By Moi at tobaccoreviews.com:
"A reading of the reviews for HGL falls into two camps, perhaps three. The first are a number of Latakia heads. Now mind you, Latakia tobaccos are indeed condiments, but not for these smokeheads. Those of you who have or are aware of blending whisky know that a smokey profile like the great single malts of Islay, eg Laphroig 10 year is indeed an acquired taste for those few that enjoy being powered over by this sensation. But the blendmasters of great blended whisky know that it doesn't take much more than a tiny bit to greatly affect the blend.
The same is true in blending tobacco. Some might advise that it takes little more than a touch - say 3 to 5% of a Latakia to achieve the goal of adding a pleasant smokey overtone or background, not the 30 to 50% that the Latakia smokeheads demand, or that they critique this HGL for lacking.
Let's add a third group - those who know what's really in HGL. They know because they were long time buyers with a close relationship with their Lane rep, and can say with some credibility that HGL is simply RLP-6 (great on it's own) with a nice touch of Latakia. They are exactly right.
Now the same can be said for the fervor which some like to attach to classifying this blend. Hey, it's not really an English they condescend, naw it's just a "crossover" or a light American transition blend. For noobs, you know. These attempts to impose classifications that are unclear in the first place is a losing and confusing battle.
Then there are those who found this well done Latakia blend just about right, and said so. Only slightly aromatic, and a well-balanced blend containing Latakia, Burley, Virgina and Cavendish.
In my opinion and experience, I'm going with a third group. These reviewers believe - with good reason - that this is RLP-6 with enough Latakia added to make itself known, but in lovely concert with the rest. It's not a Latakia bomb, and they are glad it isn't. The pouch tone is a smokey RLP, and the taste likewise. The Latakia addition means more attention to drying and re-lighting but within reason. It's just another step up in interest and compexity, a bit stronger, a bit tastier, and still retains that bit of flavoring/room aroma to remain pleasurable for all.
Lane became famous for their 1-Q, whose sales continue based more on momentum than actual taste. Their real stars - in order - are BCA, the HLP-6 and leading to HGL. This order is also a nice way to proceed, to find your own sweet spot. For those who don't like Latakia, the HLP-6 is a great place to call home, but for those who do - add the proper touch of Latakia and hang out with the HGL lovers.
Pipe Used: MM Cob - Eaton
Age When Smoked: 1 month
Purchased From: Local tobacconist
Similar Blends: MM American Patriot.
This is yet another step up the aromatic ladder from 1-Q, to BCA, to RLP-6, to HGL, to Sutliff's Aromatic English, to Sutliff's R-Blend (an American English). What a journey! Each step is both valid and enjoyable. I dare you to try the HGL! Very nice.