Description
Sadly, McClelland is no longer in business as they closed in 2018, but there are some rare tins still in circulation. This tin is a true unicorn! The tin label description is: Two dark stoved Virginias and one wide-cut lemon Virginia expertly blended with Cajun Black. This blend is one of a kind, ethereally smoky, deeply rich and incredibly complex. Virginia's nature sweetness cooled by Cajun Black's fire-curing and Perique-style fermentation.
This blend showcases Cajun Black, which McClelland described as a completely new category of tobacco—akin to Latakia or Perique—marking "the first new pipe tobacco component in over forty years." Opening the tin reveals a rich, Perique-like aroma with woody and smoky undertones, complemented by McClelland's signature ketchup-like fragrance, though less pronounced here than in blends like Brindle Flake. The Cajun Black undergoes a "Perique-style fermentation," which is unmistakably evident in the tin note. The aroma is so enticing that you'll likely want to savour it for a moment before lighting up. Tin 50g.
In terms of flavour, it offers a complex medley of woody, smoky, spicy, and herbal notes. Cajun Black is partially cured over slow-burning hardwood, imparting a distinctive smoky character that sets it apart from the Latakia-style smokiness. The result is a wonderfully rich and intricate flavour profile that stands out on its own. The base of the tin has the code 980206, indicating this tin dates from 2006.
Note: this tin is not plain packaged; it predates the new regulations for pipe tobacco that came into effect in 2020. This is the original formulation made by McClelland.
About Private Stock Pipe Tobacco
From time to time, Victory Pipes is offered the chance to sell unique pipe tobacco tins. Some of the pipe tobaccos on offer are no longer in production, making them highly sought-after. Inventory is extremely limited and many tins we obtain are singles. If there is a blend you’ve been seeking we recommend you act quickly as it is doubtful we will see the blend in inventory again.
Victory Pipes cannot guarantee the condition of the contents of any of these older tins. Seals on pipe tobacco tins may wear out over time or come undone, causing the contents to dry out. Adding moisture to the tobacco will re-hydrate the contents; this can be achieved using a humidifier with distilled water, or even a dampened paper towel placed over a bowl of the tobacco. There are no refunds for consigned tins.
