’07 Water Blue Mark

Batch #2 update:

There’s a marked difference in the smokiness between first and second batches.  If the first can be likened to a wooly sweater, the later is more akin to raw silk.  Glassy.  Sweet and smooth but without the noticeable smoke and purple tones. There’s a difference between the stamps, with the first batch being in blue and the second in red.  There’s a noticeable difference in the paper wrapping the cakes as well, with the first comprised of more cotton.

Clearly, the factory has higher regard for the first batch.  Valuations can be 10X higher for the first.  This doesn’t mean that the second is bad, only that the execution in processing and probably material differs.  Without foreknowledge of the first batch Blue Mark, the second will taste decidedly more “blue”.  Both possess a characteristic ZC elegance, but the second batch is considerably more friendly, tranquil.  Tobacco Class. 357g.  30g sample.

2008 WBM

It takes a couple infusions to impart its true character has peat-camphor, vanilla, and a touch of smoke.  There’s a shroud of dry raisin, not juicy raisin, and quite a bit of astringency.  Exhibits strong character reflective of ’06 KMTF offerings, including the camphor.  The peaty camphor factor is the prevailing character, more closely resembling the ’06 Red Peacock than the ’07 production bearing the same name.  The astringency is quite a grizzly, despite its coppery hue. Right now in a place for astringency fiends, who like some camphor along with.  It seems like it’ll be a good three years under ideal conditions for those favouring more tamed offerings.  Vendor lied about being first batch based on stamp colour and paper quality and charging 2X price, but price remains consistent with above, despite signs that ’08 was a better harvest.  Stored in LA since Nov ’23.  Tobacco Class. 357g.  30g sample.

.26¢