In the initial light, you are met with a creamy smoke in texture. The natural sweetness from the Virginias along with the classic flavors of hay and grass. These notes are met with citrus resembling a navel orange or tangelo. A pleasant wood note of cedar is present with bready flavors of rye and wheat. The retrohale on the first half is smooth and reminiscent of an old-fashion cocktail garnished with blood orange.
In the second half of the bowl, you are met with flavors of charred oak and the cedar notes are more pronounced. The smoke is now dry, yet buttery in texture and the mixture is getting darker in flavor. Tasting notes of lemongrass are mingled with plum, molasses, and stewed fruit. The retrohale brings forth an aroma of a freshly toasted slice of bread with spiced marmalade.
The last third of the bowl remains on the darker side of the flavor wheel with notes of dark fruit like currants and figs- reminding one of dry red wine. There are also notes of roasted peanuts, dark soy sauce, and brisket but maintaining notes of rye whiskey met with a wisp of natural vanilla. The final retrohale stays true to character but this time with spice cake, clove, and cardamom notes. “Name” leaves a pleasant mouth coating after you are finished that will leave you wanting another bowl
Noah Richardson (verified owner) –
First off I would like to say I bought the units because of the Mcclleand Tobaccos. I never had a chance to smoke any of their blends. So, that being said, please take what I write with, “This is one man’s opinion”
I smoked Whale Song out of four different pipes. Varying the smokes from the morning, mid-day and evening.
1) Out of the Meerschaum Pipes
I got the Spicy from the Perique
2) The Briar
I got mostly grassy, Orange Popsicle, and spicy cake.
3) The long Stem Cob
Orange Popsicle, spicy, and a sweet note I just couldn’t label.
I love the historical value, I like the no tounge bite, I loved the presentation! The smell from the bag, marvellous! But Cowboy Coffee FOR ME, is my blend of choice. Thank you, God Bless
Rabon Byrd (verified owner) –
John David and the team knocked it out of the park with this blend. Whale Song is a fitting tribute to the McClelland brand. I am a huge fan of Country Squire’s Hunting Creek and Baker’s Street, so I like English blends primarily. However, this blend hit me in all the right spots. The tartness and sweetness are wonderfully balanced. I was lucky to get this before it sold out and feel sorry for those who missed out, but not sorry enough to share.