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In case you’re interested, the 2024 special release of Mac Baren London Burley Blend is available right now, only at Smokingpipes.
I personally won’t be buying any this time, as I have four tins from 2011 when it was still in regular production, and six tins from the 2023 release. Last year it sold out within a week of being released.
Actually I think I have the 2022 release, not 2023, but I don’t feel like digging in my cellar to check.
I would be interested to know if it is the same formulation as the last rereleases which I didn't care for. It smelled like instant hot chocolate powder mix. I didn't like the vanilla note which the original didn't have.
I haven’t tried this year’s release, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s the same as the 2022 I have. It is different than it used to be. I still have a supply from 2011.
In your opinion, is it as good as, not as good as, or better than Aged Burley Flake?
Very similar, I suppose the answer would be in what your particular tastes are. The original Burley London Blend had a bit fuller and deeper Burley, so it relied more on the burley itself, with less casing used to carry the blend. Both the current one and Solani rely more heavily on the casings. Of course, given some age, the casings diminish of course. I actually like all three for what they are. Quality is on par for the Solani and the current London Blend. The decade discontinued London blend had a slightly higher quality tobacco I believe.
I purchased three tins and am now just running through the initial trials. So far, very good and similar to HH Burley with a decided DARK chocolate glazing that seems to be full on at first but tapers about halfway to reveal a really robust Burley experience. Will be posting my thoughts later this week.
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