Rattray’s Highland Targe Pipe Tobacco

Rattray’s Highland Targe Pipe Tobacco

Rattray’s Highland Targe embodies the Scottish blending tradition with Cyprus Latakia commanding center stage in this robust English mixture. Named after the traditional Highland shield carried by Scottish warriors, this blend delivers protective warmth through its generous Latakia proportion balanced against bright Virginia sweetness and Oriental complexity. The Perth blending house demonstrates its mastery by tempering the smoky intensity with Black Cavendish, creating accessibility within what could otherwise become an austere Latakia bomb.

• Cyprus Latakia provides pronounced campfire smoke and leathery richness
• Virginia tobaccos contribute natural sweetness with hay and citrus undertones
• Black Cavendish adds smoothing qualities that temper Latakia’s intensity
• Oriental leaves deliver exotic spice, floral notes, and sour-sweet complexity
• Medium strength with robust flavor, perfect for experienced English blend enthusiasts
• Ribbon cut ensures easy packing and consistent combustion throughout

The opening light announces Highland Targe’s intentions immediately through waves of Latakia smoke that dominate initial impressions. This isn’t subtle smokiness but rather a bold, campfire essence that English mixture purists seek. Virginia sweetness emerges gradually, providing a counterpoint to the Latakia dominance while preventing monotony. Oriental tobaccos weave through the smoke with incense-like qualities and that characteristic tangy sweetness found in Turkish leaf. The Black Cavendish works silently, smoothing rough edges without announcing its presence overtly.

Construction quality reflects German precision from Kohlhase & Kopp’s manufacturing facility. The ribbon cut shows careful processing with distinct visual separation between black Latakia strands, brown Virginia ribbons, and lighter Oriental pieces. Despite this variety, the blend maintains consistent moisture throughout, arriving properly conditioned for immediate smoking. When packed correctly, Highland Targe burns evenly to pale grey ash reminiscent of quality cigars, requiring minimal relights even in wider bowls.

What sets Highland Targe apart within the Rattray’s portfolio is its unapologetic Latakia emphasis. While Red Rapparee balances smoke with Red Virginia sweetness and Professional Mixture maintains restraint, Highland Targe embraces the campfire essence that defines traditional English blending. This makes it ideal for Latakia enthusiasts seeking maximum smoke without venturing into Syrian territory. The spicy-piquant character mentioned in traditional descriptions stems from the Oriental and Latakia marriage, creating complexity that prevents single-note smoking despite the bold flavor profile.

Summary

• Box Count: 1 tin (50g or 100g)
• Region: Germany (Scottish recipe)
• Strength: Medium
• Filler: Virginia, Black Cavendish, Oriental, Cyprus Latakia

What makes Highland Targe special among Rattray’s blends?

Highland Targe features the highest Latakia proportion in the Rattray’s range, creating pronounced smokiness for dedicated English mixture enthusiasts. The blend targets those seeking maximum campfire essence while maintaining Scottish blending balance.

How much Latakia does this blend contain?

Highland Targe contains approximately 35-40% Cyprus Latakia, placing it among the more robust English mixtures. This proportion delivers dominant smoke flavor without completely overwhelming other components.

Should this tobacco be dried before smoking?

The moisture arrives well-balanced from the tin. While smokeable immediately, 10 minutes of airing can concentrate flavors. German production includes humectants that maintain moisture, making drying optional.

Which pipe shapes work best with Highland Targe?

Medium-to-large bowls excel with this Latakia-forward blend. Group 3-4 sized chambers allow full development. Bent pipes reduce tongue bite from Oriental spice. Dedicate pipes to English blends to prevent ghosting.

How does Highland Targe compare to other Latakia blends?

More intense than squadron leader style blends, Highland Targe approaches Balkan territory without crossing over. The Black Cavendish smoothing makes it more approachable than austere Latakia bombs while maintaining serious smoke presence.

What is the room note like?

Expect pronounced campfire aromatics that announce English mixture smoking. Non-smokers familiar with Latakia may appreciate the quality, though the smoke remains assertive. Best enjoyed outdoors or in dedicated smoking areas.

Can Highland Targe be cellared?

While smokeable immediately, 1-2 years of aging mellows Latakia intensity while allowing Virginia sweetness to develop. Oriental components become more integrated. German tins seal well for extended storage.

What beverages pair with this robust English blend?

Strong black coffee mirrors the intensity. Peated Scotch whisky complements smoke notes. Dark beer provides refreshing contrast. Earl Grey tea echoes Oriental spice. Avoid delicate beverages that disappear against bold flavors.