Pfeifenbox

Brands

Don Carlos

Tier:

Affordable	Mid-grade	Elevated	High-grade	Top
		X

Country: Italy

Price: €130+

Production method:

Factory	Machine-assisted	Freehand
		X

Notes: Bruto Sordini makes up to 2000 Don Carlos pipes a year, grading them by surface/grain (rusticated to fiammata) and sub-grading with musical notes (1 to 3 in each category). His reputation - especially in the USA - is a cut above Italian average, and his work is often priced accordingly.

Comments: Don Carlos pipes are definitely well executed, but not decisively better than other artisan briars from Italy. Shapes are harmonious, yet generally rather 'ordinary' - grain generates the main attraction of most higher-end pieces. Stem work, on the other hand, surpasses that of many other Italian brands, and bits are comfortably unobtrusive.

In all, the preferential status enjoyed by this make appears a little exaggerated. Extremely grain-conscious smokers will appreciate the more expensive grades, whereas others may well find less celebrated producers more exciting.

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