Perique tobacco is a type of tobacco from Saint James Parish, Louisiana, known for its strong, powerful, and fruity aroma. It is based on a variety of Red Burley (USDA Type 72) leaf . The tobacco plants are manually kept suckerless and pruned to exactly 12 leaves through their early growth. The leaves are then rolled into “torquettes” of approximately 1 pound (450 g) and packed into hickory whiskey barrels. The tobacco is kept under pressure using oak blocks and massive screw jacks, forcing nearly all the air out of the still-moist leaves. After a year of this treatment, the perique is ready for consumption .
History of Perique Tobacco
Perique tobacco has a long and rich history dating back to the 18th century. It was first cultivated by the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes who lived in the area that is now St. James Parish. The tobacco was grown and cured using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.
Cultivation of Perique Tobacco
Perique tobacco is grown in a small area of St. James Parish known as the “Perique District.” The soil in this area is rich in nutrients and minerals, making it ideal for growing tobacco. The plants are carefully tended to ensure that they produce the highest quality leaves.
Fermentation Process of Perique Tobacco
After the tobacco leaves are harvested, they undergo a unique fermentation process that gives Perique its distinct flavor and aroma. The leaves are placed in barrels and pressed under heavy weights. This pressure causes the tobacco to ferment, releasing its natural oils and flavors.
Blending of Perique Tobacco
Perique tobacco is often used in blends to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. It is commonly blended with other types of tobacco such as Virginia and Burley to create a balanced and satisfying smoke.
Aroma of Perique Tobacco
The aroma of Perique tobacco is one of its most distinctive characteristics. It has a strong, fruity scent with notes of figs, raisins, and plums. This aroma is released when the tobacco is smoked, filling the air with its rich fragrance.
Taste of Perique Tobacco
The taste of Perique tobacco is just as unique as its aroma. It has a bold, spicy flavor with hints of pepper and fruit. When blended with other tobaccos, it adds depth and complexity to the overall taste.
Uses of Perique Tobacco
Perique tobacco is used primarily for pipe smoking and in some cigarette blends. It is also used in some chewing tobaccos and snuff. Its unique flavor and aroma make it a popular choice among tobacco enthusiasts.
Rarity of Perique Tobacco
Perique tobacco is considered a rare commodity due to its limited growing area and the labor-intensive process required to produce it. This rarity makes it highly sought after by tobacco enthusiasts who appreciate its unique characteristics.
Future of Perique Tobacco
The future of Perique tobacco looks bright as more people discover its unique flavor and aroma. As demand for this rare tobacco continues to grow, efforts are being made to increase production while maintaining the high quality that has made it so popular.
Conclusion
Perique tobacco is a rare and unique type of tobacco that has been enjoyed by smokers for centuries. Its distinct flavor and aroma make it a popular choice among tobacco enthusiasts who appreciate its complexity and depth.
FAQs:
- What is Perique tobacco?
Perique tobacco is a type of tobacco from Saint James Parish, Louisiana, known for its strong, powerful, and fruity aroma. - How is Perique tobacco grown?
Perique tobacco is grown in a small area of St. James Parish known as the “Perique District.” The soil in this area is rich in nutrients and minerals, making it ideal for growing tobacco. The plants are carefully tended to ensure that they produce the highest quality leaves. - How is Perique tobacco fermented?
After the tobacco leaves are harvested, they undergo a unique fermentation process that gives Perique its distinct flavor and aroma. The leaves are placed in barrels and pressed under heavy weights. This pressure causes the tobacco to ferment, releasing its natural oils and flavors. - How is Perique tobacco used?
Perique tobacco is often used in blends to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. It is commonly blended with other types of tobacco such as Virginia and Burley to create a balanced and satisfying smoke. - What does Perique tobacco smell like?
The aroma of Perique tobacco is one of its most distinctive characteristics. It has a strong, fruity scent with notes of figs, raisins, and plums. - What does Perique tobacco taste like?
The taste of Perique tobacco is just as unique as its aroma. It has a bold, spicy flavor with hints of pepper and fruit. - Is Perique tobacco rare?
Perique tobacco is considered a rare commodity due to its limited growing area and the labor-intensive process required to produce it. - What is the future of Perique tobacco?
The future of Perique tobacco looks bright as more people discover its unique flavor and aroma. - Who first turned local Louisiana tobacco into what is now known as Perique?
A farmer named Pierre Chenet is credited with first turning this local tobacco into what is now known as Perique in 1824 through the labor-intensive technique of pressure-fermentation . - How long does it take for Perique tobacco to be ready for consumption?
After a year of treatment under pressure using oak blocks and massive screw jacks, the perique is ready for consumption . - Can Perique be smoked pure?
Often considered the truffle of pipe tobaccos by connoisseurs, perique is used as a component of various blended pipe tobaccos, as many people consider it too strong to be smoked pure . - Is there any other use for fresh and moist perique apart from smoking?
At one time, fresh and moist perique was also chewed but none is now sold for this purpose . - How many growers were planting Perique commercially in Saint James Parish as of May 2017?
As of May 2017, the number of growers planting Perique commercially in Saint James Parish has risen to 25 . - What happens when perique is exposed to air for an extended period?
Extended exposure to air degrades the particular character of perique. - What are some other types of tobaccos that can be blended with perique?
Perique can be blended with other types of tobaccos such as Virginia and Burley .
Sources of information:
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perique
- Leffingwell: https://www.leffingwell.com/download/Volatile%20Constituents%20of%20Perique%20Tobacco4.pdf
- Smokingpipes.com: https://www.smokingpipes.com/smokingpipesblog/single.cfm/post/closer-look-perique