Iwan Ries Three Star Blue

Three Star Blue is the best-known member of Iwan Ries & Co.'s Three Star line, running since the 1950s, and for many years sold only at the Chicago shop. Over a base of sweet Virginia, nutty Burley, and toasted black Cavendish, a pronounced but measured Latakia share is added along with a very small touch of Perique; it's presented in a coarse cut. The top flavoring brings a fruity sweetness and a single floral note. This places the blend on a middle path between pure aromatic and English style: the flavoring is noticeable, but the smoky, nutty tobacco taste isn't suppressed.