Making Unique Pipe Tobacco Blends

For the experienced cigar smoker, smoking a pipe tobacco becomes an adventure in itself. Similar to wine tasting for connoisseurs, there are varying qualities, which can make each smoking experience unique. Experienced tobacco pipe smokers have preferences on the type of pipe to use, the accessories, even how to correctly fill the pipe with tobacco. One of the more exciting aspects of smoking a pipe is choosing and making pipe tobacco blends. Similar to drinking coffee, experienced smokers are specific on what types of leaves to use for the base, the spice and how to mix them together to create a distinct taste.

Making pipe tobacco blends is not for beginners. Individuals who have not smoked a pipe before are advised to try the sweeter blends before trying out the richer types of tobacco. Keep in mind that using different types of tobaccos in a single pipe can affect the overall aroma and taste. To get a clean taste of each sample, it is advised that pipe tobacco smokers invest in several basic pipes and use only one for each type. Cheaper pipes are advised during this exploration stage. Only invest in better quality pipes once the individual has selected a particular blend.


There are many types of pipe tobacco blends, all originating from the same type of seed. Known as Nicotania Tabacum, the seed’s adaptation to different soils, weather conditions and processing techniques has resulted in different variations. One of the basic types of tobacco is known as the Virginia. Most mixtures or pipe tobacco blends use a high percentage of Virginia tobacco as a base. The tobacco is commonly cured using a flue to retain its oil and its yellow to red hues. Lighter leaves that have been matured result in a zestier taste. Darker Virginia leaves, on the other hand, have richer aromas and taste.

Another popular base tobacco is known as the Burley. It has no natural flavor of its own and tends to taste bland. Some manufacturers flavor the Burley with sugars for a sweeter taste. This is a good base to use with spice pipe blend tobaccos such as the Perique and the Latakia. In its original form, the Burley has a dull brown color.

The Turkish tobacco known as Latakia lends its flavor from the smoke used to process the leaves. There are two types of Latakia: the Syrian and the Cyprian blend. Syrian blends are stronger in flavor than the Cyprian tobacco. Individuals that intend to try this type of tobacco are advised to use a base tobacco such as Virginia or Burley to control the taste of the Latakia.


These are only some of the basic varieties of pipe tobacco blends available. Exploration of the basic varieties will help give individuals a general understanding of the different tastes available.