CAO Moontrance Pipe Tobacco

Purchased from CI and shipped jiffy quick. This tobacco is advertised as an aromatic blend of Cavendish and Virginia. Flavoring is vanilla, citrus and bourbon. Upon opening the tin (takes a bit of work) the aroma is indeed of vanilla and citrus. Definitely a loose cut tobacco that has above average moisture. Packing was okay, yet this tobacco burned extremely hot for me. Char light was hot and every relight ended 5 minutes later with me setting the pipe aside to cool off (Savinelli Bing Rusticated). The first time I thought it was a poor packing job but after the 4th bowl and the same issue, I realized this one can burn real hot. That cost it a full ratings point. The smoking experience is indeed smooth as advertised, yet the flavors didn't come thru for me on this one, so that cost another half ratings point due to the fact it is a premium priced tobacco. No bite experience at all, so that was a blessing. Room note is indeed balanced - almost not there for an aromatic. As a high-end premium tobacco, I expected some kind of wonderful room note but that just didn't materialize, so I knocked off another half point on that score. Bottom line: this is a high-end (cost wise, at least) pipe tobacco that under performed IMHO. At $5.70 per ounce, it is well above competitors that are less than half the price (Lane 1-Q, Mac Baren 7 Seas Royal, CB, Lane TK-6, etc.) that offer a much cooler smoking experience, no bite, well balanced flavors and superior room notes. For me, this was a bust. Won't buy it again, don't recommend it on the basis of price versus smoking experience. Sorry, not a moon shot and not something to become enchanted over. 3 stars is being generous.

Smooth smoke

Always loved the cigars, now it is even better. The flavor is great! It is definately a lighter blend but still holds up.

Flavor and smell match the great taste

Enjoyed it was good 👍