≈ A vape in good working order, with a few details ≈
No matter how much we take the problem in all directions, we already have very clear and scientifically supported leads on the safety of vaping. There is no question here of claiming that the act of vaping is harmless and presents no danger because unfortunately, we do not yet have the necessary hindsight to certify it. But, far from the sacrosanct precautionary principle aiming to prohibit first and think later, we can affirm loud and clear that the vapor we inhale is infinitely less harmful, whether for us or for those around us, than the vapor we inhale. traditional analog cigarette smoke. On this point, all the scientific studies, and I speak of the real studies and not of the funny experiments that dubious pharmacies carry out in their garage for the greatest benefit of the states or the tobacco companies, converge largely.
TPD APPROVED!
The Propylene Glycol and Vegetable Glycerin couple seems to work well and has spread widely in the vaping industry as the inevitable basis on which an e-liquid is developed. The proportions can change, according to the manufacturers, the ranges or even within the same range, but the fact seems certain, this association works. The PG generally ensures the precision and development of the aromas, the VG taking over in the production of vapor. Then everyone sees noon at their door. Thus, we can have Propylene Glycol of petroleum origin or from the plant world. We can have a Vegetable Glycerin of organic origin or not. If this influences the price and sometimes even the taste, the principle of association remains the same.
We can not, however, deny three proven facts:
- 1> Some people are intolerant to Propylene Glycol. Skin redness, obvious sign of allergic reaction, occasional or permanent dryness of the mouth, more or less long periods of ageusia and even chronic irritation of the throat, we are not all equal in the face of this molecule which may, depending on the person, have an irritant effect on the length in our practice. Propane-1,2-diol, or propylene glycol is used as an emulsifier in the food industry, as a solvent for liquid flavorings, as an antifreeze in aviation, as a humectant in the cosmetic industry and so on. It is a known molecule, the toxicity of which has been tested many times and appears to be extremely low but, as I said at the start, the fact remains that some people are sensitive to it, intolerant or even downright allergic.
- 2> Vegetable Glycerin, or Glycerol, has a very reassuring name. However, Dr. Farsalinos and many researchers who have looked into the question have defined that the maximum level, perfectly healthy, of VG in an e-liquid base should be around 40%. Indeed, LV has a troublesome feature. At a temperature of 290 ° C, it decomposes and produces acrolein, a very suspicious molecule well known to barbecue enthusiasts since this substance originates, among other things, in the decomposition of fats under the effect of heat. Known to be very toxic by inhalation or ingestion, its carcinogenic properties cannot be questioned. In addition, vegetable glycerin (there is also glycerin of animal origin) has the ability to “capture” ambient humidity, which is not a big problem since the entire respiratory system is an aqueous medium. However, some scientists claim that too much VG in the lungs could cause edema. Nothing demonstrated yet ... especially not by the facts in the reality of a vaper, fortunately. But we cannot ignore a scientific assertion on the pretext that it does not suit us.
- 3> Propylene Glycol is spicy! Yes, it does not seem very doctoral at the time but the proof lies in the simple fact that all vapers seek, as their personal progress in vaping progresses, e-liquids containing more VG and therefore ... less than PG. Take a lambda lover of 100% VG liquid, have him test a good beginner's liquid with a PG / VG ratio of 80/20, at the same level of nicotine and observe the reaction. The liquid seems aggressive, pungent to him and some “guinea pigs” simply cannot vape it.
You will grant me that these facts are not debatable.
≈ Végétol®, a path to follow? ≈
In reaction to this and in order to avoid side effects, the Xeres laboratory, through the production of Ilixir e-liquids, had tried, without much success it must be admitted, to propose a new formulation by itself. based on Végétol®. Végétol® is part of the diol family, just like propylene glycol. Moreover, its nickname is propane-1,3-diol, so it is chemically quite close to PG but departs from it in many interesting ways to overcome the side effects of PG. Indeed, its taste is rather mild, slightly sweet and even has an aftertaste reminiscent of tobacco. But the interest is elsewhere: it does not cause certain allergic or inflammatory reactions typical of inhalation of propylene glycol. Trimethylene glycol (another of its many surnames) is generally produced from corn syrup or… glycerol! All following chemical processes that I would be hard pressed to explain to you. It is therefore of plant origin, at least it is the best way to obtain it in a massive way. It has a natural hit even if it is devoid of the aggressiveness of the PG and could therefore be considered a potential competitor.
However, Ilixir's attempt ended in failure because, anxious to offer the healthiest possible e-liquid, the Xeres laboratory had chosen not to flavor its productions. However, as we all know, one of the major interests of vaping is to be able to offer tastes, flavors, if possible different, simple or complex, fruity or greedy, in order to satisfy all styles of vape. and the different profiles of vapers. If I give you a lump of sugar, you'll look at me weird. But if I give you a scented candy, I'll be your new best friend!
It is not because an achievement has met with failure that the potential ceases to exist. Even if Ilixir was not convinced, Végétol® still remains a perfectly usable molecule. But for that, it was necessary to consider its use in a different way.
This is where Alfaliquid comes in. The oldest French manufacturer knows his work and knows very well that some first-time vapers stop considering vaping as a way to get away from cigarettes because propylene glycol remains an aggressive element in juices. He also knows that in the absence of a perfect imitation of the taste of an analog cigarette since it comes from the combustion of tobacco, we must be able to offer a healthy but tasty alternative, by offering recipes. simple but good. So the manufacturer has decided to invest in Végétol® for a new range called Silverway, totally dedicated to beginners or people intolerant to PG.
To do this, in peace and without traumatizing future and old vapers, Alfaliquid took 12 of the standard flavors already proven in blending and integrated / adapted them in an original base proportioned to 75% of Végétol® and 25% of vegetable glycerin, the names of the juices change, the base changes, but the flavors have been available for a while among the many creations offered by the pioneers of vaping in France.
≈ The Silverway range ≈
“The brand new Alfaliquid SILVERWAY range, based on Vegetol®, is a major innovation in the field of electronic cigarettes, which paves the way for a new generation of e-liquids:
- powerfully revealed aromas for a new aromatic, subtle and refined universe;
- a combination of Végétol® and glycerin offering rapid and efficient delivery of nicotine, making it possible to reduce its dosage for the same level of performance;
- SILVERWAY is also the suitable solution for consumers with intolerance to propylene glycol or those who do not wish to consume alcohol.
Vegetol® stabilizes nicotine in its most bio-assimilable form
Research carried out by the Laboratoires des Substances Naturelles of the University of Poitiers has shown that “nicotine is present in Végétol® in its most assimilable natural form. Bottles of 10 ml , at the rate of 6,90€ the unit at 0 mg / ml; 3 mg / ml; 6 mg / ml; 9 mg / ml and 12 mg / ml of nicotine. These E-liquids reach their full maturation approximately 2 weeks after assembly. To allow you to better appreciate all their flavors, we advise you to wait for full ripening. ”
Source: Alfaliquid communication on the range.
The Silverway range naturally has the same characteristics for each reference. Thus, the packaging is in the form of a 10ml plastic bottle, having a tamper-evident seal and child safety.
The tip of the bottle, serving as a dropper, is thin and allows easy filling of any evaporation device.
The safety and consumption statements are complete. There are four clear pictograms, including one indicating that the bottle is recyclable. A good point, then. The mention of the nicotine level is present, as well as the capacity. The relief triangle for the visually impaired completes this idyllic picture.
The V / VG ratio is also present and indeed confirms that the e-liquid is composed of 25% vegetable glycerin and 75% Vegetol.
A service contact as well as the name of the laboratory complete the bar code which will allow to find the batch in case of problem.
A faultless, worthy of the “old house”, which shows us once again that it does not mess with security or transparency.
The recommended retail price is set at 5.90 €, therefore corresponding to an entry-level price, perfectly illustrating the core target of the range: beginners and people with intolerance to propylene glycol.
≈ Details review ≈
# ONE 1
We can find the equivalent 76% PG / 24% VG under the name FR-One, it is a tobacco. Its greedy character is set back from the pronounced taste of the dominant blond tobacco and nuts. Blond tobacco, caramel, vanilla, nuts, the site tells us on the dedicated page. Caramel and vanilla will therefore be present to round off and moderately sweeten this frank, not too full-bodied blend reminiscent of the American blond tobacco blends of a few decades ago before they all became similar and almost tasteless as they are in our days. A very fluid juice that I lack in texture, in substance, I would say, even though its flavor is generous and realistic.
Tasting Note: 4 / 5 
#ONE 1
# NINETY 90
Another revival of a great Alfaliquid classic, Tabac California. A blond, sweet and very slightly floral tobacco with a distant note of nuts and a hint of caramel. But beware, this is not a gourmet tobacco. Rather a tobacco juice for beginners, which is somewhat reminiscent of analog cigarettes but which sporadically reveals diaphanous volutes of the two aforementioned elements. With a fairly low aromatic power, it is the archetype of the traditional entry-level juice. Although low in glycerol (25%), the vapor is not trivial and the juice accepts without kicking to rise in power without undoing but without accentuating its precision. The hit is correct.
Tasting Note: 3.4 / 5 
#NINETY 90
# SIXTYSIX 66
For once, here we are with the “vegetolized” version of Malawia. A brown tobacco, quite sweet too, relatively realistic and containing some spicy features like clove. Nothing abrasive however, a cigarette-like like it was made five years ago and which could help the conversion of a smoker to the noble art of the vape. With a deep tone due to dark tobacco, 66 has good aromatic power that it delivers in a surprisingly dense vapor for 75/25. The hit, too, is rather pronounced but without noticeable aggressiveness. A good liquid to start, besides many vapers have already crossed on their way the PG version of this juice.
Tasting Note: 3.6 / 5 
#SIXTYSIX 66
# MURE
The # blackberry is the equivalent of the e-liquid of the same name in the classic range. Typical mono-aroma, the juice is quite tasty, a little spicy like a red blackberry, rather good but nevertheless retains a slight chemical aspect which places it between the blackberry-fruit and the blackberry-candy. Perfect for a beginner who loves red fruit, it has, like the rest of the range, the advantage of offering a taste that is easy to decipher which will allow the novice not to “doubt” what he is vaping. We often underestimate the taste problem that this new form of flavor absorption that vaping can represent for an uninitiated palate and saturated with tar. This type of liquid is straightforward, simple and I think that we should not hesitate to recommend it to a beginner for his initiation. The hit is present and the vapor correct, without excess.
Tasting Note: 3.5 / 5 
#MURE
# GREEN TEA
Same story as for the #Mure liquid, we get the same name and recipe as green tea from the classic range. Namely an e-liquid that presents the typical bitterness of tea, a little herbal, mixed with a small proportion of spearmint, enough to type and subtly refresh the liquid without distorting it. On the other hand, for a green tea, it departs quite significantly from the oriental way of preparing it since it lacks sugar. The harshness is therefore quite marked and the recipe therefore draws it more towards a subtle but refreshing e-liquid rather than towards the drink of the same name, sweet and greedy. The hit is comfortable, rather soft and the aftertaste is more bitterness. Lightweight and fun for the summer.
Tasting Note: 3.2 / 5 
#GREEN TEA
# HAZEL
Beautiful aromatic power for this offshoot of the range. Traditional mono-aroma, the taste of hazelnut is present and encompasses the whole mouth. A hazelnut rather dry than green but very tasty and really reminiscent of a hazelnut whose shell has been crushed and that we bite into in a greedy haste. Little or no sweetness, the liquid plays the card of realism and succeeds well by being attractive while remaining simple. The beginner amateur of dried fruits should find what they are looking for with this number. Accepting a reasonable increase in power, the liquid then develops the woody aspects of the fruit but loses some “flesh”. Rather delicate, its hit is honest and the vapor remains correct for the ratio. Nutty on the cake, this reference happily accepts being mixed with others (dry and neutral tobacco, caramel, vanilla…) for a nice little personal preparation.
Tasting Note: 4 / 5
#HAZELNUT
# SEVEN 7
Descending offshoot of the FR-M in the manufacturer's PG / VG range, the 7 is therefore a tobacco. Very particular, it develops an aroma of blond tobacco devoid of roughness, very slightly flowery and arrives accompanied by a procession of acidulous scents of blackcurrant or raspberry, or both. The result is interesting if not good, even if it does not avoid the chemical pitfall, and remains rather harsh and astringent. Rather than a fruity tobacco and undoubtedly because of the almost total absence of sweetness, the 7 rather uses red fruits as “spices” to enhance the relative blandness of the tobacco used. Not the best of the range for me, it is still vapable and is in the mid range of entry level juices. Pushing it to power does not serve it because if we regain ground on tobacco, we lose some on the fruitiness.
Tasting Note: 2.8 / 5 
#SEVEN 7
# FIFTYFIVE 55
A light tobacco so to speak! and gourmet with its discreet notes of vanilla, chocolate and nuts, it is the revisited expression of Latakia. The whole is much less intense than the One for a tobacco, perfect for those used to light blond flavors. almost unsweetened and not very persistent in the mouth, it can nevertheless be vaped all day without attracting the attention of colleagues at the office. It supports a higher heating than that which the “normal” power confers on it, it is moreover advised if you want to increase the quantity of vapor obtained while revealing a little more the taste (1 ohm at 18/20 W) . For an e-liquid that goes everywhere and confidential flavors, this is the right choice. For fans of frank, dry and realistic tobacco, it will seem bland to them.
Tasting Note: 3 / 5 
#FIFTYFIVE 55
# REGLISSE
The duo that hits the mark: licorice anise, dosed to feel the licorice in the top note, and for anise to give longevity in the mouth. The amateurs will appreciate, the balance is pleasant, it is neither too powerful nor too light. You will have in turn the dominant and indented anise which persists, it is a very successful classic blend. These aromas with a strong personality make you forget the base and this lack of texture, of “palpable”, which sometimes makes it confusing for a lover of a high proportion of VG (of which I am). The 6mg hit is very correct, it stands out as a stealthy link between the two flavors. Another juice that supports a moderate rise in power.
Tasting Note: 4 / 5
#LICORICE
# ELEVEN 11
Fans will recognize New York in the tobacco flavors, it's the strongest / dryest of the bunch at Silverway. Brown, whiskey and a little chocolate to sweeten it all. A convincing general impression for those who appreciate this type of tobacco, well contained by the alcohol / chocolate blend which blurs the full-bodied character of dark tobacco. Without being powerful, this liquid is revealed on expiration through the nose, much more than on inspiration. The hit is relatively light (at 6mg) perhaps you will have to increase the power to actually feel it, at the cost of a more linear taste response, the flavors will be less noticeable in their differences. #Eleven 11, an option to try to get out of the “goldo”.
Tasting Note: 3,8 / 5 
#ELEVEN 11
# GREEN APPLE
A single Granny Smith flavor, apple without seeds, without throwing anything away, without leaving a dent, in short, the taste and that's it. Rather realistic but not very sweet, the emphasis was therefore placed on the authenticity of the flavor by removing the natural acidity of the fruit. The result is bluffing, the hit is present without excess, the steam at “normal” powers is correct. At 0,75ohm and 21W, the balance is optimum. Above this power, up to 25W, the rendering remains almost equivalent. Still above, the aroma is markedly altered (27W). A liquid to reserve for fans of this fruit or for beginners who will have no difficulty in correctly adjusting their equipment (this is the advantage of simple flavors).
Tasting Note: 4 / 5
#GREEN APPLE
# GLACIAL MINT
Where, or should I say, mints are a specialty at Alfaliquid, no less than 16 juices are available, in assembly or as a natural, this one is reminiscent of a famous chewing gum. the power is there! freshness too, no doubt. This juice is not sweet, it seems that this flavor comes only from the base without the addition of sucralose or other sweetener. We therefore have the taste of dragee without any other frills. The hit is dimmed by the power of the mint which “anesthetizes” any other sensation in the throat. The length in the mouth is correct and the freshness lasts for a long time. This liquid tolerates a significant increase in power up to 25% without problem…. for him !
Tasting Note: 4 / 5
GLACIAL #MENTHE
≈ So what about the balance sheet? ≈
Vegetol © is therefore a credible candidate for beginners and people with intolerance to propylene glycol. To taste, let's be clear, there is not a huge difference. The aromas seem to be carried by the Vegetol © as well as by the PG. The choice of the ratio 25/75 is a choice of reason so that the steam is not a pitfall for the gorges in initiation. For an experienced vaper, it will lack the texture and complexity needed when the taste education has been done through months or years of practice.
The Silverway range makes you want to try another type of bet consisting of making a liquid from the Dark Story range, for example, from this molecule to see if the comparison still holds with the PG on more accomplished recipes and less simple. I do not know if this design is in the boxes of Alfaliquid but I would like to test the result if necessary.
For now, we will confine ourselves to saying that the bet is won. Even if, in comparison with the corresponding aromas of the classic range, one realizes a certain lack of texture in the mouth, a sort of “void” which in no way alters the taste but rather the sensations experienced. For a beginner, again, this will not be a problem. For a person intolerant to PG, it will even be THE solution. But for an informed vaper, this could be tricky. Doubtless it would then be necessary to amplify the proportion of VG in order to rebalance the textures? I wouldn't have the boldness to think I had the solution and to replace the chemists and flavorists who master this aspect of things. I only ask myself as a confirmed vaper and a juice tester.
This range has been tested on a 0,75 and 1Ω, DC / SC, cotton and Fiber Freaks D2 dripper at different powers as well as on a 1Ω and 1.5Ω single coil dripper in Bacon V2. The fluidity of the juices allows their use in any atomizer, the fouling of the coils is low, it should be noted for those who use proprietary coils.
For people who are intolerant to PG, the Silverway alternative, as conceived by Alfaliquid aromatic specialist Xavier Martzel and his team, is a practical solution, varied in aromas and at a truly modest cost. A second chance is offered to all those who have resumed bad smoking habits, draw your atos, try these juices and free yourself from the constraints that the “classic” vape imposed on you in terms of irritation of the larynx, dry mouth , and whatnot.
Let us therefore salute this initiative which is beneficial to our noble passion.
Article produced with two hands by Zed and Papagallo. Each juice has undergone two taste tests.
