Tobaccos Cornell & Diehl - Old Joe Krantz

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	A. Morley (97)	2006-03-30		Very Strong	None Detected	Extra Full	Very Strong

Be careful with this one, because it can pack a wallop. I might go so far as to call it a gollyflopper, but I think that's a word I just now made up. This blend sneaks up on a body. The initial taste is the sort of high quality burley excellence that we have all come to expect from the Tarler/Runowski duo. But where Pegasus had sweetness, and Haunted Book Shop had musty oriental character, Old Joe has the bassy depth of stoved Virginia. Nice, very nice.

But then, all of a sudden there is a BAM, followed a SLAM, a BOP, a BIFF, and...a CRASH. Perique has entered the premises. From where, you don't know, but it is there, all right, and it has taken control. From then on this is a heady, exotic, Crowley-style blend that takes you to weird, mystic places and does not bring you home until it is damn good and ready. I'm not even sure if I have gotten back yet. All the same, Old Joe Krantz treats you cruel in a decent way. Regards,

A. Morley Jaques

87 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	JimInks (3025)	2015-03-17		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

The bold burleys are toasty, mildly nutty sweet, woody with a slight dry bitterness and hint of spice. The perique is plumy, raisiny and figgy with a strong hit of pepper and spice. These two components work well together and are the stars. The red Virginia is a secondary addition, but an important part of the blend because it provides a necessary tangy dark fruit sweetness (and a little earth and wood) to keep OJK from being harsh. If you puff fast, you can experience some harsh notes along with a minute cigarette taste, and I recommend puffing at a slow to moderate rate. Won't bite, but it may tingle the tongue a tad. The strength is quite potent with a filling taste level. The nic-hit is near the center of medium to strong. Burns clean and fairly cool at a reasonable rate with a very consistent, deeply rich, mildly sweet, rugged, spicy flavor that translates to the lasting after taste. Leaves little dampness in the bowl, and requires an average number of relights. Not an all day smoke. I would rate this at four stars, but GQ's Askwith Kake does what OJK does a little better. Three and half stars for this mixture.

-JimInks

69 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Demetri (113)	2014-03-09		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant

Nearly a year ago I tried my first OJK with some trepidation given the reputation it has of being a powerhouse burley. I packed my first bowl at the B&M without exploring the unlit aroma, just lighting up and driving away. About half way down the bowl I had to slow myself down, both vehicle velocity and puffing cadence. Wow! I did like this blend.

Being a normally English smoker with C&D Engine 99 as my favorite this was a complete surprise for me. While I did like the C&D Burley Flakes that I've tried, this was divine. Simply put, this is a 'tribute' blend to American smoking tobacco tradition - with the big three American varieties - Burley, Perique and Red Virginia. The unlit aroma is alluring, delicious-smelling without added topping or casing. Clean burn, the pipe cleaner emerges barely soiled and no tongue bite or rasped palates. Natural sweetness, nutty notes. It performs as one might expect from the burleys and perique with the Red Va being applied as a condiment. One might not pick it out in the smoke but most likely would miss it were it not in there.

I smoke this daily now. Several time a day and it has nearly replaced my VaPers. Another thing: this is the blend that finally kicked the cigarette monkey off my back - dead cold.

A classic in the making. Bob Runowski will be missed.

An unabashedly given and well earned FOUR Stars

Pipe Used: Briars and cobs

Age When Smoked: Fresh production

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

48 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Pipestud (1829)	2007-04-27		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

Old Joe is a great smoke! I really enjoyed my recently gifted tin of this blend as its presentation was unique, tasty and not overwhelming in the Perique department. In fact, OJK is laced with just the right amount of that Louisiana product for me to tolerate. Some C&D blends overpower my taste buds with Perique, but not this one.

Although not busting at the seams with nicotine, there was enough of of that drug in this tobacco to perk me up.

Easy to load, light and keep lit; Old Joe Kranz offers a pleasant Burley taste with just enough Virginia to mellow out the flavor. Personally, I think OJK would be even better with no Perique at all, but as it is, I'll sure take a free tin anytime!

42 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2001-11-29		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

A few preceding notes. The blend was named in honor of my grandfather, who was also my pipesmoking mentor and role model. He primarily smoked burleys, like Union Jack and Edgeworth Sliced. I cannot think of a time when I didn't see him w/o one of his beat-up pipes and the aroma of pipesmoke around him. In any case, I was reading the reviews of Haunted Bookshop and Norm Musicant indicated that he liked more red virginia in his blends. Norm is someone whose opinion I respect. I was still looking for a simple hearty burley blend that could hold my interest all day. So, a new blend.

This is a ribbon and coarse cut blend of four basic American tobaccos: dark and cubecut burleys, red virginia and perique. It lacks the sophisticated nature of many contemporary blends. The pouch aroma is typical of C&D's great burleys, warm and earthy with a strong note of perique's mustiness. There's a springy quality to the packing, and it required two charring lights before the tobacco lit. The first few minutes was all burleys, the dark cigar tones and the natural sweetness of the cubecut. But, because the red virginia and perique are in ample quantity, their presence is noted and welcomed. The nose tingled but no bite through the smoke. It was a full-bodied smoke of fairly consistent quality to the bottom of the bowl. A large bowl Ben Wade Brogue was a great complement to the tobaccos. Very little moisture through the smoke as well. The pipe drew easily with light tamping.

I like this blend a great deal, because of its straightforward quality and its fullness of smoke. Since it doesn't bite the tongue at all, it can be an all day smoke. But, because of the hefty portion of perique (25%), the blend may not appeal to everyone.

41 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	DeathMetal.org (231)	2015-08-10		Very Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

If Dr. Who ever visits, I'm going to toss him a Barling pipe and 2 oz sack of Old Joe Krantz and ask him to go back in time and find my 18-year-old self and instruct him in their usage. Old Joe Krantz is exactly what tobacco should be: rich natural flavors, a subtle blend, high power for people who think their way through life as opposed to simply munching cheeseburgers, and enough variety to be tasty if smoked fast, slow or in-between. The predominant flavor here is C&D's savory dark burley, with added red Virginias to calm and sweeten it, with Perique scattered throughout to add texture and dimension.

Our nickname for this is "O.D. Joe Krantz" because of its relatively high nicotine content. This makes it a perfect "work tobacco" when a solid problem needs to be reduced to a quivering mass, and I can imagine Sherlock Holmes crouched on his armchair burning three pipes of OJK before leaping up with the name of the murderer. However, the strength is overstated. If you are new to pipe smoking, start with half a bowl. The speed at which you smoke it depends on how much nicotine accumulates in your person. If you have never smoked before and blaze a full bowl of OJK in ten minutes, you might find yourself on the floor with the spins. If you have smoked cigarettes, this is a dose similar to Dunhill cigarettes: a solid blast of nicotine, stimulating those synapses and nudging the neurons.

Liking natural tobaccos is both a strange and extremely normal thing. The many flavors that can be coaxed from tobacco render almost infinite interesting blends, and the drenching of sugary flavoring that makes aromatics resemble so much of the other insincere plastic mass-conformist junk out there pales in comparison. With OJK, I think it is time to demystify this one: it is a quality Burley blend and one of my favorites, but a simple blend, which means (paradoxically) that it holds the interest longer because its appeal is a few fundamental ingredients in contrast. In contrast, highly-detailed tobacco constructions have too many contradictory impulses and end up in that chaos losing depth and complexity. OJK reveals its many possibilities with repeated smokes where you have the time to appreciate it, much like a summer day with a fast breeze and high cloud cover will always be a calming experience. It may not be as mature as the Dunhill blends, and it has a slight bitterness reminiscent of fresh-cut plants, but its depth of essential flavors makes this one a perennial favorite.

2017 update: some time during this year, Old Joe Krantz changed, and it is a mixed bag. The original blend used giant fistfuls of the dark Burley that C&D also sells as a blending ingredient, slightly mediated by the white Burley that is available a catalog page over. As a result, it produced radically different estimates of its strength. Burley people like myself did not find it particularly heady, but those who are sensitive to Burley reported it as a hefty dose of Nicotine. The truth is probably in the middle... there is something in dark Burley which is like eating green fruit in that it makes you feel a bit queasy and gives you the spins if you have too much as a Burley susceptible person. The new Old Joe Krantz is ribbon cut instead of rough cut, uses more of the white Burley by my taste, has more moisture, and is a true medium strength tobacco thanks to the lower count of dark Burley. On the plus side, this burns a lot better than the original; on the downside, it lacks some of the delicious Nicotine of the older blend, and is heavier due to moisture that does not really enhance the flavor. Looking at the bright side, it really feels like the "best OTC you have ever smoked" now, and seeing how C&D are following the Sir Walter Raleigh and Captain Black model with now three total variants of Old Joe Krantz, it would not surprise me if this started showing up in drugstores as "Old Joe" in a few years. I miss the stronger original blend, but this is still a fine smoke and now is even easier to puff it all day; I shore up mine with some thin-sliced "Brown No. 4" hidden among the golden-brown shreds.

28 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	fr_tom (393)	2013-12-03		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

C&D OJK was a treat. I found the blend to have a pleasant slightly bitter/sour taste that was pretty constant through the bowl. There is more of the bitter to me. The perique is there and I can taste it, but it is just another flavor in the mix and not the main attraction. There is enough of the Virginia to provide a little sweet to go with the bitter/sour. This one had a lot of flavor, and anyone who wants a tobacco that is "not bland" should try this if there is not a burley or perique aversion.

This one has a little more nicotine than most things I smoke, but like the perique presence, it is enough to notice and not so much that I am swimming in it. OJK was very good and a tasty diversion. I will probably buy some of this to keep it around.

This is a solid 3.5...

Edit: I have since smoked up another 4 oz. of this, and I am liking this a lot. The next order will be a pound.

Edit2: I am maybe 5 pounds into the OJK experience. I find this very satisfying and have a few pipes that really perform with OJK. I have found that a half bowl of Haunted Bookshop topped with a half bowl of OJK is a combo that really works well for me.

Edit3 8/31/19: The price of OJK is suddenly higher in bulk compared to Big-n-Burley and the other C&D standards. I had two pounds of it in the last order but took them out and added two pounds to the Big-n-Burley purchase.

Pipe Used: various briars

Age When Smoked: uncertain

Purchased From: (initially) bulk from someone who did not like it

18 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	albfneto (184)	2014-04-28		Strong	Very Strong	Very Full	Strong

This is a sofisticated Burley Mixture....I note much more the Burley (bitter taste) and the Perique (peppery taste) than the Virginias. I also note some spicy taste. I dont consider it very strong (is strong, but not very strong) in Nicotine, but in flavour and taste, yes! Full flavour and taste. Excelent mixture, I recommend for Burley and Perique fans. I atributed 4 Stars. Further evaluation: With dry weather, as in my City, after open the bag with this tobacco, it dries something and gains "body", the Burley is just more combined with the Perique. The result is even better!

Pipe Used: An Hilson, Canadian Shape.

Age When Smoked: recently purchased

Purchased From: TabacoBr, Brazil

17 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	DoctorThoss (146)	2007-11-05		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable to Strong

It's a shame I can't give this one five stars. This is the closest thing to a "perfect" blend I've come across. This is, as others have pointed out, perhaps the best American-style blend on the market today, which is high praise indeed.

Another reviewer described this as a "kaleidoscope of naturals," and I agree. The burley used here is delicious, and it basically serves as the canvas on which the virginia and perique get to show their stuff. As a perique lover, I can't get enough of this blend-- it's supposedly composed of something like 25% of that spicy leaf, and as the bowl progresses it shifts back and forth between a fruity/sweet flavor and a more spicy/sour one.

But this blend's smokability is what really pushes this to the top of my cellar. It smokes with all the ease of a drugstore burley and almost never bites, even when puffing like mad on a large bowl.

Like most C&D blends, I do recommend letting it age a few months and then letting it dry out a little before smoking it. I prefer to buy mine pressed, but it's great either way. I've also found that adding about 10-15% latakia makes for a very enjoyable American English blend, if you're so inclined.

16 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Wilhelm Joharsányi (33)	2017-10-29		Very Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

One of the worst parts about living in Hungary is being unable to purchase American blends such as Cornell & Diehl, G.L. Pease, etc. The government nationalized the sale of tobacco, a state-wide monopoly on profits and distribution of tobacco. The end result: Excessive taxes on imported tobacco, corrupt Hungarian politicians earning a fortune, and me being forced to smoke Borkum Riff and the mediocre Hungarian blends before I started ordering online from other EU countries. Long story short, I ordered 5 tins (including this one) from smokingpipes.com, and was hit with a $100 shipping tax a few weeks ago. And you think your government is corrupt?

Anyway, enough with my sob story; I have been waiting A VERY LONG TIME to try Old Joe and was quite excited to open the tin. After paying the ridiculous shipping tax and waiting months for it to arrive, this blend better be good! And yes, it was damn good!

Upon opening the tin, my first breath was filled with sweet molasses, with fig and dried fruit overtones. It has a very refreshing, sweet, and fresh natural aroma. This is just what I was hoping for.

Perfect to smoke the second you open the tin, no need to dry out. After my first smoke, an immediate, molasses/ maple taste, followed by wood and nut-like flavor hit my taste buds. The Burley’s take center-stage here and I must say: Cornell and Diehl have some of the best burley’s I have ever tasted. Absolutely magnificent! Mid-way through the bowl, the taste then suddenly changes into a smooth, cigar-like flavor. Old Joe satisfies your sweet tooth in the beginning, and then settles you in with a very smooth, balanced cigar taste to finish. Really nice.

The Perique is noticeable, but not overwhelming and is balanced with the Virginias. And boy, is this a strong one! I usually smoke 2-3 times a day, but the nicotine strength in this one forces me to smoke just once, and wanting a large glass of water after.

Smoking this blend was quite bittersweet: definitely a great blend and something I would love to add to my regular rotation, but difficult to acquire in Europe unless I want to cough up another $100 shipping tax and not have money to eat during the week. At least I will starve to death happy, while smoking this excellent blend from Cornel and Diehl!

14 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2008-04-24		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

UPDATE TO THE UPDATE 03/04/11: I first was introduced to and reviewed OJK in 2006 and had not reviewed anything for quite a while so I decided to poke my head in and do so tonight. Guess what, OJK is still the bee's knee's and would likely be my desert island smoke. Actually, I think if this were suddenly the only pipe tobacco on the market I would continue to enjoy my pipes without a hitch. Thanks to the Nanny State intervention, a pound of OJK ordered on the internet is now cheaper than a tub of PA locally ($48, are you kidding me!?). This stuff rules. I'm currently kicked back with a Whitehall Grand National full of this mana from heaven, sipping on a cold PBR and listening to Tuesday's Gone. Here's to the KINGS of Codger Burlies, Bob Runowski and Grandpa Joe Krantz! UPDATE: I took a minute to review all my reviews and realized that my ratings seemed a bit inflated with most burley blends, and even a mediocre straight Viriginia receiving a four star rating. In an effort to correct this injustice and perhaps provide a curb as to my honest operational assesment of these tobaccos I have set about updating all my past reviews. Some I chopped down considerably; Old Joe Krantz WILL NOT be one of those. In fact, since my intial review I have probably smoked at least a couple pounds of this stuff and my review today would go up by about 10 stars if that was possible. This stuff and Prince Albert are the backbones of my tobacco rotation and the more OJK I smoke the more it truly shines as a frontrunner. The high perique content (25%) will scare away some people but in my experience everything else counter balances the perique and one hell of a fantastic smoke emerges. OJK is odd in the sense that a tobacco with such a nicotine wallop can be such a silky smooth smoker. If for whatever reason, you are averse to either perique or large doses of vitamin N I can't really recommend this for you but for me it is the greatest tobacco in all of recorded history and I'm serious about that. ORIGINAL REVIEW: Simply put, OJK rocks and is a great all around blend. A VA/PER/BUR, it would seem to have something for everyone it's heavy enough to satisfy the Virginia/English blend smoker and the Burley component makes it very friendly, smooth and smokeable to the burleyphile. This is simultaneously full and heavy but very suitable for an all day smoke. Very tasty, very good, and as others have said just about right in the nicotine department. Great for seasoned veterans and beginners alike. Old Joe will enjoy a permanent place in my pipe hutch seated right next to my old friend the Prince. You owe it to yourself to try this one.

14 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Pipe Newb (49)	2014-04-22		Very Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Pouch note is heavy with prune, cigar leaf, caramel, and a very faint, almost "minty" smell.

Char and first draw. MAN THIS IS HUGE! Really bold, potent flavors of sungrown cigar leaf, oak, heavy black pepper, and charred meat (yes, meat). The aftertaste left on my tongue and roof of my mouth reminded me of peppered roasted squash/pumpkin and walnuts. An attempt at a retrohale/snork and a french inhale both left me thinking a suckerpunch to the nose would be preferable, or maybe I'm a great big pansy. The snork, however, did open up the earthy flavors I previously only tasted on my tongue after the smoke had left my mouth.

Room note throughout is pretty spot-on with the flavor, roasted walnuts and spicy cigar leaf.

As the bowl progressed, the squash/pumpkin/walnut flavors really grew to be very, very nice... a potent earthiness, mildly sweet, that I'd compare to a warm cup of black tea on a cold day... warming and mellow.

I can see why this is a favorite among so many, there is a lot going on here. I'm not man enough to make a blend like this an everyday smoke (I found it very strong), or even a smoke after breakfast like I did today, but this tobacco seems like it begs me for a glass of smooth bourbon on a cool and quiet Friday night.

Pipe Used: MM legend

Age When Smoked: Unknown

Purchased From: Unknown (gifted)

13 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	SmokeDawg (82)	2014-08-17		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

Other burley blends are a dingy, Old Joe is a battleship. If Pee Wee Herman is the leading man, Old Joe is Arnold Schwarzenegger. All other Burley blends are a screen door, Old Joe -gates of Iron.

Old Joe Krantz is a strong, strong blend without a hint of sweetness. It may have VA listed among the ingredients but the sweetness is as far as a pig from the moon. I describe Old Joe as Harsh with a deep dryness. It went great with my coffee but I had to add more sweet cream in my mug to balance out the smoke in my pipe. This blend packs a WALLUP in every area. If this is an old school smoke it left me the impression of a tough leather neck marine smoking gun powder and leather. You know how there are different levels of burley for blending? Well this one is the hard nicotine full body version. Now add a good deal of Perique. That's Old Joe Krantz.

Pipe Used: Cob, basket pipe.

Purchased From: PipesandCIgars.com

12 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2014-08-08		Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

One burley to rule them all-- This is the burley that made me love burleys. It's nuanced and balanced in a way that can only be described and transcendent. The nutty burley and musty perique are made for each other. Always burns cool and dry and great for an all day smoke. Arrives smokable and really melds after 3 months or so. Highly recommend.

Pipe Used: Briar Billiard

Age When Smoked: 1 Year

Purchased From: Pipesandcigars.com

12 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Noorrmm (192)	2004-05-07		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Appearance: Sort of a rough cut, but not too rough. Mostly medium red and brown with a good percentage of darker leaf.

Aroma: Great nutty Burley aroma right on top, with some sweet Virginia and sour Perique peeking out.

Packing: Packs well in all but the smallest bowls, which need a lighter touch.

Lighting: Lights exceptionally easily, sometimes one match and a tamp with no relight.

Initial flavor: A simple blend to the palate. Just what you expect from the aroma. Lots of flavor, and lots of mouth feel. A perfect balance of the ingredients. Burns readily, but not hot.

Mid-bowl: The Perique really comes on more assertively, with just enough Virginia sweetness to keep in under control. The nutty Burley flavor hangs in there as a strong component, never in the background, but never in total dominance either. Stays quite cool at reasonable puffing rates. I haven't ever gotten it to burn hot.

Finish: Well behaved to the last, burns to a clean dark gray ash with no soggy bottom.

Summary: Although I'm not a "Burley Guy" as a rule, I do appreciate a well made Burley blend as a change from Virginias and Orientals. This is definitely at the top of the genre. Richer in flavor than it's close cousin Haunted Bookshop, which I also love. Another wonderful effort from Bob, the king of the burley blenders.

12 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2009-05-21		Very Strong	Extremely Mild	Full	Tolerable

I was all set to write a review and I see that 1/2 bowl already said 90% of my thoughts! The only thing I'd add is that the mixing of the various tobaccos seems haphazard. And that those that rate this blend as "smooth" or as a potential "all-day smoke" must have asbestos tongues! I salute those who like this blend, but it sure did nothing for me. Two stars is a gift, and given mostly because I'm just sure that anything from Cornell & Diehl has to be of high quality leaf, even though I could not say so in all certainty.

Try this if you enjoy natural burley taste with one hell of a lot of perique thrown in, and you're not into nuances or subtleties. Yowch!

11 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Mr. Motoyoshi (68)	2014-11-19		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

A friend who has similar preferences to tobacco recommended this to me. I got the bulk from Smokingpipes and it was a mostly brown to dark brown bag of coarse cut tobacco with hints of red. It was a little on the dryer side when it came.

I must warn you, this is not a tobacco for someone looking to try something stronger for the first time. OJK is a no nonsense tobacco with a full amount of pure natural tobacco flavor. It packs very easily and lights the same. I can usually get down to the bottom where it burns to a perfect white ash with one match.

One thing I will say that is special to this tobacco is that, in my experience, it starts off very astringent, sharp, smokey and strong. But once you pass the first 1/8 of the bowl, it really mellows out (comparatively speaking). Have a drink at hand for that first 1/8.

There is so much going on here that some may confuse it with lacking depth, nothing could be further from the truth. The VAs run back of forth with thin strips of sweetness while the Burleys and Perique take the larger strides in the smoke. The last 1/4 of the smoke is simply wonderful where all of the flavors start to meddle together providing a truly unique smoke.

OJK in a cob is one of my favorite ways to enjoy this blend. I feel it really helps round off some of the sharp notes and provides the best method of enjoyment.

I find this to be the older stronger curmudgeon brother to burley flake #3.

Pipe Used: Mortas, briars and cobs

Purchased From: Smokingpipes.com

Similar Blends: Cornell & Diehl - Burley Flake #3.

10 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-02-20		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

This blend is so obvious, it makes Britney Spears appear enigmatic. A full-flavored blend cool enough to smoke throughout the day if you have the constitution for this much perique. I think one shred more perique added to OJK would make only the perique noticeable.

Precariously balanced, rich, mildly complex and deep, OJK is something akin to Barbary Coast without topping and half the natural sweetness. This is worth purchasing for the tin aroma alone.

Have no fear of this duplicating Haunted Bookshop. They are alike in ingredients, but quite different in effect. I do not think most aficionados of this genre will fail to appreciate, if not love, this blend.

10 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-01-30		Very Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

“OJK,” as it is affectionately known by it's familiars, is well deserving of it's seat in the pantheaon of burley masters. Old Joe Krantz is not a subtle smoke. It's painted in 3 bold stripes of primary colors: Burley, Virginia, Perique. Those stripes serve as the natal flag of fortitude and simplicity.

The tin aroma is a fantastic, leafy potpourri - sweet and perique-y. I don't know the technical term for the type of cut given to the tobacco, but it's smallish, easy to load, and burns well right out of the tin. I like to let it air for a few minutes, though. When it comes to strength, Old Joe Krantz is one cantankerous ol' timer YOU DO NOT want to mess with. Why? Because he'll kick your arse, that's why. And it it'll be embarrassing.

The virginia element is masterfully done, allowing it to be truly a burley feature blend, but definitely providing a high quality sweetness haven into which you can dive if feeling a bit blown over by the burley and perique pistons that drive the engine. I have smoked now about 6 blends that are made up of these same 3 primary components. Of course, each one probably uses different leaf and hopes to achieve it's own identity, but as far as I'm concerned, most of them still stand and shiver beneath the great and looming shadow of Old Joe Krantz.

Now I am a neophyte and every time I say a certain blend is strong, someone else chimes in with, ahh that's nuthin'. Well, if OJK isn't strong I don't know what is. In fact, it's too strong for me to smoke regularly; but I recognize and enjoy from time to time the archetypal burley pipe blend that is Cornell & Diehl's Old Joe Krantz.

9 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Dark Passage (4)	2017-06-10		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

I see a lot of comparison here of Old Joe Krantz to Haunted Bookshop. While I consider this apt, To me I think of it like comparing white wine to red--HB being the dryer white wine and OJK the fuller, heavier red.

I find smoking OJK to be a richly satisfying experience. I get a dusting of clean sugary sweetness, together with a delicious dry bitterness like you find in a dark ale, along with rich nutty flavor, filled in with the Deep fermented taste of perique, all topped with a healthy dousing of black pepper. Utterly delicious!

Pipe Used: various briars

Age When Smoked: new

8 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	StevieB (2076)	2016-10-28		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

Cornell & Diehl - Old Joe Krantz.

I was expecting this to taste a lot simpler than it does.

The smoke has a fair amount going on in it: the Burley leads, but there's more from the Perique than I expected: a pleasing fruitiness sits just behind the nuttiness. I enjoy that side of Old Joe, but what I don't enjoy is the strange sourness that develops quite quickly, and also the sheer volume of tongue bite. This is exacerbated by the mechanics: damn it burns hot.

The nicotine amount makes it more apt for the mornings rather than the relaxing evening smoke: it is rather strong. And I find the room-note boring.

I've smoked some cracking blends from Cornell & Diehl, but this is possibly the worst.

Not recommended.

Pipe Used: Altinok Lee Van Cleef Meer'

Age When Smoked: One Month

Purchased From: 4noggins

8 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	dixcreek (182)	2015-09-22		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Old Joe has a rep for being a real ass kicker, he is a strong one albeit he ain't Brown Pigtail but he ain't your Granny's peach snuff either. I found Joe to be a wonderful combination of various tobaccos that worked well together. The Burley adds a good honest nut flavor The Virginia comes in with the grassy notes, the dark burley adds some earthy but sweet/spicy attributes and then that old indian friend of mine peppery Perique. with this combo mixed in the right proportions you got a winner in my book. Packs well easy to light and smokes true to form fro start to finish. some have advised to smoke old joe in a small bowl, I like a big bowl so he can spread out and work his magic. One suggestion I will impart though Smoke him slow or he could blow the top of your head off! Old joe is a marathon blend not a sprinter. Highly recommended as an entry into strong smoke. One note or afterthought I have noticed that Old Joe does age well in a Mason jar so buy extra to cellar

Pipe Used: Cobs and various large bowl briars

Age When Smoked: right out the bag and jar age various stages

Purchased From: pipes and cigars

8 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	William H. Hardy (95)	2013-05-16		Very Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Very Strong

This is a tobacco with a serious kick. A lot of Red Virginia, a lot of Perique, and a good bit of Burley. I like a lot of blends that others claim are pretty strong; University Flake, Wessex Burley Slice, Haunted Bookshop, etc. This old codger leaves them all in the dust. Usually, I can't finish a whole bowl in one sitting and have to take a break to finish it. Thankfully, it DGTs quite well and I have no problem coming back to it after the hiccup fits force me to slow it down.

I know that I'm making this sound like it's a bad review, but I don't mean it to be. This is an excellent tobacco from a well-reputed blender and tobacco house. It's certainly not an all-day blend for me, but when I want to have my butt handed to me, this one fits the bill. If you can smoke this stuff with no real problems with the Vitamin N level, you're stouter than me! I give a solid 3 stars on this one. I'll never have more than one bowl of this a day, however!

8 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Danno44 (8)	2017-07-26		Medium to Strong	Medium	Medium	Tolerable

Being a former cigarette smoker, I am not afraid of Nicotine, which is good with this blend. I tried various tobaccos when starting my pipe smoking journey a little over 2 years ago but, nothing was scratching the itch for the nic especially in the AM with coffee. Then it was recommended to try OJK. As a fan of the OTC burley blends, this is OTC on steroids. The tin note is strong but pleasant. It has woodsy with fruit/plum and spicy notes. The nuttiness of the burley is there, and the perique is present. The Virginia is also there but in the background to me. Overall I just get a deep earthy smoke with a good amount of flavor. Although very good on its own, the flavors build and change slightly as you smoke down through the bowl. Starts a little strong then mellows out, and towards the end the nic can be felt. I like to mix it with Chantham Manor, Carter Hall, Prince Albert for an added kick. When mixed it can be an all day smoke, however not an all day smoke on its own for me. The blend appears to prefer cobs either on its own or mixed. The room note, I have been told, is just ok but reminds folks of a cigarette smell, but a little better, so I would say fair overall in that area. Alone it can bite if cadence is quick, as a mix I haven't experienced any bite. For me it is a "cellar it" because I use it as a mix primarily. I also noticed that with a little age, say after a year, flavors get deeper yet mellows.

Pipe Used: MM cobs any shape

Age When Smoked: Fresh to 1 year of age

7 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Antonius Blok (190)	2020-12-22		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

The cold smell is strongly fermented due to the good dose of perique it contains. Although a coarse cut is advertised, what I found on the tin was a typical ribbon, even pulling the thinner side, which caused the tobacco to burn quite quickly. I guess when it does show up in coarse cut it will burn a lot slower. I wish I could contrast this mix with both cuts.

When you light the tobacco, the first thing you notice is the vinegary, fruity and balsamic flavor of the perique, but what seems to me are notes of bitter cocoa from the burley, and a touch of sweetness from the red virginias immediately emerge. This mixture of ingredients appear well combined, providing a very tasty smoke that cannot be left indifferent. It is relatively satiating and with a medium to high nicotine dose, which can be noticed depending on the size of the bowl used.

It so happened that I had recently just smoked Bluegrass, also from Cornell & Diehl, and I got the impression that OJK was made up of the same tobaccos but replacing Kentucky with Burley and increasing the amount of perique.

I give it three stars because it fills my mouth with too much flavor. However, if it happens to you like me, you can try thicker-walled pipes, which attenuate the powerful flavor a bit. This, combined with a few months of repose in a glass jar, works a lot better, in my opinion...

Pipe Used: Croci Fiammata Argento

Age When Smoked: Young

Similar Blends: Warped: Kings Stride -Cornell & Diehl- (with the addition of the cigar leaf).

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	moniker (217)	2018-07-09		Strong	Extremely Mild	Full	Pleasant

Original Old Joe Krantz is a blend that’s storied on the TR board, and rightly so, IMO. It’s strong and uncompromising, just like everyone says; but when it’s approached with respect it can be memorable in the best sense, and perhaps “iconic” would not be a stretch. While it bears a proud likeness to its codger progenitors, the year old tin I’ve smoked goes well beyond this, and it’s an instant favorite of mine and already part of my regular rotation.

Tin note is old leather, and it’s very slightly musty. The tobacco is ribbons ‘n bits chopped to short pieces ranging from light to dark browns. It’s moist enough to be springy, and it’s fine for smoking right from the tin. I went a little rogue to start, packing it loosely into a Devil Anse with a 5+ bowl with the typically short bit and stem, and a very easy draw. I still prefer that pipe for OJK, but it’s been fine from several 5+ briars. Lighting OJK is easy, and it comes right up with fragrant, floral Burley, and something like buttered popcorn, followed quickly by bitter tannin I suppose comes from white Burley. The VAs seem to be red, and they ease right in to provide sweetness, body, and depth while never rising over the Burleys. Though I can certainly taste the spices and a slightly musty, sour note from the Perique, I find it generally more exotic than hot/pepper, and, again, I think white Burley is the “culprit” whence springs the edge, such as it is. Since OJK burns well and completely with regular, gentle tamping I have no trouble taking it very slow as the rich flavors and the nicotine build steadily, even inexorably. Top to bottom, OJK is a “masterpiece of simplicity”. It’s everything I wanted when I tried in turn all the harsh, disgusting OTC blends favored by my crusty ancestors. Strength is strong, no two ways about it. Tastes are full, no two ways about it. I find the room note to be pleasant, and for now I’m sticking to that, even though I didn’t (and probably won’t) actually try it on gentle folk. Aftertaste is a nice dragging out of the best of the smoke that lingers and adds considerably to the experience.

Though I hesitate to recommend OJK to beginners, they might just give it a slow, careful go. For veterans, same advice, and if you like Triple Play or JackKnife Plug you might like Old Joe Krantz, as well. Hoo-Rah, and 4 stars from me!

Pipe Used: various briars; #5 preferred

Age When Smoked: 1 year

Purchased From: Cup o' Joes

Similar Blends: Similar "sensibility" to Triple Play and JackKnife Plug.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Jevverrett (104)	2017-09-24		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

I bought this one to try something new. Got it by looking through the tobacco locator on Smokingpipes.com. This one hit all the right buttons.

The tin note is burley overly. This is the main component you'll notice. The ribbons are really nice for C&D, even uniform. Close to a cigarette shag. It packs well, and takes a few lights to get it going properly. Does form an ash cake that will prevent relights if you just tamp the ash down. Best to stir it off and ash it out, I find.

It's earthy and smokey. The perique isn't very generous imho, but adds a nice bit of spice to it, with a bit of dark fruit. This is brought out well by the small amount of red va they put in here. Also adds a light sweetness that is very helpful. It's simple and strong, but not too simple. It's also delicious, I could smoke this all day once I got used to the strength. Good straightforward tobacco flavor, without getting dull. No bite, and a nice dry smoke.

I tried haunted bookshop recently, and this is much better I think. It says the man just tinkered with the blend a bit. He did very well. Worth trying if you like strong tobaccos of mostly burley. And/ or are also a fan of va/pers. It reminds me of haddos delight with a lot less perique and va. Same sort of vibe comes from it. If you like those, but not strong blends, man up and try an ounce. Worst case, you're out a few bucks. Highly recommended.

Pipe Used: Various

Age When Smoked: Fresh bulk

Purchased From: Smokingpipes

Similar Blends: Haunted bookshop, haddos delight..

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	OomPaul Guy (7)	2017-03-07		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable to Strong

Another blend I have to give credit to YouTube Pipe Community Presenter, "Matches860" for. Watching John's videos has opened me up to some really superb blends, this being one of them.

To my personal taste, Old Joe Krantz is like Haunted Bookshop on steroids!! Be respectful and smoke this one like a gentleman or Old Joe will kick your ass!!

If you haven't already, check out "Matches860" videos on YouTube. Light up a bowl and sit back and enjoy and maybe, like me, you might just learn a thing or two. Great presenter and all around nice guy!

Pipe Used: Savinelli "Solaria" 614, Savinelli "Roma" 614

Age When Smoked: New

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

Similar Blends: Haunted Bookshop (Only Stronger and Bolder).

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Amsteracqua (24)	2014-09-01		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

WOW... this is a really old man... if you dont respect him, he will torment you... now about this tobacco, it's a good tobacco, strong in your flavor but with time, you will know, step by step, how to smoke this tobacco after this, this old makes a friendship with you and will propitiate a very good smoke.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	StimeyStrongwater (10)	2014-04-15		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

A favorite! Great, earthy and slightly nutty, Burley flavor with a little sweetness from the Va. Strong nic hit, which is always appreciated. An all around great old school tobacco if you are into a lot of tobacco flavor with nothing added. I am currently out of stock with Old Joe, but will always have a place for this blend.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Backwoods Piper (70)	2012-01-03		Strong	Mild	Medium to Full	Pleasant

This is an outstanding burly blend. Love the peppery overtone of perique and the sweetness and aroma of the VA. This is in the running with GLP Haddo's Delight for me (another one of my favorites). I would recommend this blend for the more seasoned smokers. Definitely a blend to be puffed gently. Not a good blend for breaking in.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Mr. Big (321)	2011-12-28		Very Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

Strong and harsh. Can't find the pleasure in this one. Good northern winter tobacco for when you only can stand outside for a few puffs , plenty of Nicotine ! Burley is the main player, some sweetness at a sip but very one dimensional. In the straight VaPerBur category, C&D's " Three Friars" is much smoother and more interesting and P&C's "SumzaBitches" has more Perique and both keep the Burley in the background better than OJK.

I'm with reviewer " DK" from 5/21/09

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	strongirish (249)	2009-04-05		Mild	Extremely Mild	Mild	Pleasant

I like this C and D blend. It is great in a cob, burns well, has a smooth taste and aroma and reminds me very much of a nice creamy cigar. It was biteless, has a sweet, full flavor and leaves no goop in the pipe. I like the perique in this blend, has a slightly musty taste and aroma but it is wonderful with a cold dark beer. I wanted to smoke another bowl of this after my first, a good sign. I enjoy this blend and reommend it.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Old Puffer (42)	2009-03-27		Strong	None Detected	Overwhelming	Unnoticeable

Such a disappointment! Ordered 4 oz. and am giving 3 1/2 oz. to my wife for planting fertilizer.

Difficult to keep lit, Keeps raising up at the start and then as the bowl progresses, requires constant attention to keep lit. The taste is harsh with nothing that I can consider flavorful. No distinctive slipstream odor or room note. The worst part is a terrible after odor and taste left in the pipe after just one bowl, and the taste and odor just linger and linger if the bowl is not swabbed. My wife also says that after smoking this blend, I should immediately brush my teeth and use minted mouthwash.

Sorry to all you OJK lovers, this is just not for me.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	½ bowl (103)	2008-11-30		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

OJK (bulk) is a good Burley blend with a rich, old time taste that is, regrettably, cloyed by too much Perique. The high Perique content throws the blend completely out of balance and ruins an otherwise tasty smoke. Condiments should serve to merely tilt the taste of a blend. If a putz like me can understand that, then why couldn't an accomplished pro like Runowski see it? If Runowski had painted the Mona Lisa, her inscrutable smile would be just a silly, toothy grin. Less is more -- and blenders should utilize the properties of condiments to finesse a blend to perfection rather than clobber it with flavoring.

My low rating of this blend reflects not my displeasure with it so much as my disappointment over a lost opportunity for excellence. If you like Perique, and you're one to put a hot dog on your mustard, or add a splash of coffee to your cream, then go for OJK.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-07-19		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant

Well I got my half pound of Old Joe Krantz bulk yesterday... I've been smoking a lot of McClelland Virginias mostly, and was pretty well burned out on the flavors there. I had tried Night Train and liked it, Briar Fox not so much though it was okay, but I wanted to try this Burley blend to see where I stand when you increase the burley quotient blended with Virginias. You see, more background here, I haven't reviewed Rainier Long Golden Flake here, but it remains my sort of paragon for pipe tobacco, and it has a burley component. After my McClelland Virginia phase, I began to realize that some burley seemed to be in most of the blends I enjoyed. And so was Virginia, and I knew I liked Perique from the McClelland experiments and from Night Train. I began mixing larger and larger burley amounts into the McClellands to some better results. This is a long story to explain where I'm at, but... the pipe experience is a strange one. You can find yourself swearing by one thing one day and decide the opposite must be true the next. Never before has such subjectivity in consumption been exercised by myself than with the pipe and its mysterious appetites.

Nevertheless, I never got around to trying OJK for one reason or another yesterday, and I found myself unable to sleep well last night. Whether it was because I had neglected to try OJK or not I don't know, but for many hours lying awake and reading last night, I was not able to get out of my head how great a pipeful of my new tobacco sounded. So, I eventually gave in and had some of that tobacco, a little early for me as I normally don't really smoke in the morning, usually until 10 or 11. Well, at 7 I lit up in the cloudy hazy morning, and leisurely displaced hours of frustrations. So maybe all this has something to do with the fact that I really really enjoyed the flavors of this tobacco, the interplay especially between the nutty Burleys and the tangy Perique, and with the fact that I'm now writing this glowing review. Hats off, Cornell and Diehl, hats off and thank you for this really great, really interesting tobacco. And I must also thank PipesandCigars.com, from which said tobacco arrived in perfect condition and at the proper humidity level, etc.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	RCUSElder (244)	2006-01-24		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

Another of C&D's Winning Burley Blends

Appearance and Tin Aroma: This smells like figs, sweet. There's lots o'perique in this blend! Cubes of burley are readily visible, lots of mohagany leaf (Kentucky?), red Va as well.

Packing and Lighting: This one is a little more moist than the usual C&D offerrings, but still perfect for immediate smoking. 2-3 lights max.

Initial Flavor: Once the match is lit, you are directly confronted with a mellow Burley-Perique symphony. I am allergic to Perique, but this one does not trigger my allergy right away.

Mid-Bowl: This is deliciously warm, round, and sweet in a natural way. Yumm.

Bottom of Bowl: Most Perique blends get very spicy at this point, but this one stayed shy of a peppery assualt. Rather it gave a nice "Tadum" ending to the smoke.

Overall: In spite of my allergy to Perique, I will continue to smoke this blend as an occassional delight. It did cause my lips to swell a little (and I already have big lips!) and a few pimples formed around my lips, but it did not cause a reaction in my throat or tongue. This blend once again showcases what can be done with Burley. Of course, you must like Burley to begin with.This burns to a nice, fine, grey ash with no moisture issues and leaves a fine grey dusting in the bowl as well. Thank you C&D...

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Mr. Dottle (162)	2004-01-28		Medium to Strong	Mild	Mild	Pleasant to Tolerable

I will not elaborate on the finer points of this tobacco, that's been said. I was taken by the first puff of the first bowl of Old Joe, a man who must have had discriminating taste. This tobacco packs and burns extremely well - few relights. At times it can provide a salty taste (at least for me), something some smokers seek and like in a tobacco and others despise. Personally, I welcome it. Old Joe won't bite you, he's too nice. The perique is discernible and enhances the smoking pleasure. If you don't want to try a full burley blend but would rather 'dip your toes (read tongue)' in burley with some spicy perique, start with Old Joe, he won't disappoint you.

5 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	silksow (3)	2021-06-10		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

You know who hates Old Joe Krantz? Terrorists. Because the predominant flavor and aroma is that of American Freedom™ for which they hate us, a composite of strong burley and rich red Virginia. You'll find plenty in bright Virginia and perique, of course, no doubt why Runowski seasoned this blend with a goodly amount of the latter.

Like bacon, even if some of the rest of us choose not to enjoy it, we do want to - vegetarians, Jewish people - and the nonkosher animal fat of OJK is the formidable strength characteristic of a country that outspends all others ten to one on its military.

There is a quality here I've not found in any other blend: it's not any single component but their brilliant interplay that, somewhere around the second third of the bowl, consistently brings out a delicious flavor of the kind of warm and comforting baking spices you might find in the most American of pies, apple.

From top to bottom, however, what sets Old Joe Krantz apart from other blends is a deeply profound yet unpretentious honesty. While it wouldn't be accurate to describe it as complex, it is something of a mystery how the metaphorical elements of imperialism and domestic surveillance are reduced to but a slight bitterness typical of some burleys and, even then, only when you've explored beyond the surface.

To paraphrase American philosopher Jack Handy, if God dwells within each of us, like some folks say She does, I hope She likes Old Joe Krantz. Because that's what She's getting.

I pledge allegiance by the pound.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	RAV (12)	2020-07-29		Very Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable

OJK is my go to robust unflavored burley based blend. When smoking I’m not looking for nicotine but with OJK nicotine is looking for me. I need to go easy with this. Smoke I small bowls and easy on cadence. Strong burleys in flake form often present issues for me with nicotine as to keep them lit I tend to puff too hard and then I get too much buzz. The C&D burley flakes present that challenge and if it’s strong, cased and moist it’s even more of an issue (I’m looking at you Irish Flake). But OJK is a dry cool burning loose cut that I can sip and enjoy the earthy nutty burley flavor with out being overwhelmed by nicotine if I’m careful. The red Virgina rounds some rough burley edges and the Perique offers a nice spice. I find it strange that I get less plumb fruit raisin notes in OJK than Haunted Bookshop even though I suspect it’s the same ingredient. OJK has a nice cigar like quality that I like whereas Haunted Bookshop gives me more cigarette notes and a rougher less refined experience. I also find Haunted Bookshop can surprisingly run hot for me compared with OJK. It’s also nice the OJK cut allows me to scoop a bowl from a pouch without having to worry about the random flakes in Haunted Bookshop. Not an all day nor every day smoke for me but when I’m in the mood to get punched in the face I reach for OJK.

Pipe Used: Various briars and cob

Age When Smoked: Fresh

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

Similar Blends: Haunted Bookshop.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Falliver (42)	2020-07-14		Mild to Medium	None Detected	Very Mild	Tolerable

Highly persuaded by its favourable reviews, I decided to give OJK a shot. Sadly, I imagine I received a terrible batch. Cigarette ashiness was the only thing this smoke, almost void of body, had to offer. Casing it myself with some Jack Daniel’s Old no. 7, some of its sweetness luckily rubbed off on its leaves, making it tolerable. Other than this, I cannot imagine myself investing in this blend again.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Karam (59)	2020-05-16		Mild to Medium	None Detected	Mild	Tolerable

Here's the deal, I've been on a long Balkan and VaPer with some flavoured tobacco bender and I was looking forward to a burly burley.

I generally think I like burleys, I get the nuttiness, the occasional cocoa, and the mouthfeel. Red Virginias I also like as they're a bit heavier, more robust than golden Virginias. Perique is basically never unwanted for me, so the combo sounded just like what I needed. But, as they say, you can ignore anything anyone ever says until AFTER the word "but". So I was very hyped to try this blend, but...

...I didn't find a lot here!

The tin was filled to the brim, so much so that it made me wonder about my other C&D tins which were filled to about 4/5, yet when I loaded my pipe I understood why: this tobacco is fairly dry and very springy, while other offerings I've had, flakes, plugs, Latakia and the like were certainly moister. The smell from the tin is not the best, reminds me a bit of soured milk, but I've come to consider this the smell of C&D blends with Perique. Didn't get a lot of what I think of as burley smell, but I wasn't phased, filled up a pipe and lit.

Initial draw was of Perique, and "generic" - if there's such a thing - tobacco taste. It's not Oriental, it's not Virginia Flake, it's not VaPer, or Latakia, and definitely not flavoured. It's tobacco, no more no less. The bowl smoked effortlessly to the heel, coolly and consistently. However here's where the problems started for me, there was not much flavour here! I'd get the unmistakable taste of Perique on the nose, lower amount than Bayou Morning Flake, but quite a hefty dose still but really not a lott else I could put my finger on. Unpleasant? Not at all, just a bit bland. Definitely not something I'd consider having a nicotine kick either.

I smoked 4 bowls in quick succession, someone might say that a tin needs to breathe, you need to finish the tin to have a complete opinion etc, but I disagree, I know myself, I instantly know if I like something. Maybe I have asbestos tongue, who knows, but this tobacco, although it is not bad in any way it didn't interest me a lot either, unfortunately. Will finish and enjoy this tin for what it is, but won't buy again.

Edit: forgot to add, this is most definitely an all-day tobacco, sometimes one does not need to be stimulated all the time, and this tobacco would fill this niche.

Age When Smoked: 6 months

Purchased From: Smoking pipes

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	RedGopnik (16)	2020-01-11		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

Sweeter than haunted bookshop, a nice Virginia sweetness (fresh cut green grass) and peppered with the perique but not enough to make it spicy (a good thing in my opinion).

Most reviews of OJK will compare it to haunted bookshop, and vice versa. I for one think this is a step above Haunted Bookshop, it is not as boring. I use HB as a blending agent to give my aromatics more nicotine and smoke, Old Joe Krantz is more enjoyable by itself. Definitely an all day smoke.

Pipe Used: Cobs, briar

Age When Smoked: Fresh to 2 weeks

Purchased From: Online

Similar Blends: Haunted bookshop.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Muchogum (7)	2017-10-16		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Strong

I have not really ever enjoyed a C&D blend, so I had to ask myself why pull up a tin of OJK from the basement stash? Answer: I love the Burley/Virginia blend above all others! But, OJK has the hated Perique! No matter, time for another chance to put aside my bias and stretch a bit. For me, that’s quite a stretch!

The flavor is simply wonderful, with no unpalatable aftertaste, just a little white pepper at the back of the throat and a nose tickle on retro-haling. Who can account for earlier aversions to pipe tobacco experiences. I cannot! But, my experience with OJK serves to remind me that tastes change. Maybe they mature and maybe they simply change with some kind of unfathomable taste chemistry. Perhaps I should re-experience all the C&D blends I have shoved aside. That could be fun!

It subsequently occurred to me that single malt whiskies, which I very much enjoy, especially in their higher ABV expressions, will attack the lips and gums much the way the Perique does in OJK! I enjoy that malt flavor experience. I suppose part of my difficulty in similarly enjoying perique could be an “over-emphasis” on smoothness in my flavor/tactile experience.

Pipe Used: Dunhill ODA

Age When Smoked: 2-3 Years

Purchased From: Smoking Pipes

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	pete177 (3)	2017-06-24		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Wow, what a great straight forward and stout burley blend. Not an especially complex blend but strong, flavorfull and satisfying. Room note and flavor takes you back to those places in decades past where men gathered smoking their pipes. Nic hit is stout, as it should be; otherwise, what's the point? Of the many blends I've smoked this is the only one that you simply cannot press hard enough to bite or irritate your mouth. Can be smoked hot in a wet pipe and still doesn't bite. Easily an all day smoke. It's availability and bulk pricing make it a no brainer for the guy that smokes several bowls a day. A great American style blend. Flavored cavendish smokers need not apply.

Pipe Used: grabow, kaywoodie, MM

Age When Smoked: new

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Piping Padre (4)	2017-03-08		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I think you have to be in the right mood for this one-- either that or love burleys. As having been a cigar smoker for a number of years, I think the best comparison is to a medium strength, dry, leathery cigar. It builds strength just like a cigar, and leaves a sour after taste like one too. This is not a cigar blend, it just reminds me of many of my former cigar smokes. The burley is dominant here. Once in awhile the virginia comes through. If you get in a nice slow, cool, cadence, this blend is quite enjoyable, but I would recommend a strong beverage along side to clear the palette, as this will build up on you. It's worth a try as something different, but for me, I will smoke it only occasionally. There are times when I enthusiastically enjoy it, and times when it is just too much. The nic hit is pleasant.

Pipe Used: Peterson SH Original

Age When Smoked: 8 months

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

Similar Blends: A cigar.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Noctivagant (11)	2016-12-30		Extremely Strong	None Detected	Overwhelming	Strong

I ordered this as a known very strong nicotine bomb. I did this as a former (well, attempting to be) cigarette smoker. I've found that most pipe tobacco I enjoy doesn't have enough nicotine to keep me from a cigarette later. This is one of the few Burley based blends I've tried as I've mostly stuck with aromatics (Lane BCA, for instance) and English blends (I really enjoy EMP and am learning to enjoy the bolder Nightcap). So honestly I'm not entirely certain that I particularly enjoy non-cased, non-Cavendish burley.

EDIT: I now know that I love the taste of a nice Burley, just not an uncured tasting one such as this.

For me, the bag note and the taste were both strongly vegetal in a way that I did not enjoy. I felt as if I was smoking eggplant or chewing on some nightshade family plant (to which tobacco is related). I did get the characteristic burley nuttiness, but was overwhelmed by the unpleasantness of this blend. I should say that I also have limited experience with perique, though I have enjoyed it in some English and VaPers. It may be that my reaction was related to the strength of perique.

I was unable to make it through even a quarter of a bowl before I was feeling green. Now, I would be tempted to say this was a reaction to the nicotine level, but I think it was a combination of the uncured taste of this tobacco as well as the nic hit. I grew up raising tobacco with my father (two acres of dark-fired Virginia every summer ) and the smell and taste was very reminiscent of my hands after a day in the field of topping or removing and squishing tobacco worms. In fact, this smelled like my childhood memories of totally uncured tobacco fresh from the field, which is as unpleasant as tobacco gets.

I ventured a retrohale near the end of this experience and I regretted it for days. The smell was still in my nasal passages for what seemed like forever and kept me from picking up my pipe for two days.

I've jarred the rest of the ounce I bought hoping it will be smokeable for me at some point.

EDIT: October 2018

In re-reading my original review, I need to update it based on my current view of OJK. I've found in the intervening time that I adore perique and red Virginias. I also love a good burley blend. My reaction then was due to roughshod, rotgut burley.

After a year and a half of aging, I find OJK is indeed smokeable. It still has some rough edges, especially in the burley. The Virginia and Perique are overpowered by the coarseness of the burley. This is not a great blend to me, even though the nicotine level is indeed satisfying. It's a shame to have to jar a blend for so very long to be able to enjoy it somewhat. There's far better burley coming out or European blending houses (K&K for one) and out of Sutliff.

Maybe there was a day, probably when Tarler and Runowski were alive, that C&D didn't continually disappoint with underaged tobacco. For now, OJK is indicative of many of the rest of their blends as I've worked my way through maybe a third of their line: raw, underaged, coarse, and perhaps low quality tobacco. They can also add rampant mold issues to that as well.

Pipe Used: Large briar billiard

Age When Smoked: Fresh

Purchased From: SmokingPipes

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	King Weed (228)	2016-12-26		Very Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Pleasant

This is the other tin I purchased from C&D at our 2014 NASPC show to sample along with Haunted Bookshop; which, I thought, was too weak as a stand alone smoke but blended well and that allowed me to raise its ranking from two to three stars. Old Joe Krantz is in another whole category by itself in comparison. My initial assessment was as a three star offering and here's why. Although nice and toasty and tasty in its burley splendor, every bowl I lit proceeded through the following pattern: I would light, the tobacco would erupt up out of the bowl like a Vesuvius event and I would tamp down and relight - repeatedly. The minimum number of retamps and relights would always number three or more and consume the entire top third of every bowl! I'm giving this blend a high score even though I have only a vague idea what the top third of each bowl tastes like. Interestingly enough, a fellow smoker was over on Christmas day with - what else - an opened tin of Old Joe and we lit it up and it behaved like it was a polite college graduate compared to mine? When I would hit the beginning of the middle third of each bowl, the smoking was so enjoyable and it finished in the same manner. This fact, plus the fact that it micro blended well, has to yield four stars in any realm of the smoking universe - four big ones.

Pipe Used: Charatan Selected 1/2 bent square Dublin

Age When Smoked: 2 yrs old

Purchased From: C&D @the 2014 naspc show

Similar Blends: wow, I don't really know as most VaBurPers I've smoked aren't even close to Old Joe's strength level..

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	J. Ward (69)	2016-11-16		Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable to Strong

If I could describe this blend in one word at first impression it would certainly be "HARSH", and "addictive" runs in a close second. This blend is definitely not for the uninitiated or novice or occasional pipe smoker; this is a Grizzly Adams faced, Chuck Norris roundhouse with Wild Turkey 101 proof chaser...with perique. At first light this sneaky b*stard greats you kindly with the taste of quality, sweet Virginia; then quickly introduces you to C&D's iconic stout, earthy Burleys; and once the Perique steps in to join the dance you've got a stout smoke indeed. This blend will be mostly Perique and Burley, with the Perique in this blend giving the impression it is unrefined; mostly pepper with with hints of raisin, but I believe that this is mostly due to the heavy handed application of it. The key to this blend is to puff at a very moderate pace. Personally, I hated at first, but I persisted because I noticed this was a favorite of many pipe smokers, and I'll tell you what: it's definitely worth a try. Overall, a great smoke, but not yet my cup of grog. I'll keep this one on hand to lock and load when I want what it has to offer: a heavy dose of nicotine and some great baccy flavor in the rough. Gonna try aging this one. 3 stars.

Pipe Used: Cobs and Briars

Age When Smoked: Fresh

Purchased From: pipesandcigars.com

Similar Blends: A kick in the gut from a barnyard animal with perique on the side..

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Geronimo Von Klaus (76)	2014-09-19		Very Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

Ach!! This is some harsh smoke fellas, I need to toughen up.

I liked it, sublime tin note, and once it got going and was warm it was very good. Packs a decent wallop, I found myself giving it a lot of respect the whole way down the bowl, even after it mellowed at little at the halfway mark.

I couldn't get over how harsh the smoke was. It was sharp and intense, and it made me puff slowly and very carefully to get smaller amounts of smoke out of it which I then delicately managed. I don't think I've ever been so cautious about a smoke, maybe my first go-around with the Irish Flake.

Overall, a nice burley, and for a drop-dead price. That is good. I just couldn't relax with it though and found myself having to really focus on how I was smoking it, something I have never had to do to the same degree, even with harsher blends.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	TK Pipe (101)	2014-03-07		Very Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

Old Joe Krantz… I finely got around to trying this blend after so many years. As it turned out, blends like this one, that are heavy on perique are not my favorites, between the high nic level and OJK’s spicy flavor, I gave up after smoking only about half of my new tin. When I need a solid nicotine punch in the head, I already have that covered with C/D burly flake #2, without the pepper. Of course this only my personal take on OJK, looking around this web-site, it looks like many of my fellow pipesters just love this stuff, so I guess my taste may run a little bit (old school) on the basic blend side. But for those that enjoy a SOLID Nic hit” and a nice spicy smoke, look no further, OJK is for you.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Sparks (7)	2009-10-06		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

This has become my all day smoke, if there is such a thing. This is a full tobacco IMO, however, all the ingredients are in balance. I love Burley, so the nice rich base in greatly appreciated. The Virginia adds a nice sweet note to this blend, subtle but there, and the Perique rounds it out with a nice spicy kick.

This blend is by far one of the best blends I have ever smoked. It is the top of my rotation and is being stocked in my cellar.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	beaupipe (102)	2009-03-20		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

I've been hanging out with OJK for a few weeks now and though he's not an everyday companion, I see him at least a few times a week. OJK is a burly Burley with loads of flavor from the condimental leaf--Virginia and Perique. The whole of it comes together with a trail-mixy quality--dried fruit, nuts, and sweetness. Maybe it's best smoked on the hiking trail, but I haven't tried that yet.

I love a good cigar and if there is one more thing attractive and unique about this blend, it's the woody, cigar-like quality of the flavor's finish.

The only drawback with this blend is its extraordinary springiness at first light. It lifts itself out of the pipe like a chin-up artist and seems to need extra attention with the tamper. But such idiosyncrasies are easily forgiven in the face of such flavor. Highly recommended for part-time pipesters with penchants for stogies, trail mix and acrobats.

And it's particularly nice with an Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	markh (4)	2006-12-06		Extremely Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I really have nothing to add to the other descriptions. I really like this tobacco.

BUT - it is very strong in nicotine, and sneaks up on you. In that way it reminds me of Two Friends Redwood - a blend that doesn't seem like it would be that strong, but which Greg Pease describes with "that stuff knocks me over."

Not much in common taste wise, but like Redwood this tobacco also smokes easy, with no bite. So its tempting to smoke quickly...Which will knock YOU over.

Keep this in a small bowl.

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	caddad (53)	2005-04-07		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I have just tried this blend for the first time today. This is my fourth pipe full and am looking forward to many more. This has plenty of full tobacco flavor and an exellent amount of perique and is very easy on the tounge. My wife is not jumping up and down over the room note, however I can tell I will be able to smoke this one in the easy chair with little complaint. I will add this to my must have on hand list. what more can I say, thank you Bob and Craig!

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	SopwithCamel (255)	2004-02-17		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

This blend has a very savory, salty, peppery quality with a good nicotine kick. It is visually interesting, in that it looks like autumn leaves, and has a nice earthy, musty smell. It packs well. It lights well. However, tastes being what they are, this blend just didn't do it for me. Just too much perique. It really overwhelmed the other tobaccos. Every once in a while, the burley and Virginia would try to peek out. But the mighty perique held them down. Nevertheless this is a fine quality blend, and if you love perique, this should ring your bell!

4 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Gus Evening (10)	2021-11-30		Medium to Strong	Medium to Strong	Medium to Full	Tolerable to Strong

This is one of my top tobaccos. Probably second only to Haunted Bookshop. If you like Burley, you must give this blend a try. This blend is also heavy on the Perique, so it packs a punch. The first thing that hits me, is the Burley. The Perique really starts to shine around mid bowl. There is a pronounced sweetness that you might not expect. I suspect that the sweetness comes from the Red Virginia in the blend. The room note probably won't win any awards with bystanders, but to me it smells great! Highly Recommend!!

Pipe Used: Ferndown Bark

Age When Smoked: 2 years

Purchased From: Smokingpipes

Similar Blends: Haunted Bookshop.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	HabaneroHardy (396)	2019-07-31		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Unnoticeable

I have heard about Old Joe Krantz but never have gotten around to trying it. Just too many blends out there for my pocket book to spend. And as luck would have it a fellow friend of mine at the local pipe club that I mention often had some and did not seem to care for it much. This one seems to be popular based on the number of reviews, 168 at the present time and he was nice enough to give me a generous sample to try. This has a nice sweet burley smell with maybe a scent of the Perique coming through but I can’t say for sure. Since this is a burley blend with Virginia and Perique, I got out my Missouri Meerschaum General Corn Cob and loaded this baby up. Smoking it starts out sweet and further down tends to get a little harsh for want of a better word. This is a full tasting smoke and definitely does have some nicotine kick to it. I have built up a tolerance to nicotine whether fortunate or unfortunate I cannot decide but I am not sure if I could make this one an all dayer. It is full tasting and goes well with my afternoon coffee which I have also built up a caffeine tolerance as well. One day I will get an intervention I suppose but not now. Can’t really say too much more about this one other than it is more of a natural tobacco smoke. I guess Burley is noted for its nicotine content and as stated before it is there. I smoked this slower and enjoyed it. Thanks again to my friend at the club.

Pipe Used: Corn Cob

Age When Smoked: 1 year

Purchased From: Gift

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Athansor (3)	2018-12-17		Very Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I went up against Old Joe Krantz. I filled the bowl, lit it, and was transported to a world in which fairies exist and the gods cast thunder upon those who do not heed their words.

Pipe Used: Peterson something

Similar Blends: a coma..

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	RonR (85)	2018-10-16		Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Strong

3rdguy

My 1st everyday smoke. Absolutely love this blend. From the raisin tin note to the kick it gives. When I have time to pipe I average 4-5 bowls a day...maybe more.

I buy it by the pound now that Nightcap won't be a daily for me anymore :(

If you love burley this may be for you.

Pipe Used: All

Age When Smoked: Fresh

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	anglocatholicpiper (34)	2018-08-07		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

Similar to haunted bookshop, I have found this blend to be too harsh and too strong for my own tastes. I plan to keep it and try again in a few years.

I like Burley a lot and oddly enough I find Big’n Burley to be a blend I really enjoy! So I’m mystified at why I can’t seem to get a hold of this and enjoy it.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Little Jack (2)	2017-12-01		Very Strong	Medium to Strong	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

This is a very interesting blend. The aroma from the pouch is amazing to me. I love the smell of burley and it is what I smell when I open it. I also love Virginia so this is up my alley. The Perique adds the pepper and spiciness to the mix. Do not push this blend hard because the nic hit will kick your butt! It is made to sip and if it is smoked this way it is an exquisite blend. I will have to make fun of myself on this review because as I was loading my pipe I inadvertently grabbed this blend instead of a red Virginia bulk blend that I was going to smoke. Loaded my pipe as I am browsing on the computer and took off with a flash. As my head started to spin I realized I had loaded the bowl with OJK! A great blend with good burning characteristics, just go slow.

Pipe Used: Dunhill Prince

Age When Smoked: Just received a few days ago.

Purchased From: Pipes and Cigars

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	natibo (169)	2017-05-30		Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

I really enjoyed this blend. It just had an outstanding flavor with no bite whatsoever. I would consider this a burley blend, which is good. I might got a touch of the Perique, but it's small. The strength was good, almost perfect.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	LannarkGent (145)	2016-12-18		Strong	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

What a wonderful burley blend! It is well balanced with perique and other things. The earthiness, combined with the peppy nature.It has a lot of Vitamin N , with some Virginia that is quality.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Tantric (321)	2016-10-22		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

A strong, stout tasting, basically Burley smoke. High on the vitamin N department. Not my cup of tea, but a skilfully blended mixture: strong, manly, and assertive. If you like good old Burley and have the strength for it, it must be Amercian heaven.

Pipe Used: BBB straight rhodesian

Age When Smoked: N/A

Purchased From: Joshua Ward.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Bud_Harold (24)	2016-09-24		Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

I find this blend to be harsh and boring. Not much in the way of enjoyment for me, aside from the generous nic hit provided. Crank up the Va's a little..bring some sweetness into the equation to drown out the cigarette similarities..and perhaps C&D would be onto something.

Not horrible...just there, for me anyway.

Pipe Used: Yello bole Nova

Age When Smoked: 6 mos

Purchased From: pipes and cigars

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	WillBrown (137)	2015-07-31		Strong	Very Mild	Overwhelming	Overwhelming

Sure, there's burley in this, yeah, but it's no burley blend—that is to say, the burley does not dominate here. I got such a perique slam with this; it filled my sinuses up with pepper! Wasn't catching the burley at all. So, I don't know where burley enthusiasts get off saying this is a burley blend; not for me.

If you want the superb nuttiness of a quality burley, you will not find it in this blend (May I recommend Storm Front or even Bald Headed Teacher). Old Joe Krantz disappoints on the burley front (if you're a perique nut you'll probably love it).

And, now for some tongue and cheek fun:

Old Joe Krantz sittin' on his porch – He's a big man, mean and surley – Old Joe Krantz sittin' on his porch – I've found the perique – but not the burley!

(that about sums it up for me. Oh, FYI, this is a 1.5 stars; not a sub 1 star rank)

Keep on Pipin'

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	mnadz (69)	2015-07-07		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

I really enjoy Burleys. It delivers a full taste but in a completely different way vs. Latakia (which I also love). Burleys deliver a more earthy flavor that get me in touch with the outdoors. This is a very flavorful blend, but not as much punch as Haunted Bookshop. That is OK with me because it makes it more of an all-day type of blend. Packed well. Smokes well. No tongue bite (and I puff like a locomotive). No relighting. Wife found the room note somewhat enjoyable. C&D in my opinion has mastered Burley blends. I don't think you can go wrong with any of them if you like Burleys.

Pipe Used: Ben Wade & Peterson

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	TallPuffO'Burley (632)	2012-11-28		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

This might be my first 2 star awarded to a C & D blend. I really love their tobaccos, but this one just did not do it for me. Probably pushing this rating is how much I enjoyed Back Porch, the blend made by C & D for the Yahoo Pipe Smokers Club that contains the same constituent tobaccos.

The one thing this has over Back Porch is its availability in bulk. I know that Haunted Bookshop and one of the Burley blends (#3 I think) are availablew in bulk and contain Va Bur and Per. I will need to try these out to see if one of them compares to Back Porch, but in a bulk option.

As to this blend specifically, it is strong in Nicotine which is almost to be expected from C & D and is a plus for me. The quality of leaf is good and burning properties are fair, but that is where the positives end for me.

As to the negatives, it takes a lot of concentration to get a good smoke out of it and the good taste is fleeting at least to my tastes. The one ounce I purchased was from the bottom of the bag. I know this because I originally ordered 4 oz, but P&C did not have that much left. To speed my order along I took one ounce and some other tobacco to equal the value, so I received more than an ounce, but it was certainly the bottom of the bag. What does this mean? Well, I don't know, but perhaps the mixture at the bottom did not resemble what would have been on top and maybe I got too much perique or something was out of equilibrium. All this means I may try it again, but only after trying the others referenced above.

8/26/14 EDIT

I just finished up another two ounces of this blend and will be adding a star. I found it much more enjoyable and think what I first received may have been crumbs at the bottom containing too much perique.

I found this one really sang in my Dunhill 5103 shell, but had the potential to leave me floored if I had not enough in my stomach. I still would not recommend starting the day with this one, but it is a nice nightcap. So three stars.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Max1a (38)	2011-02-04		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

I have six ounces remaining of Old Joe cellared, bulk in jars, from a pound I purchased in 2007. I recently purchased another pound to cellar. Gentlemen, this is not even the same tobacco! It looks completely different and tastes nothing like the prior offering. I realize that the aging has changed the tobacco somewhat but i'm sorry, not to this extent. I cannot recommend this current offering of OJK. It is harsh, tastes like a cheap cigar and the room note is appalling. In fact, I can see what appears to be pieces of cigar wrapper leaf mixed in. The perique doesn't seem to be there like my previous batch, if at all. I dunno. I'm just like a big league umpire folks......I just calls 'em as I sees 'em!

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Steverino (6)	2010-04-14		Medium	Mild	Medium	Pleasant

I've had a tin of this open for about six months and find it to be a very satisfying and flavorful tobacco. For some reason, I didn't like it very much when I first tried it, but now it seems much better. I detect some kind of topping, as I initially get a flavor that doesn't seem to come directly from the blend components. This is evident in the tin aroma as well. This is no problem, however, as it adds greatly to the flavor in the beginning, then subsides somewhat as I smoke on down the bowl.

The relatively small pieces into which this tobacco is cut allows it to pack and light with no problem and it burns at an average rate - not too quickly but not a "long burner" either. The remnants consist of lots of fine, gray ash.

Though I can tell it's there, I did not detect much in the way of nicotine strength, but I smoke a number of stronger blends as well, so I may be less sensitive to this level of nicotine than some.

Overall, I rate this as a very good smoke and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys burley with a little sweetness from Virginia and just a bit of perique spice.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	periqueguy (43)	2010-01-31		Medium	None Detected	Full	Pleasant

Another AAA blend by the best tobacco people in the universe. OJK is a totally satisfying, enjoyable smoke for the experienced piper. A perfect all day, all night blend. I go for a week smoking OJK only and then switch to Gentleman caller for the next week. 4 stars all the way, 5 would be more appropriate but not available.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	kg0mz (54)	2009-08-15		Medium	Extremely Mild	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

OJK is a nice burley with a pleasant caramelized-pecan touch added by the VA and the perique. It burns steady, cool and dry right out of the tin, not at all steamy. Being a non-flake, I think it burns too fast. For me, the blend is in balance, tasty and satisfying. OJK easily earns a solid 3 stars.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	lvpipe (13)	2009-03-27		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

OJK has become a favorite of mine. It is a full-flavored natural tobacco. The individual ingredients interplay throughout the bowl. Don't get me wrong this is clearly a Burley blend but the Va adds sweetness and the Perique the tang, they make themselves present at various intervals with different degrees of strength. You will at times catch a taste and side stream of cigar. If you like fairly strong no nonsense tobaccos this is a must try. When you are having trouble selecting a smoke, you grab OJK and you will always be glad you did. I agree with others that say this is an old time style tobacco. I find this a perfect companion to Riverboat Gambler. It gets a little stronger and bitter (in a good way)towards the bottom of the bowl and it will burn clean to the bottom. This is probably not for everyone but for those that like flavor and strength and give this a chance it may end up being their deserted Island, every day and all day smoke. Hats off to C&D and Bob Runowski for a true delight.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Moe (46)	2008-08-29		Medium to Strong	Mild	Full	Tolerable

Ive smoked alot of this over the year and I find it a tastey, satisfying change of pace smoke with enough nicotine. I say change of pace because it does have a big flavor and after a couple back to back bowls, it can be flavor overload. I find similar flavors in C&D's 3 Friars, only in 3F they are lighter and easier to smoke all day. I consider this 3F's big brother and another blend thats not for the kiddos. I like it.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Frosty (29)	2008-08-24		Medium to Strong	Medium	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Wow! This stuff is like a premium Cuban cigar run through a blender! This blend is a real old school smoke for real smokers. It starts out strong and smooth and stays that way through the entire smoke, leaving one with pure tobacco satisfaction. Old Joe carries a full load of nicotine, so be warned. If you always wanted to smoke a real Cuban cigar, don't bother, just get some of this blend. Enough said. This is truly a 4 star smoke if ever there was one.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	SirShaggy (28)	2008-07-23		Medium	Extremely Mild	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

I was given a tin of this by a friend at Christmas. On New Years I decided to try it even though I am not a big fan of Burleys. Wow, not bad at all. I think the Perique blended in is perfect. Funny thing is, I don't like lots of Perique either! The mixture is done just right to compliment each other. I am impressed. I don't feel this has as much nicotine as some others I smoke, but it definately is there. The room note seems great, I didn't get many complaints. I recently finished my tin and will buy more.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2008-04-23		Medium to Strong	Very Mild	Mild to Medium	Tolerable

What can you say about a blend that already has 47 reviews? A lot of people have smoked it and now having tried it I understand why one would like to write about it. This is a high quality blend that contains the very best leaf including real St James Parish Perique. The tobaccos all work together so that one does not overpower the other. The aroma in the tin is pure tobacco with a deep earthy smell. Packs well, stays lit and burns all the way down with a gray white ash. The taste is pure sweet tobacco just like the aroma. Tons of chewy smoke and the nicotine factor can sometimes feels like a "kick in the pants" but never unpleasent. A true all day smoke for me. When I was talking with Keith at C&D he told me this was the top selling bulk burley blend for years. Whenever I light up this smoke a vision of the 82nd Airborne patch flashes across my eyes "All American"

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Dubinthedam (133)	2008-04-13		Medium to Strong	Mild to Medium	Full	Pleasant

I sometimes say this is like a cigarette, a cigar and a pipe all rolled into one...a great smoke with a lovely malty vinegary taste. When you don't want a Virginian, a plain Burley, Aro, Danish, English or Scot and the Navy makes you seasick - go for the good ol' USA, pack in some OJK...honest and true...it tastes like tobacco.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Irishlefty (22)	2008-01-03		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

Only one reason I didn't give this 4 stars - I couldn't recommend it to anyone who wasn't either a cigar or cigarette smoker.

This hit the spot for me - heavy in nicotine so I didn't have to reach for a cigarette or two in between bowls! Tastier then most with this high a nicotine content and if the other reviews are correct, the taste's will come out further with some aging.

I put it alongside Irish Flake and Erinmore as a tobacco that can satisfy those of us who require the nicotine punch yet like some flavor to their smoke.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Young Piper (304)	2007-06-24		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable

I have lately discovered my tastes have changed and it seems OJK is coming across as a tad dry (as in Martini or Vermouth, not humidity) and have found that 10-15% Captain Black Gold adds a wonderful room-note and ups the sweetness. As anyone who has smoked CBG knows there is no flavor just a bit of sweetness along with a Vanilla Yogurt aroma which suits what i need it to do. P&C's sale of any Captain Black blend for $1.50 an ounce regardless of amount is a screaming deal so i mixed up a pound of my OJK and CBG walking about blend

This burley blend is just delicious! After smoking this blend for a few months and trying different samples from various online shops it has become a staple in my arsenal. The perique is present in an amount that gives a nice tingle when blown through the nose and is never overpowering for me. The pouch aroma is to die for (for anyone that loves the aroma of uncased tobacco) an the roomnote leaves much to be desired so you may want to add a pinch of 1Q or BCA if your company is intolerant. I have found i prefer Outwest tobacco's stash of OJK since Gene keeps it at a perfect 70 % humidity and seems aged longer than other e-tailors. Smokes great in small pipes or huge freehands, Meer and cob, just a great all day blend for me and the first burley blend with perique that i find i have a couple of pounds ageing in my "cellar". For me the nicotine is perfect Goldilocks level but YMMV as it is not a sissy blend,

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-03-21		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

Easy to pack, burns cool, dry, smooth and with no bite. Sweeter than Haunted Bookshop and Three Friars, OJK has Lots of flavor, aroma and body. A rare trait and a real treat. Complex enough it's never boring. Wonderful nicotine content. A spicey nuttiness from the Burleys and Perique compliment the soft and sweet red Virginia perfectly. Even at 25% content, the Perique is smooth and never overbearing. One caveat, the spicey sweet nuttiness can easily becoming quite "cigarish" if smoked to fast and or heavily.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2006-05-19		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

This is a kaleidescope of naturals!!! The first light is spice from perique and VA, but smooths into a smooth "wine-like" effect. The flavors do change on you as frequently as from one sip to another. I know this is my opinion - but i have tried ALOT of CD and this is #1 for me they have done. It will always be around in my locker. (Old Joe does pack a punch as well, so be careful driving and operating machinery - hehehe)

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2006-01-24		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

How is it that I really enjoy Old Joe Krantz but cannot find much to like in C&D's somewhat similar Haunted Bookshop blend? For whatever reasons, this burley blend really 'works' for me. Even though there's more perique here, OJK seems smoother and less harsh than HB, and the burley can really be savored in this.

As with all C&D blends I've tried so far, packing, lighting, and smoking OJK are all easily accomplished with little effort; usually only requires one or two relights mid-bowl, if then.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2005-07-09		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

A doghouse bass fiddle deep burley. Brown Mahogany color with a little black here in there. The full taste is t o b a c c o. Nothing fancy,nothng flashy. It tastes good,and has that natural milk chocolate to dark chocolate burley flavour. The perique adds the tiny wee bit fruit essence,and the virginia somehow makes it work together. So fine.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2004-11-15		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

This blend was my first foray into C&D tobacco and like many I was a bit surprised at the dryness of the leaf. Upon opening the bag I ran my fingers through the tobacco and then stuck my nose in. Not much there to smell, a faint 'earthy' note of burley was all I could discern. From every aspect this tobacco seemed too dry but I knew this was common with C&D and hoped it wouldn't affect the smoke. It certainly didn't. While it lit up quite easily there was no tongue bite at all after tamp and relight. This stuff smokes quite well and has a full, uniform flavor down to the end of the bowl. The Burley is definitely in charge here but the perique is quite noticable as well, providing the pepperiness that its known for. I don't feel that it dominates the blend, as some have pointed out. As for the Virginias, I couldn't pick them out as a separate entity here but they definitely add a fullness to this blend that Burley alone would not. Indeed, this is a well balanced-baccy, cheers to Mr Runowski for the excellent blending. I'm getting to be a big fan of these Burley/VA/Perique blends that C&D and GLPease have been championing, and Old Joe Krantz is one of the better ones I've tried. I can't wait to try more of C&D's American leaf blends.

Rating: 8/10

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Ducksbreath (125)	2004-10-24		Medium to Strong	Very Mild	Medium	Tolerable to Strong

OJK is simply delicious. It's my favorite CD blend so far. In fact, I've never been a real fan of CD, having sampled about a dozen or so over the years, not until I found OJK. The moisture level is exactly right out of the tin (8 ounce tin or bag) and I don't feel compelled to store some away for six months just to enjoy it.

I don't know if this is genuine St James Perique or not but who cares ? The taste reminds me of a richer, more rustic tasting Elizabethan Mixture with the addition of nutty, smooth and simple burley. I detect maybe the smallest amount of topnote or added flavoring. The Perique in this blend is more piquant than peppery; the aroma when smoking is outstanding (at least to me, not to my wife). A definite treat or an all day smoke, it is light enough in taste to smoke early in the morning, but still has a nice kick. Smokes well in autumn on the back porch.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2004-08-03		Medium	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

An "American" blend if I've ever tasted one. It is quintessentially "country". Literally - grassy - a tiny bit "rough" tasting but yet so hospitable. Hints of pepper and woodsy flavors. Perfect for late summer and early autumn smoking - morning or evening.

Amazingly complex and a bit heavier on the burley than say - Three Friars or Cumberland - which it tastes quite a bit like at points. Other times, it has an undefineable, unique taste. I could never quite warm up to Haunted Book Shop, but could keep some Old Joe around for when I crave it.

C+D, and their associates, are masters of the rustic Americana pipe smoke that many connect with humid antebellum evenings and cool New England summers. My own grandfather - the first pipe smoker I knew - would have loved this blend.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2004-02-18		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Old Joe Krainz (as it is properly spelled according to Old Joe's grandson - Robert Runowski) in a word has simply become my favorite tobacco. It has everything I look for in a smoke - good flavor, effortless smokeability and it burns down with virtually no dottle. The virginias lend a subtle sweetness. The burlies add a nut-like richness and a combination of a chocolate/saltiness quality that I find delightful. The perique is (as far as I can tell) gives this mixture a compelling peppery quality but IMO is not at all over-done. OJK has become my (if I can borrow the term) vade mecum and I wish I could have met the man himself. OJK never bites and never smokes wet. This is a perfect smoke for me.

Highest marks - Gretchen gives this 5 barks and a wag of her tail.

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2004-02-13		Medium to Strong	Extremely Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

This is one of those blends that I feel is a good blend but does not always attract my attention. The burn rate is good as well as the flavor. I generaly go for blends with a little more complexity than this, however this is good when you have other things on your mind other than the subtle nuances of a blend. May be a good all day smoke for some in that it will not fatigue your taste buds. Update 3-12-11 I dont know what I was thinking when I originaly reviewed this blend. Maybe it did not have enough age ? It has realy grown on me over the years and is one of my all time favorite burley heavy blends. Very, Very good!

3 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Esactun (11)	2021-08-06		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Strong

Fresh Old Joe is a cranky, brash, no-nonsense blend. He is right there in your face with powerful dark burley, with occasional cigarish notes and moments of harshness, plus some tasty but subdued red Virgina sitting in the corner and ornery perique occasionally shouting "what you got a problem or something?". A codger blend amped up on coffee and aggravation, it says "Here. Have some TOBACCO." Will slap you if you get sassy. Plenty of nicotine, nothing wimpy about it. Zero finesse, just a great bowl of tobacco. Aged (about 13 years in a jar) he is mellower, less unpredictable, happily married but still ready to whomp on you. He cleans up nice but is still Old Joe, just in his Sunday best.

Pipe Used: Cobs, Grabows

Age When Smoked: 0-13 years

Purchased From: Mars Cigars and Pipes

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	JJ Sir Emmitt (40)	2021-08-01		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

I just realized I have not reviewed OJK, how have I not reviewed this. Well here it goes. Looking at the other reviews of this everything that needs to be said about it has but I want to add my 2 cents here. I have smoked a truck load of this stuff and it gets better each time. This is hands down my favorite pipe tobacco.

What makes this blend so wonderful is it's versatility. It's a smoke for all occasions. It's exciting yet comforting, it's spicy yet smooth, it's a evening blend that smokes great in the morning and it pairs with a evening bourbon or a morning coffee. It's just a perfectly crafted tobacco.

OJK is Burley blend in perfect form and function, providing flavors of cocoa, nuts, pepper spice, wood, cream, and earth. As a avid cigar guy that has a passion for Padron's I find this blend to be very cigar like in all the best ways.

The pack and burn are perfect, no fussing and minimal relighting required.

It is my opinion that OJK is the gold standard for all Burley blends. All Burley will be compared to it for better or worse. To put it another way this is the Rockabilly of burleys it's classic yet still modern, it's smooth yet edgy, and it's familiar yet fun. In short this is the Elvis of pipe tobacco. Yeah I went there!

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Pryhosm (248)	2021-07-22		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable to Strong

Disclaimer: I am an on again off again burley smoker. I have to be in the right mood and weather for Burley. That said OJK is a solid, natural smoke. Finding good uncased Burley’s is like finding a needle in a haystack for me and I avoided this one for awhile, I am glad I came around. My biggest “issue” with Burley is the nicotine. I am a bit of a wimp with bold nicotine blends and this is no exception. I have learned that a good Savinelli or Brebbia filtered pipe is the way to go as the filters have been shown to reduce the nic hit by 70%. This is the only way I can smoke some Gawith blends or Jack Knife Plug from C&D.

The tin note is rank. Like good cheese, this has a funk to it that is not present in the flavor but this not a blend I’d want to see in a car air freshener. Thank you Perique. The flavors are rich and sharp. The smoke is slightly sour, woody, vegetal and spicy. The Red Virginia adds some mild sweetness and earth. The Perique provides a nice tingle to the nose and tongue, not a bite, and plenty of peppery spice For a mild application of Perique it is a pretty central figure in the flavor profile. It smokes very dry and cool and lights and burns very easily with few relights. This is a nice break from my normal Virginia and Balkan smoking rotation. I can’t smoke a lot of this at once but it is best in a large group 4 style pipe.

Pipe Used: Briars and cobs with a filter

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	JimPM (145)	2021-02-28		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

And so now, my attention once again returns to the objective assessment of the world of Burley as presented by the good folks at Cornell & Diehl (C&D). On this grand occasion, I took the opportunity to introduce myself the infamous curmudgeon affectionately known as Old Joe Krantz. Joe, oh Joe, are you truly just the portrait of a crusty old cuss that piping lore paints you to be? Perhaps this Old Man is more the benevolent jolly gramps of fellow that has been simply misunderstood by many whom he has chance encountered. Soon I was to learn about Old Joes’ undeniable temperament.

This blend, another creation of the late Bob Runowski, was the next line on the heels of C&D’s precursor varietal Haunted Bookshop. Although the two mixtures essentially model the same basic ingredients within their respective recipes, having sampled both, it was easy to discern that is where the similarities largely halt. To put it quite simply, Old Joe Krantz’s doughty chorus rings much louder and stronger than the pitch voiced by the humble ghost by a long note. Not only does Old Joe not want you off his lawn, he will profoundly paddy whack you and doesn’t give a damn about the silly dog either.

Old Joe Krantz is a remarkably strong blend of bold Burleys, stoved Red Virginia and Louisiana Perique. Essentially I believe the particular sundries of tobaccos are identical to those that C&D used in the Haunted predecessor. The ratios and let down percentages are orchestrated, however, to put meat on the bone. Fully of vim and vigor, as they say, Old Joe Krantz is not one for those suffering with weakness in the knees. This hairy dog does most definitely bite. However, with repetitive stroking, this concoction ended up being a rather hardy and docile companion.

Looking very similar to Haunted spook, Old Joe, however, generally appears to a tad bit more composed by sorts. The dominant Burleys comes in a melody of deep browns, with considerably more ribbon, coarse, and cube cut morsels. Upon closer scrutiny, one can definitely see a more generous portion of the Virginia present in this mixture. Dubious in composure and hogging a bit more of the elbow room is the ever-present is black-brown flecks of loud Perique. The oldster looks more concise, not overly ruffled about the mane and not so dry either. Initial impressions, Old Joe presents himself respectfully although still somewhat rough in his aged texture. Subsequent to his general appearance, the tobacco packs easily and densely with some lively spring in the feet.

Deep, dark, and somewhat foreboding was the pouch … punch (?) aroma that I came to stumble upon with the greeting. The thick meaty Burley dominates the fragrance, offering an eminent woodiness low and primal in character, matured, a tad bit sour, and singing notes of rich dark chocolate. Intertwined was a very nice heavy stewed prune scent, waves of sweet grass offered by the Virginia that pop cleanly with obliging tanginess and the musty spirited spice refrain from the Perique. The blend’s aura is old-worldly and notable in my opinion.

If you have ever had a cup of black tea that was steeped far too long, then you know that initial sip thumps you right back in existence. Being characteristically heavy, stout, acrid and painfully bitter, so was the complexion of my inaugural drawls of Old Joe Krantz. The face Old Joe showed was that of a mean, brutish geezer. Up front are dark gnarly nuisances of embolden dense Burley swinging a paddle of Perique guaranteed to light up the seat of your pants. The overcooked tea would be a walk in the park by comparison. This old goat had an ornery disposition more like tar-soaked wood mixed with jalapeno juice. I rather was put back at first by Joe’s hard discipline but was determined to see the parlay through.

By mid-bowl, the grumpy codger rough as he was, finally showed his soft underbelly. The flavor came together morphing into a very heady, robust maduro cigar-like character; rich, spicy and slightly sour-sweet by way of taste. The Burley impressions amount to deep weathered, charred woodiness. Enfolded into the staunch brawn of the Burleys were delectable dark fruit notes of prune and raisin, surrounded by trailing accents of strong dark chocolate.

The racy Perique mellows considerably bringing some wonderful and palatable tones of musty pepper that consistently tingle the tip of the tongue. Hiding low are the sweet grassy notes of the Red Virginia, more discernible on the retro-hale. Old Joe leaves one with a very pleasant woody, grassy aftertaste. Interestingly enough, when I smoked in a cob, I found the blend to be much more creamy and polished; go figure? The Virginia, primarily a facilitator in smoothing out this blend’s rough edges, was definitely more pronounced; sweetening the overall flavor of the smoke. There is a constant citrusy tang, that when combined with the other daunting elements, produces a real buttery balanced texture. As with a briar, the Perique is a little more hateful, while there was an overt sourness and loss of the celebrated nuttiness in the Burleys unfortunately.

Joe emits a brooding heavy, thick grey cloud of smoke. Beefy, robust, spicy, darkened oaky woodiness, with feathers sweet burned grass by description. The aroma permeated the whole lower floor of my house not just confining itself to the particular room I happened to be smoking in. Perfume is long standing and makes its presence known for an extended time; Joe has much to say obviously. I would badge the essence as acutely powerful but cordial to the general pipe smoker; not some much to the non–smokers albeit. The mixture combusts extremely cool with neither biting nor cane-thrashing to be had. The burn is a little peppy nonetheless. So as to best savor, probably gentle slow sips on this one. The tobacco is well consumed for the entire smoke leaving a course black-silvery mound of ash with a halo of white engulfing it.

The more I smoked Old Joe Krantz the more congenial his countenance became. The blend definitely has strong legs and backbone. Not being decrepit or withered by any means, the mix brings a respectful and venerable demeanor. This is truly a blend that needs to be experienced and savored; no freight-training this granddaddy. Smoked fashionably, Old Joe offers a very full flavored, heady mixture with considerable character that comes alive, being well proportioned.

Not an all day smoke, I would only want to visit this elder on special occasion. This one does bring a noticeable nic kick, even for us cigar-smokers. One heaping bowl will leave you fully satiated and pleasantly relaxed for your next adventure.

Old Joe Krantz – remember to respect your elders. History has proven time again they have much to offer.

Epilogue: Runoswki’s source of inspiration for this blend was his grandfather. Like him, my own grandfather was an avid pipe smoker, also named Joe coincidentally. With its strong personality comparable my grandpa’s colorful Scotch-Irish spirit and being reminiscent of the beloved Burleys that he so fervently smoked, Old Joe Krantz brings some heartfelt sentimentality.

Pipe Used: Cob and a briar

Age When Smoked: 4 weeks from bulk

Purchased From: pipeandcigars.com

Similar Blends: Cornell & Diehl Haunted Bookshop.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	DrAcula (62)	2020-11-30		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

Presentation: As plain a tin as there can be. C&D has so many blends that I don't blame them for doing this though.

Cut: Nice ribbon cut. Blend is very dry but not crunchy, it still has some give. Also this blend doesn't need any moisture to smoke like a dream.

Tin note: Has a sweet raisin smell but it's not too strong of a scent in the tin.

Tasting notes: Sweet earth/nut/bread note on some draws. With non-sweet earth, nut, bread, and some wood notes bouncing around as well. Blend can get a bit cigarette-like if you smoke it a little hot.

Mechanics: This blend burns extremely well because of its dryness, but this also means you need a slower than normal cadence and tamp often to continue its burn. Quite an easy blend to get along with and will never bite you.

Extra Remarks: I know this is already stating the obvious for most seasoned smokers out there, but Old Joe is an outstanding blend. A simple blend, but loaded with flavor and strength -- a hallmark of burley blends. 4 stars.

Pipe Used: Smoked in many pipes -- all meers

Age When Smoked: Fresh from tin to 1 year

Similar Blends: Tabac Manil - Réserve du Patron (Pure Semois), Cornell & Diehl - Junkyard Dawg, Cornell & Diehl - Haunted Bookshop.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	SmokeQuest (20)	2020-06-15		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

Being a burly based blend, I did not expect this to give me a sore mouth but it did. I purchased a pound of this almost 11 years ago, smoked a few bowls, and stored the rest, thinking the age would improve it, it did not. The taste is ok but the spiciness is overwhelming. edit:6/29/2020 after letting the tobacco air out, it smokes much better than it did before, it no longer gives me a sore mouth, it is growing on me, it is only fair to give it one more star.

Age When Smoked: 11+ years

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Jaylotw (16)	2020-05-23		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

This is a strong, tasty smoke. It may give you the hiccups! This is a great perique showcase smoke, and one I reach for often and stock heavily. The nutty burley and musty, raisiny perique work exceptionally well together here, the VAs are detectable as a very slight sweetness that pulls back some of the stronger Perique and Burley flavors and smooths the profile a bit.

If you’re a cigarette smoker looking to quit, this is one will help scratch the nicotine itch really well...but have some milder smokes on hand as Old Joe Krantz is anything but mild and could be a little much as an all day smoke.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	KBeck001 (8)	2020-02-22		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

I found this blend to be a great experience even though the nicotine hit is significant but pleasant. It has a wonderful earthy, slightly spicy, full flavor. I'm very much looking forward to my next bowl and I'm also looking forward to the other variations of Old Joe Krantz that are available. If you're used to lighter tobaccos or aromatics, this is a great one to try but be aware that you will get a buzz from the nicotine that you may not be used to.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Whosblah (4)	2019-11-21		Medium to Strong	Medium to Strong	Medium to Full	Tolerable

First few puffs I thought "Oh... this is like Carter Hall on steroids", which I liked anyway. Then it began to unfold more and more as the bowl went down, really reminding me of these light wrapper NUB cigars I used to smoke. It's something else entirely when a tobacco like that can take you right back into a vivid memory.

Pipe Used: Savinelli Meili Honey Pipe

Age When Smoked: New 1ounce bulk

Purchased From: Smokingpipes.com

Similar Blends: Carter Hall, NUB Cigars.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Jack Griffin (3)	2019-07-29		Extremely Strong	None Detected	Extra Full	Strong

All i can say is WOW!! Not for the weak. Old Joe Krantz starts out sweet but packs a wallop after the char light. If you complain of tobacco that tastes like water, Order this. It will put hair on your chest and provide a nice buzz. Old Joe Krantz proves the duality of Cornell & Diehl. After smoking this, You may need to come back to earth and smoke a bowl of Nutty irishman

Pipe Used: Boswell

Purchased From: JM Boswells

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	BingCrosby (161)	2019-02-08		Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

I don't often crave burley.. but when I do.. old joe is one of the very best.. a little time in the jar helps to bring out the virginia a little more.. the initial light might make you suspect a greater content of virginia leaf.. but once it's going it fades into the background.. the burley is tasty.. not ultra complex.. but strong enough.. and it is the perique that really makes this shine.. enough pepper to keep me happy.. it also contrasts the simplicity and smoothness of the burley rather nicely.. good amount of nic but I'm relatively immune.. just a quality relaxing smoke.. I don't smoke it often.. but when I do, i wonder why i don't reach for it more often..

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Jorge Soler (202)	2017-09-14		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

OJK is a pretty decent smoke, but it is quite heavy on Burley, so be advised. If you don't keep an eye on your smoking cadence, it will develop harsh spots that could be misconstrued as tongue-bite. The tin note is vinegary and quite acrid. This is probably coming from the perique it contains. Also, the perique leaf can be overpowering at times, and this tends to mask or push the burley to the background. As OJK does not contain any dark fired leaf, the smoking experience will be very different to most of the pipe tobaccos that claim to contain burley leaf in their blends. Hence the cigarettyish undertone most people describe or refer to. Having said that, if you watch your smoking cadence, OJK can be a pretty decent smoke. The harsh spots I am describing will then give way to this nutty dimension you will probably enjoy as your progress through every quarter of your bowl. On the other hand, the Virginia leaf seem to behave quite decently, with earthy and sweet undertones here and there. And for those who think it is too harsh and full-bodied at times, it is still possible to tone it down with some of the C&D's Virginia proprietary leaf. I think I am going to give it a 3 stars rating due to its inherent complexity and strength.

Similar Blends: Sometimes I get a hint here and there that reminds me of Half & Half, but this could be just me..

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	cakeanddottle (105)	2017-04-18		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Strong

My introduction to Burley was a package containing Haunted Bookshop, Three Friars, and this. I still smoke this one today. Yeah it's a full quarter perique. Yeah it ain't subtle or complex. Is it a fantastic bowl of burley for your morning coffee? Abso-effing-lutely. Nutty burley with some fruit from the perique and enough nicotine to make you notice. I bounce between this and Storm Front. Old Joe is a top notch burley, but not for everyone hence the missing star. Proceed to Storm Front for a much more accessible smoke.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Col. Stuffinpuff (14)	2017-03-10		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

An amazing Burley forward, perique and red Virginia blend. Has a stout kick, and very dry in the pipe and on the tongue. Doesn't bite, and great in the cob I have dedicated to it.

Stronger than Bayou Morning, but not as bread-ey sweet.

Highly recommended for those looking for an assertive burley.

Pipe Used: MM, Stanwell HCA

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	steppx (186)	2016-08-16		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

This is a blend I smoke pretty regularly when Im on the go. Its like a super high quality and much stronger version (and unsweetened, or rather uncased) of a dozen other burley blends out there. It has a nice nutty burley taste, with the virginia playing a very secondary role. It feels almost as if there is something besides Perique in there, too. But maybe its just the kind of burley used. It almost hints at a cigar taste on occasion. The nic hit is moderate, but smoke it fast and you're head will spin. It sustains its taste throughout.

Similar Blends: John Patton's Storm Front..

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	LivingFreeinTN (24)	2016-05-18		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I really like this tobacco. Tastes differ but I found a delicious saltiness to the smoke and a buttery, almost toffee-like flavor in OJK. The Perique goes from pepper to plum and back again. The nicotine level is very satisfying for me but I have a 30+ year cigarette habit I'm currently kicking.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Adrian B. (29)	2015-09-28		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

Another quality burley blend from C&D. Good earthy, nutty burley, which is a little bitter at times and touch of sweetness from the Virginia and probably from the plumminess (?) that you get from the Perique Old Joe is full flavored and very tasty. Nicotine is there, but not overwhelming; of course as always when discussing nicotine your mileage may vary.

Only giving it 2 stars because for me there's a bit too much Perique. It feels somewhat like I took a pepper shaker and shook it directly into the back of my mouth. If you like a good bit of Perique this is probably a 3 or 3.5 star blend for you.

Pipe Used: variety of briars and cobs

Age When Smoked: A few months on the tin

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	grabowman69 (1)	2015-08-28		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable to Strong

Very interesting blend. The tin note reminds me of the feed that we used to give to chickens (in a good way). The flavor starts out mild, then as time goes on, a spiciness starts to intensify in the back of the throat. The room note is Tobacco-y? A great, unpretentious smoke.

Pipe Used: Dr. Grabow Grand Duke

Age When Smoked: Brand spankin' new

Purchased From: Smokingpipes.com

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	DrumsAndBeer (217)	2015-03-03		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

The first time I tried this blend it was not at all to my liking. I found it strong, bitter, acrid and almost unpleasant. I don't know exactly when I turned the corner with it, but I did.

Old Joe still tastes bitter to me, only now I find the bitterness to be enjoyable. It's a similar phenomenon to the long term growth of my preference for strong black coffee and it's surely a testament to my growing palate for tobacco. No sugar, no cream, just pure deep flavor.

Right from charring light, Old Joe Krantz is quite firm and its flavor is an uncompromising amalgamation of spicy Perique and pure straight bold but balanced tobacco flavor. Simple, hearty and unadulterated. I can surely see the appeal here. Altogether this is a potent, flavorful and undeniably stout mixture with no bite, and it burns perfectly from top to bottom.

Please take the time to reference morelysson's review of this mixture. It's quite telling, and it should be. After all, he blended it.

Recommended.

Pipe Used: Briar

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Sentul (12)	2015-02-01		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I bought this just recently based on my love of the Night Train from the same C&D.

Like the review below, I found on lighting this there was a harshness that was definitely not there with Night Train.

I also found that if I gave it a couple of "false lights" and then left it for 5 or 10 minutes the harshness mostly disapeared but a slight bitterness persisted throughout the smoke.

I found it a bit stronger than Night Train with which I'm obviously comparing it to as these two tobaccos are my only current experience of the Virginia/Perique/Burley blends, so Night Train is my only reference.

This tobacco is first class and a lovely smoke strengthwise but the remaining harshness and slight bitterness spoil it somewhat.

It may depend how you smoke your pipe but smoking this tobacco gently and "kicking" it back over your soft palette can make it and your throat a bit sore, where Night Train and even stronger tobacos don't.

On this basis I'm giving OJK three stars. Well worth a try but of the two tobacos I've tried in this class, Night Train wins hands down for me.

I've put the strength in as "strong" because I need room for later reviews that are stronger. If I could put "strong to very strong" then I would.

OJK is good solid tobacco and for anyone who likes this type of blend is definitely worth a try but for the moment I'll take the Night Train.

Purchased From: Rich at 4noggins USA

Similar Blends: I've cmpared it to Night Train based on the tobaccos in the blend.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	clanobucklin (105)	2015-01-13		Extremely Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable

IOk I'll weigh in on this one. Based on customer reviews I thought I'd give this one a go.

My sample from Smoking Pipes arrived yesterday sooo I loaded up a bowl. The pouch had that familiar musty smell from Perique- I am not a big fan of this but it's not a deal breaker.

Charring light revealed a very heavy bitter taste. OMG THIS IS AWFUL! I thought HOW CAN ANYONE ENJOY THIS?!!!

Well I persevered- and as I continued the nuances of this fine blend became apparent. There is delicious nutty sweetness that reminds me of smoking a fine cigar. Personally I could do without the Perique but it seems to work in this blend. As far as Perique blends go I cetainly like this better than Patton's Cool Hand Fluke.

This is a great burly blend incredibly full with a nicotine hit that will spin your head like Linda Blair in the Exorcist if puffed too quickly.

Be forewarned the initial draw and first 1/4th can be rather harsh IMHO - So Sip it slowly and enjoy the burly flavors. I will probably keep some on hand for an occasional smoke - but who knows this could become a favorite of mine?

I'd like to give this blend a 3.5 rating due to its initial harshness but I can't so I'll go with 4 stars. I know there are a lot of Reviewers who go Ga Ga over Runowski blends but I am only starting to try and like them. Still I can respect them for what they are. Recommended for Folks who enjoy cigars and bitter ales.

Pipe Used: Custombilt Billiard

Age When Smoked: New

Purchased From: Smoking Pipes

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Pkloop (53)	2014-10-26		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

This blend is just ok to me..not great..not bad. Like a few of our fellow reviewers below I find Old Joe to be kind of a harsh old prick. Just to rough on the palette for me...

Appearance: Rough cut/cube cut tobacco in various shades of brown. Aroma of natural tobacco, no flavorings here. A bit more "shake" then I like to see in a can. I probably could fill 2 bowls with it. I have to blend it in as I go so I don't end up with just that left. Moisture level a tad drier then I prefer.

Packing: See comment about shake above..that said it packs easy enough. Can be codger scooped, although that practice may contribute more to the shake problem..

Smoking: Here's where this one loses me. It just seems harsh. I know and understand the style C&D are shooting for here, but to me it's a miss. Ok, they are creating a codger burley for all day smoking. No frills, no sweetness, just an honest smoke. Well, I 'm not quite a codger yet however I do smoke the blends throughout the day and in my opinion other blenders do it better. Maybe it's the slight perique pepper? Hard to say. My regular evening smokes are Bayou Night or Kajun Kake both peppered and are amongst my favorite smokes of all time! I go through pounds of them. Maybe my palette needs a break during the day? Who knows. As far as the vitamin N..I'm basically immune at this point. It does behave well in the pipe and smokes down to a dry ashy finish.

In conclusion this blend will be/already is a favorite of many but I will have to take a pass on future purchase. Too harsh/rough for me. In this style I'm sticking with either the Prince or Cotton Boll as my all day. I'll finish my portion but won't be purchasing more. Worth trying though as an example of the style..and you may like it..many do

A rare miss from C&D for me..

Pipe Used: Cobs and Briars

Age When Smoked: Fresh

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

Similar Blends: Any other bland burley you have lying around that dried out...

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	DavidP (25)	2014-09-02		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

The tin aroma combines darkly musty Perique with sweet almond. When smoked these two elements are combined along with lots of nicotine. I really don't enjoy this one, the flavor just isn't that pleasant and I'm not cut out for the nicotine punch it packs. I might try cutting it with some Latakia.

Age When Smoked: Fresh, and a few months in

Purchased From: SP.com

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	MacNutz (12)	2013-06-20		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I've spent the day with OJK after receiving my recent order. I do like burley and I really like OJK I went through four bowls and while it does have a good nic hit I didn't find it overwhelming. Nic is important for me, being an ex cig smoker. It stayed lit and gave me the real tobacco flavour I must have. A good honest burley mix.

I've lived with OJK for nearly a month now, smoking it daily. If anything I like it better than when I first received it. This will be in my regular rotation for some time.

There is a strong nic hit and it is very 'full flavoured'. The perique is noticeable but I think it is in perfect proportion to the burley and bit of Virginia also in it. If you love strong burley, this is for you.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Laserboy (16)	2013-03-14		Medium to Strong	Extremely Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

Bitterness is the most misunderstood and underappreciated of the basic flavors. In Old Joe Krantz we have an example of its use with utter mastery. When I say that the first flavor impact I get from Old Joe is bitterness, one might recoil from it. But this is the bitter of first class stout or IPA, of dark chocolate, of coffee, of black walnuts. It gets one's attention and holds it! But then it is backed up by the mild sweetness of the Virginia, the nutty burley, and the musky perique. It loads easily (I like mine darn near crunchy dry and then press it tight into the pipe) and burns like a charm. And it carries a notable wallop of nicotine--a small bowl goes a long way. A large bowl should be smoked gently because of the nicotine hit. But I don't think it's ever bitten me. This is a blend compiled with true artistry. I can imagine that it isn't for everybody, but this is the sort of blend about which one can be truly passionate--I sure am!

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	salopst (15)	2012-05-20		Mild to Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Very Pleasant

Somewhere between three and four stars. I cannot decide which, so I'll go with four . I've only 100 g of this under my belt, and the second half of the 2010 tin I had a friend pick up for me from the States was awesome. I was leery at first. To me it didn't smell like pipe tobacco-- all chocolatey and full of caramel, and generally reminiscent of cigars.

I have to credit this tobacco with rounding out early conceptions/impressions of tobacco, which, admittedly are not that nuanced. I have three rough groupings of tobacco hat I really like, and two that I do not.

#1 Orientals-- English, lots of Lat. Where I started, and what I remember my father and his father smoking #2 Sweet Virginias, sometimes flavored with perique or cavendish #3 Burleys, although I admit OJK is my first-- and I don't see any reason to move from that #4 aromatics -- Euch! #5 heavily cased dark navy/rum/twists -- Not quite my thing, but I can see the time and the place for it

Without OJK I could not have been able to make these, albeit crude, distinctions. It seems to me that Burley is the most tobacco-like tobacco, and an excellent place from which to begin to appreciate others.

It is not my favourite by a New York Mile, but I rank it highly. I will be buying much, much more and have dedicated a new pipe to it alone.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	ap (57)	2011-11-11		Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

Full Burley blend with great Perique spiceness and very light sweet notes from the Virginias. Outstanding

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Kokinhenik (93)	2011-11-01		Mild to Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

While smoking this tobacco I concluded that though I do really enjoy a straight Burley, a Burley headliner with condiment amounts of Perique and Virginia, just doesn't work that well for me. I would rather smoke a really good Burley, or a really good VaPer. Having said that OJK was a decent smoke, OJK is a step in the right direction from Haunted Bookshop.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2011-10-09		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

For a frame of reference, I prefer Burley blends. Virginias are, of course, a wonderful edition and the mustiness and spiciness of Perique all appeal to me. Despite a fair amount of experience with a range of contemporary blends, I find Carter Hall to be one of the most attractive options.

That being said, this was my first experience with OJK. I very much enjoyed this. My Vitamin N needs were satisfied, although I will say that I wasn't absolutely knocked over by it (as I expected from so many of the previous reviews). It was, however, quite satisfying.

Burley is the front runner and the smell is pure tobacco. Occasionally, the taste became cigar-ish (in a good way). The Perique remained (to me) a seasoning that aided but did not become intrusive. This is not a spicy or smoky blend. As a CH fan, I found this to have something more, although I would not say that this blend is particularly complex. I, for one, don't expect tremendous complexity from Burley blends. Their inherent classic tobacco-ness is why I like them. Well done.

Highly recommended.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2011-07-16		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

I just got through having a bowl of OJK that I've had cellared since 2005. This fine tobacco reminds me of the Old Burley blends of yester-year. It lights well, stays lit, and sips well to the bottom. The Perique adds a little freshness to the musty chocolate taste of the burley and the Red Virginia has a great zestiness that seeps thru. A delightful smoke.

Update 6 July 2013. Old Joe just gets better with age. This is turning into an AMAZING dark chocolate rasin wonderland. I wanna hug Craig T! This is what smoking a pipe is all about right here!!!

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Denevei (58)	2011-01-08		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

Old Joe Krantz is one of the blends developed by Bob Runowski in his attempt to recreate the pleasures of old, traditional tobaccos. It's a combination of Virginia, burley, and some perique. Like other C&D blends, the tobacco benefits greatly from some age before smoking. Bob says that this is his favorite burley blend. I'll confess that my initial impression of Old Joe Krantz was, well, less than favorable. However, I set aside the ball jars of it, and happened upon them again after they sat for about five months. The difference was nothing less than dramatic. What originally hit me as a slightly bitter discord of flavors had become a well-mannered and pleasant blending of fine tobaccos. The pouch aroma of Old Joe Krantz is one that could easily keep me from smoking it. If it reminds me of anything, it reminds me of the smell of dirty feet. To me, this is a tobacco that the smoker needs to smoke while ignoring the pouch aroma, and doing so provides a nice, pleasant treat. The burley asserts itself from the start, giving a nice lighting taste. There's not any hesitation from this blend at all! But while the burley is a strong presence, the natural sweetness of the Virginia is there as well. The perique is just heavy enough to mix with the Virginia and provide a sort of sweet and sour effect. The balance of the three tobacco varieties is as well done in this blend as I've encountered. While the initial flavor is full, it's not overly strong. The taste remains consistent through the bowl, but the last eighth or so becomes a good bit stronger than the rest. There's no acridity to the flavor, it just strengthens. I've been smoking this blend on an almost daily basis now, and find it to be a real pleasure.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-10-28		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

I've tried several C&D blends and while not all of them have become favorites they are all of the highest quality. I recently ordered OJK and loaded it in a cob to try out tonight.

Initial Impressions: Mixed cut - some ribbon, some that looked like a rubbed out flake. Aroma from the bag was of burley with the hints of Virginia and the unique aroma that is perique. Loaded easily in the pipe. Charring light was easy and didn't require a touch up. Others have noted that this blend tends to stay lit and I can't argue. I relit once and that was due to talking to a neighbor as they walked by outside.

Flavor: I rated this as medium as it started off like burley, that is to say mild, but then the perique chimed in, a peppery, spicy note. It took until mid-bowl for the Virginia to peek through. The second half of the bowl, with a five minute DGT, showed the great balance of this blend. All the tobaccos provided an excellent end to the smoke.

Conclusions and overall: This burned cool and dry with no effort on my part. There was nothing but fine gray ash to clear from the bowl. I did notice a very strong nicotine rush from this tobacco - not unpleasant but much more so than I normally encounter. If I decided on an all-day smoke this one would be very much in the running. Medium to full body with just great tobacco flavor.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-07-26		Strong	Medium	Medium to Full	Tolerable

OLD JOE KRANTZ, anybody know who is? Is he a real person?

Anyhow this tobacco, I've now used a full eight ounces of, seems to be surpassing my go to burley by far (Prince Albert). When I want/need a quick or a full hit of nicotine OJK is what I've been reaching for. I have a burley flake that I've been fancying but I'll not mention it here.

There's a pleasant aroma wating in the bag! OJK has a really nice perique tweak without biting too. I feel that OJK is full and strong and very satisfying. I tend to like big bowls of it and it lights and burns easily and respectfully too. I did some 'breath smoking' with it but it seems better full on! I highly recommend this in one's rotation and you'll probably be reaching for it more often than you expect to.

The cut reminds me of the bottom of a box of breakfast cereal, you know things all broken up but nice finely broken. I find it easy to fill a bowl and make it a large one. Also, I get no static from my dear wife about the room note. That's one of our brotherhood's most important critics when trying to enjoy a tobacco. I'm giving this baby a full FOUR stars here!

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-06-05		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

This was the first pipe tobacco I tried since ten years or so ago when I made a half-hearted attempt at pipe smoking. I thought this was the strongest thing made the first time I smoked it. Again, that was the first bowl in 10+ years. I have since that time found much stronger tobaccos, but this remains one of my favorite non plug, rope, flake blends. It is what it sounds like, crotchety and a bit stubborn. It seems stuck it it's ways, but at least it is an honest smoke. No sweetness, no fruitiness, just tobacco. Pretty decent tobacco.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Sir Walter Smiley (24)	2010-04-22		Medium to Strong	Extremely Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

When I first started smoking this blend, I would have given it a 4 star rating. Twenty pounds later, I am still in love with it; yet, as guys that have been married for a long time can relate, ahhh.....luckily Old Joe understands when I smoked 30 or 40 other blends. I haven't had an unfavorable blend from Cornell & Diehl yet, except for Mississippi Mud. Old Joe is a great bulk blend that comes already on the dry side, no prep needed. It has a very natural taste without any chemicals added that I detect. Burley is in the drivers seat, virginia riding shotgun, but the perique is a very loud back seat driver. If you don't like perique, don't get in the car. But if you like burley and perique........take that ride.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-03-24		Medium to Strong	Extremely Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

This is a really bold, in your face smoke. The perique is snappy and spicy, the burley gives a lot of body and strength, and the Virginias are more of a supporting role adding sweetness. I find myself enjoying each and every bowl. Zero bite.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-03-19		Strong	Extremely Mild	Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Highly recommended with a caveat. This is a full, no-nonsense tobacco with powerful presences of all three elements. I think that if you are not a lover of straight VA's and burleys and LOTS of perique, this might not be very enjoyable. However, I love all of these, so I find OJK to be an exceptional blend. This tobacco burns beautifully and does not bite, in my experience. The perique offers up all of its beautiful earthy goodness along with a substantial amount of spicy heat, the VA provides a lovely framework with lots of depth, and the burley adds a nutty, sweet fullness to the whole thing. I don't know if I got all of those characteristics assigned to the right players, but what I do know is that Old Joe is a helluva great smoke. It also has plenty of nicotine, though not an overpowering amount. I recommend it highly to anyone who likes full, rich tobacco flavor with more than a little attitude.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2009-10-29		Medium to Strong	Very Mild	Full	Tolerable

OJK. This is pretty strong. I love strong tobacco and this fills the bill perfectly. Nice sweet taste bout half way down. Burns excellent. One light and away she goes. So enjoy OJK. Cornell and Diehl is vastly superior Tobacco. If I had to pick one blender. They would be it. Bob Runowski is a tobacco Genius!!!!!

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2009-10-22		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable to Strong

If you've tried Night Train, the flavor is similar, but not as strong. In my mind, they are in the same family. Easy to pack, the perique hits just right and at the right time. Not a fussy tobacco, it lights, stays lit. I like it as a reading tobacco, as the interplay of the tobaccos makes the smoke very soothing. Sometimes the Va's whisper sweetly, sometimes the burley brings on a bit of pecan, and the perique makes the whole thing a bit more spicy. Yum. If you don't like burley, don't try it.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2009-04-12		Mild to Medium	Very Mild	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

This tobacco reminds me of GP Haddos Delight because the perique is more piquant than spicy. It is a delightful change of pace from standard VaPers and it leaves me wanting to smoke another bowl.

The beginning is a little rough but by the first tamp, the nice nuttiness of the burley comes through. The VAs are subtle and add a hint of sweetness to the burley and the nice soapy flavor of the perique. I had no problems with bite, though this blend lends itself to sitting back and taking your time. It really is a relaxing smoke.

About mid bowl, it reaches it peak. I'm a big fan of the burley. It has such great interplay with the perique. It's just delicious! Exhaling through the nose is wonderful, but a warning to inhalers! I french inhale and perique and smokiness will almost knock you down.

It burned fairly well and I had minimal relights. The moisture in my can was a little on the dry side, but since I smoke a lot of 2015, it was probably the correct moisture content. Not much gurgle and the ash was grey/black. Very limited dottle.

I struggle between highly recommended and just recommended. I'd probably give it 3.4 *s. OJK is a very good blend that could probably use a dedicated pipe (or at least a pipe that smokes the soapier periques). If you're a VaPer fan, you should definitely try it.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2008-11-20		Medium to Strong	Very Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

I bought this in bulk. And was eager to try this because of the great reviews and the fact that I like perique blends a lot. However, the perique in this blend was not spicy, neither did I taste what is often referred to as 'dried fruit'. I just tasted a lot of salt and pepper. Especially the salty taste was very dominant, I got the idea that my mouth was full of sea water. Maybe to much perique?? So now I doubt if I am reviewing the same blend as other reviewers. Sorry, but this classic doesn't reach any further than 1 star, imo that is.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2008-09-16		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

This blend has everything a burley lover needs, taste, strength,and burn rate.If you are looking for an old timey smoke one needs only look here for it.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Jaybee (77)	2008-06-05		Medium to Strong	Mild to Medium	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Others have already provided excellent comments regarding the taste and characteristics of this tobacco. Therefore I would like to limit my comments to my overall impression....Superb!!!

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2008-03-27		Medium to Strong	Extremely Mild	Full	Tolerable

Another winner from Cornell & Diehl. I find a taste of a good cigar here though there is no cigar leaf mentioned by C&D. No sweet "girlie man" tobacco here, just a good honest blend. Out of the tin the moisture is perfect, easy to pack, and light. Lots of rich smoke. Burns cool and completly. When I want a "not so sweet" smoke this is it.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2008-02-16		Medium to Strong	Medium to Strong	Medium to Full	Tolerable

My order arrived in a perfect state and has a terrific sweet musty odor. Old Joe Krantz is very unforgiving to the tongue of a quick smoker, and I have quickly learned to smoke this slow to enjoy it to its fullest. There has to be a perfect balance of ingredients here as nothing jumps out at you, just a high power burley smoke.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Slow Triathlete (62)	2007-12-28		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

If I could give this less than one star I would. Not a big fan of this. It has too much of something in it and I couldn't put my finger on it. Also, it left an extremely bad tasting coating in my mouth and throat which didn't go away for hours.

I know that a lot of people love this blend but it is just not for me.

20Oct2010 UPDATE I think that I was too harsh in my original review of this. I have since come to like Burley blends very much and this one is great! I apologize for my hasty judgment of this blend.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-10-11		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

It seems as though some review this as a burley blend, others view it more as a Perique one. I can definitely taste the Perique in it, but still find it more burley-like in character. It's a full blend, a long way from some of the cased burleys on the market. It has a toasted nuttiness that my taste buds like a lot with the pepperiness of the Perique adding to its' flavor.

OJK is easy to pack, I usually just put the pipe in the pouch and scoop until it's full, then tamp down rather firmly on top. It seems to go especially well with my Lannes Johnson XL billiard. Lighting and burn is also good, you shouldn't need a lof of relights with this one. It leaves the walls of the pipe clean at the end of the smoke, not at all goopy.

Scores for OJK: taste- 16 of 20, lighting and burn- 9 of 10, value- 8 of 10. A total of 33 gives OJK a ** rating. Another good job from Bob Runowski and Craig Tarler.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-10-11		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

Deep, rich flavors of real tobacco with no goop or tongue bite. Enough nicotine to satisfy the most hearty nicotine appetite and burning characteristics to be rivled by other blends.

It packs easily, smokes cool and burns completely to a fine white ash. You will find no dottle here. Another winning attribute is that it burns very slow yet stays lit.

Those of you who are aromatic smokers beware. This is no candy tobacco. This is a man's smoke. A delicious burley blend with enough Virginia tobacco to take out the bitterness of the burley and enough perique to add just a touch of spice. The nicotine content is high.

Reasonably priced,I'd give this blend 10 stars if I could.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-08-11		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

People told me this is a burley blend. I?d call it a Perique blend! Perique is center stage here, and holds your attention the entire bowl. The other components stay out of the way and allow the star to show her stuff.

Perique?s fig-like fermented character shines with OJK. You get the peppery character too, but raisiney, stewed prune flavor isn?t lost among the other flavors like it is with some other blends.

The overall taste is no-nonsense and one dimensional. I?m not saying that like its a bad thing. Very sturdy - it borders on harsh but doesn?t cross that line. Its robust, its in your face, and doesn?t pretend to be gentle, but it doesn?t abuse you either. All that Perique cools the blend down - tongue bite should never be a problem. OJK is a great source of Vitamin N and one bowl might even exceed your daily allowance.

The blend comes in a cut that is very easy to pack and smoke. It rates high on my smoke-ability scale. Puff on it all you want. It might knock you on your ass, but it won?t leave any bruises.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-04-26		Strong	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

Honestly, I get almost no taste from this blend, maybe just an ocassional nut flavor, but no musty spicy notes from the Perique. Sadly that is not the aftertaste I get, I find that I either have to have a drink with me while smoking this, or I get a pretty bad (bitter) taste in my mouth.

When I look through the tobacco, I don't find any cube cut to speak of, but I'm not sure if that is typical or not. The tobacco seems to burn reasonably well, only few relight's on a bowl at most, but it does have a tendency to burn down to an ashy taste at the end, with black dottle.

One thing I will concure on, with the other reviews I have seen is that this has a high amount of nic, holding onto your chair arms, feet planted on the floor strong.

I don't see buying this again honestly, apparently this blend does not work with my chemistry.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2007-03-18		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

Old Joe Krantz.18/03/07. This blend remind's of a dryer version of some balkan blends, that are out there.(But,they say there's no latakia?) After two light's and some tampering occasionally,your well on your way to a rather pleasant experience."Providing that you enjoy a dryer smoke" There wasn't any nasty drama in smoking this at all.Though I do doubt that I would really go out of my way to revisit this blend. I really didn't notice the perique,very much,if at all??? At bowl's end,I was left with a very dark grey ash and almost no goop at all. Not really a bell ringer for me,but,maybe it will chime out loudly for you.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2006-05-01		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

I had a love affair with this one (Well in a manner of speaking...)- Its the first burley blend I really liked. I was already hooked on Perique...So I thought..I'll try it. Glad I did. The Burleys came through nice and nutty, with the virginias covering any harshness there might have been- and then the perique. Starting light is spicy....but it calms down nicely. At cruising speed to 3 quarters down....spicy, nutty, and sweet. It interplays the three components. Burley/Virginia comes to the front, then gives the stage over for a spicey blast....then back again. I love it for lunch time at work. The bottom of the bowl does intensify in strength, and the nicotine can get ya if your not careful.... On a lark, I cut this with some Barbary coast (2 parts OJK, 1 part B.C.)and WOW...more perique and burley with that brandey taste. Its like putting a cherry on a sundae. Try it some time...

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2005-04-13		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

I have enjoyed many of C&D's blends and being a Latakia Junkie, Star of the East and Pirate Cake are my favorite two. I also love good Burleys and straight Red Virginia's when I want to switch up so I had to give Ol Joe a try.

While this is a quality blend and the burley/red virginia are top notch, I truly enjoyed the several bowls I smoked and wanted more! But my allergy to perique prevented me from truly enjoying this as much as I wanted to. If I did not have an allergy to perique, I would make this blend part of my regular rotation.

Solid 3 out of 4 stars. 8-)

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2004-11-28		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant

So far, I think the best burley blend I have tried.It is very smooth, but full enough to be satisfying, and that coming from a heavy cigarette smoker always going to convert to all pipes. This tobacco is said to have a 25% Perique content, but you couldn't prove it by me, as I seem to be pretty insensitive to Perique. The easiest way for me to detect Perique is the tongue coating I get from it, which in this case is very light. It also has some Virginia in it, which I detect by default, ie, this is not a straight burley taste. If the blend has any fault at all, as far as I am concerned, it is that I see and taste a small amount of cigar leaf in it. I smoke high grade cigars also, but don't like them in my pipe tobacco. I have read many reviews of Virginias that state the tobacco is mellow, and doesn't bite or smoke hot, whereas all Virginias smoke hot and bite to me. I say this only as a point of reference because OJK has absolutely no bite or excessive heat, regardless of how you pack it, how you light it, or when or where you smoke it. This is truly an all day smoke,and highly recommended.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2004-08-11		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

I pulled this one out of the stash after reading the posts of a friend on a message board. He had been extolling the virtues of Old Joe for a while and piqued my curiosty.

The tobac was nice and dry, at what I would consider a perfect moisture for smoking. I packed it a bit on the loose side the first time out. It?s a mistake I decided not to repeat. It was hot, harsh, and I didn?t like it. I realized what I had done and tightened it up with the tamper, and it was like night and day. Subsequent bowls were packed the same as I would pack a straight Virginia.

The smoke has a delightful flavor, a hint of Perique compliments the burley and provides a bit of depth. In my humid environment, I believe the heel of the pipe was drier after the smoke than it was before I packed it. At the end, there is nothing left but fine ash and a pleasant memory. The finish is semi-sweet as is the rest of the bowl, and it never got bitter on me.

I have decided that I like Old Joe. I think I?ll visit him more in the future.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2003-09-13		Medium	Mild	Medium to Full	Very Pleasant

I will not go into a description of the cut and makeup of this blend as that has been covered quite well in the previous reviews. I find this to be a very easy smoke, packs and burns well, remains cool throughout the bowl. It is complex enough not to bore or tire the tastebuds, yet not so complex as to demand the type of attention many other blends require to experience nuance. This is my everyday, all day smoke upon which canvas I paint my daily experiences, enjoying other blends as the mood strikes me. It is a great backround to a good book or music. A solid, consistant blend which never dissapoints. It seems to be the Antithesis of the "Contempletive" blend in that it forms an undemanding backround to other things which demand your attention. I always keep a few pounds on hand, fairly easy to do at the reasonable price C & D charges for it.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2003-01-13		Medium	Medium	Medium	Very Pleasant

I really loved this blend. It seemed to fulfill in all areas a tobacco can . It lit easily and smoked easily. Taste was of good tobacco though I assume it is the Burley taste I am really falling for here. I like the room smell which was just tasty possibly close to a drug store blend for it seemed familure and comforting. Once again maybe it is the Burley. I did not care for Haunted Book Shop which was rather rough to me but oddly the tobacco's of these two blends are simular. Maybe the variation is in the cut or quantity of each leaf? I do smoke this throughout the day and have smoked it in public as well for I like the smell of it.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2002-11-20		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable to Strong

I have recently become interested in Burley/VA/Perique blends, in part due to Cumberland. I would characterize OJK as a fuller, less complex Cumberland. Those that enjoy Cumberland may want to give this a try.

The blend itself includes a wide variety of tobacco cuts in a wild style, from fairly small pieces to pieces over ½ inch square. I received a sample from a friend and it contained a very appropriate moisture level.

Burning characteristics are very good, as are packing qualities. The tobacco packs nicely into narrow bowls as well as those with a wider bore.

The flavor character of this blend suggests a fairly heavy hand with the Perique, and the burley is the predominate flavor. Sweetness is present and adequate without being overdone. The perique balances nicely with the VA, and provides a fruity sense. The general sense if a fairly full flavor, on par with, or fuller than Cumberland. There is almost a sense of cigar leaf in this blend, although that is not mentioned in the description. This blend is produces a bit of a nasal burn during the first third of the bowl, but mouth irritation is relatively low. This latter characteristic is what has motivated me to try blends of this type, Burley/VA/Perique.

Overall: a reasonable smoke with good burning qualities, enough complexity to remain interesting in an American style. This might be somewhat bland for smokers of English blends, but would be welcome for those who like this style.

November 2002.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2002-09-29		Medium	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

I am a fan of good burley based blends, knowing this A.T. Barr gave me a baggie of OJK (C&D Blend #126) from his stash to try.

The tobacco is loose cut, mainly light brown and blond with a small amount of dark ribbons. The moisture level is medium dry. OJK is no trick to pack nicely and smokes to the bottom without demanding very much mechanical interaction.

Lighting the pipe happens easily, tamping and relighting results in a smooth smoke that blends the good parts of Virginia?s sweetness with the nutty solid flavor of Burley. The Perique component is obvious, but not overwhelming, acting as a good spice should to bring out the other flavors. This blend is a must have for people who enjoy Burley but don?t want a boring taste. It has earned a Tupperware container of its own in my mostly tinned repertoire of top smokes. OJK is a very traditional blend that will appeal to smokers who want a real tobacco flavor that smokes cool and doesn?t repel the spouse. It is truly an all day smoke to those so inclined, it is certainly one of my top smokes.

2 people found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	UncleAl (17)	2022-11-12		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

Cornell & Diehl Old Joe Krantz smells vinegary from the tin. That’s a good sign. Initially I didn’t like it. Nothing special, but I persisted. As I gently savour each puff, this is well passed medium strength for me. It’s tangy, almost sweet and kind of old fashioned, but grows on you. Relights well. Glad I got a second tin.

Pipe Used: Tsunge Topper, Peterson Baker Street & ors.

Age When Smoked: From the tin

Purchased From: 4Noggins

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	riobrew (80)	2022-08-19		Very Strong	None Detected	Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

This is another blend I have heard and read about for years. So with 20% off on C&D I decided lets give it a go. Why oh why did I wait so long to try it? Love at first light. Red Virginia up front quickly followed by the big burley kick. Perique comes and goes in the background. Same with the red Virginia after first light. Burley is the main tobacco. No topping, which I like. Very strong nicotine but if you respect and slow smoke it is easy to manage. Highly recommended for Bur/Va lovers. Should age well so stock up.

Pipe Used: Moretti Dublin

Age When Smoked: Fresh from SP

Purchased From: Smokingpipes

Similar Blends: Haunted Bookshop but with more red Virginia..

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	doc pipes (108)	2022-08-18		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

OJK is a delicious and savory burley blend that is derived from Haunted Bookshop. This blend supposedly has additional red VA, which is definitely detectable. The bulk offering is sour and musty smelling initially, but gains some sweetness and Perique-funk with some exposure to oxygen.

Bronze, red, and brown ribbon make up most of the mixture, but there does seem to be some cube cut present. While clearly a burley dominated mix, there is some tangy acidity and sweetness notable from the red VA. Roasted nuts, dark espresso bean, and roasted cocoa nibs are hinted at within the deep rich tobacco flavor.

The room aroma is similar to cigarettes and probably won’t make many friends. Nicotine is closer to strong than to medium, but if this is smoked slowly, lady N doesn’t follow you home and become problematic. This is a simple and delicious blend that could easily be a burley man’s daily companion. 3.5 stars and I will round up.

Pipe Used: Numerous briars

Age When Smoked: 5 months

Purchased From: SP

Similar Blends: Haunted bookshop.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Badmedicine (51)	2021-10-03		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

As I mentioned in my Bayou Morning review, it can be difficult for a lover of full-bodied blends to find an "All-day" blend. It can be even more difficult if your tastes follow a seasonal fluctuation. To my long-time chagrin, I belong to both categories. I like my heavy VaPers during the warm months, and shift to heavy Englishes when the weather turns cold. While BM nicely fills the "All-day" role when it's warm, it feels somewhat lacking in the fall and winter. This is where Old Joe steps up to the podium. Such a lovely combination of humble components; the combination of nuts, toast, cocoa, dark fruit, and spice reminds one of spicy Cajun trail mix on a late-fall hike by the river. Nicotine levels are moderate; it's not a rope, but neither is it 1Q. There can be some occasional sweetness, similar to BM, but this is by-in-large a toasty, nutty, spicy, savory blend. Bite potential is nil, and the roughness is just part of its charm. Room note is not likely to be a crowd-pleaser, being somewhere between a strong cigarette and a Maduro cigar. If you're smoking this, though, I doubt you are one who cares about such things. The main focuses are the Burleys, giving an ever-present base of nuts, wood, toast, and cocoa. The Perique is never far away, and shows all aspects of its character, morphing from fruit to pepper from one puff to the next. The Virginia seems to be present more as a chemical buffer than a flavor component; it keeps the mixture from being exclusively alkaline without lending Virginia's temperamental character. If this blend is a reflection of his character, I would have loved the opportunity to sit and smoke and chat a while (likely in a well-weathered porch rocker) with the titular Old Joe Krantz. His namesake blend has become a daily friend.

Pipe Used: Charatan Egg, self-made stubby poker

Age When Smoked: Fresh

Purchased From: Smoking Pipes

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Xenos Soundworks (1)	2020-10-29		Extremely Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

I absolutely loved Haunted Bookshop and recently bought some Old Joe Krantz to try out since people said it was similar. While I see the similarity between the two, I like Haunted Bookshop a whole lot more. Old Joe is less sweet/drier, more cigarette-like, and strong as all hell. Maybe too much perique? OJK certainly has more complexity to it than HBS, and you get some interesting changes throughout the bowl. That said, I most likely won't be buying this one again. YIKES this stuff is potent!

UPDATE:

Upgrading this to 3 stars instead. I was a little harsh on this blend. Turns out OJK is quite enjoyable IF approached right. First, I tried this again in my other cob with a deeper bowl. I think that affected the flavor somewhat. Second, SIP, don't gulp. Puff it too vigorously and it'll turn cigarette-ish and bite. Third, enjoy this with a cup of strong coffee or some whiskey. Forth, DON'T use a Bic lighter! This is one blend that seriously punished me for that. Use matches instead. All these changes combined made a sizeable difference in the flavor and intensity.

NOW I understand what all the high ratings are about :). Just the right approach changed this blend from a cigarette-ish and painful experience, to one that tastes like rich salted nuts and pickled jalapeno peppers. Gonna buy a tin of this with my next order. Glad I gave Old Joe another chance. He can be a grouchy bastard, but if you treat him right, he's actually a nice fellow. This is a macho man blend with no pretense. No casing or toppings. Just pure tobacco. Definitely recommended for those who enjoy a good cigar, or folks who want to transition away from cigarettes. There's plenty "Vitamin N" in here to scratch that itch.

Pipe Used: Cheap Corn Cob

Age When Smoked: Fresh

Purchased From: pipesandcigars.com

Similar Blends: C&D Haunted Bookshop.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Cherry picker 1779 (51)	2019-10-22		Very Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Extra Strong

Hands down my favorite blend ! This grew my on me more than I could have ever imagined. I had to erase my original review!

Zero, and I mean I get zero tongue bite.

Full flavored and very Natural, with a nice kick from perique.

Very high nicotine.

100 % Satisfying

Smoking this for over a year now, I just never grow tired of it. It took me about a week after my first tin of this was done to order a second. Now I have ordered this multiple times , I smoke this about 5 times a day, it’s so easy on the tongue that smoking anything else makes me run back to this.

It packs easy, it lights easy, it stays lit. OJK has strong but natural burley flavor along with a beautiful perique kick. No bad oily mouth feel, zero tongue bite, and a nice lingering aftertaste.

Room note won’t make you friends. And don’t expect a sugary birthday cake with jelly filled syrup in the center. This is a brute of a tobacco - made by real men, for real men!

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Shaun_Pearson (21)	2019-07-26		Mild to Medium	None Detected	Mild to Medium	Tolerable to Strong

I was not a fan of the C&D Old Joe Krantz. The burley was just too overwhelming for me and had sort of a cigarette-like taste that most burley has. Burley was the only thing I could get my head wrapped around in this blend.

Pipe Used: Handmade Briar

Age When Smoked: New

Purchased From: Twin's Smoke Shop (Londonderry, NH)

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	cajomu (80)	2019-01-19		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Mild to Medium	Tolerable

C&D Old Joe Kranz just doesn't do it for me. Yes, I can taste the perique and the Virginias and the burley, but they don't meld well and, frankly, none of them have a lot of flavor. The perique is spicy rather than raisinous or fruity and quickly burns off. The Virginias are more grassy than sweet and/or tangy, and don't show up until the middle of the smoke. Moreover, I wouldn't know that they were red Virginias if I hadn't been told. The burley is always present but a bit rough, and it fails deliver the molasses and cocoa notes that a good burley should. They also get somewhat bitter toward the end of the bowl.

The pro is that it provides lots of Vitamin N, if that's your thing, but I prefer a little more sweetness and flavor with my nicotine. It's not a bad tobacco, just an uninteresting one IMO, so I've given it two stars.

Pipe Used: African Meerschaum

Age When Smoked: 1 year old

Purchased From: Smokingpipes

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	FrostyPiper (1)	2018-11-30		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

Tin note was heavy with chocolate, nuts, and raisins. Reminiscent of raisinets. The smoke is quite nice, with hints of chocolate and nuts, but the retrohale is dominated by the peppery notes of the perique. Nic-hit was there, but not problematic or unpleasant. Probably not an all day smoke, but it could definitely be an everyday smoke.

Age When Smoked: 1.5 years

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Sybariten (61)	2016-10-22		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

I tried this when I began smoking a pipe every now and then. That was horrible! It knocked me green and clawed at my sinuses so bad, I could not for the life of me understand why someone would like this blend. But as time passed I grew more experienced and grew to favour bolder blends so I figured it was time for a do-over. I am glad that I did! This is a strong, heavy smoke but with a lot of flavour. Complex? Not really, but a sure bet. If you are looking for a nice, strong and full burley, it simply does not get much better than this in my opinion.

Taste: A deep, dark profile of dried fruit, nutts and pepper permeates this blend. Hints of cigar leaf follows in the burley tracks, a full body with a punch goes with it. It grows less sweet over time and takes on an earthy profile, maintaining the pepper all the way.

Mechanics: Burns cool and clean, no bite, no need for relights. Potent in nicotine.

Pipe Used: Briar, cob and clay

Similar Blends: Haunted bookshop, but more perique.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	L'Italiano (231)	2016-05-14		Very Strong	Extremely Mild	Full	Tolerable

This is a perfect Burley/Perique mixture. In this blend you can enjoy and taste the Burley with the Perique and all the nuances of this excellent union. Virginia is present but it has a bit part, a small role, and it is not a protagonist. Mr Burley and Mr. Perique sing with a single voice (in unison) and the result (with the tenuous complicity of Virginia) is a pleasant symphony of flavors (from the side of the taste). Opening the tin the smell is very good and sweet and I think there is a slight topping in it. But smoking the tobacco, the taste is not at all sweet: I would say peppery, smooth and neutral. Only a bit too strong. This is a real American taste, different from English taste but with a great personality. Speaking of perique, english taste is normally Virginia/Perique and the perfect example is the “monument” De Luxe Navy Rolls (Dunhill). If you are interested of Perique you can make a tasting test between American and English taste and you can make a comparison between this American blend and De Luxe N.R. that is a typical English blend. If you like Perique and if you want to try a real American taste, buy this blend and you’ll enjoy a robust full taste American tobacco. In my personal system rating (from 1 to 10) my score is 8 and three stars.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Knightsmoker (217)	2016-04-22		Medium to Strong	Extremely Mild	Full	Strong

The burley is sweet, reminds me a little of PA in the similarity of sweetness that is present but that is where this blend reminds me of PA ends. The perique is a major player and I get more pepper than dried fruits. The Red VA's are slightly sweet bread like, a little roasted grain. These elements seem like they would make for a great blend, yet the sum of their parts are not in harmony. The flavor is full and overall not bad. Nice thick smoke and the nic is okay as well. I do think that the burley at lest has a top note as stated above but all things aside this could be someones all day smoke it just missed my palate. It did bite a little and it was sneaky in how it did it. No indicators while smoking but the next day I could tell that it had. I smoke this as my only blend for several days to confirm this. Finally, I do not often give a strong rating for room note but this earned that mark. I smoke outside only and it was still noticeable on the porch hours after a bowl. The wife complained about it stinking up the house too and while I almost never smell smoke on myself I could smell this stuff on me too. Still I don't want to sound down on the blend it was not bad overall but will not make a rotation and I see no need to revisit it at this time.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Andersson (9)	2016-04-08		Strong	Extremely Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

Well, it is a good strong blend which kicks you with all the pleasure, the pharmacological nicotine can bring. And yes, I did enjoy these physiological effects, but wait, did I enjoy the smoking as well? I can hardly say yes, because this blend doesn't have anything really special, it is so ordinary, that I can recommend it to the most conservative smokers only.

Pipe Used: Dunhill Country

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Fazby (66)	2015-12-08		Very Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

While it is strong, not doubt about that, it wasn't completely overpowering. One needs to be prepared for it though. The taste was decent but it had some cigar notes to it that I didn't care for.

Pipe Used: Various

Age When Smoked: new tin

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Haroldt (26)	2015-08-04		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Mild to Medium	Very Pleasant

Old Joe I have to say this is a “big boy” smoke, not for the faint of heart. I had posted a question on the pipe magazine forum asking people to recommend an American Blend, and another post asking for Burley, Virginia suggestions. Both post found Old Joe to be suggest. I reviewed the comments here at Tobacco Reviews and found that not only did it get a good score, but it had lots of reviews and several people suggesting it was a favorite (as have I.) So with that – I placed my order.

Opening the bag and taking a whiff is uneventful, I really would not say it has a good or bad smell, just a smell. After smoking my first bowl, my head was spinning. I don’t think it was a nicotine rush, but something hit me. HOWEVER – the smoke was easy (not a lot of relights) and it burned clean to the bottom of the bowl. I've had about 10 bowls so far and have never had any moisture build up in the bowl - no gurgling. A plus too was no tongue bite.

If I smoke this easy, it is one fine blend to have on hand. And since my wife likes earthly smelling baccy and nothing sweet – this was immediately approved by her.

I would say if you enjoy a good medium English blend, you might like this just fine. If you like Drew Estates: Meat Pie or Hearth & Home Larry’s Blend; Old Joe should at least make an appearance in your cellar. I bet he will be invited back time and time again.

One final note. For those of us that also smoke cigars. I find a cigar becomes too harsh as it nears the end. However, by the last quarter of your bowl of Old Joe you might think that you just lit a very fine cigar! This stuff becomes one of the best cigar I've ever smoked (in or out of my pipe.)

On a funny aside – one night I poured myself a double scotch and water, loaded up my pipe, and headed for the back porch with a book to read. When I came in, my wife asked me if I had seen a ghost as I was as white as a sheet. I told her “no, Ol’ Joe just kicked my ass.” I will say, however It was the deepest sleep I’ve had in a long time.

Pipe Used: Corn Cobs, Briar

Age When Smoked: just got the order

Purchased From: Pipes and Cigar

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Perdurabo (26)	2015-03-12		Very Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

Age this Shit for at least 4 years! If you like it fresh, you are in for a treat. Chocolate, nutty-madness,Burgundy cola, with layers of dark fruit.

Mind Altering! Meditational Medicine!

Pipe Used: Corn cobb

Age When Smoked: 6 months

Purchased From: Smokingpioes.com

Similar Blends: Barbary Coast.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Virginia lover (218)	2014-04-24		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I am welcomed by a musty smelling tobacco, this is promising. It packs very nicely and here I go. A nutty, earthy and slightly peppery, toasty bread taste shows up while I am blindsided by the strength. 1st lesson smoke it slowly in a small pipe as there is enough of everything in this mixture. It reminds me of Semois or Brun tobacco from Europe, no wonder since it's Burley. 2nd lesson smoke it on a full stomach, preferably after dinner, to fully enjoy it without any discomfort. Overall a must try for experienced pipe smokers.

Virginia lover

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Gentleman Zombie (729)	2013-10-17		Medium to Strong	Very Mild	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

I can't pinpoint why but I didn't much care for this blend. It has quality components but something about it put me off. I did manage to finish the tin though.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	radioisotope (17)	2013-02-21		Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

whitebriar is right everything that needs to be said about OJK has been but I will say I think I found my favorite old bulk standby. I have always ordered 4-8 ounces of bayou night a month but this stuff is quickly becoming a favorite!

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	whitebriar (31)	2012-11-15		Medium to Strong	Very Mild	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

everything has been said about 'Old Joe' that need be said--

all i need to add is 'i like it'!! __________________________________________ edit--2-4-19---------the last OJK i got has been just a shadow of it self circa 2012------no punch, less flavor and perique seems reduced--has anyone else noted such---it was sent to me as original OJK and not one of the newer spinoffs--i'd be curious to hear what others have found--

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2012-11-10		Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

I love this stuff. First tobacco I bought in pounds of bulk. it's a great value and one of the few heavy burley's that can hold my interest. The perique is spicy and present. I smoke this inbetween the pricey stuff.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2012-10-04		Medium	Extremely Mild	Mild to Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

The overall flavor and aroma is good. Unfortunately I am finding out that I do not care for perique. Just a little to spicy for my taste. To each his own though. Im sure some people will really like it judging by the number of spicy blends I have run across. Just not for me.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2012-07-28		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

Stout, bitter, sour taste, very full bodied, very decent nicotine. I love this stuff, first time I smoked it was 2 bowls back to back.. I never finished the second one,I had to lie down from nicotine OD.

When puffed slowly it brings out a musty, old timey flavour, sour and bitter but not in a bad way. Fantastic in a cob, I just can't get the same experience in a briar. Does not DGT very well.

This is a keeper for sure, I will be stocking up

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2012-05-14		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Pleasant

Old Joe Krantz is a solid blend of burley and perique that doesn't play around! The flavor is full of honest tobacco goodness, as is the room aroma. The vitamin N is no joke, and is very satisfying almost to a fault for those who are looking for it. All in all OJK is a no nonsense manly smoke that maintains a loyal following for good reason.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2011-12-28		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

OJK is my quinessential 'go to' blend, the one I pray that my tobacco pouch is loaded with if I am ever stranded on a deserted island. Everything from the pouch aroma to the flavor to the room aroma simply cries out "Tobacco" to me. Admittedly I am a sucker for perique in substantial quantities (perhaps living in close proximity to St. James parish gives me cause for bias...I don't know). I enjoy the spectrum of flavors that the interplay of burley, virginia, and perique provide, with just the right satisfying dose of vitamin N. A pipeful of OJK accompanied by a large travel mug of Community coffee is my staple breakfast of champions! If you enjoy good, honest tobacco flavor definitely give OJK a try.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2011-11-25		Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

This is "exorcised bookshop" by my account, as it clears up the shortcomings of its rougher younger brother, mostly with the addition of a slightly nuttier-tasting burley and less-intrusive perique and Viriginia.

No fuss, no muss - smoke this one right out of the tin with no heat or bite. Just make sure you've eaten.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	7formy1911 (37)	2011-09-18		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

I've been sitting on some bulk Old Joe Krantz for about 5 months now and figured that would be a good length of time to let it mellow out a bit. Anymore I'll let a bulk C&D Blend sit for 4 to 6 months before cracking it open since it's really tough for me to gauge how much I like the blend when it's freshly done.

I'm not a fan of perique. It typically comes off as peppery to me in anything from Escudo to C&Ds Epiphany or Haunted Bookshop. Sure I get flashes of figs and dark fruits but for the most part it's more irritating than exciting. That led me to be little apprehensive about OJK. I was very pleasantly surprised. First light brings the burley up front followed by an earthy sweetness that seems to be from the red Virginia followed up by flashes of figs from the perique. As the bowl progresses the perique picks up some steam and becomes a bit more pronounced along with the Virginia. The burley is always there but towards the bottom of the bowl seems as more of a buffer than at the forefront. This blend is very smooth. It's probably one of the smoothest blends I've ever had. A little nose tickle from the perique will certainly keep you from inhaling by mistake though. Nicotine wise this blend is quite satisfying and if you are sensitive to it then I would caution you that this blend is strong. For me I'd place it in the medium to strong range but just slightly closer to medium.

I'll be trying more of this blend in different pipes but it's a burley blend first and foremost with some perique and Virginia to keep it exciting. It's certainly not complex but there is enough interest to puff on it all day. I highly recommend this blend to just about anyone to be honest. If you're a latakia fiend you will be disappointed but if you enjoy burley blends or VaPers this will certainly be a change of pace.

One item of note is that no matter how much I've dried the blend it seems to raise up like a ghost in the bowl. Mostly at the initial lighting but sometimes later on during a relight. The only other blend I've noted this on was Hal O' the Wynd.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-04-26		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Mild	Pleasant

This blend came to me with a perfect moisture level but the blend looked like randomly chewed up mulch. There were some very fine pieces and some quite large partial leaves. The smell of the mix was unremarkable. This lit well and produced a good volume of smoke, but the flavor was quite unremarkable as well. It was full bodied and strong, but just not very good. Maybe I got the bottom of the bulk bag from which this came...who knows?! I have only tried 2 C&D blends and this is the first time I have seen poor quality control...I'm disappointed. OJK is a harsh old man and I'm not willing to take his poor behavior and shabby appearance again.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2010-03-17		Very Strong	Medium	Mild to Medium	Tolerable

Bulk: Reminds me of lightly musty grain bread, in a spectrum of browns and varied ribbon cut. I suppose the occasional black fleck is the perique. Since I got this in bulk-as a special deal from C&D-and it sat for a few months, it was already dry when it was smoked.

OJK gave a peppery feel on the tongue.

Overall: Nothing remarkable except for substantial woosiness from the nicotine, which seemed to peak well after being finished smoking a bowl. This is singularly recommended if you want to experience a heavy nicotine effect.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Pipe4ever (204)	2010-02-25		Very Strong	Very Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

This is a classic American burley blend with harsh, masculine smoke and a powerful nicotine overdose, unfortunately my body is very sensitive to nicotine, therefore, this blend is not for me, I like American Burley such as Prince Albert and Carter Hall, Barbary Coast is also a favorite, but not this one.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2006-12-27		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Extra Full	Tolerable

It doesn't bite, burns easy, and has a nice, full flavor at times. Not sweet at all. This tobacco changes a lot on me. Maybe its just inexperience or something, but what's with that hellacious bitterness that jumps out and grabs my tonsils sometimes? I don't get it. May have to revisit this one in the future.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Pipepundit (168)	2006-01-05		Mild to Medium	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant

There are better presentations of perique than this. Though I finished the tin without any reservations It is unlikely that I will seek another one.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2005-12-04		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

I am a big fan of Burley/VA/Perique blends. I am also a big fan of C & D tobaccos. But for some reason this one didn't do it for me. I tried this from a tobacco box pass without knowing what was in it before I tried it. I was surprised to find out it had perique in it! I was impressed with it the most in the beginning and as the time went on I started thinking "Who is this Joe Krantz anyway?" and he missed it with this one. Sorry C & D but there are other tobaccos like this one out there that are much better than this one!

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2005-11-20		Strong	Extremely Mild	Medium to Full	Tolerable

This pipe-weed has the usual C&D quality tobaccos and offers easy packing, few relights, and an even burn due to the great cut.

Unfortunately, Old Joe disappointed me. I found the blend quite out of balance; the scales tipped way over with Perique. The burley had a fleeting whisper of presence, and the Virginia never let out a note. My tongue was convinced I had a mouthful of peppercorns. I wasn't able to finish the sampler, as she lays. As I do a bit of blending, I was able to salvage the remainder, and in the process, come up with some decent variants.

I can only recommend this blend to those pipesters with an unqualified fondness of Perique.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Beer (345)	2004-10-19		Medium	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable

Not as powerful as Haunted Bookshop, less cigarish but also a bit more anonimous.

A decent smoke, but nothing particular to recommend.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2004-03-14		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

The first time I smoked this stuff I hit a "patch of Perique" that nearly blew my head off. Since then, I am a bit selective in how I load my pipe with OJK. With that, I can say it is a pretty good smoke. There seems to be a slight cigar taste to blend. If I want that taste I can get a much tastier dose of it by smoking Billy Budd. I'm at the crossroads in whether I'll buy another four ounce packet of this stuff. I might just miss it when I run out of it. I do love Perique, Burley, and Virginia tobaccos (not necessarily in that order), but think there are other blends of this type that will not give me that cigar taste that I don't really want unless it's called for. It pales in comparison to Haddo's Delight, so maybe I shouldn't compare the two. If both have a strong Perique element, and I have to choose,...give me Haddo's Delight any time.

1 person found this review helpful.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	delcrossv (4)	2023-03-09		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

Harsh and that's being kind. Medium strong but sharp and bitey.. Tin note is mostly prunes but there's no prune sweetness in the smoke. Nic hit is medium, which is a little of a surprise given the taste. . I'm with the reviewer below that one needs an asbestos tongue to consider this an "all day smoke". If you like Perique, Exclusive has as much and is a better bet. If you want a "strong" Burley smoke, G&H Brown Irish X Twist is worth the hassle of prepping. If you're looking for a mortification for Fridays in Lent, you've found it in Old Joe Krantz.

Pipe Used: Medium Meershaum

Age When Smoked: new

Purchased From: smokingpipes.com

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	jedibastard (36)	2023-01-03		Medium	Medium	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

Pretty neat stuff. Cigarette like...but classy(because its pipe tobacco). Spice can be confused with tongue bite if pushed. Tounge bite can be confused with spice. Take it slow and just enjoy it for what it is. Dont go looking for hints of this, or, slight suggestions of that. Pouch aromas are sweet, creamy and a little bit of a nose sting. Burning it really smells fantastic!!!

Pipe Used: Moonshine stoker

Purchased From: Cargo hold

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Duke_Lancaster (7)	2022-12-30		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium	Pleasant to Tolerable

So it started off a little sweet and got some Prince Albert vibes off of it but something a bit more and later in the bowl I get some spice overall it was a good smoke it lit well didn’t burn my mouth at first I confused the spice with bite but soon realized my mistake I would recommend smoking this slowly I am definitely feeling some vitamin N in it but not as strong as say Nightcap if smoked slow it is a good smoke I would not recommend this to beginners but it is a decent smoke

Pipe Used: Roma lucite 316

Age When Smoked: New

Purchased From: Smoking pipes.com

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	SpiralOut (16)	2022-12-27		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Overwhelming	Overwhelming

Strong vegetal, mushroom and damp wood at first light. Unpleasant nose note immediately. Three tries of this blend and I have come to the conclusion either this is terrible or just not for me. I never finished a full bowl and find the aroma of the tin and the room note repulsive. I cant say anything I enjoyed about meeting Old Joe. ZERO stars. -Spiral Out

Pipe Used: Aldo Velani Collection A

Age When Smoked: 2022

Purchased From: Tobacco Junction, Tyler, TX

Similar Blends: Marlboro Red cigarettes, A cheap honduran cigar.

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	pipesnuffscience (10)	2022-02-07		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

Notes: dark fruit, floral, pepper.

Incredible tobacco. For beginners it can be scary, as it has medium-high nicotine and intense flavor. Sometimes it looks like a cigar. It takes time and patience for contemplation. It is a tobacco whose spiciness alternates with the sweetness of the buley, which is very "plum" and sometimes more "floral". The red virginia is present throughout the smoke, adding notes of dark fruit and a complex sweetness that demands maturity to be contemplated. It's not for beginners. It's not for latakia addicts (who will have a hell of a latakia withdrawal in this mix). Do not. It's a tobacco made for Burley lovers. In its proposal, it is a masterpiece -- perhaps one of the best blends of Cornel & Dihel.

Pipe Used: Several Pipes (large bowls is recommended)

Purchased From: 4noggins

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Scrooge-Jones (24)	2021-12-17		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable to Strong

I am going to have to come back to this blend, when I smoked it about a year ago I think it just went over my head as I had only been smoking for about 6 months. In the meantime though…

Pipe Used: Cob

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	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	BrokenRecord (124)	2021-06-03		Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable to Strong

Old Joe Krantz is one of my favorite burley blends—especially from C&D. I enjoy the upfront nutty earthiness of the burley tobaccos. A hearty dose of perique adds a spicy and fermented cigar-like undertone to the experience. The Virginia leaf adds some sweetness to balance out the blend but easily hides behind the other ingredients. OJK is quite strong in nicotine and can lay me out.

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Clarkus (36)	2021-05-26		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable

I am mostly a Burley smoker and had so many recommendations for OJK, I got a couple of ounces to try. I found it to be too harsh for my taste. Nicotine level was pretty high but not bad but the blend itself was just over the top. I prefer a blend that whispers in my ear and this one yells out.

Pipe Used: Cob and various briars

Age When Smoked: 1 year

Purchased From: Pipes and Cigars

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	JKOD (30)	2021-05-02		Medium to Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Tolerable

I like this blend because of the burley and perique. The burley provides a fullness to the smoke and the perique adds a nice fruity/sweet character. Not aromatic sweet - just natural tobacco sweet.

Out of the tin this is smoke ready. Drying is fine, but I don’t notice it does much to the blend. Best to burn this one slow as too fast makes the taste and feel a little harsh. Don’t find this needs many relights.

I like this one in the early to mid-afternoon time. Evening would be OK, too. The nic on this one tends to be a creeper. Nothing, nothing, nothing... and then hello, nice to meet you. Not too crazy, but it will let you know it’s not to be trifled with. I usually notice it about 3/4 through the bowl. It’s a nice touch for my tastes. Sometimes wish a bit stronger, but I try not to smoke for the nic bennies.

Giving this to a new smoker or a lightweight on nic is probably not the best idea. Might also take them a while to develop the tastes for something like this because of its fullness. However, overall I definitely recommend this blend to the brave and or tried and true. I also find I like this one more than haunted bookshop, but not exactly sure just why yet. Perhaps the perique content is more where I like it to be? The burleys in this seem a little nuttier as well. This like them both, just this one a little better. I also like this blend, and some other burleys, as an appetizer for a nice English blend. It just works.

Pipe Used: Multiple

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	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	spelt85 (1)	2020-11-08		Strong	Medium to Strong	Full	Pleasant

This has quickly become my new, slow smoke go to!!! Take your time & explore this blend, you will not be disappointed. It is worth the wait. Grab yourself a box of wooden matches, your favorite whiskey and sit back and enjoy your evening.

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Indianapolis (49)	2020-02-03		Strong	None Detected	Full	Strong

If you love Burley, and like a Va/Per, give this a try. But you've gotta love Burley. Like, a lot.

I found the Burley overwhelming in this blend. It's potent, acrid, a little bitter, and definitely powerful. I'd have guessed there was cigar leaf in here if I hadn't read otherwise -- its got that kinda peppery creaminess I expect from cigar.

I just don't like Burley. I'd personally give this one star, but I'll give it two because I understand I'm biased here. It's somewhat recommended to your average smoker, and probably a dream come true for a Burley fanatic.

The one thing I'll say positive -- the virginias underneath are actually very high quality. I get glimpses of sweetness, especially early in a bowl, which tell me that there's a strong virginia base somewhere. And the perique has a nice dark fruit spice. But by mid-bowl the burleys have dominated both, to the extent that I have trouble differentiating this after the first third from Burley Flake #1.

Not reordering this one. But I'm glad to read its some other reviewers' cup-o-tea.

Age When Smoked: Fresh - 1 year.

Similar Blends: Burley Flake #1, Bayou Morning with burley instead of virginia..

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	cam91 (23)	2019-10-24		Very Strong	None Detected	Medium	Tolerable to Strong

I was looking for a daily smoke to alternate with my Haunted Bookshop so I bought a 2 oz tin of OJK. The burley is very musty and robust. The perique provides a great deal of spice, however I don't get a whole lot of fruity notes. For me the Virginia was nearly MIA. The nicotine is where this blend shines, in my opinion. In fact, it is a little too much for me, as I notice it affecting my blood pressure a bit. Not sure I will be purchasing this again, although it is a convenient way to get a satisfying dose of nicotine. I don't feel it is comparing apples to oranges to say I prefer Haunted Bookshop over this. More like comparing Granny Smith apples to Fuji apples. But, I digress. I can recommend this to nicotine junkies like myself, but I would not recommend this to a new pipe smoker as I feel this does not display the full potential of the flavors of the types of tobaccos it contains. Two and a half stars.

Similar Blends: Haunted bookshop..

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	OhioTony76 (59)	2017-02-23		Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable

Serious burley and lots of perique. Dark burley, spicy pepper perique and not a whole lot of Virginia. Pure tobacco flavor. Moisture is perfect. To me, this has complexity. Nicotine hit is above average. Full flavored and unrefined, in a good way. Warning! If your a straight VA smoker (which I’m not) you may want to think carefully before picking this blend up. After smoking a few ounces of OJK, your straight VA might taste like hot air ;)

Age When Smoked: Fresh bulk

Purchased From: Online

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Old at heart (9)	2016-04-30		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

I love this stuff. Its an american mustang of a blend !

it will kick like a foul tempered old horse if you push it too much and puff too fast. A nice steady hand and a slow pace is really needed here - else the horse kicks and bites. Rum like spice from the perique in small doses followed by a heavy hitting dense strength from the burly. Mollases at times give slight relief or perhaps my misinterpretation of nut like burly at its best. I like a lot of nicotine so dont really notice the strength anymore, i remember being nearly green the first time i tried it though. In short - a mustang.

Pipe Used: A pete army mount

Purchased From: 4 noggins

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	GabrielCRT (115)	2016-01-17		Strong	None Detected	Full	Tolerable

This is my go to Sunday morning blend. It's an extraordinary full strength tobacco that shines after a big breakfast with a strong cup of coffee. The tin note is musty with some dark fruit. The dark Burley's are bold and have a sharp bitter note that is far from unpleasant and the red Virginias sweetness help to balance that. The Perique is a strong and sometimes brash component here but never completely untamed. Aside from some spice and black pepper the Perique offers there is also some plum/fig going on. I'm amazed at how the three potent and earthy tobaccos combine so well and perform with a level of relative smoothness. I enjoy fading in and out of sleep while smoking this blend early in the morning!

Pipe Used: Cobs and Meerschaums

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	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	noquarter (23)	2015-07-21		Strong	None Detected	Medium to Full	Pleasant to Tolerable

This is an occasional smoke but part of my rotation nonetheless. I am overwhelmed by the sensations the smoke provides but still find it tasteless at times. Billowing smoke,spicy and just plain tobacco flavor. I like it but this is definitely not for everyone. I usually have either OJK or five brothers if I am in the mood for that kind of stuff.

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Vaperluvr60 (4)	2014-11-06		Strong	None Detected	Full	Pleasant

A tough old bird but.....off the truck it was like an El Rico Habano.....N bomb! But as time has passed it has changed in personality, flavor and strength. I get this sensation of too much salt in food.....pleasant but you know your doctor would not approve! I've been smoking a pipe off and on since the mid 70's and no burley blend I ever got a hold of was like this stuff. I'm at the end of a pound and I will be putting some more in the cellar.....I try not to make it an every day deal but somehow I keep reaching for it....I have this little Carey apple that just loves to eats this stuff....I drive a truck and I love the smell when I've been smoking it and have to get out and upon coming back I'm greeted with this earthy, somewhat sweet aroma...what can I tell you...try some if anything here appeals to you but let it rest a bit before passing judgement.....OJK is an old codger for sure but once you get to know him....he's a pretty good old boy!

Pipe Used: All my small bores...

Age When Smoked: fresh and now 6 months

Purchased From: pipesandcigars

Similar Blends: stands alone....others are similar to it..

Nobody has rated this review yet.

	Reviewed By	Date	Rating	Strength	Flavoring	Taste	Room Note
	Emeritus Account (30125)	2013-10-15		Strong	None Detected	Very Full	Tolerable to Strong

Smells like dirty feet and is very strong and peppery I get how you could like it just not for me same for HB

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