Kyle Weiss
Well-known member
- Joined
- Sep 18, 2011
- Messages
- 11,988
- Reaction score
- 9
Club soda. Seltzer water. Carbonated water. Sparkling water.
Call it what you want, it works. I'm bringing this up after the recent acquisition of an old, 1950s era Kidde Soda King seltzer bottle I found at a junk shop, that I put new seals in (improvised, more like) because I wanted to make my own ginger ale. I have yet to make my own ginger pop, but in the mean time, I've re-discovered a trick that seasoned espresso tasters and food flavor nerds taught me a while back--one of the best ways to clear your palate and maintain a "fresh tongue." Pairing this up with pipe smoking was kind of a whim, but because of the nature of pipe smoke, which can get as overwhelming as espresso due to the oils and other compounds, I figured it would be worth a shot.
For a few weeks now, especially since I'm off the caffeine and alcohol for a while (stomach issues, don't ask--I don't like it any more than the next guy) I've been drinking mostly water. Well, water is boring, and sometimes doesn't do the trick. Until you add a little CO2.
Why it works, I'm not sure. I'm not a anatomist and I've never looked into it. Perhaps the bubbles loosen up taste buds, clear away accumulated particles or buildup, or simply wakes up your senses.
Smoking a pipe, especially when trying new things, or even getting "palate fatigue" can be daunting. For me, I want to have honest tobacco. All of the variables we encounter when just trying to pack, put flame to baccaweed, tamping or simply drawing really gives us a lot of taken-for-granted processes. Had to many bowls the day before, but really want to have a smoke? Try soda water. Want to try something and gain an edge on flavors? Try soda water.
Some tips, if you decide to try this:
* Get a seltzer bottle (a newer one if you can, they're not too pricey) and some CO2 cartridges from a restaurant supply store. Use your tap water (filtered is okay) since your body is probably accustomed to the pH and the mineral content. Keep it in the fridge, and have a cocktail glass full of it, sipping every once in a while between draws as you smoke.
* Get a 2-liter of club soda from the store. Once for ounce, it's more expensive in the long run, but it's good, filtered, carbonated water and less hassle. Same deal--in the fridge, pour a small glass, and pair it with any smoke.
I have had superb results with VAs, as well as freshening a tired tongue. Latakias and stronger mixtures taste more full, and lose some edginess. I suppose heavy Perique stuff might benefit from this as well.
Let me know what you think! I'm glad I re-discovered this trick, and it's been very beneficial to me.
8)
Call it what you want, it works. I'm bringing this up after the recent acquisition of an old, 1950s era Kidde Soda King seltzer bottle I found at a junk shop, that I put new seals in (improvised, more like) because I wanted to make my own ginger ale. I have yet to make my own ginger pop, but in the mean time, I've re-discovered a trick that seasoned espresso tasters and food flavor nerds taught me a while back--one of the best ways to clear your palate and maintain a "fresh tongue." Pairing this up with pipe smoking was kind of a whim, but because of the nature of pipe smoke, which can get as overwhelming as espresso due to the oils and other compounds, I figured it would be worth a shot.
For a few weeks now, especially since I'm off the caffeine and alcohol for a while (stomach issues, don't ask--I don't like it any more than the next guy) I've been drinking mostly water. Well, water is boring, and sometimes doesn't do the trick. Until you add a little CO2.
Why it works, I'm not sure. I'm not a anatomist and I've never looked into it. Perhaps the bubbles loosen up taste buds, clear away accumulated particles or buildup, or simply wakes up your senses.
Smoking a pipe, especially when trying new things, or even getting "palate fatigue" can be daunting. For me, I want to have honest tobacco. All of the variables we encounter when just trying to pack, put flame to baccaweed, tamping or simply drawing really gives us a lot of taken-for-granted processes. Had to many bowls the day before, but really want to have a smoke? Try soda water. Want to try something and gain an edge on flavors? Try soda water.
Some tips, if you decide to try this:
* Get a seltzer bottle (a newer one if you can, they're not too pricey) and some CO2 cartridges from a restaurant supply store. Use your tap water (filtered is okay) since your body is probably accustomed to the pH and the mineral content. Keep it in the fridge, and have a cocktail glass full of it, sipping every once in a while between draws as you smoke.
* Get a 2-liter of club soda from the store. Once for ounce, it's more expensive in the long run, but it's good, filtered, carbonated water and less hassle. Same deal--in the fridge, pour a small glass, and pair it with any smoke.
I have had superb results with VAs, as well as freshening a tired tongue. Latakias and stronger mixtures taste more full, and lose some edginess. I suppose heavy Perique stuff might benefit from this as well.
Let me know what you think! I'm glad I re-discovered this trick, and it's been very beneficial to me.
8)
![[3-Size Set] Copper Pipe Cleaner for Drill, Clean 1/2, 3/4, 1-in Copper Pipes & Tubes for Soldering, 3 Tube Cleaning Brushes, Model InerLok050, 075, 100, w/ Stainless-Steel Wire Bristles & 1/4” Shank](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41QVxunlqML._SL500_.jpg)
