Bitter smoke...black ash

[ApexAZ]

So I just finished a GH #3 and it was very bitter, which hasn't been typical from the batch I've been smoking.

I noticed the wrapper seemed thicker than usual, and the ash was very black (carbon?). Is there any correlation to the black ash and bitterness?

I was hoping some of you more experienced smokers might be able to give me some insight.

Thanks!

Brian