"Inferno" Review
Fire Herbal Incense's brick and mortar approach (I received my samples in zip-lock bags with a little sticker) goes to show you can't always judge the proverbial “book” by its cover in the case of Inferno. Their site seems to primarily focus on wholesale orders, but they still tend to any orders all the way down to a gram.
Inferno's spicy yet somewhat bland aroma induces a heavy sensation, as if you're being dragged down... to hell—not in a negative respect, and it's not just a partial pun. In fact it produces an interesting weighty feeling rather unique to this brand. If you burn large quantities, in some way or another you may find yourself partially incapacitated and/or glued to the furniture in a state of total comatose. For a more casual gathering, perhaps say at a party, Fire Herbal's other appropriately labeled House Blend is a better choice in a larger social setting. That's not to say you shouldn't take the plunge into the inferno, you probably just won't end up the life of the party, let alone have much life left to party—but if you're having a good time that's all that matters, right?
FHI took obvious priorities with Inferno—scent takes the back baby seat to the driving strength. Thankfully the rank aroma can be validated by its strength, keeping it from being a stinker. The House Blend is a bit smoother and “house-friendly,” it won't foul the place up as much.
The price list is what really caught my eye. At the lowest level, any purchase of Inferno between 1-13g runs for just$6/g (House Blend is $3/g). Larger orders increase the discount rate. Inferno may not quite be a third degree burn, but it comes close. With price in the picture though, you really can't go wrong with jumping through the fire at least once, and I wouldn't be surprised if burning this potent value incense becomes a ritual for some.
Strength: 8/10
Aroma: 6/10
Overall: 8.1/10