McClelland Bulk- Nine 2 Five (Dunhill 965 replacement)

This tobacco is first rate. Like another reviewer, I'm very glad that McClelland has developed this blend. I'm going to age a few different jars so I'll be rating this in the future again. For now ... right out of the bulk bag ... it is amazing. Reminiscent, yet different the MM965. It's a good marketing ploy - but in fact this is a very fine English blend. The VA Cav is tasty but not overly sweet, the orientals are well behaved and the Cyprian latakia is it's creamy-salty-smoky self. The strength is Medium to strong - the taste is rich and complex bouncing between the elements and the aroma is throwback to some of the fine tobaccos that are now gone. I'm loving every puff of this fine blend. Nice Job McC ... very well done. This is representative of great blending and high quality ingredients.

I"ve got a tin of Dunhill's 965 but haven't tried it. I've read several reviews on Dunhill's 965 where people have differing reactions to the blend. I can tell you this is a great smoke. I usually smoke Balkan Supreme and am partial to stronger English blends. This was a new experience and well worth it. I tried a small bowl in a Claridge briar and really enjoyed it. Easy to pack, easy to light and burned without relights and the taste was really enjoyable ,smooth and cool. No tongue bite - just a very relaxing smoke with a pleasant aroma and I didn't have any of the physical reactions I've read folks have had to the 965 original. This is great stuff!