Cornell & Diehl Pipe Tobacco: American Top Quality
Cornell & Diehl has firmly established itself in the world of pipe tobacco, even though the brand has only been available in Germany since mid-2023. The high-quality tobacco blends from South Carolina were previously mainly known as souvenirs from the US or through our Swiss neighbors. In Germany, enthusiasts often got creative in finding ways to acquire this highly sought-after product.
Kohlhase & Kopp: The Gateway to Germany
Cornell & Diehl's pipe tobaccos quickly achieved legendary status, prompting German importer Kohlhase & Kopp to bring the brand to Germany. To keep prices low for end consumers, the tobacco is imported in large bulk containers and packaged locally in Rellingen. The tins used, affectionately called “tuna cans,” are closely modeled on the US originals.
Unconventional Tin Sizes
One unique feature of Cornell & Diehl's tobaccos is the packaging size. Like in the US, the tins contain 2 oz (57g) of tobacco. This makes Kohlhase & Kopp the only German importer authorized to use tax stamps for 57g tins.
The Young Success Story of Cornell & Diehl
Compared to other manufacturers, Cornell & Diehl boasts a relatively short yet impressive history. Founded in 1990 by Craig and Patty Tarler, it all began in a small garage where they used parts from an old tobacco factory to start producing pipe tobacco.
The First Steps
With no significant experience or resources, the founders learned everything from scratch. After overcoming initial challenges, the company relocated from Pennsylvania to North Carolina, expanded its production capacity, and hired its first employees. The name Cornell & Diehl combines Craig’s middle name (Cornell) and Patty’s maiden name (Diehl).
Trailblazing on the Internet
Cornell & Diehl was one of the first tobacco manufacturers to use the internet as a sales platform. This quickly brought the brand attention and new market opportunities. A key milestone was an article in the magazine “Pipes and Tobaccos,” which introduced the garage-based company to a broader audience.
Cornell & Diehl: Collaboration with G.L. Pease
A groundbreaking collaboration began with renowned tobacco blender Gregory Pease, who entrusted Cornell & Diehl with producing his exclusive blends. Through participation in numerous pipe shows across the US, the company gained even more recognition.
A New Milestone: The Laudisi Group
Following the death of Craig Tarler in 2012, the Laudisi Group took over the company in 2014. Laudisi operates a leading online retailer for pipes and tobacco and owns the renowned pipe manufacturer Peterson. With the relocation of production to South Carolina, the company underwent modernizations to prepare for the future.
Jeremy Reeves: The Face of Cornell & Diehl
Today, Jeremy Reeves, Master Blender at Cornell & Diehl, is a well-known figure in the pipe tobacco scene. His creative blends and presence at international trade shows play a crucial role in the brand's success.
