh? Thanks for watching Kevin!
Great talk... thanks. But I've never had it. Been waiting for 2 years and it always sells out in minutes. O well. Take cate
The J.F. Germain Special Latakia Flake is roughly the same thing and may be easier to find.
Fantastic, John :) I know exactly what you mean when you say you are in heaven... Coincidentally, I'm just about to pop a new tin of Germain Special Latakia Flake, which I am lead to believe is the same thing. It's in my top 3, and I love it! I have two tins cellared and I've been carrying around another one in my bag for the last month trying to decide whether or not to pop it... :) Enjoy, my friend!
+Leo Aldopold I was surprised to read that the recipe for Penzance is quite old so it wouldn't surprise me to find that J.F. Germain & Son also have the same thing under another name. I shall have to try the Special latakia flake...I believe I have a tin here.
+Matches860 I thought the SLF was just for the UK market, as Penzance is to the US. I'd be interested to hear if you see any difference!
+Leo Aldopold Yes, Esoterica Tobacciana (as I understand) was a line created for a U.S. chain of tobacco shops that went under. Three of the Esoterica blends are long time recipes from Germain, Penzance being one of those.
+Matches860 I think Rich Dark Flake is supposed to be our equivalent of Stonehaven, but there seem to be differing opinions.. 😂. In any case, I haven't tried a Germain's blend I haven't loved
great vid!
+WizzD Thanks, reviews are not really my thing, but I do them anyway LOL.
Nice review brother
Thanks, this was really an enjoyable few moments for me.
Superb review my good friend
Looks like an amazing area to smoke a pipe.
Keep em smoking mate.
+legacydotuk Hi Chris, yes, this is a favorite spot of mine and I usually try to do something special when I film here.
How's the Ghosting of Penzance?
+TRON8882 For some reason, I'm not bothered nor do I really detect ghosts from English blends cause I guess I smoke them enough not to make a difference.
No offence to nobody
I buy my tobacco and smoke it that’s what it’s for in my opinion, Thanks for sharing
even harder to get here in uk enjoy john
+bearded piper Check the comments BP, you may have some under another name!
+Matches860 cheers will be grabbing a tin of special Latakia flake then thanks for the heads up
I managed to get 1lb of it 5 years ago.And belive me i check everyday and there aint none!
+Charles Goodspeed LOL, You're lucky to find an ounce these days!
is it that good sir
+Norman Williams Yes it is!
Thanks for the clip. I like Margate(more latakia and much stronger) as a surrogate because Penzance is so bloody difficult to get.Last time I smoked Penzance was few years ago at my 50th birthday,since that I haven't had a change to get it.Have a pleasant weekend.
+Olle Wahlroos LOL, I think all I did was cry on my 50th !
great vid and hi i am a nooby
+PIPE DREAMS Well hello "Newbie"! Hope you enjoy your pipe & tobacco journey here on YT. Feel free to message any of us with questions!
I agree 100% including the part about being in heaven. I hope u make a video when u smoke the 20 yr tin of Penzance.
+Neil Stein Oh yes, that will be filmed for sure!
Man, that is one gurgling church warden...
Well i was interested until i heard the L word lol. Ill be one less standing in line to buy some.
+troynov1965 Ah, but this L is very tame compared to other blends. Perhaps you'll get a sample from someone.