Hearth & Home Marquee Series' El Nino is one of those pipe tobaccos that's hard to describe. Even though there are other blends that contain similar components - Virginias, Perique, dark-fired Kentucky and unflavored, toasted black Cavendish - the proportions and the process by which it's made create a totally unique flavor, with sweet hay-like notes, a subtle smokiness and a hint of dark fruit and spice. The name also gives a clue to the strength of the blend. Though the flavor is not overpowering, it's a full-bodied blend best suited to the experienced pipester.