Rowland

Posted by Gobucks on Sunday, 30-Mar-2008

Has anyone here made Rowland Platinum their daily smoke? I've heard it's supposed to taste like Marlboro. Any new feedback would be appreciated.

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Re: Rowland: Posted by Gobucks on Monday, 31-Mar-2008
I ordered a 3.5 oz cup. I'll try her out
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Posted by dave z on Monday, 31-Mar-2008

I cant say I ve ever had a Marlboro that tastes anywhere close to this. I just ordered two more bags today as a matter of fact. You might regret only getting a cup.....really good stuff imo. :)

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Posted by Jeffo on Monday, 31-Mar-2008

I agree with Dave Z. here. I've got 2 bags coming in wed. one of my favorites. The first time I ordered Rowland was in the 3.5 oz. I quickly reordered a 14 oz. and keep enough on hand to not run out.
I also like to blend it with about 30-40% Penhooker another must have for me...Jeffo

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Re: Rowland: Posted by Gobucks on Wednesday, 02-Apr-2008
Rowland Platinum,two thumbs up so far ,we'll give it some time, but i think this may be my everyday smoke.
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Re: Rowland Platinum in Blending!: Posted by Captain U-96 aka Mike on Saturday, 19-Jan-2008
I make many blends; it seems to be my calling these days with so many choices of quality tobacco to work with. However only a handful make it into my Book of Blends! The following blend definitely had a place reserved for it after I tasted it, and spent the day with it .
Rowland Platinum 8 Grams
Five Brothers Smoking Tobacco 5 G.
Two Timer 5 G.
Ramback 10 G.
This is a delightful blend that seemed to marry when blended. The different tobaccos harmonize together rather than being separate entities of the blend. I found it to be quite different and pleasant, with little aftertaste on the palate, and a nice fragrance in the room! I think this blend is set; in other words I'll make it as is without deviation--it's that good! The Five Brothers element of the blend puts just the right amount of Burley into the smoke to not be offending to those who dislike un toasted Burley. Quite a nice escape from the usual! Capt Mike
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Re: Rowland: Posted by dave z on Wednesday, 09-Jan-2008
Hm, and I thought I didn't like flavored tobacco. This is tasty! Will definitely order this again.
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Re: Rowland Platinum: Posted by Captain U-96 aka Mike on Monday, 31-Dec-2007
If Marlboro tasted like Rowland Platinum; there'd be fewer folks coming to MYO-RYO than there are. For the last week or so I've been trying to remember what a Marlboro tastes like, but it's been too long ago to remember specifics except that each drag tasted worse than the last--that I do remember! In fact, I think the last time I smoked a Marlboro would have been in the mid 80's; since I smoked mainly Camels and Lucky Strikes up till 1990 when I started smoking Bugler. I noticed that after smoking a RP I could taste it for a few minutes on the palate, not a bad thing at all. I could learn to like Rowland quite well I think, but I'd need to add some Ramback to suit my taste. These days I want to add Ramback in everything! I'm going to try to keep a cup of Rowland Platinum around just for any Cabbage Leave smokers I run into, and a treat for me of coarse! I'm beginning to believe D&R could re--produce any smoke they desire to! Of all the D&R blends I've smoked I can honestly say there is only one I didn't care for, and that was Cockstrong, because of the un--toasted Burley! I hate to sound like a commercial, but I have never smoked better than D&R's blends, and I never before experienced undiluted Turkish till I ran across D&R in RYO Magazine on a quest for Turkish Tobacco! Capt Mike
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Posted by Captain U-96 aka Mike on Monday, 31-Dec-2007

For the last couple weeks I've been off and on smoking Rowland Gold & Platinum trying to place them, or connect them to something I've smoked in the past. Rowland Gold is unique, but not like McC Virginia as I remember it? While I can relate somewhat to the European flavoring--it just isn't like any tobacco I've had before, and that kind of bothered me. On it's own merits, RG is by itself as far as I can tell. Not to heavy on the palate, but there is no mistaking it for something else. I use to smoke Look Out Milde Shage now and then, and that is what comes to mind, though there is much difference. I can say if a person enjoys European flavored smokes they should give Rowland Gold a try. I think it's harder for me to place RG since I mainly enjoy Ramback Balkan, Two Timer, and Windsail Platinum, Bali Shag Red, and McClintock Full Flavor. That said, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, because it is definitely a good smoke with the potential to become an acquired taste. Capt Mike

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Posted by Kent on Monday, 31-Dec-2007

Capt Mike,

Agree with your assessment. RG has been growing on me. Since it's release, I've had a tub sitting on the stuffing area and when I needed a bit more to finish off that last cig, I'd throw some RG into the slot. Then I started throwing some into the mix. Now I'm regularly putting some RG in the Rowland light/McC Light/McC menthol mix which was basically 3:1:1 now 2:1RG:1:1 and I'm liking it. Wife noticed it also and agrees. I tried dropping out McC Light but that adds something that RG doesn't have -formerly described as 'nutty'.

I've said before, though I'm a 'slight menthol' smoker, I could actually smoke RG straight - whereas I wouldn't smoke R.Light straight - it's better mixed, for my tastes anyway. Btw, I did try and liked Ram/Balkan but I find R.Gold smoother and tastier.

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Re: Rowland Gold/McClintock Virginia?

Posted by Captain U-96 aka Mike on Monday, 31-Dec-2007

Variety is the spice of life, and we as Connoisseur's enjoy and appreciate the never ending discoveries at our fingertips! Hey, it's 2008 in Ohio! Happy New-Year! Capt Mike

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Re: Rowland Gold: Posted by KL on Monday, 31-Dec-2007
Love Rowland Gold, in fact, all the Rowlands,
the whole Rowland family of great tobaccos.

HAPPY 2008 in Portland Michigan !!!
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Posted by Captain U-96 aka Mike on Thursday, 10-Jan-2008

I hate to admit this, but I have come to the conclusion I was wrong in my assessment of Rowland Gold! The mysteriousness of this tobacco is getting clearer to me. It's the closest to the old McClintock Virginia I have found yet. I needed to spend a bit more time with the Rowland Gold, and continue searching the out the old memories. I sure do wish I had some McC Virginia to compare it to! The fact is there hasn't been anything close to the McC Virginia, after all it was a high grade Virginia, and Peter Stokkebye's own creation. Since getting the feeling of the similarities between the two, I am more sure of it every day. I used McC Virginia as a blender and a straight smoke as well. I think old age is setting in on me! Capt Mike

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Re: Rowland Gold/McClintock Virginia?

Posted by KL on Thursday, 10-Jan-2008

If it was practical I would give Capt. Mike some McC V for his evaluation, I have enough on hand to do that, I live in the lower 3rd of Michigan (right in the center of that, between Grand rapids and Lansing) Or (I was thinking) I could try to recreate it as close as I could, my first attempt was quite close,   it was done measuring by Volume... lol (only Capt. Mike would get that joke) I don't have small scales, but anyway..I added a touch of Danish export to Rowland Gold and came quite close. while smoking both of them at the same time in different sticks it seems you can get quite close also by adding a little bali red to some RG.   very little of either stokkebyes Danish Ex or the Bali R added the slight sweetness and subdued nuttiness that the McC V had.
    The Cons :
   the cuts of the Danish Ex and Bali R are very different than the McC V and requires effort to mix well
   The McC V would dry out fast and become harsh if you didn't watch it.
   You cant add to much of the sweet stuff

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Re: Rowland Gold/McClintock Virginia?

Posted by Captain U-96 aka Mike on Wednesday, 16-Jan-2008

How you enjoying our frosty weather? I use to go to school in Albion, Michigan, and I remember the winters!
Of the tobaccos I've tried to match, none have been so elusive as McC Virginia. I've been vary surprised at the familiarness of Rowland Gold--I recognized the taste, but the bouquet had me thinking. It took a while to make the association with McC Virginia, taste wise, but I think you may have hit on the bouquet part of this mystery? I also think the RG is a tad bit stronger, not much, but just enough.
Though not an easy task; I use to blend McC V with Bugler 40% McCV to 60% Bugler. The resulting smoke was to me worth the efforts. The other blend was 50-50 with Zig Zag, which was an easier blend to accomplish. I sure wish I could get my hands on a can of McClintock Virginia! The only reason it isn't made anymore is that it was a break even and/or loss situation, because Mr. Stokkebye used only the finest tobacco in his creations! I don't know why they couldn't have raised the price a buck or two? I'd have paid it, no problem! I use a My Weigh 200Z scale for a lot of my experiments, and now I see Oldwillknot is selling 400Z's for what I paid for my old 200 Gram Z, $20. I still have the first scale I ever used to blend with, an old Braun counter top 4 pound 8 oz kitchen scale. Yes, I got the joke KL.:-) The thing I like about using a scale is that my blends are easily reproduced--I just follow the recipe. I think it's a matter of personal preference though, because I know some folks still blend by volume, and are happy! Capt Mike

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Re: Rowland Gold/McClintock Virginia?: Posted by mike c on Wednesday, 16-Jan-2008
all I know is that I was concerned that I might not really know what McV truly tasted like, since the pouches I got were old and dry
one stick of RG was enough for my unskilled taste-buds to go "oh yuck, perfect match" LOL!!!!
that Canadian??(originally?) is it? blend must only appeal to certain persons
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Re: Rowland Gold/McClintock Virginia?: Posted by KL on Wednesday, 16-Jan-2008
While smoking my Mc V tobacco (that I have left) and the Rowland Gold, side by side, (to me) the Mc V is a little stronger than the Rowland Gold . I never blended the Mc V with anything. [snip, thanks for the OT move/copy]
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Re: Rowland: Posted by David Brown on Monday, 24-Dec-2007
I just received a sample as well, and all I can say is oh my, that is one tasty tobacco :-) even has a real pleasant aroma almost like a pipe. I would have to say it's the finest that I have ever smoked.

Don't know if I would want to smoke it every day because I would be afraid of becoming complacent to it. But it sure is a wonderful Christmas Eve treat :-)
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Re: Rowland: Posted by Rowland Plat. for everday on Friday, 21-Dec-2007
I just got a free sample of Rowland Platinum, (about an ounce). I right away felt I made a mistake by getting only a sample and not a 14 oz bag. This is one of the best choices for an everyday smoke I have sampled yet from D&R. Very fresh and toasty with no strong casing or topping. The other all-day smokes for me are Vengeur Light (and I don't like lights really, but this tobacco is great) , Vengeur FF and Vengeur Platinum. I thought Rowland FF might be an everyday smoke but the Cocoa just got a little too strong after half a day of smoking it (great for a change up smoke, I smoke a few everyday). Get a free sample of Rowland Plat. with your next D&R order, you wont be sorry.
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Posted by Dave L on Tuesday, 21-Aug-2007

From Mark at D&R: ...finished our new rowland platinum earlier in the month. we will send free samples (with an existing order) to any of your readers who want to try this new blend. it should have a familiar taste and aroma, but based on an incredible tobacco base.

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Posted by Lynn on Tuesday, 21-Aug-2007

I have ordered from D&R three times. Twice over the internet and once by phone. Don't hesitate to call in your order to Betty, she is really sweet. When you hear her voice, you'll know what I mean.

Wanted to clarify that if you order over the internet, you should type something like this in the comments section, "include free sample of Rowland Platinum per Mark".

Also wanted to recommend that you order Ramback Balkan if you haven't already tried it. It doesn't show on their website but you can put it in the comments section and they will adjust your order. Better yet, you can call Betty. Ramback Balkan is the same price as Perique, $21.95 for a 14 oz. bag and $7.95 for a 3.5 oz. cup.

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Re: Rowland Platinum: Posted by Kerry on Wednesday, 22-Aug-2007
I don't always get Betty when I call, but I will agree that she is one sweet lady!

Come to think of it, the next time I call in my order, I am going to ask for Betty. If she isn't there, then I'll call back when she is. I always have a good feeling and a smile on my face and my heart after talking to her. I can't explain it, but she is precious!

I have to say that the times I have called and didn't get to talk to Betty, I was always a little disappointed.
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Posted by Smokin n Jokin on Friday, 24-Aug-2007

I received this yesterday and stuffed a few sticks. It has a very sweet pleasant aroma, reminiscent of molasses based plug chewing tobacco like Days O Work. It's smooth with no bite but left me with an unpleasant aftertaste and a cough. I found it to be a little strong for me but my preferred tobacco is Custom Blends #1, which is very light. The container says it will leave you with a familiar finish on the palate. I guess I've never smoked whatever they are referring to because I didn't find anything familiar about it.

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Re: Rowland Platinum: Posted by Dave L on Sunday, 26-Aug-2007
I wouldn't find it familiar either, its been a lot of years since I smoked a Marlboro :-).
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Posted by KentC on Tuesday, 28-Aug-2007

Just got some R.Platinum today. Stuffed a few 'straight' then mixed with some Rowland light, McC light, McC menthol.

The aroma out of the tub is, imo, cherry and a hint of pepper. Smells quite good. For comparison, R. Gold smells more like peach or apricot and of course, cocoa/chocolate for Rowland/R. Light. And like the others, the smell doesn't transfer to the smoke that much ... Rowland/R.Light still retains some of the flavor in smoking but Planting and Gold doesn't, to my taste.

I got a similar take as S&Jin' above - except I thought the R.Platinum had a bit of a bite as well during and as an aftertaste. In the blend the bite was still there. I'll be using it up by using a smaller ratio into a big tub :-)

R. Gold is holding up well with my 3:1:1 blend R and McC light and menthol. The extra amount of Gold into the blend tends to smooth out the effect of the full flavored menthol.

I had been looking for a "menthol light" for a replacement for the McC light and McC menthol but as someone mentioned a while back, the McC Light really does add a good distinctive 'nutty' flavor to the mix, that isn't the same without it. Adding the Gold dilutes the full flavored menthol even more so I'm not really looking for some replacement, although I'm still open to suggestions. The 'Buckeye's Best' menthol light didn't pan out because of the lack of taste that the McC Light gives.

I'm wondering from the people that had smoke the McC Virginia whether the McC Light has any of the same qualities/tastes?

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Posted by Smokin n Jokin on Wednesday, 29-Aug-2007

Cherry and pepper. Yeah......that's it. Great description. I guess the pepper must be what made me cough.

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Posted by Smokin n Jokin on Wednesday, 29-Aug-2007

And now that I think about it I probably didn't notice any bite because I stuffed it in a Charbon tube. They take the bite out of about anything.

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Re: Rowland Platinum: Posted by KentC on Wednesday, 29-Aug-2007
SnJ... Hmm. Haven't tried Charbon. I'll have to check them out. Cherry and pepper - my wife confirmed without telling her. She got more apricot than peach from the Rowland Gold. Says McC light smells like nuts and raisins.
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Posted by Wazmo Nariz on Wednesday, 29-Aug-2007

The McC Light and the McC Virginia were worlds apart. I've tried the Light a couple times but just couldn't get my taste buds into it. It was a little too generically "ok" and, well, *plain* to me...which isn't a bad thing, I guess, for some...it's just that "ok" alone doesn't cut it for me anymore. In that there is some Virginia tobacco in the McC Light, that would be the only linkage I can think of.

Using the McC Light as a mixing component would probably be its best use, as you've discovered; and for those new to RYO/MYO who are jonesing for that manufactured fag taste--which it most assuredly has.

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Re: Rowland Platinum: Posted by KentC on Wednesday, 29-Aug-2007

Thanks. I'm just going for smooth, no hacks, no bites. If it tastes good to me, then that's a plus ;-) I see the Rowland Platinum (light bite) is listed on the new packages from D&R as 'Cigarette Blends' along with TwoTimer, whereas Rowland, R. Light and R. Gold is listed as "American". I went from non-filtered Kools (Vietnam) to filtered Kools>Salem>SalemLights>SalemUltraLights.... Guess I'm getting more Americanized....
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Re: Rowland Platinum: Posted by Dave L on Wednesday, 29-Aug-2007
Ditto on the worlds apart. The McClintock reg/lt is a European fine-cut 'American' blend of Burley, Virginia and Oriental tobaccos, and has a fruity smell. The McC Virginia is a coarser cut 100% Virginia blend. It does have noticeable flavoring but the smell/taste is significantly different.
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Re: Rowland Platinum: Posted by KL on Thursday, 10-Jan-2008
Quote from Kent C.
"I'm wondering from the people that had smoke the McC Virginia whether the McC Light has any of the same qualities/tastes?"

McC Virginia is very different then McC Light. McC Lt is much sweeter and nuttier with an obvious Casing added,
and McC V is a nice straight clean slightly sweet Virginia almost as if there are no added flavors but just a really nice all Virginia blend. The color was a nice dark red, not as bright as so many all virginia blends like Penhooker is and a little Darker than Rowland Gold.
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Posted by Lynn on Friday, 27-Jul-2007

I really like Rowland Gold. Was one of the lucky first 24 to get a sample with an order. It is mild and smooth yet flavorful. Am beginning to think that everything D&R makes is good and look forward to trying all of them. Have been smoking Rowland Gold and Ramback Balkan the last couple of days. A friend insisted on giving me a Golden Harvest after I gave him a Rowland Gold. The Golden Harvest tasted harsh and nasty. I used to like Golden Harvest but not anymore.

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Posted by Smokin n Jokin on Friday, 27-Jul-2007

Did you ever get to try Mclintock Virginia? Is there any comparison?

[Ramback Balkan comment snipped per request]

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Re: Rowland Gold: Posted by Lynn on Saturday, 28-Jul-2007
Never tried McClintock Virginia. Started making my own this year and you had already bought up all of the old stock. Maybe someone else can comment on this blend. Below is the Rowland Gold description on the cup. Like the description says, it has toppings and casings. Has a beautiful sweet smell that I can't describe.

Rowland Gold - A premium blend of flavored, flue-cured tobaccos that was inspired by Danish stye Virginia cigarette tobaccos from the paste. This American interpretation of a classic European style Virginia blend was created especially for our customers who desire the flavor and character of flue-cured tobacco, accented by complementary flavorings. Enjoyable in both hand-rolled (RYO) and make-your-own (MYO) format. American cut.
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Posted by Wazmo Nairz on Wednesday, 08-Aug-2007

I've been out of country the past few weeks and haven't had the chance (or need) to order anything from D&R...guess I missed out on the special offer. Is this available for general release yet, and most importantly, have any of the other old McClintock Virginia lovers tried this yet?

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Re: Rowland Gold: Posted by KentC on Wednesday, 08-Aug-2007
Wazmo,

D&R is offering it in tubs right now in general release. Sorry, I missed McC Virginia...
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Posted by Dano on Saturday, 25-Aug-2007

As you know I'm the resident McV fanatic. Smoked it up until about a month ago when even I can't unearth any more from smoke shops the world over :)

I picked up a big bag of the RG about 3 weeks ago and here's what I think. It's pretty good. It's not McV but it's very similar. It's the same strength as McV although the tobacco itself seems to be just the smallest tad darker. What I noticed about the taste is that on the bottom end it seems to have a little Ramback in there. (to me it has just the faintest taste of something i've smoked from D&R before) on the exhale it is very nice but it doesn't have that sweet finish McV had.

Over all I'd say it's pretty close and I'll be smoking it regularly. Mark did a really good job and former McV smokers will like it I think. McV got tweaked 2 or 3 times maybe Mark will tweak this a tad, but as is I think McV smokers will really appreciate this new smoke from D&R!

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Re: Rowland Gold vs McV: Posted by mike c on Saturday, 25-Aug-2007
I just realized, even though morning grog fully in effect.....some company if not DnR should realize McV had already taken a strong enough "hold", that it's disappearance wasn't a real (good?) option.
Dano and Wazmo ( now I'm wondering which of the 2 is _the most_ dedicated) are all that is needed and probably the _best_ that is needed to replace that brand's characteristic to the "T"
m
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Posted by Wazmo Nariz on Wednesday, 29-Aug-2007

You've convinced me; I'm not in need of placing an order for 'baccy at present, but I'm gonna order some anyway tomorrow or Friday. I have two cans of McCV I've sealed in Mason Jars and put away, so I'm looking forward to making a direct comparison.

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Posted by KentC on Thursday, 30-Aug-2007

Wazmo,

If it turns out Rowland Gold tastes like McV, we'd be in complete agreement, and understand the rave reviews McV has gotten. Although I smoke menthol and almost never took at 'regular' cigarette when offered, I could easily smoke Rowland Gold without the mix and do occasionally.

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Posted by Smokin n Jokin on Friday, 31-Aug-2007

I never got to try McV because it was already gone by the time I started SYO but I wonder if the world really needs a replacement for it. It was just virginia tobacco wasn't it? I enjoy Danish export, Lane's golden virginia, Three castles, Windsail light, Sagamore virginia, custom blends blend #3, Tinderbox virginia, tobacco station premium blend mild and now D&R's Rowland gold all on a regular basis. What could I possibly be missing?

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Posted by mike c on Friday, 31-Aug-2007

I think Wazmo (as we know him), won't mind my stating:
that was about the most awful tobacco I have ever tasted!!
HOWEVER, it was ancient stock and I was warned.......so I sit here now wondering as I type...maybe I don't know what it tastes like??? (I did rehydrate, still couldn't stand the flavor)
but at any rate, there will be some kind of replacement if Villager(sp?)takes me seriously
I want to know what you are making cigs with!!!
m
ps-noticed the Schwarze Hand pic change from cannister to pouch......
thanks, he saw it!!!

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Re: Rowland Gold vs McV: Posted by smokin n Jokin on Friday, 31-Aug-2007
I'm using a new what I assume to be factory rejected supermatic II that somehow made it's way to the marketplace. I wasn't able to cure the filter void problem caused by the new nozzle on my excel or I would be using it. I"ll finally be back home next week so I'll order some parts for the clone I stripped the threads on and start using it.
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Re: Rowland Gold vs McV: Posted by Wazmo Nariz on Friday, 31-Aug-2007
It was Virginia tobacco yes, but as you point out with your list, there are different tastes from different Virginias (where its grown, conditions of the soil, cure methods, toppings/casings/flavourings, etc. all entering the equation).

Other than that, it kinda depends on how you define "needs." The "world" doesn't need it, no--anymore than the "world" needs another model of BMW or Ford or a new chocolate bar or another cell phone or another Custom Blend; but the market does--in so much as there are many who enjoyed it and would like to *continue* enjoying it (or at least a reasonable facsimile thereof).

The question is whether anyone feels the need to serve that displaced market.... Apparently at least Mark Ryan thinks so, and good on him.
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Re: Rowland Gold: Posted by mark on Saturday, 01-Sep-2007
[Re: snipped Balkan comment]
[snip]
ramback balkan has no flavorings or casings, just extremely high grade and rare tobaccos. these tobacco components may be unfamiliar to many consumers
[snip]
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Rowland Gold

Posted by JerzyJoe on Thursday, 10-May-2007

Anybody know if D&R has come out with Rowland Gold. And if so how is it?

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Posted by KentC on Wednesday, 01-Aug-2007

Got Rowland Gold today. First impressions:

This is a light, smooth tobacco that has some sweetness but not intrusive. However, it isn't the 'cocoa' taste of Rowland or Rowland light - although, as many have reported, the cocoa isn't as strong when smoking as it smells when opening the can/package :-) I'd be interested to know whether that flavor/casing was used at all. My sense is that it wasn't, and I tend to disagree with the characterizing it as an 'American tasting' tobacco - no American tobacco tastes as good as either Rowland or Rowland Gold. Perhaps by 'american taste' the emphasis is on 'smoothness' rather than a particular flavor.

I'd call it a shag or semi-shag cut not quite as tightly wound as McClintock but very similar and it is much lighter/yellower than regular Rowland but not quite as bright yellow as the recent Ramback Balkan. Smoother than the Ramback which is rather smooth already.

I'm a menthol smoker but I rolled a few 'straight' out of the bucket. This is a good tasting tobacco, and while I'm so hooked on the more flavorful Rowland light with some menthol, I can see this, as many here have mentioned, an 'alternative for variety'.

I know this is a 'personal taste' thing but except for the McC menthol and Wingate that I've mixed with Rowland Light, I haven't found that blending that mix with other tobaccos have added anything to the mix and in most cases, ruins the rather "non-regular tobacco" taste of Rowland. I'm sure that some Rowland fans will understand what I'm talking about - the ashtrays don't smell, the half-smoked cigs don't taste nasty on relighting, and people, even non-smokers, saying 'that cigarette smells good'.

So anyway, I did a 1:1:1 mix of Rowland Light, Rowland Gold and menthol (currently using a local "Buckeye's Best Menthol Light"). And while that mix gets a cigarette that is better than any other blends I've tried with Rowland Light, it still isn't quite as good as without the R.Gold. In fact, I like the 'straight R.Gold' better than the blend, but still like the Rowland Light with menthol the best.

If I were a non-menthol smoker, Rowland Gold would be a top choice (along with Rowland Light) and I've tried many tobaccos -almost all of the D&R tobaccos and all the samples from American Thrust either straight or blended, with and without menthol. If you prefer a stronger tobacco, you might skip this one or use it as part of a blend.

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Posted by Rob S on Wednesday, 08-Aug-2007

I can't find Rowland Gold on D&Rs website. Just Rowland (regular) and Rowland Light. Can someone please explain where I might find this product.

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Posted by Rob S on Wednesday, 08-Aug-2007

Also, can someone please explain what the hell "Ten Slash Two" indicates, because I certainly can't figure out what they mean by this category.

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Posted by KentC on Thursday, 09-Aug-2007

Rob wrote:
"Also, can someone please explain what the hell "Ten Slash Two" indicates, because I certainly can't figure out what they mean by this category."

Good question :-) Mark explains here:

"Many prospective new customers inquired about availability of smaller sampler packages for our fine tobacco blends. We responded in September 2002 by introducing the new "Ten Slash Two" Pack for packaging our tobacco blends. The Ten Slash Two Pack contains 3.5 ounces of premium tobacco and makes around 100 cigarettes (five packs). The size has been well received by our direct customers and wholesale stores."

So... I'm guessing that 10/2 = 5 packs...

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Posted by Rob S on Thursday, 09-Aug-2007

And here I was thinking that each number somehow represented an individual product. Because it's not actually written using numerical symbols, I didn't think to interpret it literally, so to speak, but your explanation certainly makes sense to me. Consider that a well deserved compliment from someone who's been debating such things as Logic and Philosophy on the internet for many years :-)

Thanks Kent

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Re: Rowland Gold: Posted by KentC on Thursday, 09-Aug-2007
"Consider that a well deserved compliment from someone who's been debating such things as Logic and Philosophy on the internet for many years :-)"

Thanks... that was my major and also my main focus on the internet until I burnt out on it - I now do photoshop. lol.
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Re: Rowland Gold: Posted by dan S on Thursday, 09-Aug-2007
Thanks I have been trying to decipher the meaning of "Ten Slash Two" also.
And my next D&R order I will be trying some Rowland Gold
DS
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Posted by KentC on Thursday, 09-Aug-2007

Rob,

I called in this order because it wasn't on the website. So far there's no big packages of it... just the tubs and you can get a bit of a deal buying either 3 or 6.

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Re: Rowland Gold: Posted by Rob S on Thursday, 09-Aug-2007

I've got some samples of D&R tobacco on order from American Thrust and due to arrive today. If it's as good as what everybody says it is, then I'll likely being doing business with them very soon, however, and given your info, I think I'll order over the phone this time and get a tub or two of the Roland Gold.

I came to this market late, and have never tried the legendary McClintock Virginia, and considering the reviews Rowland Gold has been getting here, I wanted to try it.

Thanks again for the info
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Rowland Gold: Posted by Wazmo Nariz on Tuesday, 06-Feb-2007
Mike C. mentioned this in another post... [link]

Mr. Ryan wrote to me after I inquired further about this potential alternative to McClintock Virginia, and he stated that "our interpretation of this popular blend should be an interesting alternative for the discriminating smoker." Availability in Q2 of this year (marketing and packaging materials are currently being created) is planned.

Apparently the "Rowland" moniker doesn't mean it necessarily will have the same cocoa flavouring/aroma as the Rowland and Rowland Light...he explained that the Rowland brand is an indicator of flavoured tobacco blends in general.

I'm ready! RIP McCV....
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Rowland: Posted by Big Al on Saturday, 20-Jan-2007
I mix Rowland and Windsail Platinum (about 60 40), yum yum... the best smoke I have had yet.
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Rowland: Posted by Major Havoc on Monday, 11-Dec-2006
Got a cup of this today. Certainly unique, but someone's taking the gas pipe if they think this is what premium american cigs taste like.

Yep, it's chocolate.

Is it bad? No.

Is it good? Yes.

Is it distinctive? Most definitely.

Let's call this a "dessert smoke"... put away the ice cream and have one of these with coffee after dinner.

The chocolate smell from the cup is huge. And you get the follow-through taste while smoking. It's subtle, yet unmistakable. The tobacco that carries this taste is very nice though. Nice aroma as well... smoke one of these is a crowded room and someone will ask you what you have.

Smoking one is excellent.

Two is pushing it.

Three is a mouthful of chocolate and no real benefit otherwise.

IMO, if you smoke more than 4 or 5 cigs a day, the nuances and purpose of this blend won't work for you.

As I mentioned, this would be perfect after-dinner smoke when all your cigar loving friends are lighting up their donkey-d*icks and bragging about what they paid for them.

And I'm still trying to figure out why they link the taste to American premium... if anyone could help out, I'd appreciate it. I'm thinking either I'll lay it out on the counter and let as much of the casing evaporate as possible, or since it's Christmas, I'll treat it as a holiday smoke and stuff up a bunch to hand out to friends.
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Rowland

Posted by John on Thursday, 16-Nov-2006

This is a flavoured cigarette. Similar to the Venguer blend only stronger and with the added chocolate flavour. The flavouring is quite heavy so its not something I want to smoke all the time but good for a change. I'm not sure why its advertised "flavoured to taste like Premium US cigarettes" (what brand cigarettes is chocolate flavoured??) but the pouch does indeed smell wonderful. I love chocolate.

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Re: Rowland: Posted by Chris on Monday, 27-Nov-2006
It is very similar in taste to Camel Turkish Royals which also have a distinctive chocolate smell to them.
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Posted by tom on Monday, 07-Nov-2005

i guess i'm one of the few old enough to remember what cigarettes taste like back in the day when i would slip a smoke from my dads pack. i think D&R did a good job with Rowland (in duplicating smokes from the 40's 50's and 60's). before manufacures quit using tobacco and started playing with chemicals. my suggestion is to read the description on the label of D&R tobaccos. if you don't like the taste, it's probably due to smoking manufactured cigarettes that hide the tobacco taste.
besides, who don't like chocolate? :) if you do a little research, you will find that tobacco companies are second to candy manufactures.

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Re: Rowland: Posted by Matt on Tuesday, 08-Nov-2005
I just got my six pack sampler (original blends) from D&R and I'm blown away by Rowland. I think if the term Ameriflavor described the premade market, premades might even seem worthwhile. If you're like me and shy away from flavored blends, don't be intimidated by the cocoa aroma as it's not syrupy or lingering at all. I've only smoked this undilluted and can't wait to blend some. Definitely in for a pound next time.
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Rowland Light

Posted by David Wilson on Saturday, 29-Oct-2005

Hello to the group, has anyone tried any of the Rowland Light? If so does it have the overly intrusive cocoa aroma to it as the Rowland Regular? I'm not sure if this so-called aroma would be a positive or negative effect on the taste and flavor of a possible future everyday smoke.. I still have a few different tobacco's to try, so far I haven't had the chance to experience but a few of what I call Internet tobacco (tobacco ordered over the Internet) From what I've read on here D & R would be a very good place to start..The only problem is which one haha :-) looks like there's 27 different blends to choose from so far.. (-: ..Thank's..

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Re: Rowland Light

Posted by David Wilson on Tuesday, 08-Nov-2005

Thank's JD, I haven't tried it as of yet, I'm looking forward to hear what you think of the Rowland Light..

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Re: Rowland Light: Posted by Dan Slater on Tuesday, 08-Nov-2005
I got a bag of Rowland Light a few weeks ago.
I had tried Rowland and thought it was pretty good but a little heavy. The Light is a little less over the top but still has a fairly strong "cocoa aroma".
I blended it with some Windsail Platinum and I think it's much better that way.I don't really know what the ratio of WP to RL was I just mixed what was left in the bags.
DS
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Re: Rowland Light: Posted by JD on Wednesday, 09-Nov-2005
My latest order from D&R arrived this morning and I immediately stuffed an El Rey light tube as well as a Premier light tube with the Rowland Light blend (after spending a moment savouring the almost fudge brownie smell from the tub). The cut is perfect for injecting and the moisture content was just right for immediate stuffing.

I was concerned that the unsmoked aroma was going to be a little too OTT when smoked, but after finishing the Premier Light stick, I was surprised at how little the aroma translated into a cocoa "taste." It was extremely mild tasting with a hint of sweetness--not overly so (at least to me). Awhile later I tried the El Rey light stick, which changed the taste a bit (obviously due to the different methods used to achieve the lightness in the two tubes--I prefer the micro-perf paper approach as opposed to the laser-holes used in the El Rey)...perhaps a bit less of the sweetness came through, but only upon serious reflection.

I handed out a couple of Premier light sticks to friends. The Marlboro Light smoker immediately demanded I tell her where she could get a pack. The Benson & Hedges smoker thought it a bit too light but was impressed by the taste as well (easy to do when you're a pre-made smoker).

In any event, my impression is that it's a smooth, mild tasting smoke in a light tube with a hint of sweetness that seems to make pre-made smokers sit up and take immediate notice. I might experiment later by blending it with a bit of Two-Timer Gold just for kicks, but I could smoke this regularly as-is....
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Re: Rowland Light: Posted by Kent on Wednesday, 16-Aug-2006
I posted a long post under 'menthol' but Rowland Light is a main part of the post, and thought I'd post a link under this brand as well:
[link]

Just a few more comments. I don't get that bad taste on relighting a half smoked cig that you get with manufactured cigarettes with my Rowland/menthol blend. My wife has a covered bowl where all the cigarette butts go and again, not near the smell of the Salem Ultra Light butts, when I go to empty it now. The other day I had the Rowland blend layed out on the cupboard to stuff, company arrived, and probably to the dismay of my brother-in-law (a non-smoker), his 5 yr. old, made the comment 'your house smells good!'

I'm 'smoking less and enjoying it more' since MYO and the Rowland/menthol blend.
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Re: Rowland Light: Posted by Rob S on Friday, 17-Aug-2007
I love this stuff. It has a sweetness I can't quite put my finger on, but boy, is it a flavorful smoke. I'm normally a menthol smoker, but since I've been sampling the different brands from D&R and RYOT, I've been smoking more regular flavored tobacco than menthol. So far, Sagamore Platinum Vanilla is my favorite, then Roland Light comes in a close second. The Vanilla though, is a pain in the ass to prepare and stuff. Sagamore Virginia comes in third. It has a golden yellowish color, a nutty/buttery smell and taste, very smooth, and it stuffs extremely well in my Supermatic. I actually like the Virginia better than the Platinum Gold, which, although very smooth itself, seems to lack that distinctive nutty taste of the Virginia that I love. It does have a hint of it, but not enough in my opinion. Next is Danish Export. I really like this stuff also, but I didn't really care for the London Export.

For menthol, I've mixing Sagamore menthol with Sagamore light; McClintock menthol with McClintock light, and I just tried Wingate Light mixed with Roland Light, although Wingate Light isn't too bad by itself.

My local smoke shop offered to stock some tobaccos at my request and I told him Sagamore Virginia and McClintock Light. Personally I find McClintock Light to be a wonderful blending agent with menthols in general since it smooths any harshness away and imparts a hint of that nutty taste that I absolutely love.

I was a Marlboro smoker before I started on menthols years ago (still have one every once in a while since my friend smokes Marlboro. He even likes SV better) and in my opinion, the Sagamore Virginia blows Marlboro out of the water. Too bad big tobacco companies have resorted to tinkering with chemicals when they *could* be producing a good quality smoke.

There is nothing on the market, in my opinion, that even comes close to what D&R, RYOT, and Stokkebye can offer.

My only regret, is that I never got to try McClintock Virginia, and every time I go into a store that sells tobacco, I find myself checking the back of shelves for a dusty orange can. Maybe some day I'll be lucky and find one....
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Re: Rowland: Posted by V.B. on Saturday, 29-Oct-2005
I found the cocoa aroma overly intrusive, and the tobacco itself a bit too strong. After blending it about 40/50 with Bali Golden Shag, I got one of the most satisfying "american" tasting cigarettes, with the cocoa ambience still there, but only as a hint. Mixing Rowland 50/50 with Danish Export was even better, because (I suppose) the unique aroma/flavor of that very mild virginia diluted Rowland's straight-forward cocoa flavor in a more subtle way.
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