St. James Parish, Louisiana was erected in 1807 on the Acadian coast. Known for quaint traditions such as the Bonfires on the Levee, this sleepy little part of America is home to just over 20k residents. St. James Perique is a tobacco that has been produced exclusively in this region for two centuries by the descendant of an Acadian exile Pierre Chenet who also went by the nom de plume ‘Perique’.
Perique tobacco differs from most tobaccos, having roots in the local Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes who first introduced it to Acadian settlers in the late eighteenth century. The settlers were intrigued by this tobacco’s distinctive character and a business savvy Chenet saw the opportunity to market this commodity. To make this possible the tobacco, once harvested, would be put through a labour intensive process of pressure-fermentation.
What resulted is a highly sought after tobacco that is scarce in availability. When smelling perique varied fruit aromas can be attained. These are created through a chemical process of anaerobic-fermentation. This process also occurs in the manufacturing of wines. Many fans of Perique favour it for these nuances along with its strong nicotine content.
Perique will usually be used in pipe tobacco but Sir Walter Scott’s Snuff has created this masterpiece. Combining Virginia leaf, Punjabi Rustica and Perique results in a one-of-a-kind snuff for the adventurous snuffer.
When a regular customer at the shop for St. James Parish was asked why he favoured it so much he didn’t hold back:
“One of my favourite Snuffs from one of my favourite blenders. A finely milled snuff, on the dry side, but so easy to pinch. The spice of the perique lights up your nasal cavity and brings a warming feeling over a few minutes after taking it. Not harsh, but it does pack some nicotine. The spiciness lingers and aroma fills your senses. It’s brilliant with a strong dark black coffee, the aromas complement each other and make both the coffee and the snuff a really relaxing experience. This snuff is how I imagine quality hand made snuffs of a bygone age. A perfect outdoor blend that I always have with me when I’m out walking with my hounds or bagging a rabbit or two. I highly recommend this blend to anyone who takes a pinch every now and again and wants to take snuff to the highest quality level…you will be back for more…but please save some for me!! Well done Sir Johnny Scott, and The Pipe Shop you have given a lot of pleasure and provide a wonderful service to you customers.”
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