licing off flakes. I rub mine out. I tend to kind of shave off the pieces and you have to try and get as much of an even amount as possible so you get the right flavor. I like the spiciness of this blend. It's got more Perique than most VaPers. You feel the pepper on the retrohales and sometimes in the mouthfeel. The Virginias, I have mixed tastes with, but if you get the proper cuts during preparation you'll likely have success. I get some sweet stewy fruit flavors (dark fruit). This blend is also savory, I might add, which was unexpected, for me. There is a meaty quality to it. There have been instances where I have gotten cocoa/high cacao percentage flavors from the smoke towards the beginning of the bowl. As the bowl progresses it takes on a brownie-like chocolate taste, which can be light on the palate. There is somewhat of a molasses taste in the background. I don't get an obvious rum taste, but maybe some flavors associated with a sweeter Caribbean rum. It's just not obvious. I am a navy blend fan, so I was looking for it. I wish there was more rum, and that might be the only negative I can claim with this blend. I get a rum aftertaste (just a little) when I am finished smoking this. The nicotine hit may come as you get down the bowl. Don't be deceived. I smoke this is small bowls as suggested. Have a drink handy. I would buy this again, because I find it tasty and strong enough, and thus satisfying. Read Less