Say It Isn't So

Instantaneously known among pipe smokers throughout the world by their company logo of the majestic Blue Whale, McClelland Tobacco of Missouri is going out of business. Founded in 1977 as a boutique manafacturer dedicated to high quality production, they quickly found their place in the market and gave the big companies a run for their money. Their Virginias became synonymous with the best of the best.

A few months ago their popular 5100 blend suddenly disappeared from the market leading to endless rumors in the internet's pipe forums. Given McClelland's reputation for never using substandard tobacco I simply viewed it as an interruption and if necessary they would eliminate it and recraft other blends using that base tobacco. Then multiple blends began selling out, this I and others put down to the hoarders who frequently overreact. By the way, if you can afford to overreact I don't blame you, if I could I would. It turns out the hoarders were right.

Although no formal announcement has been issued a few days ago McClelland owner Mary McNiel confirmed to Pipesmagazine.com that she and husband Mike were indeed closing the doors.Mary cited the removal of government price supports, farmer buyouts, the demise of the auction system and overall decline in the quality, availability and diversity of tobacco available to McClelland. The draconian F.D.A. regulations which are causing major havoc in the industry is also a factor now and going forward represents too much of a question mark. They will continue tinning and shipping what inventory remains but after that, it's over.

The industry will be diminished without McClelland Tobacco. Personally, I am quite sad, some of my favorites come from them, including Beacon, a Virginia perique (VaPer) which is my number one smoke. Others include #27, English Cavendish and Dark Navy Flake.

Not all change is good and this is one such thing.