Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust Umbagog Bronzeback 5×48

Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust is known for quality and superior blending. From the elite lines like Sin Compromiso and Brulee Wagashi to the Mi Querida trio and beyond, Steve Saka has created a lifestyle brand you can’t help but respect. One of his newest creations is more on the affordable side, however. But don’t let it fool you; it still provides the superior quality and depth Dunbarton fans have come to know and love. The Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust Umbagog Bronzeback was released earlier this year and combines affability with complex transitions and rich flavor. How does he produce it at a lower price point? By usuing certain ‘graded’ tobaccos otherwise rejected for his elite brands.

Steve Saka says, “’2LS’ is a designation for the leaves typically situated between the 1/3 to 1/2 mark on the stalk. They sit beneath what is called the ‘Mediums. This section of the plant produces a wrapper with a different hue and flavor profile…rather than be that those classic sweet, earthy, and cocoa notes exhibited by broadleaf, the 2LS leaves typically give the smoker a slightly less sweet but significantly more peppery smoking experience.”

The Dunbarton Umbagog Bronzes back is only produced in one size; a 5×48 Rothschild. They say Rothschild, but to me, it is like a thinner Robusto. By selecting this different wrapper grade, Steve Saka can lower the price and offer a unique smoking experience. Umbagog Bronzeback shines with notes of pepper, cocoa, earth, leather, a delightful toasted bread, a little more earth, and a lingering sweetness. While I enjoy the original Umbagog, I feel the Bronzeback knocks it out of the park. From value to experience. Umbagog Bronzeback is one of my favorite creations from this year.