This cigar presents with a dark maduro wrapper that appears to be somewhat short of the oscuro appellation it is given. The wrapper is mottled and there are some flaws, the wrapper almost seems to be applied too loosely. The pre light aroma is acidic, but there are some notes of cinnamon. The pre light draw is sour.
The cigar begins with muddled earth notes and a sour bitterness on the palate. The burn is lopsided and the ash is a dirty gray. At the half inch point the wrapper is letting go down to the one third point of the cigar. There is no further profile development and the wrapper continues to unfurl.
The final half of the cigar is bitter and sour. There are no characteristics worthy of redemption for the rest of this smoke. It is acrid and foul. The burn is lopsided and the wrapper is not holding to the binder.
The finish is horrid, with sour flavors and bitter aftertaste.
Appearance - 72 nothing is appealing about this
Taste- 70
Construction- 70 one of the worst I have ever smoked
Strength- 70 there is nothing to report here as the profile was destroyed by the sour and bitter notes
Overall- 70.5 this is about as bad as it gets
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Padilla Habano Robusto
This cigar is made with a beautiful wrapper that has a pleasing chestnut hue. The construction appears to be excellent as the cigar shows no areas that are too firm or soft. The foot is a bit frayed detracting from the visual experience. The pre light aroma is of roasted nuts and light tobacco. The pre light draw is leathery with a note of light tobacco.
The cigar opens with depth. There are notes of leather and roasted nuts accompanied by a creamy note that coats the palate. The burn is acceptable and the draw is excellent. The frayed foot proves to not be an issue. The cigar maintains this balance through the first half.
At just past the halfway point the cigar maintains a leathery core, but there are pleasing notes of light tobacco and coffee bean that begin to present at the back of the palate. The burn and draw are remarkable to this point.
The finish is pleasing and contains notes of leather, coffee and roasted nuts.
Appearance- 88 hurt by the frayed foot
Taste- 91 excellent depth, could have been more complex
Construction- 92 well made
Strength- 91 an excellent medium presentation
Overall- 90.5 an excellent smoke
The cigar opens with depth. There are notes of leather and roasted nuts accompanied by a creamy note that coats the palate. The burn is acceptable and the draw is excellent. The frayed foot proves to not be an issue. The cigar maintains this balance through the first half.
At just past the halfway point the cigar maintains a leathery core, but there are pleasing notes of light tobacco and coffee bean that begin to present at the back of the palate. The burn and draw are remarkable to this point.
The finish is pleasing and contains notes of leather, coffee and roasted nuts.
Appearance- 88 hurt by the frayed foot
Taste- 91 excellent depth, could have been more complex
Construction- 92 well made
Strength- 91 an excellent medium presentation
Overall- 90.5 an excellent smoke
El Titan de Bronze Redemption Maduro
This is a boutique offering from the famed Calle de Ocho in Miami. It presents with a dark maduro wrapper the color of potting soil, the wrapper lacks oils and seems a bit dry. There are some prominent veins and some other wrapper flaws that are noticeable. The pre light aroma is of light earth and dry vegetation. The pre light draw is thin and grassy.
The cigar open pleasantly with sweet, earthy notes. There is an undertone of light wood and cedar. The burn is functional, but a bit lopsided. The draw is a bit loose and produces booming amounts of smoke. The cigar stays this way for the entire opening half.
The final half of the cigar develops with a core of earth and light coffee. There are grassy, vegetal undertones throughout the closing moments that hurt the profile. The burn is even and the draw stays loose leading to a smoke that is a bit hot.
The finish is acceptable, but grassy notes hurt the ending notes.
Appearance- 76 this is hurt by the dry, flawed wrapper
Taste- 81 grassy notes and a lack of depth and complexity lead to an inferior experience
Construction- 84 the loose draw hurts this score
Strength- 82 and unremarkable medium to full offering
Overall- 80.75
The cigar open pleasantly with sweet, earthy notes. There is an undertone of light wood and cedar. The burn is functional, but a bit lopsided. The draw is a bit loose and produces booming amounts of smoke. The cigar stays this way for the entire opening half.
The final half of the cigar develops with a core of earth and light coffee. There are grassy, vegetal undertones throughout the closing moments that hurt the profile. The burn is even and the draw stays loose leading to a smoke that is a bit hot.
The finish is acceptable, but grassy notes hurt the ending notes.
Appearance- 76 this is hurt by the dry, flawed wrapper
Taste- 81 grassy notes and a lack of depth and complexity lead to an inferior experience
Construction- 84 the loose draw hurts this score
Strength- 82 and unremarkable medium to full offering
Overall- 80.75
Partagas Lonsdale (Box Date 1998)
This was another gift from my friend and I looked forward to smoking it after his rave reviews. The cigar is beautifully constructed with a wrapper the hue of cafe au lait, there is little veining and the silky smooth exterior is most appealing. The pre light aroma is of cedar and light tobacco essence. The pre light draw smacks of leather and light wood.
The cigar opens with an unexpected complexity. The core profile is of leather and light tobacco, but there are undertones of cedar and other wood. The draw is a bit tight, but I expect this from cigars of this geographic vintage. The burn is steady with a fantastic shoulder.
The development in this cigar is too difficult to describe in stages. There are three significant profile shifts during the duration of this smoke. The first described above. The second shift was to a core of rich tobacco with undertones of lemon zest and orange peel. The final shift was to a core of lighter tobacco flavors with undertones of leather, light earth, cedar and vanilla bean.
The finish of this cigar was long and smooth with notes of leather and rich tobacco. This cigar is a classic, and I wished it was longer for further evaluation.
Appearance- 92 a beautiful cigar with a bit of a ruddy look
Taste- 98 this cigar had complexity and depth that is seldom experienced
Construction- 98 this cigar performed extremely well, for this vitola the construction was nearly flawless
Strength- 95 a wonderful medium smoke that complements all other elements of this smoke
Overall- 95.75
The cigar opens with an unexpected complexity. The core profile is of leather and light tobacco, but there are undertones of cedar and other wood. The draw is a bit tight, but I expect this from cigars of this geographic vintage. The burn is steady with a fantastic shoulder.
The development in this cigar is too difficult to describe in stages. There are three significant profile shifts during the duration of this smoke. The first described above. The second shift was to a core of rich tobacco with undertones of lemon zest and orange peel. The final shift was to a core of lighter tobacco flavors with undertones of leather, light earth, cedar and vanilla bean.
The finish of this cigar was long and smooth with notes of leather and rich tobacco. This cigar is a classic, and I wished it was longer for further evaluation.
Appearance- 92 a beautiful cigar with a bit of a ruddy look
Taste- 98 this cigar had complexity and depth that is seldom experienced
Construction- 98 this cigar performed extremely well, for this vitola the construction was nearly flawless
Strength- 95 a wonderful medium smoke that complements all other elements of this smoke
Overall- 95.75
Punch Uppercut
This is another new offering that will be out soon. General Cigar has stepped up the blend a notch and come out with some new selections. This cigar presents with a dark, appealing wrapper. There are few veins and the wrapper is oily and rich looking. An inspection suggests that the cigar is tight, but there are not spots that are too firm. The pre light aroma is rich and earthy with deep tobacco notes. The pre light draw is a bit tight, but reveals a nice rich tobacco flavor.
The cigar is a powerhouse from the start. The strength is bold and in your face, indicative of its nomenclature. There are deep tobacco flavors with notes of earth and wisps of leather tickle the palate. The burn is sharp and the draw is fine. The cigar progresses in this manner until just past the one third point of the smoke.
At the point after the one third mark the deep tobacco flavors give way to a core of rich earth and leather. There is an undertone of coffee that is seeping into the profile. The cigar has continued to burn well and the ash develops well with a bright white color.
The final third picks up steam and develops with added strength. The core is of earth and rich tobacco flavors have resurfaced. The burn and draw have stayed consistent.
The finish is a bit short. The core of earth and tobacco remains, but there is some bitterness that has appeared in the ending act.
Appearance- 90 a well made and appealing looking cigar
Taste- 89 complex with plenty of depth, but bitterness on the finish detracts from the overall profile
Construction- 91 the cigar is well constructed, but the draw is a bit tight in spots
Strength- 88 a nice full bodied presentation, but the strength overshadows the profile in spots
Overall- 89.5 a nice cigar, hurt by some bitterness and overwrought strength
The cigar is a powerhouse from the start. The strength is bold and in your face, indicative of its nomenclature. There are deep tobacco flavors with notes of earth and wisps of leather tickle the palate. The burn is sharp and the draw is fine. The cigar progresses in this manner until just past the one third point of the smoke.
At the point after the one third mark the deep tobacco flavors give way to a core of rich earth and leather. There is an undertone of coffee that is seeping into the profile. The cigar has continued to burn well and the ash develops well with a bright white color.
The final third picks up steam and develops with added strength. The core is of earth and rich tobacco flavors have resurfaced. The burn and draw have stayed consistent.
The finish is a bit short. The core of earth and tobacco remains, but there is some bitterness that has appeared in the ending act.
Appearance- 90 a well made and appealing looking cigar
Taste- 89 complex with plenty of depth, but bitterness on the finish detracts from the overall profile
Construction- 91 the cigar is well constructed, but the draw is a bit tight in spots
Strength- 88 a nice full bodied presentation, but the strength overshadows the profile in spots
Overall- 89.5 a nice cigar, hurt by some bitterness and overwrought strength
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Padilla Serie 1968 Lancero
This is an attractive cigar in a vitola that is one of my favorites, finished with a trademark pigtail cap. There are some flaws and blemishes in the wrapper and the cigar feels as though it may be a little tight. The pre light aroma is of weak tea with a floral essence. The pre light draw in a bit bitter, but has notes of light tobacco.
The cigar opens with floral notes and a sweetness that coats the palate. The draw is excellent, difficult to obtain in this vitola, and produces excellent amounts of smoke. The burn is sharp to start, but about an inch in begins to run a bit.
The development through the first half of the cigar stays floral and sweet, there are some light tobacco notes at the back of the palate. The runner has corrected itself, but another develops at just before the halfway point.
The middle point of the cigar shows a profile of grass and light tobacco, the grassy core hurts the experience. The runners have corrected and the burn has settled down. In the final third a nice array of coffee and light tobacco notes develop, but they come too late to save the cigar entirely.
The finish is slightly bitter, but has notes of light tobacco. The burn stayed solid for the final third.
Appearance- 87 some blemishes hurt the score
Taste- 86 some nice flavors, but the grassy developments hurt the score
Construction- 86 the runners in the burn hurt the score
Strength- 87 a medium/full presentation that compliments the characteristics of the cigar
Overall- 86.5 above average, would have been better without grassy components
The cigar opens with floral notes and a sweetness that coats the palate. The draw is excellent, difficult to obtain in this vitola, and produces excellent amounts of smoke. The burn is sharp to start, but about an inch in begins to run a bit.
The development through the first half of the cigar stays floral and sweet, there are some light tobacco notes at the back of the palate. The runner has corrected itself, but another develops at just before the halfway point.
The middle point of the cigar shows a profile of grass and light tobacco, the grassy core hurts the experience. The runners have corrected and the burn has settled down. In the final third a nice array of coffee and light tobacco notes develop, but they come too late to save the cigar entirely.
The finish is slightly bitter, but has notes of light tobacco. The burn stayed solid for the final third.
Appearance- 87 some blemishes hurt the score
Taste- 86 some nice flavors, but the grassy developments hurt the score
Construction- 86 the runners in the burn hurt the score
Strength- 87 a medium/full presentation that compliments the characteristics of the cigar
Overall- 86.5 above average, would have been better without grassy components
Pinar Del Rio Habano Sungrown Corona
Another new offering. This cigar presents with a chestnut hued wrapper that seems a bit light in color and dry in texture for a sungrown cigar. The wrapper is otherwise nice and has few veins. I appears to be well applied and the cigar is appropriately firm. The pre light aroma is of light honey. The pre light draw has hints of light tobacco and a grassy undertone.
The cigar begins with a very mild profile that is floral, there are some notes of dry grass at the back of the palate. The burn is a bit lopsided, but otherwise acceptable, producing a gray/black ash. The first inch of the cigar passes without and notable further development.
At just past the one third point the core of the profile is grassy with hints of other vegetation. It is not a pleasing development and there are astringent undertones coming forward. The burn has stayed consistent.
The final half of the cigar has shown no further development either. The core is still of grass and vegetation. The burn is still acceptable.
The finish is short and grassy. There is a notably bitter aftertaste. This is not like any other sungrown example that I have ever smoked. Not pleasing and not worth smoking.
Appearance- 81 and unremarkable dry and drab presentation
Taste- 73 grassy, vegetal notes accompanied by bitterness leads to a poor score
Construction- 87 the cigar was well made and burned and drew acceptably
Strength- 75 a strength that was mild, but not noteworthy when compared to the other inferior attributes of the cigar
Overall- 79 don't waste the time
The cigar begins with a very mild profile that is floral, there are some notes of dry grass at the back of the palate. The burn is a bit lopsided, but otherwise acceptable, producing a gray/black ash. The first inch of the cigar passes without and notable further development.
At just past the one third point the core of the profile is grassy with hints of other vegetation. It is not a pleasing development and there are astringent undertones coming forward. The burn has stayed consistent.
The final half of the cigar has shown no further development either. The core is still of grass and vegetation. The burn is still acceptable.
The finish is short and grassy. There is a notably bitter aftertaste. This is not like any other sungrown example that I have ever smoked. Not pleasing and not worth smoking.
Appearance- 81 and unremarkable dry and drab presentation
Taste- 73 grassy, vegetal notes accompanied by bitterness leads to a poor score
Construction- 87 the cigar was well made and burned and drew acceptably
Strength- 75 a strength that was mild, but not noteworthy when compared to the other inferior attributes of the cigar
Overall- 79 don't waste the time
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Padilla Cazadore
This is another new offering. This is the first post Don Pepin split Padilla cigar I have smoked. The wrapper is a little dry and spotty in color. An inspection reveals a firm and supple cigar. The pre light aroma is floral with hints of fruit, there is also a slightly sour note here. The pre light draw is thin and grassy.
The cigar begins with notes of light tobacco. There is a grassy undertone that is not pleasant. The burn is creating a flaky ash and the draw is extraordinarily loose. The grassy undertone continues to develop and begins to cancel out the tobacco core of the profile.
The cigar continues to burn with a flaky ash all the way to the end. There is no further development in the profile. The flavor stays prominently grassy and there is a sour note that emerges as well.
The finish is short and grassy with notes of dry vegetation. If this is what Padilla has to offer after splitting with Don Pepin, he should save the tobacco for backyard bonfires.
Appearance- 83
Taste- 72 grassy notes throughout
Construction- 85 I encountered not burn issues, but the draw was loose and the ash was messy
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 80 barely average and saved by appearance and construction scores
The cigar begins with notes of light tobacco. There is a grassy undertone that is not pleasant. The burn is creating a flaky ash and the draw is extraordinarily loose. The grassy undertone continues to develop and begins to cancel out the tobacco core of the profile.
The cigar continues to burn with a flaky ash all the way to the end. There is no further development in the profile. The flavor stays prominently grassy and there is a sour note that emerges as well.
The finish is short and grassy with notes of dry vegetation. If this is what Padilla has to offer after splitting with Don Pepin, he should save the tobacco for backyard bonfires.
Appearance- 83
Taste- 72 grassy notes throughout
Construction- 85 I encountered not burn issues, but the draw was loose and the ash was messy
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 80 barely average and saved by appearance and construction scores
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Perdomo 91 ESV Regente Maduro
This is a beautiful cigar. The wrapper is a deep, earth brown reminiscent of ground coffee beans. There is one prominent vein, but overall the cigar looks inviting. An inspection and light probing show a cigar that is supple and appropriately sturdy. The pre light aroma is awash with barnyard odors, usually a sign of great things to come. The pre light draw is light and has notes of cocoa and rich tobacco.
The cigar opens with a bit of a tight draw, but the flavors are rich and full. There are notes of rich tobacco, cocoa and roasted nuts with a complimentary creaminess in the smoke. The burn has taken off well and is razor sharp during the first inch. The cigar stays in this manner until almost the halfway point.
Just before the halfway point this cigar begins to mellow out (a little disconcerting for me initially and I look for cigars to strengthen at this point) with a pleasant cedar flavor with undertones of cocoa and coffee. The complexity is just short of being profound for a cigar that is actually mellowing as I smoke it further. The burn and construction have stayed true all the way to the two thirds mark.
The final third intensifies slightly and I am noting an earthy essence paired with notes of coffee and light woody flavors. The burn and draw are still excellent.
The finish is long a pleasing with notes of coffee, cedar and light earth mingling on the palate.
Appearance- 92 an excellent looking smoke
Taste- 91 surprisingly complex
Construction- 94 I encountered no issues
Strength- 90 an excellent medium smoke that could use some more kick
Overall- 91.75
The cigar opens with a bit of a tight draw, but the flavors are rich and full. There are notes of rich tobacco, cocoa and roasted nuts with a complimentary creaminess in the smoke. The burn has taken off well and is razor sharp during the first inch. The cigar stays in this manner until almost the halfway point.
Just before the halfway point this cigar begins to mellow out (a little disconcerting for me initially and I look for cigars to strengthen at this point) with a pleasant cedar flavor with undertones of cocoa and coffee. The complexity is just short of being profound for a cigar that is actually mellowing as I smoke it further. The burn and construction have stayed true all the way to the two thirds mark.
The final third intensifies slightly and I am noting an earthy essence paired with notes of coffee and light woody flavors. The burn and draw are still excellent.
The finish is long a pleasing with notes of coffee, cedar and light earth mingling on the palate.
Appearance- 92 an excellent looking smoke
Taste- 91 surprisingly complex
Construction- 94 I encountered no issues
Strength- 90 an excellent medium smoke that could use some more kick
Overall- 91.75
La Aurora 1495 Series Brazil Robusto
This cigar presents with a very dark wrapper the hue of rich coffee. There is some prominent veining and the cigar is firm. Physical inspection does not lead me to conclude that there will be any issues. The pre light aroma is of cedar and tobacco. The pre light draw is slightly bitter, but shows floral notes.
The cigar lights well, the draw is a bit tight, with flavors of earth and rich tobacco. There is an undertone of vegetation and some bitterness that detracts from the opening experience. The ash is a dirty white/gray and starts out a bit lopsided. The first third of this cigar stays much the same, except the bitterness intensifies slightly.
At just past the one third point I encounter a serious burn flaw and the cigar begins to canoe. There is also a serious tightening of the draw. Set on smoking through it I persevere for several minutes. The canoe grows for about an inch and I decide to touch it up with a little bit of flame. The cigar recovers well and resumes with flavors of rich tobacco and earth, there is still a note of bitterness at the back of the palate.
Again at the half way point another canoe begins to develop. As is my wont I try to smoke through this annoyance. Yet again the cigar fails to even out and I must go back to the lighter for a third time, two times too many for me. The cigar continues to hold a core of tobacco and earth, but the bitterness has turned to a very disappointing sourness at the back of the palate.
Just before the end of the cigar, another canoe develops. I give up and let it go without further struggle.
The finish was short with sour notes.
Appearance- 80 veining and rough looking construction hurt the score
Taste- 77 not complex and the smoke lacks depth
Construction- 70 no choice but the worst possible score here
Strength- 80 an unremarkable smoke
Overall- 76.75 I expected much, much more
The cigar lights well, the draw is a bit tight, with flavors of earth and rich tobacco. There is an undertone of vegetation and some bitterness that detracts from the opening experience. The ash is a dirty white/gray and starts out a bit lopsided. The first third of this cigar stays much the same, except the bitterness intensifies slightly.
At just past the one third point I encounter a serious burn flaw and the cigar begins to canoe. There is also a serious tightening of the draw. Set on smoking through it I persevere for several minutes. The canoe grows for about an inch and I decide to touch it up with a little bit of flame. The cigar recovers well and resumes with flavors of rich tobacco and earth, there is still a note of bitterness at the back of the palate.
Again at the half way point another canoe begins to develop. As is my wont I try to smoke through this annoyance. Yet again the cigar fails to even out and I must go back to the lighter for a third time, two times too many for me. The cigar continues to hold a core of tobacco and earth, but the bitterness has turned to a very disappointing sourness at the back of the palate.
Just before the end of the cigar, another canoe develops. I give up and let it go without further struggle.
The finish was short with sour notes.
Appearance- 80 veining and rough looking construction hurt the score
Taste- 77 not complex and the smoke lacks depth
Construction- 70 no choice but the worst possible score here
Strength- 80 an unremarkable smoke
Overall- 76.75 I expected much, much more
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Cubao Maduro Robusto
Another new offering, this cigar presents with a nicely shaded maduro wrapper. The wrapper is dry and lacking in oils. The wrapper seems to be applied well and an inspection of the cigar shows that it is not too firm or soft. The pre light aroma is unremarkable. The pre light draw is floral with hints of cedar.
The cigar begins with a bitter essence of dry leaves, there is an acrid undertone. The cigar is burning well, but a flaky, dirty ash is developing. There is no profile development for the first third of this cigar.
At just past the halfway point the cigar is still showing no development. The wrapper has split dramatically an inch from the foot. The ash is still flaky and inconsistent. The profile is still vegetal and slightly metallic.
The finish of the cigar is short and bitter. There are acrid notes, with hints of vegetation and dry grass. All in all this was cigarbage.
Appearance- 83 the wrapper was dry and lacked oils
Taste- 72 not the worst I have had, but it was pretty close
Construction- 75 the huge split near the foot hurt this score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable experience
Overall- 77.5 don't waste your money, a Macanudo would be more worthwhile.
The cigar begins with a bitter essence of dry leaves, there is an acrid undertone. The cigar is burning well, but a flaky, dirty ash is developing. There is no profile development for the first third of this cigar.
At just past the halfway point the cigar is still showing no development. The wrapper has split dramatically an inch from the foot. The ash is still flaky and inconsistent. The profile is still vegetal and slightly metallic.
The finish of the cigar is short and bitter. There are acrid notes, with hints of vegetation and dry grass. All in all this was cigarbage.
Appearance- 83 the wrapper was dry and lacked oils
Taste- 72 not the worst I have had, but it was pretty close
Construction- 75 the huge split near the foot hurt this score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable experience
Overall- 77.5 don't waste your money, a Macanudo would be more worthwhile.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Don Pepin Garcia Serie JJ Robusto
This has always been the lesser of the two JJ's, in my mind, as I have always thought the maduro version to be superior. The cigar presents with a dark natural wrapper with few veins. The wrapper is well applied, but the cigar feels a little tight in a couple of spots. The pre light aroma is of tobacco and light spice. The pre light draw has peppery notes with an undertone of spice.
The cigar begins with full blasts of pepper, almost as if it is on a quest to prove that it is equal to it's darker cousin. The smoke booms out and the burn is sharp. The draw is smooth and fulfilling. The first inch is a real pepper bomb and I don't remember this cigar showing that much character before. After the first inch the peppery core settles down and some tobacco and leather notes appear.
At just past a third of the way into the smoke the core is of leather, there is a fabulous undertone of ginger and spice that has appeared at the back of the palate. The complexity of this cigar so early in the smoke has me inspired about the rest of it. The burn has stayed nice, maybe a bit lopsided, but not detracting from the experience.
The final half of this cigar maintains a leathery core, reminiscent of cuban Bolivars, but there are complex notes of ginger, spice, tobacco and earth in the background. The level of flavor here is astounding! I encounter only one burn flaw with about one third of the cigar remaining, but I am able to smoke through it.
The finish is long and excellent. There are notes of leather, earth, spice, ginger and tobacco. This JJ can certainly stand on it's own. A superior smoke.
Appearance- 90 the wrapper lacks some oils detracting from the appeal
Taste- 95 an excellent complex smoke with depth and character
Construction- 91 a little tight in the roll, one burn flaw
Strength- 91 and excellent medium/full smoke almost perfectly balanced with the character of the cigar. It could have used some more kick.
Overall- 91.75 excellent, a must smoke
The cigar begins with full blasts of pepper, almost as if it is on a quest to prove that it is equal to it's darker cousin. The smoke booms out and the burn is sharp. The draw is smooth and fulfilling. The first inch is a real pepper bomb and I don't remember this cigar showing that much character before. After the first inch the peppery core settles down and some tobacco and leather notes appear.
At just past a third of the way into the smoke the core is of leather, there is a fabulous undertone of ginger and spice that has appeared at the back of the palate. The complexity of this cigar so early in the smoke has me inspired about the rest of it. The burn has stayed nice, maybe a bit lopsided, but not detracting from the experience.
The final half of this cigar maintains a leathery core, reminiscent of cuban Bolivars, but there are complex notes of ginger, spice, tobacco and earth in the background. The level of flavor here is astounding! I encounter only one burn flaw with about one third of the cigar remaining, but I am able to smoke through it.
The finish is long and excellent. There are notes of leather, earth, spice, ginger and tobacco. This JJ can certainly stand on it's own. A superior smoke.
Appearance- 90 the wrapper lacks some oils detracting from the appeal
Taste- 95 an excellent complex smoke with depth and character
Construction- 91 a little tight in the roll, one burn flaw
Strength- 91 and excellent medium/full smoke almost perfectly balanced with the character of the cigar. It could have used some more kick.
Overall- 91.75 excellent, a must smoke
Friday, August 21, 2009
Nestor Miranda Miami Co. 20 Anniversario
This is a huge cigar in a vitola that I usually avoid as I have a preference for smaller ring gauge cigars. It presents well with a wrapper the shade of light coffee. The pre light aroma is of cedar and tea. The pre light draw is floral. I detect no issues when examining the cigar, which is refreshing in such a large smoke as I usually find flaws of one kind or another in big cigars.
The cigar begins with a very mellow flavor of tea and undertones of cedar. The cigar is pleasant but not overwhelming or excellent at this point. The smoke is ample and the draw is smooth. The ash develops well with a light gray coloration. The first couple of inches maintain these notes in an acceptable if somewhat boring fashion.
Through the first third of the cigar the core profile remains and continues to present notes of tea. There is still a cedary undertone, that is more prominent through the nose. The ash does not hold well, slowly dropping off onto my leg as if it could no longer stand it's own weight. The burn stays sharp and the smoke continues to be ample.
The middle part of the cigar shows little development. There is still a core of tea and undertones of cedar. There are some slightly floral notes at the back of the palate, but they are unremarkable in the overall profile. The burn stays solid and the cigar is performing well. I am disappointed with the lack of depth and complexity in this smoke to this point.
The final part of the cigar maintains a core of tea, but slightly peppery undertones have surfaced. There are some vegetal notes at the back of the palate that detract from the final few inches. The burn and construction have stayed consistent.
The finish is of light earth and tea, but there are still some thin grassy and vegetal notes beneath the core of flavors.
Appearance- 87 a slightly above average presentation
Taste- 83 the cigar lacks depth and complexity. The vegetal and grassy notes hurt the score
Construction- 90 a solid, well made smoke
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium to full offering
Overall- 86.25
The cigar begins with a very mellow flavor of tea and undertones of cedar. The cigar is pleasant but not overwhelming or excellent at this point. The smoke is ample and the draw is smooth. The ash develops well with a light gray coloration. The first couple of inches maintain these notes in an acceptable if somewhat boring fashion.
Through the first third of the cigar the core profile remains and continues to present notes of tea. There is still a cedary undertone, that is more prominent through the nose. The ash does not hold well, slowly dropping off onto my leg as if it could no longer stand it's own weight. The burn stays sharp and the smoke continues to be ample.
The middle part of the cigar shows little development. There is still a core of tea and undertones of cedar. There are some slightly floral notes at the back of the palate, but they are unremarkable in the overall profile. The burn stays solid and the cigar is performing well. I am disappointed with the lack of depth and complexity in this smoke to this point.
The final part of the cigar maintains a core of tea, but slightly peppery undertones have surfaced. There are some vegetal notes at the back of the palate that detract from the final few inches. The burn and construction have stayed consistent.
The finish is of light earth and tea, but there are still some thin grassy and vegetal notes beneath the core of flavors.
Appearance- 87 a slightly above average presentation
Taste- 83 the cigar lacks depth and complexity. The vegetal and grassy notes hurt the score
Construction- 90 a solid, well made smoke
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium to full offering
Overall- 86.25
Baccarat Rothchild
This is a cigar that I have smoked for nearly a decade. It looks as though it has been recently redone, at least in terms of packaging. I have always found this to be a fantastic mild cigar with a sweet flavor, that is a great change of pace. The cigar presents with a darker wrapper than I remember, there is also some new flair on the band. The wrapper looks average and I detect some areas that are dry and there are some prominent veins. The pre light aroma is vegetal. The pre light draw is metallic. The sweetened head of old has been replaced with an uneventful regular head. The draw seems a bit tight, but an inspection of the cigar reveals nothing out of the ordinary.
The cigar opens with a sweet smoke, but there is an acrid bite at the back of the palate. The burn is acceptable and there is ample smoke. The ash is flaky and not well formed, almost as if there is too much air in the roll of the tobacco. The first half of the cigar is uneventful and sub par.
The second half did not develop well either. There were slightly floral and sweet notes, but vegetal, acrid undertones detract from the cigar. The burn stays acceptable, but the ash is still flaky and weak.
The finish is bitter and short with notes of crushed aspirin. This is not the cigar I remember, what a shame.
Appearance- 85 just an average looking smoke
Taste- 70 no complexity and vegetal, bitter notes lead to the lowest score possible. There was nothing redeeming in the flavor profile of this smoke.
Construction- 85 just average a flaky and weak ash show some flaws
Strength- 80 an unremarkable strength to this cigar that is mild/medium
Overall- 80 really not a good smoke
The cigar opens with a sweet smoke, but there is an acrid bite at the back of the palate. The burn is acceptable and there is ample smoke. The ash is flaky and not well formed, almost as if there is too much air in the roll of the tobacco. The first half of the cigar is uneventful and sub par.
The second half did not develop well either. There were slightly floral and sweet notes, but vegetal, acrid undertones detract from the cigar. The burn stays acceptable, but the ash is still flaky and weak.
The finish is bitter and short with notes of crushed aspirin. This is not the cigar I remember, what a shame.
Appearance- 85 just an average looking smoke
Taste- 70 no complexity and vegetal, bitter notes lead to the lowest score possible. There was nothing redeeming in the flavor profile of this smoke.
Construction- 85 just average a flaky and weak ash show some flaws
Strength- 80 an unremarkable strength to this cigar that is mild/medium
Overall- 80 really not a good smoke
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Frank Llaneza 1961 Double Corona
Another new cigar in a line of many that I have smoked recently. This cigar presents in a size that has become uncommon in the domestic marketplace, it is refreshing to these sizes every now and again. The cigar has a milk chocolate brown wrapper, there is some prominent veining and some fraying at the foot. The wrapper lacks oils and feels a little bit on the toothy side. The pre light aroma is floral and light. The pre light draw is of light tobacco and earth.
The cigar begins with notes of leather and light earth. The burn is nice and produces a solid white ash. The draw is a bit tight, but it produces ample smoke. There is a light floral sweetness at the back of the palate. The first half of the cigar maintains the mentioned profile.
At just past the halfway point I begin to detect some light tones of cocoa and tobacco, but a bitterness has surfaced at the back of the palate. The burn has stayed straight and the draw is acceptable.
In the last three eigths of the cigar a leathery note becomes prominent in the core of the profile, but vegetal notes are evident as well. These vegetal notes hurt the leathery core of the smoke. The construction has stayed acceptable and the draw is fine.
The finish is short and acrid, there are still some leathery notes, but this cigar was seriously hurt in the final third.
Appearance- 88 some veining and flaws at the foot hurt the score
Taste- 86 the cigar lacks depth, but develops some nice flavors
Construction- 89 this cigar is well made
Strength- 83 somewhere in the medium to full range, but not remarkable when compared to other characteristics of the cigar
Overall- 86.5 a slightly above average smoke that was hurt in the final stages
The cigar begins with notes of leather and light earth. The burn is nice and produces a solid white ash. The draw is a bit tight, but it produces ample smoke. There is a light floral sweetness at the back of the palate. The first half of the cigar maintains the mentioned profile.
At just past the halfway point I begin to detect some light tones of cocoa and tobacco, but a bitterness has surfaced at the back of the palate. The burn has stayed straight and the draw is acceptable.
In the last three eigths of the cigar a leathery note becomes prominent in the core of the profile, but vegetal notes are evident as well. These vegetal notes hurt the leathery core of the smoke. The construction has stayed acceptable and the draw is fine.
The finish is short and acrid, there are still some leathery notes, but this cigar was seriously hurt in the final third.
Appearance- 88 some veining and flaws at the foot hurt the score
Taste- 86 the cigar lacks depth, but develops some nice flavors
Construction- 89 this cigar is well made
Strength- 83 somewhere in the medium to full range, but not remarkable when compared to other characteristics of the cigar
Overall- 86.5 a slightly above average smoke that was hurt in the final stages
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Oliva Cain Toro
This is a new offering from Oliva. The cigar is an attrative looking smoke with a dark brown wrapper. The wrapper has some minor flaws and I have to repair a seam at the cap. The cigar is firm and I do not detect any plugs or hard areas. The pre light aroma is of rich tobacco and earth. The pre light draw is a blast of nicotine and rich tobacco notes.
This is an absolute powerhouse from the beginning. The cigar has a blast of deep rich tobacco and my mouth is tingling from the nicotine that is present. The burn is solid and the ash is firm. The cigar remains constant to the halfway point.
At the halfway point the cigar powers up. This is the strongest cigar I have ever smoked. The deep rich tobacco flavor has a light sweetness that has crept in, but the nicotine is literally numbing my mouth. The burn is consistant and the draw is flawless.
The final half of this cigar is all strength, and the smoke continues to get stronger and stronger. The flavor is of rich tobacco, but the nicotine is overwhelming the flavor profile. The draw and burn stay very strong and the cigar holds up well.
The finish is overpowering with notes of nicotine and my palate is exhausted and burned out from the effort.
Appearance- 88 some flaws hurt the score
Taste-82 due to the strength the cigar lacks depth and complexity
Construction- 91 this cigar performs well in both burn and draw
Strength- 78 this is the strongest cigar I have ever smoked, but it is detrimental to the smoke
Overall- 84.75 not for the feint of heart and for ultra full bodied enthusiats only
This is an absolute powerhouse from the beginning. The cigar has a blast of deep rich tobacco and my mouth is tingling from the nicotine that is present. The burn is solid and the ash is firm. The cigar remains constant to the halfway point.
At the halfway point the cigar powers up. This is the strongest cigar I have ever smoked. The deep rich tobacco flavor has a light sweetness that has crept in, but the nicotine is literally numbing my mouth. The burn is consistant and the draw is flawless.
The final half of this cigar is all strength, and the smoke continues to get stronger and stronger. The flavor is of rich tobacco, but the nicotine is overwhelming the flavor profile. The draw and burn stay very strong and the cigar holds up well.
The finish is overpowering with notes of nicotine and my palate is exhausted and burned out from the effort.
Appearance- 88 some flaws hurt the score
Taste-82 due to the strength the cigar lacks depth and complexity
Construction- 91 this cigar performs well in both burn and draw
Strength- 78 this is the strongest cigar I have ever smoked, but it is detrimental to the smoke
Overall- 84.75 not for the feint of heart and for ultra full bodied enthusiats only
Carillo Inaugural 2009
This is a new offering from Ernesto Perez Carillo of La Gloria Cubana fame. The cigar is beautiful with a chestnut hued wrapper that is flawlessly applied. It has few veins and no flaws. The cigar is a bit soft, but I detect no flaws upon inspection. The pre light aroma is of roasted nuts and light cinnamon. The pre light draw is of light tobacco and earth.
The cigar opens extremely mildly with notes of nuts, earth and tobacco. The burn is excellent and the ash is firm with a dark gray coloring. The cigar lacks a full smoke, but there is enough there for me. The development through the first third stays consistent.
At just past the one third point the smoke picks up depth and I detect notes of cream and a toasty character that is unique and excellent. There are undertones of roasted nuts and cinnamon that are dancing across the back of the palate. The burn is strong and the draw is perfect.
The final half of this cigar ranks with the best I have ever smoked. There is the development of pepper and tobacco flavors. The cigar strengthens from a medium to a full bodied experience. The burn is excellent and there have been no flaws.
The finish is a bomb of pepper and notes of rich tobacco that lingers on the palate for several minutes. This is an incredible smoking experience that borders on being ritualistic.
Apperance- 95 a beautiful cigar to behold
Taste- 96 so much depth and complexity, but a fantastic balance of flavor
Construction- 97 an excellent example of a well made cigar
Strength- 93 a fine medium start with and excellent full bodied finish
Overall- 95.25 this is a must smoke for cigar enthusiasts
The cigar opens extremely mildly with notes of nuts, earth and tobacco. The burn is excellent and the ash is firm with a dark gray coloring. The cigar lacks a full smoke, but there is enough there for me. The development through the first third stays consistent.
At just past the one third point the smoke picks up depth and I detect notes of cream and a toasty character that is unique and excellent. There are undertones of roasted nuts and cinnamon that are dancing across the back of the palate. The burn is strong and the draw is perfect.
The final half of this cigar ranks with the best I have ever smoked. There is the development of pepper and tobacco flavors. The cigar strengthens from a medium to a full bodied experience. The burn is excellent and there have been no flaws.
The finish is a bomb of pepper and notes of rich tobacco that lingers on the palate for several minutes. This is an incredible smoking experience that borders on being ritualistic.
Apperance- 95 a beautiful cigar to behold
Taste- 96 so much depth and complexity, but a fantastic balance of flavor
Construction- 97 an excellent example of a well made cigar
Strength- 93 a fine medium start with and excellent full bodied finish
Overall- 95.25 this is a must smoke for cigar enthusiasts
Monday, August 17, 2009
Tatuaje Havana VI Nobles
This is the Red label variety of the Tatuaje line in a robusto sized presentation. The cigar is visually appealing and has a medium brown wrapper that has some prominent veins. A physical inspection of the smoke reveals no discernible construction issues. The pre light aroma is floral and has tones of earth. The pre light draw is cedary with a floral essence.
The cigar begins with an identifiable sweetness and notes of cedar and light earth greet the palate. The burn develops well and the ash is sharp. In the first two inches the profile also picks up a nice light tobacco character this marries well with the sweet cedary notes already present. There is also a nice shoulder developing at the one third point.
At just before the half way point this cigar loses the sweet cedary notes and develops a more rich tobacco character. There is still a note of sweet spice on the palate and the smoke becomes rich and voluminous, coating the palate with a satiny tingle of nicotine. The burn has stayed consistant and the ash holds for nearly half the smoke.
Just beyond the halfway point the cigar gains more depth with the introduction of a nutty flavor, there is also the presence of some light pepper at the back of the palate. The core of rich tobacco flavor stays prominent, but mingles beautifully with the other notes that have developed. The burn and draw have stayed flawless to this point.
In the final third the cigar continues to perform well. The sweet notes have returned and there is a floral essence accompanied by notes of nuts and light tobacco. This is a complex smoke and I am still detecting light pepper at the back of the palate. The burn and construction continue to be superior.
The finish is long and sweet with a floral and light tobacco character. This is an excellent smoke.
Appearance- 89 a very attractive cigar, hurt by some prominent veining
Taste- 94 extremely complex and full of satisfying character
Construction- 97 extremely well done, burn and draw were superior
Strength- 92 a wonderful medium/full experience that offsets the flavor characteristics in a fulfilling way.
Overall- 93 a superior smoking experience
The cigar begins with an identifiable sweetness and notes of cedar and light earth greet the palate. The burn develops well and the ash is sharp. In the first two inches the profile also picks up a nice light tobacco character this marries well with the sweet cedary notes already present. There is also a nice shoulder developing at the one third point.
At just before the half way point this cigar loses the sweet cedary notes and develops a more rich tobacco character. There is still a note of sweet spice on the palate and the smoke becomes rich and voluminous, coating the palate with a satiny tingle of nicotine. The burn has stayed consistant and the ash holds for nearly half the smoke.
Just beyond the halfway point the cigar gains more depth with the introduction of a nutty flavor, there is also the presence of some light pepper at the back of the palate. The core of rich tobacco flavor stays prominent, but mingles beautifully with the other notes that have developed. The burn and draw have stayed flawless to this point.
In the final third the cigar continues to perform well. The sweet notes have returned and there is a floral essence accompanied by notes of nuts and light tobacco. This is a complex smoke and I am still detecting light pepper at the back of the palate. The burn and construction continue to be superior.
The finish is long and sweet with a floral and light tobacco character. This is an excellent smoke.
Appearance- 89 a very attractive cigar, hurt by some prominent veining
Taste- 94 extremely complex and full of satisfying character
Construction- 97 extremely well done, burn and draw were superior
Strength- 92 a wonderful medium/full experience that offsets the flavor characteristics in a fulfilling way.
Overall- 93 a superior smoking experience
Fonseca 2-2 Maduro
This is a small cigar that has been a mainstay for me for some years, it is my go to when I don't have alot of time for a smoke but still need one. It always presents a little roughly, with some bumpy textures, this one is no exception. However, it is well made and the wrapper has no flaws. The pre light aroma has a strong inflence of cedar and light cocoa. The pre light draw is earthy.
This cigar moved quickly and upon lighting shows well developed flavors of light wood and cocoa, there is a slight bitterness at the back of the palate. The burn is solid and the ash develops with a dark gray color. The draw is exceptional for such a small vitola.
There is really no development to this cigar. It presents cedar, cocoa and earth notes throughout. The bitterness exits from the experience about half way through. The burn and construction stay true and cigar does not get hot as small cigars often do.
The finish is a nice mixture of cedar and earth and shows no sign of harshness or bitterness.
Appearance- 85 the rough looks hurt the score
Taste- 87 a nice solid tasting cigar that lacks depth and complexity
Construction- 91 high marks here due to the size of the cigar
Strength- 85 no remarkable strength characteristics, just a nice medium cigar
Overall- 87 a pleasing short smoke
This cigar moved quickly and upon lighting shows well developed flavors of light wood and cocoa, there is a slight bitterness at the back of the palate. The burn is solid and the ash develops with a dark gray color. The draw is exceptional for such a small vitola.
There is really no development to this cigar. It presents cedar, cocoa and earth notes throughout. The bitterness exits from the experience about half way through. The burn and construction stay true and cigar does not get hot as small cigars often do.
The finish is a nice mixture of cedar and earth and shows no sign of harshness or bitterness.
Appearance- 85 the rough looks hurt the score
Taste- 87 a nice solid tasting cigar that lacks depth and complexity
Construction- 91 high marks here due to the size of the cigar
Strength- 85 no remarkable strength characteristics, just a nice medium cigar
Overall- 87 a pleasing short smoke
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Diamond Crown Maximus Toro No.4
This is a good looking smoke with an oily sungrown wrapper that has no flaws and is expertly applied. An examination of the cigar reveals no softness or areas that are too firm, the cigar is supple and appropriately firm. The pre light aroma is of cocoa and light tobacco. The pre light draw is unremarkable, but has a slightly floral presentation.
The cigar begins with a profile best described as floral, there is a slightly sour undertone that is detracting from the cigar's opening few minutes. The ash is developing well and the burn is sharp. The draw is smooth and produces ample smoke.
The cigar is not anything to write home about at the halfway point, there are some light tobacco flavors and a sweet floral undertone. However, the sour notes have intensified and I am bothered by this flavor in the profile. The burn and construction have stayed acceptable.
The final third is showing no development either. The profile is still of light tobacco and has floral notes, but the sour undertone is still prominent and at this point has become an annoyance. The burn and construction are still excellent.
The finish is long and sour. There are still sweet floral notes, but they are obscured by the sour tinge that continues to assault my palate. I expect much more from a cigar that retails for $13.00.
Appearance- 88 a nice looking cigar
Taste- 75 very sub par and quite disappointing
Construction- 89 very well put together
Strength- 85 unremarkable medium strength cigar
Overall- 84.25 this was saved by the construction score
The cigar begins with a profile best described as floral, there is a slightly sour undertone that is detracting from the cigar's opening few minutes. The ash is developing well and the burn is sharp. The draw is smooth and produces ample smoke.
The cigar is not anything to write home about at the halfway point, there are some light tobacco flavors and a sweet floral undertone. However, the sour notes have intensified and I am bothered by this flavor in the profile. The burn and construction have stayed acceptable.
The final third is showing no development either. The profile is still of light tobacco and has floral notes, but the sour undertone is still prominent and at this point has become an annoyance. The burn and construction are still excellent.
The finish is long and sour. There are still sweet floral notes, but they are obscured by the sour tinge that continues to assault my palate. I expect much more from a cigar that retails for $13.00.
Appearance- 88 a nice looking cigar
Taste- 75 very sub par and quite disappointing
Construction- 89 very well put together
Strength- 85 unremarkable medium strength cigar
Overall- 84.25 this was saved by the construction score
Padilla Miami 8 and 11 Torpedo
While I am not a torpedo enthusiast I was excited to smoke this cigar. I have not seen one in a retail store for nearly two years and had not smoked one in at least that length of time. No longer available, this is a cigar that should be sorely missed by enthusiasts everywhere. It presents with a beautiful medium brown wrapper that has not a single flaw. The construction appears to be superior as I detect no soft spots or hard areas, the cigar is supple and firm. The pre light aroma is replete with cedar and light tobacco and earth. The pre light draw is subtle, but contains a light tobacco note.
The cigar begins in splendid fashion with deep rich notes of tobacco, earth and roasted nuts. The smoke is full and plentiful and coats the palate with a satiny experience. The ash develops nicely with a medium gray presentation, it is firm and solid. The first couple of inches maintain these characteristics.
At somewhere between the one quarter and one third point a profile change emerges and the cigar begins to show notes of dark wood and a rich flavor of spice mixed with light earth. The ash holds until nearly the half way point, indicative of superlative construction.
The final third of the cigar reveals further complexity and depth. There are notes of earth and rich tobacco, accompanied by spice and roasted nuts. There are no burn flaws and the cigar performs in magnificent fashion.
The finish is long and leaves lingering notes of rich tobacco and earth. This cigar was a transcendant experience.
Appearance- 96 visually stunning
Taste- 97 a wonderful display of depth and complexity
Construction- 98 superlative, particularly for a torpedo, a vitola that experiences many issues
Strength- 93 a wonderful medium/full experience, I expected a bit more here
Overall- 96 this cigar is a classic and I will miss it.
The cigar begins in splendid fashion with deep rich notes of tobacco, earth and roasted nuts. The smoke is full and plentiful and coats the palate with a satiny experience. The ash develops nicely with a medium gray presentation, it is firm and solid. The first couple of inches maintain these characteristics.
At somewhere between the one quarter and one third point a profile change emerges and the cigar begins to show notes of dark wood and a rich flavor of spice mixed with light earth. The ash holds until nearly the half way point, indicative of superlative construction.
The final third of the cigar reveals further complexity and depth. There are notes of earth and rich tobacco, accompanied by spice and roasted nuts. There are no burn flaws and the cigar performs in magnificent fashion.
The finish is long and leaves lingering notes of rich tobacco and earth. This cigar was a transcendant experience.
Appearance- 96 visually stunning
Taste- 97 a wonderful display of depth and complexity
Construction- 98 superlative, particularly for a torpedo, a vitola that experiences many issues
Strength- 93 a wonderful medium/full experience, I expected a bit more here
Overall- 96 this cigar is a classic and I will miss it.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
JR Ultimate Cabinet No.10
This is a bargain priced cigar that I have smoked for years. A cabinet of 25 usually retails for around $80. The cigar presents with a dark brown wrapper that is visually appealing, there are few veins, but the smoke has a rough looking construction. The pre light aroma is of cedar and light coffee. The pre light draw is a little loose, but presents flavors of earth and wood.
The cigar begins with a prominent cedar core complimented by light earth and coffee. The burn develops a beautiful white ash that is razor sharp. The cigar develops well in the first third and the burn stays consistant.
At the half way point there is a profile shift and the cigar begins to develop a robust tobacco flavor. There is also a pleasant cedar note at the back of the palate. The burn has stayed sharp and the ash is well formed. As is typical of this cigar the remnant of the end cap is starting to come loose and will eventually fall off, this is how I know I am smoking a JR Ultimate Cab.
The final third of the cigar develops a light sweetness while maintaining a nice tobacco flavor. There is the development of a slightly bitter note on the back of the palate, it is fleeting and it does not hurt the overall experience.
The finish is of tobacco and light earth. It is a little short and some bitterness surfaces.
Appearance- 86 hurt by the rough construction
Taste- 88 a fine well developed flavor profile
Construction- 88 a well constructed cigar
Strength- 87 a nice medium presentation
Overall- 87.25
The cigar begins with a prominent cedar core complimented by light earth and coffee. The burn develops a beautiful white ash that is razor sharp. The cigar develops well in the first third and the burn stays consistant.
At the half way point there is a profile shift and the cigar begins to develop a robust tobacco flavor. There is also a pleasant cedar note at the back of the palate. The burn has stayed sharp and the ash is well formed. As is typical of this cigar the remnant of the end cap is starting to come loose and will eventually fall off, this is how I know I am smoking a JR Ultimate Cab.
The final third of the cigar develops a light sweetness while maintaining a nice tobacco flavor. There is the development of a slightly bitter note on the back of the palate, it is fleeting and it does not hurt the overall experience.
The finish is of tobacco and light earth. It is a little short and some bitterness surfaces.
Appearance- 86 hurt by the rough construction
Taste- 88 a fine well developed flavor profile
Construction- 88 a well constructed cigar
Strength- 87 a nice medium presentation
Overall- 87.25
Friday, August 14, 2009
Don Lino 1989 Maduro Robusto
This cigar is an appealing sight with a dark chocolate hued wrapper that is glistening with oils. The wrapper has few veins and feels thick and hearty, there are no apparent flaws. A quick examination reveals a firm, seemingly well constructed smoke. The pre light aroma has a chocolatey presence and notes of light earth. The pre light draw is sweet and has a mild spice undertone.
The cigar begins with a strong chocolate character and a light undertone of earth and tobacco. A moderate shoulder is evident and I detect the presence of oil around the area of the burn. The smoke is sweet and full and is developing nicely.
At the one third point of the cigar the profile has not developed any further, but maintains chocolatey notes with hints of earth and light spice. I encounter the beginnings of a burn flaw but attempt to smoke through it, to no avail. The cigar canoes for nearly an inch and a half and I am forced to retouch with a lighter, a process that I have always believed reduces the character of the flavor profile and frequently introduces charred notes. This is no exception, and I experience charry notes for the next half inch.
At the half way point the charred notes have diminished and the cigar returns to a profile of chocolate and earth. The burn has still not recovered and another canoe begins to develop as I approach the final third of the cigar.
I am loathe to retouch this cigar again and I make the decision to evaluate the final third while fighting the burn issue. The profile is still of chocolate and earth with a light nicotine tingle at the back of the palate.
The finish is pleasant and is also of chocolate and earth. The burn issue never corrected itself and I finish the cigar with a canoe that is the size of one third of the cigar.
Appearance- 91 a very attractive cigar
Taste- 88 this cigar had nice flavor, but lacked complexity
Construction- 73 very poor as evidenced by two severe burn issues
Strength- 86 a medium smoke without any real strength characteristics
Overall- 84.5 obviously hurt by the construction
The cigar begins with a strong chocolate character and a light undertone of earth and tobacco. A moderate shoulder is evident and I detect the presence of oil around the area of the burn. The smoke is sweet and full and is developing nicely.
At the one third point of the cigar the profile has not developed any further, but maintains chocolatey notes with hints of earth and light spice. I encounter the beginnings of a burn flaw but attempt to smoke through it, to no avail. The cigar canoes for nearly an inch and a half and I am forced to retouch with a lighter, a process that I have always believed reduces the character of the flavor profile and frequently introduces charred notes. This is no exception, and I experience charry notes for the next half inch.
At the half way point the charred notes have diminished and the cigar returns to a profile of chocolate and earth. The burn has still not recovered and another canoe begins to develop as I approach the final third of the cigar.
I am loathe to retouch this cigar again and I make the decision to evaluate the final third while fighting the burn issue. The profile is still of chocolate and earth with a light nicotine tingle at the back of the palate.
The finish is pleasant and is also of chocolate and earth. The burn issue never corrected itself and I finish the cigar with a canoe that is the size of one third of the cigar.
Appearance- 91 a very attractive cigar
Taste- 88 this cigar had nice flavor, but lacked complexity
Construction- 73 very poor as evidenced by two severe burn issues
Strength- 86 a medium smoke without any real strength characteristics
Overall- 84.5 obviously hurt by the construction
Thursday, August 13, 2009
La Aurora Barrel Aged No. 4
This corona sized cigar presents with a dark, rich oscuro wrapper. The wrapper is flawless and has little veining. The pre light aroma has notes of cocoa and earth. The pre light draw is sweet and has notes of light tobacco. The construction appears to be excellent and the cigar is supple and appropriately firm.
The cigar opens with a deep, rich tobacco character with hints of cocoa at the back of the palate. The cigar produces acceptable amounts of smoke and the burn is sharp and the ash is a bright white color.
At the halfway point the cigar develops an even richer tobacco character that cloys some of the other notes that are present. However, through the nose I still experience some fine characteristics of cocoa and earth. The burn has stayed consistant and the ash is firm.
In the last half of the cigar I note the maintenance of strong tobacco character, but there are undertones of earth and spice beginning to show on the palate as well. I encounter a minor burn flaw, but it is of no real issue. There is also an oaky flavor developing that adds to the complexity of this cigar.
The finish of this smoke is an intense array of strong tobacco and earth. There is a slightly acidic note that fouls some of the profile.
Appearance- 94 a beautiful cigar with a nearly flawless visual presentation
Taste- 87 this score is hurt by the muddled character in the middle of the cigar and the acidic note on the finish
Construction- 89 one minor burn flaw
Strength- 92 a fine example of a full bodied smoke when measured against the other characteristics creates a fine smoking experience
Overall- 90.5
The cigar opens with a deep, rich tobacco character with hints of cocoa at the back of the palate. The cigar produces acceptable amounts of smoke and the burn is sharp and the ash is a bright white color.
At the halfway point the cigar develops an even richer tobacco character that cloys some of the other notes that are present. However, through the nose I still experience some fine characteristics of cocoa and earth. The burn has stayed consistant and the ash is firm.
In the last half of the cigar I note the maintenance of strong tobacco character, but there are undertones of earth and spice beginning to show on the palate as well. I encounter a minor burn flaw, but it is of no real issue. There is also an oaky flavor developing that adds to the complexity of this cigar.
The finish of this smoke is an intense array of strong tobacco and earth. There is a slightly acidic note that fouls some of the profile.
Appearance- 94 a beautiful cigar with a nearly flawless visual presentation
Taste- 87 this score is hurt by the muddled character in the middle of the cigar and the acidic note on the finish
Construction- 89 one minor burn flaw
Strength- 92 a fine example of a full bodied smoke when measured against the other characteristics creates a fine smoking experience
Overall- 90.5
Cabaiguan Corona Extra
This is a beautiful looking cigar in one of my favorite sizes. The wrapper is light and blonde with a slight dusting of plume, apparently I have had this around for awhile. The appearance is marred by a ruddy exterior with prominent veining, but there are no other flaws in the wrapper. The pre light aroma is floral and woody. The pre light draw is a bit tight, but hints of cedar and light tobacco notes fill the intake.
The cigar begins with a sweet and lightly earthy note, there is a little tingle from the nicotine at the back of the palate. The first couple of inches develop nicely and maintain a sweet earthy flavor. The smoke is a bit thin and the draw stays a touch tight, but it is showing signs of opening up a little bit.
At the half way point the cigar has developed into a flavorful blend of cream, vanilla and light tobacco character. The burn has stayed even and the cigar has not shown any flaws. The draw has opened up considerably and the smoke is flowing at a nice clip.
With about a third of the cigar remaining I encounter a runner in the burn, but it evens out without canoeing. The flavor profile has flattened out, I note some light tobacco character and some mild pepper at the back of the palate.
The finish is long and has notes of cedar and wood, there is also a satisfying peppery note on the end. The cigar burned a little hot in the last quarter, but it did not detract from the overall experience.
Appearance- 86 the ruddy exterior and veining hurt the score
Taste- 91 a nice complex cigar with a melange of flavors
Construction- 89 one burn issue hurt this score
Strength- 94 a fine example of a medium/full cigar
Overall- 90 an excellent smoke
The cigar begins with a sweet and lightly earthy note, there is a little tingle from the nicotine at the back of the palate. The first couple of inches develop nicely and maintain a sweet earthy flavor. The smoke is a bit thin and the draw stays a touch tight, but it is showing signs of opening up a little bit.
At the half way point the cigar has developed into a flavorful blend of cream, vanilla and light tobacco character. The burn has stayed even and the cigar has not shown any flaws. The draw has opened up considerably and the smoke is flowing at a nice clip.
With about a third of the cigar remaining I encounter a runner in the burn, but it evens out without canoeing. The flavor profile has flattened out, I note some light tobacco character and some mild pepper at the back of the palate.
The finish is long and has notes of cedar and wood, there is also a satisfying peppery note on the end. The cigar burned a little hot in the last quarter, but it did not detract from the overall experience.
Appearance- 86 the ruddy exterior and veining hurt the score
Taste- 91 a nice complex cigar with a melange of flavors
Construction- 89 one burn issue hurt this score
Strength- 94 a fine example of a medium/full cigar
Overall- 90 an excellent smoke
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Padilla Signature 1932 Toro
This is another cigar that I have smoked on numerous occasions. It presents with a medium brown wrapper that has a milk chocolate hue. The wrapper has prominent veins and some flaws in the coloring. The pre light aroma is of cedar and earth. The pre light draw is of rich tobacco and earth. An examination of the cigar yields some firm areas, but overall feels well constructed.
The cigar begins with a rich tobacco note and has strong undertones of earth. The burn is solid and the draw stays acceptable. The first third of the cigar stays as mentioned and there is no further development.
At the half way point this cigar develops a serious burn flaw and canoes drastically, this is out of character for this particular smoke. The flavor develops well and I pick up notes of spice along with rich tobacco and notes of earth. The burn issue has caused a flaky ash and the cigar makes quite a mess, but I am able to smoke through it.
In the final third of the cigar another burn flaw develops, I am again able to smoke through it, but it effects the remainder of the cigar. The flavor has picked up complexity and I experience notes of roasted nuts with earthy undertones, there is also some light coffee flavor presenting at the back of the palate. The cigar is full bodied, but not overwhelming.
The finish has notes of earth and tobacco, but picks up a slightly charred characteristic that detracts from the experience. The profile is complex and has depth, but is hurt by the charred notes at the end.
Appearance- 85 this score is hurt by veining and wrapper flaws
Taste- 92 this cigar was complex and had nice depth
Construction- 83 serious burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 90 this is a fine full bodied example
Overall- 87.5
The cigar begins with a rich tobacco note and has strong undertones of earth. The burn is solid and the draw stays acceptable. The first third of the cigar stays as mentioned and there is no further development.
At the half way point this cigar develops a serious burn flaw and canoes drastically, this is out of character for this particular smoke. The flavor develops well and I pick up notes of spice along with rich tobacco and notes of earth. The burn issue has caused a flaky ash and the cigar makes quite a mess, but I am able to smoke through it.
In the final third of the cigar another burn flaw develops, I am again able to smoke through it, but it effects the remainder of the cigar. The flavor has picked up complexity and I experience notes of roasted nuts with earthy undertones, there is also some light coffee flavor presenting at the back of the palate. The cigar is full bodied, but not overwhelming.
The finish has notes of earth and tobacco, but picks up a slightly charred characteristic that detracts from the experience. The profile is complex and has depth, but is hurt by the charred notes at the end.
Appearance- 85 this score is hurt by veining and wrapper flaws
Taste- 92 this cigar was complex and had nice depth
Construction- 83 serious burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 90 this is a fine full bodied example
Overall- 87.5
Perdomo La Tradicion Cabinet Series Golf Robusto
This is a cigar that I have smoked many times in the past. The cigar is wrapped with a nice darker shade wrapper that has some flaws and some prominent veining. The pre light aroma has floral notes and essence of cedar and light wood. The cigar is a little firm, but I have noticed that feature in these cigars before.
This smoke begins with a light hint of pepper and some fine cedar and wood characteristics. The smoke is sweet and light, the cigar produces an acceptable amount of smoke. This vitola develops well in the first few inches and maintains a smoke with notes of cedar and wood, the sweet flavor remains.
At the halfway point the cigar drops it's ash, but I am impressed that it held this far. The profile has continued to develop well with a nice light tobacco flavor and undertones of leather and wood. The smoke has become heavier and coats the palate with a satisfying light nicotine tingle. The burn has been acceptable, if a bit lopsided.
The final half of the cigar presents some notes of light toast that is sweet, but different from the earlier sweetness that presented in the cigar. I encounter a moderate burn issue with about one third of the cigar remaining, but I smoke through it without too much issue. The ash has become flaky and the cigar seems to be a bit dry at the back of the palate, but it is not unpleasant. I am always surprised by the depth and character in the flavor profile of this cigar.
The finish is a bit short, but leaves a satisfying coat of sweet notes and light wood on the palate. All in all this is a very good cigar, with character and complexity.
Appearance- 87 veining and flaws hurt the score
Taste- 93 surprising depth and complexity
Construction- 89 the burn flaw hurts this score
Strength- 91 a fine example of a medium bodied cigar
Overall- 91.5
This smoke begins with a light hint of pepper and some fine cedar and wood characteristics. The smoke is sweet and light, the cigar produces an acceptable amount of smoke. This vitola develops well in the first few inches and maintains a smoke with notes of cedar and wood, the sweet flavor remains.
At the halfway point the cigar drops it's ash, but I am impressed that it held this far. The profile has continued to develop well with a nice light tobacco flavor and undertones of leather and wood. The smoke has become heavier and coats the palate with a satisfying light nicotine tingle. The burn has been acceptable, if a bit lopsided.
The final half of the cigar presents some notes of light toast that is sweet, but different from the earlier sweetness that presented in the cigar. I encounter a moderate burn issue with about one third of the cigar remaining, but I smoke through it without too much issue. The ash has become flaky and the cigar seems to be a bit dry at the back of the palate, but it is not unpleasant. I am always surprised by the depth and character in the flavor profile of this cigar.
The finish is a bit short, but leaves a satisfying coat of sweet notes and light wood on the palate. All in all this is a very good cigar, with character and complexity.
Appearance- 87 veining and flaws hurt the score
Taste- 93 surprising depth and complexity
Construction- 89 the burn flaw hurts this score
Strength- 91 a fine example of a medium bodied cigar
Overall- 91.5
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Alec Bradley Maxx Tradition Toro
I had not smoked this version of the Maxx before and I was anticipating this cigar in the smaller ring gauge. The wrapper is a beautiful dark chocolate brown that glistens with oils. There is a prominent vein near the foot of the cigar, but physical inspection leads me to believe that this cigar will be well constructed. The pre light aroma has faint hints of chocolate and spice. The pre light draw is of muted spice notes as well.
The cigar begins with excellent chocolate flavors with undertones of coffee. The profile is straight forward and the cigar booms volumes of smoke. The vein at the foot has caused no issues and the burn is even. The ash develops well and has bright white color, though it is a bit flaky.
At the half way point the cigar maintains strong notes of chocolate. The coffee undertone has given way to a pleasant rich tobacco flavor that mingles with hints of earth. The smoke is full bodied, but not overwhelmingly strong. The burn has stayed sharp and the construction of the cigar is excellent to this point.
The last half of the cigar does not develop any further and leaves me a bit disappointed as I was craving some complexity. However, the depth of the flavors contained in the profile is noteworthy and satisfying. I only encountered one small burn flaw and it was so minimal it almost could have passed notice.
The finish was long and left lingering notes of earth and chocolate on the palate. This cigar was a pleasant surprise.
Appearance- 91
Taste- 92
Construction- 92
Strength- 92 this was an excellent medium/full experience that was exceptional when considered against the cigar's other characteristics
Overall- 91.75
The cigar begins with excellent chocolate flavors with undertones of coffee. The profile is straight forward and the cigar booms volumes of smoke. The vein at the foot has caused no issues and the burn is even. The ash develops well and has bright white color, though it is a bit flaky.
At the half way point the cigar maintains strong notes of chocolate. The coffee undertone has given way to a pleasant rich tobacco flavor that mingles with hints of earth. The smoke is full bodied, but not overwhelmingly strong. The burn has stayed sharp and the construction of the cigar is excellent to this point.
The last half of the cigar does not develop any further and leaves me a bit disappointed as I was craving some complexity. However, the depth of the flavors contained in the profile is noteworthy and satisfying. I only encountered one small burn flaw and it was so minimal it almost could have passed notice.
The finish was long and left lingering notes of earth and chocolate on the palate. This cigar was a pleasant surprise.
Appearance- 91
Taste- 92
Construction- 92
Strength- 92 this was an excellent medium/full experience that was exceptional when considered against the cigar's other characteristics
Overall- 91.75
Siglo I by Altadis
This is a short Petit Corona sized smoke that presents with a light brown wrapper the shade of light coffee with cream. The wrapper is fairly non-descript and lacks oils, but has no flaws and appears well applied. A further examination of the cigar indicates that there are no construction flaws and I don't feel any hard or soft spots along the length of the cigar. The pre light aroma is grassy with a hint of ammonia. The pre light draw shows signs of dry vegetation and grass.
The cigar opens with grassy and vegetal notes, there is a touch of bitterness in the open and overall the cigar does not start well. The burn is a little hot at the outset, but settles down after the first half inch. There are no burn issues in the first half of the smoke.
In the second half of the cigar some bready notes appear and offset some of the vegetal notes that were experienced earlier in the cigar. There is a slight burn flaw that appears in the second half as well, but I smoke through it and it causes no issues with the exception of a flaky charred ash.
The finish is short and grassy with bitter undertones. Overall this was a forgettable experience.
Appearance- 80 a very average cigar in terms of appealing looks
Taste- 76 grass and vegetal notes hurt this score, the cigar also lacks depth
Construction- 87 the burn issue hurts this score, but overall above average
Strength- 80 this is a medium to full offering, but lacks any remarkable strength characteristics
Overall- 80.75
The cigar opens with grassy and vegetal notes, there is a touch of bitterness in the open and overall the cigar does not start well. The burn is a little hot at the outset, but settles down after the first half inch. There are no burn issues in the first half of the smoke.
In the second half of the cigar some bready notes appear and offset some of the vegetal notes that were experienced earlier in the cigar. There is a slight burn flaw that appears in the second half as well, but I smoke through it and it causes no issues with the exception of a flaky charred ash.
The finish is short and grassy with bitter undertones. Overall this was a forgettable experience.
Appearance- 80 a very average cigar in terms of appealing looks
Taste- 76 grass and vegetal notes hurt this score, the cigar also lacks depth
Construction- 87 the burn issue hurts this score, but overall above average
Strength- 80 this is a medium to full offering, but lacks any remarkable strength characteristics
Overall- 80.75
Monday, August 10, 2009
Don Pepin Garcia Blue Demi Tasse
I have smoked several of this offering, but had never reviewed one before. It is typically a smoke I choose when time is short and I do not want to sacrifice quality for expedience. It is a small cigar and presents with a light to medium brown wrapper. The appearance is rough, but I expect that from a small vitola. The pre light aroma is of light tobacco and a floral note is present. The pre light draw is also of light tobacco, and is a little tight.
The cigar opens with notes of light tobacco and has more strength than one would expect from a cigar of this size. There is a slightly acidic note that is present, but it is not prominent or overwhelming.
Due to the size this cigar does not develop a flavor profile, but is consistantly presenting light tobacco flavors with acidic undertones. The burn is slightly off and the draw stays tight, at points there is some labor involved to generate some smoke.
I am disappointed with this as compared to other samples of the same cigar that I smoked in the past. The finish is short and metallic and the cigar burns hot toward the last third, though that is not uncommon for small cigars.
Appearance- 84
Taste- 81
Construction- 87 this was fairly decent for a small cigar despite the tight draw which I expect from small smokes
Strength- 83 somewhere between medium and full, but it was difficult to discern with the muddled notes on the finish
Overall- 83.75
The cigar opens with notes of light tobacco and has more strength than one would expect from a cigar of this size. There is a slightly acidic note that is present, but it is not prominent or overwhelming.
Due to the size this cigar does not develop a flavor profile, but is consistantly presenting light tobacco flavors with acidic undertones. The burn is slightly off and the draw stays tight, at points there is some labor involved to generate some smoke.
I am disappointed with this as compared to other samples of the same cigar that I smoked in the past. The finish is short and metallic and the cigar burns hot toward the last third, though that is not uncommon for small cigars.
Appearance- 84
Taste- 81
Construction- 87 this was fairly decent for a small cigar despite the tight draw which I expect from small smokes
Strength- 83 somewhere between medium and full, but it was difficult to discern with the muddled notes on the finish
Overall- 83.75
Tatuaje Noella
This cigar presents in a vitola close to a Petit Corona. The wrapper is a coffee brown and looks very appealing. There is some veining and the wrap does not look uniform down the length of the smoke, it appears as if the wrapper was wrinkled and in need of a quick iron before being applied. The pre light aroma is sweet and fruity. The pre light draw is unremarkable and does nothing to provide an indication of the profile.
The cigar started with very pleasing notes of chocolate and light coffee. There was not a hint of bitterness or any other characteristics that would detract from a cigar at this stage of the smoke. For a small cigar the smoke is satisfying and flavorful.
This cigar developed beautifully for the first half, maintaining an exciting blend of coffee and chocolate notes. Through the nose the cigar shows a profile of rich tobacco adding to the experience. The burn is slightly awkward but is holding its own. The ash is a gray/white combination and holds well for the first half of the smoke.
At the two thirds point this cigar developed a run in the burn that develops into a canoe towards the end of the smoke. This development is disappointing as the cigar was of excellent construction to this point. The flavor is still a mix of chocolate and coffee, but has picked up a slightly sour note at the back of the palate.
The finish is long and sweet leaving lingering notes of coffee and light tobacco flavors. The smoke was medium and all in all a very superior taste experience.
Appearance- 85 the wrinkling and veins hurt this score
Taste- 89 the slightly sour note at the end detracted from this score, there was also a lack of depth in the profile
Construction- 84 the run and canoe at the end hurt this score dramatically
Strength- 91 a very pleasing medium smoke
Overall- 87.25
The cigar started with very pleasing notes of chocolate and light coffee. There was not a hint of bitterness or any other characteristics that would detract from a cigar at this stage of the smoke. For a small cigar the smoke is satisfying and flavorful.
This cigar developed beautifully for the first half, maintaining an exciting blend of coffee and chocolate notes. Through the nose the cigar shows a profile of rich tobacco adding to the experience. The burn is slightly awkward but is holding its own. The ash is a gray/white combination and holds well for the first half of the smoke.
At the two thirds point this cigar developed a run in the burn that develops into a canoe towards the end of the smoke. This development is disappointing as the cigar was of excellent construction to this point. The flavor is still a mix of chocolate and coffee, but has picked up a slightly sour note at the back of the palate.
The finish is long and sweet leaving lingering notes of coffee and light tobacco flavors. The smoke was medium and all in all a very superior taste experience.
Appearance- 85 the wrinkling and veins hurt this score
Taste- 89 the slightly sour note at the end detracted from this score, there was also a lack of depth in the profile
Construction- 84 the run and canoe at the end hurt this score dramatically
Strength- 91 a very pleasing medium smoke
Overall- 87.25
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Ambos Mundos Robusto
This is a new offering at Maduro's, my local brick and mortar. This cigar has a medium brown wrapper with some veining and other small flaws that detract from the visual experience. Further examination shows no construction issues that are evident. The pre light aroma presented cedary notes and a floral edge. The pre light draw showed some further signs of cedar but was unremarkable otherwise.
The opening notes of this cigar are sweet and cedary, there is a little underlying bitterness that is leaving a noticeable edge at the back of the palate. The draw is a bit loose, but the burn is sharp. The ash is developing nicely with a bright white presentation. The sweetness persists through the first inch or so, but the development of the cigar is not noteworthy to this point.
At the one third point of the cigar the development is still unremarkable. There is still a core of sweet cedar notes, but there is an underlying note of dry vegetation that has crept onto the palate. The overall profile is flat, but not unpleasant.
At the halfway point the cigar develops a bready core, with the maintenance of cedary undertones. There is still a light sweetness that is complimenting the core of flavors in this experience. There are still some vegetal notes, but they are fleeting amongst the sweet cedary presentations.
The final half of the cigar showed no further positive development. The sweet cedar notes faded into the background and the vegetal notes came through with more prominence. The final notes were bitter and vegetal.
The finish was rough and short with notes of burnt wood and vegetation. The burn stayed consistant throughout, but the ash was dry and flaky.
Appearance- 80 this score was hurt by the flat veiny attrubutes noted above
Taste- 81 overall the profile was just okay, the final half of the cigar hurt this score
Construction- 87 this was solid, but could have been better as evidenced by the fact that the cigar did not hold the dry, flaky ash
Strength- 83 a solid medium smoke but unremarkable
Overall- 82.75
The opening notes of this cigar are sweet and cedary, there is a little underlying bitterness that is leaving a noticeable edge at the back of the palate. The draw is a bit loose, but the burn is sharp. The ash is developing nicely with a bright white presentation. The sweetness persists through the first inch or so, but the development of the cigar is not noteworthy to this point.
At the one third point of the cigar the development is still unremarkable. There is still a core of sweet cedar notes, but there is an underlying note of dry vegetation that has crept onto the palate. The overall profile is flat, but not unpleasant.
At the halfway point the cigar develops a bready core, with the maintenance of cedary undertones. There is still a light sweetness that is complimenting the core of flavors in this experience. There are still some vegetal notes, but they are fleeting amongst the sweet cedary presentations.
The final half of the cigar showed no further positive development. The sweet cedar notes faded into the background and the vegetal notes came through with more prominence. The final notes were bitter and vegetal.
The finish was rough and short with notes of burnt wood and vegetation. The burn stayed consistant throughout, but the ash was dry and flaky.
Appearance- 80 this score was hurt by the flat veiny attrubutes noted above
Taste- 81 overall the profile was just okay, the final half of the cigar hurt this score
Construction- 87 this was solid, but could have been better as evidenced by the fact that the cigar did not hold the dry, flaky ash
Strength- 83 a solid medium smoke but unremarkable
Overall- 82.75
Graycliff 1666 Petit Corona Maduro
This is a vintage that I have never smoked before. The cigar presents with a dark toothy maduro wrapper that is nearly black in color. The veining is minimal and the cigar is supple and well packed. The pre light aroma is acidic with ammonia notes. The pre light draw is non descript with some light hints of tobacco.
The cigar begins with hints of espresso and light cocoa, there is an acidic undertone that is present but not hurting the core flavors of the cigar. The burn is sharp and there is a noticable presence of oils around the shoulder at the edge of the burn.
One inch into the cigar the acidic undertone drops away and an underlying hint of orange peel becomes noticeable. This marries nicely with the core of espresso and cocoa that is still at the head of the experience. The shoulder is prominent and the ash burns slightly lopsided with a nice gray/white color and a flaky texture. This cigar produces mouthfuls of satisfying smoke, a little surprising as Petit Coronas usually do not yield billows of smoke. There is some harshness through the nose, but it does not detract from the overall presentation of flavors.
At the halfway point the cigar develops some bitterness as the core of flavors falls away. I am left with the citrus undertone and bitterness. The experience has deteriorated at this point. There is also some sort of acidic bite that is presenting itself.
The last third of the cigar recovers somewhat as some rich tobacco notes assert themselves and there is a return of some light cocoa. Interestingly, a peppery flavor has come around in the final stages as well.
The finish is short and bitter. There are hints of pepper and earth, but they are muddled and difficult to identify.
Appearance- 91 a beautiful cigar
Taste- 77 the flavors were prominent in the first half, but deteriorated in the last half
Construction- 88 well made and held up well
Strength- 77 this is trying to be full offering, but it is difficult to evaluate because of the acidity and bitterness that throw off the experience
Overall- 83.25
The cigar begins with hints of espresso and light cocoa, there is an acidic undertone that is present but not hurting the core flavors of the cigar. The burn is sharp and there is a noticable presence of oils around the shoulder at the edge of the burn.
One inch into the cigar the acidic undertone drops away and an underlying hint of orange peel becomes noticeable. This marries nicely with the core of espresso and cocoa that is still at the head of the experience. The shoulder is prominent and the ash burns slightly lopsided with a nice gray/white color and a flaky texture. This cigar produces mouthfuls of satisfying smoke, a little surprising as Petit Coronas usually do not yield billows of smoke. There is some harshness through the nose, but it does not detract from the overall presentation of flavors.
At the halfway point the cigar develops some bitterness as the core of flavors falls away. I am left with the citrus undertone and bitterness. The experience has deteriorated at this point. There is also some sort of acidic bite that is presenting itself.
The last third of the cigar recovers somewhat as some rich tobacco notes assert themselves and there is a return of some light cocoa. Interestingly, a peppery flavor has come around in the final stages as well.
The finish is short and bitter. There are hints of pepper and earth, but they are muddled and difficult to identify.
Appearance- 91 a beautiful cigar
Taste- 77 the flavors were prominent in the first half, but deteriorated in the last half
Construction- 88 well made and held up well
Strength- 77 this is trying to be full offering, but it is difficult to evaluate because of the acidity and bitterness that throw off the experience
Overall- 83.25
Tobacos Baez Famosos by Pepin Garcia
This robusto sized cigar has a light brown wrapper and is lighter than standard Pepin offerings, with the exception of Cabaiguan. There is a prominent vein near the head of the cigar that could be an issue, but rolling the cigar quickly through my fingers tells me that this cigar has no undue firmness or discernible plugs. The pre light aroma is light and woody. The pre light draw has notes of light wood and light tobacco.
The cigar begins with mellow wood notes and a vegetal undertone. It is not unpleasant at this point, but is not yet pleasing either. I have smoked several examples of this and they almost always begin in the same way.
At the one third point the cigar develops a slight burn flaw, but as is my wont I smoke through it and it evens out. (A word of advice on this particular issue. Always attempt to smoke through a flaw in the burn. I see many smokers immediately put them to the torch to even them out and the result is they char the cigar and thus pick up a burnt or charred note for the rest of the smoke.) Getting back to the cigar, it has developed a creamy vanilla tone and maintains the light wood flavors in the background. There is also some evidence of light pepper at the back of the palate that is starting to assert itself.
At the half way point the peppery notes have come on stronger, but are not overwhelming. There is still a sweet mellow note of wood and cream in the mix at this point as well. The burn has returned to a sharp edge and the cigar is holding up well.
The final half of the cigar develops another small burn issue, but smoking through it pays off yet again. The peppery notes have faded away and the notes of light cream and wood have taken center stage, there is a vegetal undertone threatening to weaken the experience.
The finish is flat with a definite vegetal undertone. Some notes of pepper have resurfaced, but it is hurt by the flat vegetal flavors that the finish is presenting.
Appearance- 88 a beautiful wrapper that was hurt by the prominent vein at the head
Taste- 83 this cigar was hurt by the vegetal notes that surfaced in various stages of the smoke
Construction- 86 this score was hurt by the two burn flaws that were encountered during the experience
Strength- 88 this is a fine example of a medium bodied cigar
Overall- 86.25 this is a cigar with some potential but the flaws noted hurt the score
The cigar begins with mellow wood notes and a vegetal undertone. It is not unpleasant at this point, but is not yet pleasing either. I have smoked several examples of this and they almost always begin in the same way.
At the one third point the cigar develops a slight burn flaw, but as is my wont I smoke through it and it evens out. (A word of advice on this particular issue. Always attempt to smoke through a flaw in the burn. I see many smokers immediately put them to the torch to even them out and the result is they char the cigar and thus pick up a burnt or charred note for the rest of the smoke.) Getting back to the cigar, it has developed a creamy vanilla tone and maintains the light wood flavors in the background. There is also some evidence of light pepper at the back of the palate that is starting to assert itself.
At the half way point the peppery notes have come on stronger, but are not overwhelming. There is still a sweet mellow note of wood and cream in the mix at this point as well. The burn has returned to a sharp edge and the cigar is holding up well.
The final half of the cigar develops another small burn issue, but smoking through it pays off yet again. The peppery notes have faded away and the notes of light cream and wood have taken center stage, there is a vegetal undertone threatening to weaken the experience.
The finish is flat with a definite vegetal undertone. Some notes of pepper have resurfaced, but it is hurt by the flat vegetal flavors that the finish is presenting.
Appearance- 88 a beautiful wrapper that was hurt by the prominent vein at the head
Taste- 83 this cigar was hurt by the vegetal notes that surfaced in various stages of the smoke
Construction- 86 this score was hurt by the two burn flaws that were encountered during the experience
Strength- 88 this is a fine example of a medium bodied cigar
Overall- 86.25 this is a cigar with some potential but the flaws noted hurt the score
Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic Corona
This is a beautiful cigar. In the true corona size of Cuban influence, this cigar has the added flourish of a pigtail cap that is visually stimulating. The pre light aroma has strong influences of leather and cedar. The pre light draw is excellent and reveals more leather and cedar flavors.
The first 2 inches of the cigar are more mellow than I recall from previous smokes of this same vintage. The leathery flavors are almost overwhelming and this cigar delivers plenty of smoke for such a small vitola.
At the half way point this smoke really picks up steam. The leathery core is still prominent, but notes of roasted nuts have joined in as well. The strength comes out in full force and this little cigar is turning into what I remember, a classic closing cigar for any day of smoking pleasure.
The burn stays even and true throughout and the construction is flawless. The finish is a blast of rich tobacco and nicotine and leaves my palate almost exhausted from the experience. This cigar is a true finisher and is not for the feint of heart. If you like a powerhouse small cigar, this is the smoke for you.
Appearance- 95
Taste- 92
Construction- 96
Strength- 92
Overall- 93.75
The first 2 inches of the cigar are more mellow than I recall from previous smokes of this same vintage. The leathery flavors are almost overwhelming and this cigar delivers plenty of smoke for such a small vitola.
At the half way point this smoke really picks up steam. The leathery core is still prominent, but notes of roasted nuts have joined in as well. The strength comes out in full force and this little cigar is turning into what I remember, a classic closing cigar for any day of smoking pleasure.
The burn stays even and true throughout and the construction is flawless. The finish is a blast of rich tobacco and nicotine and leaves my palate almost exhausted from the experience. This cigar is a true finisher and is not for the feint of heart. If you like a powerhouse small cigar, this is the smoke for you.
Appearance- 95
Taste- 92
Construction- 96
Strength- 92
Overall- 93.75
Partagas Seleccion de Connoisseur (Box Date 1999)
This is a 10 year old lonsdale that I have been anticipating after hearing about them from a friend. He gave me this one to try tonight. The cigar presents with a ruddy appearance and prominent veining in the wrapper. The feel of the cigar is firm and well rolled, exactly as I would expect from this vitola. The pre light aroma is floral with some leathery notes touching the nose. The pre light draw also has floral notes and I can feel the tingle synonomous with high nicotine content, but is not tight as I have experienced with other cuban cigars of this size.
Upon lighting I am immediately intrigued by a unique floral essence that continues for the first two inches. Then a feeling starts to coat my palate, the tingling almost minty feeling that comes along with blasts of nicotine. The floral notes and the nicotine continue to almost the half way point of the smoke.
At the half way point a profile change emerges and I begin to pick up a strong leathery core with undertones of pleasing medium tobacco flavors. The burn stays strong and the burn stays razor sharp. The ash is a dark gray and the shoulder on the cigar is prominent.
The last half of the cigar is sneaky strong and catches me offguard. The leathery core intermingles with a re-emerging floral note and finishes with a flourish of leather, floral notes and tobacco flavors.
I was impressed with this cigar as I am aware of the difficulty in maintaining quality in smokes of this size. The construction and burn were superior.
Appearance- 84 the ruddy, veiny looks hurt the appearance
Taste- 92 the complexity of this cigar was above average and the profile changes were satisfying
Construction- 95 one of the finest examples of a lonsdale that I have smoked
Strength- 91 surprising nicotine notes made this stronger than expected
Overall- 90.5
Upon lighting I am immediately intrigued by a unique floral essence that continues for the first two inches. Then a feeling starts to coat my palate, the tingling almost minty feeling that comes along with blasts of nicotine. The floral notes and the nicotine continue to almost the half way point of the smoke.
At the half way point a profile change emerges and I begin to pick up a strong leathery core with undertones of pleasing medium tobacco flavors. The burn stays strong and the burn stays razor sharp. The ash is a dark gray and the shoulder on the cigar is prominent.
The last half of the cigar is sneaky strong and catches me offguard. The leathery core intermingles with a re-emerging floral note and finishes with a flourish of leather, floral notes and tobacco flavors.
I was impressed with this cigar as I am aware of the difficulty in maintaining quality in smokes of this size. The construction and burn were superior.
Appearance- 84 the ruddy, veiny looks hurt the appearance
Taste- 92 the complexity of this cigar was above average and the profile changes were satisfying
Construction- 95 one of the finest examples of a lonsdale that I have smoked
Strength- 91 surprising nicotine notes made this stronger than expected
Overall- 90.5
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Don Pepin Garcia Blue Robusto
This is a beautiful visual experience. The cigar has a deep uniform brown color and the wrapper has no flaws. The pre light aroma is of rich tobacco and earth and puts the senses on notice that an exprience is on the way. The pre light draw has a floral edge to it and is unique to this cigar which I have smoked frequently.
The first several draws offer a blast of tobacco flavors and a little bitterness that I am not accustomed to. This is the first of these cigars that I have smoked in the new darker incarnation with the new band, and the usually timid start has been replaced with something stronger and more full than I am used to. The bitterness persists for the first quarter of the cigar and detracts from the usual experience.
At the one third point the bitterness disappears and the cigar begins to develop as the Blues of old always have. There are rich tobacco notes and hints of coffee and wood in the background. The cigar booms smoke and each draw brings forth more. The development of the smoke is satisfying and rewarding at this point in the cigar.
At the half way point the cigar is still holding it's ash, an indicator of superlative construction. The smoke continues with deep rich tobacco notes and a hint of cocoa has been added to the mix. The cigar has lost all signs of early bitterness and has settled into a nice robust medium/full adventure.
The last half of the cigar maintained a strong, rich tobacco character. The burn and draw were consistant and superior. Some bitterness resurfaced on the finish which was replete with rich tobacco and cocoa notes.
Appearance- 92
Taste- 87 this score was hurt by the bouts of bitterness
Construction- 93
Strength- 88
Overall- 90
The first several draws offer a blast of tobacco flavors and a little bitterness that I am not accustomed to. This is the first of these cigars that I have smoked in the new darker incarnation with the new band, and the usually timid start has been replaced with something stronger and more full than I am used to. The bitterness persists for the first quarter of the cigar and detracts from the usual experience.
At the one third point the bitterness disappears and the cigar begins to develop as the Blues of old always have. There are rich tobacco notes and hints of coffee and wood in the background. The cigar booms smoke and each draw brings forth more. The development of the smoke is satisfying and rewarding at this point in the cigar.
At the half way point the cigar is still holding it's ash, an indicator of superlative construction. The smoke continues with deep rich tobacco notes and a hint of cocoa has been added to the mix. The cigar has lost all signs of early bitterness and has settled into a nice robust medium/full adventure.
The last half of the cigar maintained a strong, rich tobacco character. The burn and draw were consistant and superior. Some bitterness resurfaced on the finish which was replete with rich tobacco and cocoa notes.
Appearance- 92
Taste- 87 this score was hurt by the bouts of bitterness
Construction- 93
Strength- 88
Overall- 90
J. Fuego Gran Reserva Corojo No.1
This is the first cigar of the day for me. I have smoked this vitola and blend before and I remember being unimpressed. The appearance of the cigar is acceptable, but not pleasing in any notable way. The mottling of the wrapper gives it a somewhat leperous appearance and it has a toothy feel. A quick roll through the fingers reveals a well packed and supple cigar. Pre light aroma is earthy with hints of cedar and other wood. The pre light draw is firm but not tight and gives further notes of earth.
The first couple of inches burn well and reveal a smoke that is stronger and more full than I remember from prior experience. There are notes of earth and wood accompanied by some hints of dark coffee.
About half way through this churchill sized vitola a profile change surprises me with some complexity that I was not expecting. The smoke takes on a sweet character, more like coffee with light cream. There is also a cedary undertone that is pleasant and takes some of the edge off of some acrid notes that had developed just before the midway point.
With about a third of the cigar remaining the sweet and cedary notes fade away to a more flat profile of tobacco with acrid undertones. The burn has stayed consistent and the construction has held up well, no runs, no splits and no issues.
The finish detracts from the overall experience of this cigar and the acrid undertones became more prominent. There were still some cedary notes to the end, but overall the finish was disappointing.
Appearance Score - 79 mottling hurt the score
Taste- 81 the finish hurt the score
Construction- 91 the construction and burn were impressive
Strength- 85 a nice solid medium to full experience
Overall- 84 a nice cigar that was hurt in the last third
The first couple of inches burn well and reveal a smoke that is stronger and more full than I remember from prior experience. There are notes of earth and wood accompanied by some hints of dark coffee.
About half way through this churchill sized vitola a profile change surprises me with some complexity that I was not expecting. The smoke takes on a sweet character, more like coffee with light cream. There is also a cedary undertone that is pleasant and takes some of the edge off of some acrid notes that had developed just before the midway point.
With about a third of the cigar remaining the sweet and cedary notes fade away to a more flat profile of tobacco with acrid undertones. The burn has stayed consistent and the construction has held up well, no runs, no splits and no issues.
The finish detracts from the overall experience of this cigar and the acrid undertones became more prominent. There were still some cedary notes to the end, but overall the finish was disappointing.
Appearance Score - 79 mottling hurt the score
Taste- 81 the finish hurt the score
Construction- 91 the construction and burn were impressive
Strength- 85 a nice solid medium to full experience
Overall- 84 a nice cigar that was hurt in the last third
Welcome to The Cigar Czar
At the behest of my cigar smoking compatriots at Maduro's Cigar Bar in Sarasota, I am beginning this journey. I am a cigar smoker, some would say fanatical in my pursuit of the ultimate cigar experience, I would say just a guy who likes a good smoke. Some would say I am a cigar elitist or snob, I would say I am neither, instead I am a guy with a decent palate that likes a good cigar on a daily basis.
I have been smoking cigars since I was 13 years old, when I caddied for a gentlemen that believed it was good luck if his caddy smoked with him. Since that first green around the gills experience I have been hooked. Through college I smoked to my budget, through the boom I smoked what I could get and now I smoke a variety of cigars and average 3 per day.
I have always written reviews in countless notebooks throughout the years, recently I have been giving verbal reviews and that led to some of my smoking friends encouraging me to partake in this endeavor...this is for them.
I will review each cigar I smoke and I will provide my notes on taste, appearance, construction and strength. I will assign a score of 70-100 for each category; 70 below average, 80 average, 90 above average, 100 excellent. After years of smoking this is the scoring system that I have concluded works best for fairly rating each cigar. I will finish each rating with an overall rating score based on the aggregate.
Of course I invite comments from the people that may read this. I may even post some guest reviews and other fun items along the way. Without further adieu I give you The Cigar Czar.
I have been smoking cigars since I was 13 years old, when I caddied for a gentlemen that believed it was good luck if his caddy smoked with him. Since that first green around the gills experience I have been hooked. Through college I smoked to my budget, through the boom I smoked what I could get and now I smoke a variety of cigars and average 3 per day.
I have always written reviews in countless notebooks throughout the years, recently I have been giving verbal reviews and that led to some of my smoking friends encouraging me to partake in this endeavor...this is for them.
I will review each cigar I smoke and I will provide my notes on taste, appearance, construction and strength. I will assign a score of 70-100 for each category; 70 below average, 80 average, 90 above average, 100 excellent. After years of smoking this is the scoring system that I have concluded works best for fairly rating each cigar. I will finish each rating with an overall rating score based on the aggregate.
Of course I invite comments from the people that may read this. I may even post some guest reviews and other fun items along the way. Without further adieu I give you The Cigar Czar.
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