Cornell & Diehl’s Anthology 2023 is a limited release celebrating the company’s 31st anniversary. This blend is a flake composed of four high-grade Red Virginias from 2013, 2019, and 2022. The tin I reviewed was dated November 20, 2023.

The aroma from the tin is reminiscent of sweet hay and dried fruit. The moisture level was perfect, and the flakes packed nicely into the bowl, lighting up with ease.

Upon the first light, the flavors are earthy with a subdued plummy sweetness, wood, and hints of citrus. The retrohale offers a pleasant baking spice along with some sourdough notes. The finish is subtly sweet, with flavors of molasses, earth, and stewed fruit.

As the bowl progresses, the smoke becomes creamier, and the sourdough notes start to appear in the finish. The retrohale becomes more peppery, accompanied by a molasses-like sweetness. Background notes of wood, caramel, and dark fruit add complexity to the blend.

Anthology 2023 was impressive when it was first released, and it has only improved after about 15 months of aging. This is a solid Virginia flake worth seeking out. Twins Smoke Shop still has a few tins available. If you are a Virginia lover, I highly recommend picking up a tin or two while you can. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. And that’s not just blowing smoke!