I‘m a fairly new pipe smoker and I am looking for some recommendations for some blends that I can buy in the uk. I like aromatics and not sure I’m ready for the strong stuff yet but willing to try a range of different tobaccos. Got some Samuel Gawith Balkan blend but I now understand the difficulties of smoking damp tobacco. Not pleasant. Tongue burn, which raises another question about how best to dry out tobacco and establish the best conditions for a good burn. I’ve got a few tobaccos in Kilner jars ie Mac Baren 7 seas royal blend, some St Bruno, Gold Block and Peterson Nightcap but haven’t tried any of them yet after my Balkan experience. Any help gratefully receive. The other question I have is about Flake tobacco. Do you rub it out in your hand into a ball then fill your bowl? Below is my new pipe to start to fire up
