Gawith Hoggarth R&M (Rum and Maple) Flake - aromatic with rum and maple syrup flavor

Gawith Hoggarth R&M (Rum and Maple) Flake - irresistible aromatic from Kendal

Gawith Hoggarth R&M (formerly Rum and Maple), now sold in some markets for regulatory reasons as Jamaican Flake, is among the classic flake (pressed) tobaccos from English Kendal. It is based on a blend of Virginias and Burley. The flavoring mainly relies on the combination of rum and maple syrup, which is meant to enhance the natural sweetness of the tobacco, not completely cover it.

This is not some "sticky" modern aromatic. Rum and maple are noticeable, but underneath remains a distinct tobacco base: sweeter Virginia, earthier and nuttier Burley, darker fermented tones, and a slightly dessert-like character. Some smokers report hints of licorice or vanilla in this blend, but the main flavor profile remains rum and maple.

🍃 Smoking and preparation Gawith Hoggarth R&M (Rum and Maple)

Rum Flake / Jamaican Flake is sold in flake or broken flake form. Since it tends to be a moister tobacco, it benefits from a light rubbing and a short drying time before smoking, about 15–30 minutes depending on moisture content. After proper preparation, it burns slowly and coolly.

The strength of Rum Flake is medium; it is not a strong tobacco, but compared to regular sweet aromatics, it has a more pronounced tobacco body and nicotine. Therefore, it is better suited for slower smoking, for example, after a meal, rather than as a light tobacco for all-day puffing.

⚙️ Production Gawith Hoggarth R&M (Rum and Maple)

The interest in R&M Flake lies not only in its flavor and quality but also in the production method. Gawith Hoggarth is one of the last traditional manufacturers in Kendal and for flake tobaccos, the production process is still based on long pressing, old manufacturing techniques, and a dense structure of the tobacco cake. This method of pressing results in slow burning, a more integrated flavor, and a denser, "old-world" character.

R&M (Rum and Maple) should therefore be perceived as a genuine Va/Bur flake with a rum and maple accent, not as a sweet aromatic bomb. It will most please a smoker who wants tobacco with a traditional body, slow burning, and a subtle sweet layer on top.