Peterson’s University Flake – Product Review

Peterson University Flake is a flake of Virginia and Burley tobaccos. The tin note has a subtle cocoa note from the burley with hints of fig and molasses and a dark, fruity topping of plum.

The tin presentation is nice and the flakes are uniform and a little moist. I have kept my Peterson University Flake in a Kilner jar for a few months now and the tin note is a lot stronger than when first opened. The flake is easy to ‘fold and stuff’ and easy to rub out.

The flavouring of Peterson University Flake is, like the tin-note, stronger now that it has been cellared for a few months and is drier than when first purchased. I can definitely taste more of the fruit topping and this pipe tobacco reminds me a little of Erinmore Flake but not as sweet. I would recommend drying the flakes out before lighting as this enhances the flavour and makes this flake easier to light.

I seem to be sensitive to burley, because I can feel the burley at the back of my throat fairly early on in the smoke. This is not a complaint as to the quality of the tobacco, just an observance of my reaction. I do find that the burley is more prominent than the Virginia but does compliment the topping very well. You experience a dark, earthy and almost nutty quality along with that touch of fruity sweetness.

I looked for the Virginia experience as I went down the bowl, an experience which I have come to love, but I found that the burley and the plum was the overall presentation. I also found that Peterson University Flake was definitely strong in the nicotine department, so perhaps this is best smoked later in the evening after a good meal! Of course, this is my personal experience and your mileage might vary.

Overall, my experience of Peterson University Flake is one of a nicely presented flake with touches of sweet fruit upon a strong foundation of earthy and nutty burley with Virginia following up behind. A nice evening smoke with a coffee or a good whiskey.