You are probably light years ahead of me in the tobacco dept. The only AH-HA moment came after a few months of vaping RY4-D and AP for a halo clone, later a Cuban cigar ejuice came through work.
- That was the smell! I think Halos Tribeca is actually cigar.
It has been said that some of HICs' inspiration comes from standing in line at Starbucks seeing their recipes and ingredients up on the board.
Might be worth a trip to your local tobacconist? see what percolates
I've had decent luck with Cactus Cooler and Tobacco WTA, both from Nude Nic. Far from perfect but all part of the journey.
IIRC
@dannyv45 is one of ECF's Masters of Tobacco flavor, but you probably knew that.