Cornell & Diehl Star of the East Flake

Star of the East Flake is the pressed, sliced form of the ribbon-cut blend of the same name. The recipe again rests on half Cyprus Latakia; Turkish Izmir leaf adds spice, and lightly stoved red Virginia adds dark sweetness. Pressing lets the leaves' flavors meld over time, giving a slower, more intense smoke once the slices are rubbed out or folded for packing. It has a full-bodied, unflavored, distinctly smoky character.