In 433 AD, the Hill Of Slane, as told in Irish legend, is said to be the place that St. Patrick chose to proclaim Christianity to Ireland and help the Druids overcome their “heathen” ways. To celebrate the Spring Equinox, Celtic High King, King Laoghaire, renowned for his brute strength and ferocity, lit a ceremonial fire, not far from the Hill Of Slane, on the Hill Of Tara, where his people had long worshiped the Celtic god of the sun, Lugh. The King warned that no other fire was to be lit or seen during the time of the festival. This all occurred during the Beltaine Festival, celebrating May Day and the half-way point between the Spring and Summer equinox’s.
However, St. Patrick was not intimidated by the King and outwardly defied the King’s orders by
bravely, and boldly lighting and blessing the Paschal (Easter / Passover) fire on the Hill Of Slane, which was easily visible from the Hill Of Tara.
King Laoghaire and the Druids had planned to kill St. Patrick for his disrespect, but the King was so impressed by St. Patrick’s devotion to his beliefs and his convincing and persuasive ways, he actually allowed St. Patrick to continue his missionary work in his kingdom. To this day, a statue of St. Patrick is displayed prominently at the front of the ruins of the Hill Of Tara.
So, it is in honor of the courage, bravery and tenacity that St. Patrick imbued that we can celebrate with a special tobacco blend from Sutliff, which they feel encompasses the storied Saint’s spirit: Hill Of Slane is a fragrant and unique blend of air and flue cured Virginia’s and Burley’s, topped with the perfect amount of Irish Cream flavoring. It burns remarkably cool and slow for an aromatic, giving the smoker time to reflect, remember and relax as the aroma of Irish Cream fills the air.
Sláinte
***
