Abbate Y La Mantia Buttero Shaving Soap

I received this hard soap as a Christmas gift and have used it three times so far. This is my second Abbate Y La Mantia shave soap and had high hopes for it as I enjoy using their Blue Tobacco soap. Alas, my hopes were dashed. This soap is proving to be the most finicky soap I have ever used. Not only is it finicky but it is also the most thirsty soap I ever ever used. The soap has to be soaked in hot water for several minutes before taking a very wet, stiff shave brush to it. I have only bowl lathered with it so far, and the lather generated is hardly what I would call overflowing the rim and is an off white colour as the soap itself is brown. Maybe I'll have more success with face lathering (next shave). I have also used it with both a boar and a badger brush, and seem to have a little more success with the badger (more water retention). I have also noticed that it can also be a sticky soap if there is not enough water in the mix. By that I mean that some of the soap residue will stick to the straight razor blade, even under running water. I have yet to strike the consistency I want - either too thick or too runny - but will keep trying. In my estimation I think you can get better shave soaps at a better price point. Do I have anything good to say about the soap? Yes, they describe the scent as Italian Leather, and for me at least I find it to be a pleasant scent. Would I recommend this soap? Yes, but only if you're up for a challenge!