The Unknown Origin
The origins of flake tobacco are uncertain, but it was developed to address storage, dryness, and flavor issues faced by seafarers who were avid pipe smokers even as far back as 300-400 years ago. In the early history of tobacco, spun and loose forms were common, but they posed problems during long sea voyages, drying out and compromising taste. Seamen experimented with various methods, including moistening with water, sealing with tar, and using sugar brine. The latter proved successful, preserving moisture and enhancing taste.
This knowledge reached tobacco factories, leading to the creation of pressed tobacco blocks. It is not known which factory or country can take the credit for the invention of flake tobacco but the seamen now had a more manageable and slowly drying tobacco option, turning a once-irritating problem into a new pressed tobacco type.
Seamen developed a simple method to fill pipes with pressed tobacco. Smoking rules were enforced on ships, with designated areas and the captain’s permission was required. The ritual of cutting thin slices, known as flakes, and filling the pipe became a social event, fostering camaraderie among seamen. Pipe smoking served not only as a leisure activity but also as a means of stress relief and psychological support during challenging times at sea. In today’s stressful environment, a pipe filled with flake tobacco offers a peaceful way to unwind and reflect at the end of the day.
Something to try
Introducing Gawith Hoggarth Jamaican Flake, our tobacco equivalent of a ‘Christmas cake.’ This blend boasts a decadently rich and sweet flavor profile. With a remarkable 40% comprised of naturally sweet sun-cured tobaccos, it surpasses the Virginia leaf, which makes up only 30%. The remaining blend features Burleys and Dark-air cured tobaccos, delivering a robust and satisfying smoking experience. To elevate the inherent sweetness of the sun-cured leaf, the entire mixture is delicately coated with maple sugars and finished with a hint of rum, creating a uniquely flavorful tobacco blend.
Bright CR Flake represents a timeless Straight Virginia flake, meticulously pressed with an exquisite combination of bright Virginia leaf from Brazil, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. These large pressed cubes of tobacco result in flakes that boast a richer flavor compared to shag cuts. While some prefer to rub the flake down to achieve a desired consistency, others opt to enjoy it as is by rolling it and placing it directly in to the bowl.
Gawith Hoggarth’s Bob’s Flake is a luxurious tobacco flake infused with Virginia Leaf sourced from Brazil, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, complemented by Burley from Malawi. Following the pressing process, the flake is enveloped in delightful Cocoa and Chocolate notes, culminating in a finishing touch of sweet Vanilla and Whisky. This results in an exceptionally opulent and indulgent tobacco flake.