Yes, the reviews are old. Some of the misgivings contained therein, to me, seem obsolete as well. I can't tell you about Wow or Stone but I am having some Black Sand right now to softly land on this Friday afternoon. Quite enjoyable. Not as enjoyable as when Eric from the Nak (N@H affiliated Kava bar in Boca Raton) is shelling it out, but good. Balanced. I've ordered 2 or 3 bags of it since February and it's consistent.