Rattray’s Old Gowrie Pipe Tobacco
Rattray’s Old Gowrie stands as one of the classic benchmarks of Scottish style broken flake blends. Crafted for reliable all-day satisfaction, this medium-bodied recipe brings together pressed and matured dark and bright Virginias, a touch of smoky Kentucky, and just enough Perique for subtle fruit and spice. Old Gowrie is renowned for nuanced depth, quietly complex character, and a cool, forgiving burn that rewards both new and experienced pipe smokers.
- Dark and bright Virginias provide ripe fruit, fig, raisin, honey, and bready sweetness
- Kentucky leaf adds nutty, woody smokiness for body and gentle depth
- Perique contributes subtle spice, dried fruit, and floral complexity
- Broken flake format is easy to rub out and customize your pack
- Medium strength suits all-day smoking and frequent rotation
- No added flavoring—this blend is pure tobacco character
- Cool, forgiving burn resists tongue bite even when puffed with enthusiasm
- Cellaring enhances fruit and honey, mellowing the overall tone for greater complexity
The blend’s dominant profile delivers natural Virginia sweetness—ripe dark fruit and citrus, honey, fresh bread—while Kentucky imparts rounded smokiness. Perique remains a background note, its subtle spice and dried fruit developing as the bowl progresses. Old Gowrie’s balanced character never feels bland or overpowering. Sip gently to reveal hidden layers or puff at your own pace, knowing the blend is cool-burning and forgiving.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Components | Virginia, Kentucky, Perique |
| Region | Germany |
| Cut | Broken flake / ready-rubbed |
| Strength | Medium |
| Room Note | Pleasant to tolerable |
| Flavoring | None |
Summary
- Region: Germany
- Strength: Medium
- Filler: Virginia, Kentucky, Perique
What makes Rattray’s Old Gowrie a classic “all-day” blend?
It offers medium strength, subtle yet satisfying complexity, and a cool burn that stays enjoyable throughout the day, never becoming bland or overwhelming.
What flavor notes can I expect from Old Gowrie?
Look for natural Virginia sweetness (ripe fruit, honey, bread), nutty and smoky Kentucky, subtle Perique spice, and a touch of citrus.
Does Old Gowrie contain any added flavoring?
No—this blend is free from added flavorings, relying solely on the natural characteristics of its premium tobaccos.
How should I pack and prepare the broken flake cut?
The broken flake is easily rubbed out further or left as-is, offering flexibility in packing and burn rate according to your preference.
Is Old Gowrie suitable for beginners?
Its forgiving character, medium strength, and balanced flavor profile make it approachable for newer pipe smokers as well as seasoned enthusiasts.
How does it perform when aged?
Cellaring enhances its complexity, deepening fruit and honey notes while mellowing overall character, making it even more rewarding for patient smokers.
Will Old Gowrie bite if puffed quickly?
It’s known for its cool, even burn and gentle nature, resisting bite even when smoked with enthusiasm, though a slower pace still brings out the best flavor nuances.
What’s the best way to enjoy Old Gowrie?
Sip gently and allow the flavors to develop slowly for the fullest, most nuanced experience—ideal for both relaxed solo sessions and sharing with friends.








Chop10 (verified owner) –
Flavor opened with a gentle Virginia sweetness, complemented by subtle grassy and citrus notes. Mid-bowl brought mild burley depth and light spice, rounding out the profile without ever becoming harsh or overpowering. The overall character stayed smooth and balanced from start to finish. This is a good tobacco blend, right from the start. It will do amazing with some cellaring.
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rgustafson944 (verified owner) –
A delicious, easy to smoke, rewarding blend. I find Old Gowrie does best after some time in a jar, but every bowl is delicious. After a couple of years, the sweetness ramps up and the strength is perfect for me.
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