Germain’s Special Latakia Flake (50g tin) is a medium-strength English/Balkan-style pipe tobacco made from ripe Virginias, spicy Orientals, and a bold dose of Latakia, pressed into coarse flakes. It’s praised for its smoky, leathery aroma balanced with subtle sweetness, making it a refined choice for Latakia lovers.

🌿 Blend Composition

• Virginias: Provide natural sweetness and aging potential.

• Orientals: Add piquant, sour-sweet spice and complexity.

• Latakia: Smoky, earthy, leathery backbone; the star of the blend.

🔎 Flavor & Aroma Profile

• Tin note: Tangy fruit, spices, mild smokiness, incense-like depth.

• Taste: Bold Latakia presence with honeyed Virginia sweetness and Oriental sharpness.

• Room note: Smoky but balanced, rated 3/5 for tolerability.

• Strength: Medium (3/5), suitable for all-day smoking.

📦 Appearance & Cut

• Flake cut: Coarse, mottled flakes of black Latakia and golden-brown Virginias.

• Moisture level: Slightly high; benefits from drying before smoking.

• Aging potential: High Virginia content allows deeper, rounded flavors with a few years of cellaring.

⭐ Reviews & Reputation

• Highly rated: Smokingpipes users give it 4.9/5, calling it “the best Latakia blend available”.

• Character: Described as bold, exotic, distinctly Balkan, evoking rugged landscapes.

• Versatility: Works as an all-day smoke or a robust evening choice.

🛒 Availability

• Often sold out due to high demand and limited production.

⚠️ Key Considerations

• Drying time: Recommended before smoking for optimal burn.

• Limited supply: Hard to find; collectors often cellar tins for aging.

• Flavor intensity: Best suited for smokers who enjoy Latakia-forward blends.