This is a limited edition Halloween cigar from Pete Johnson and Don Pepin. It presents in a large vitola between a churchill and a presidente. The wrapper is dark and oily, there is some prominent veining but overall the appearance is interesting to behold. The cigar seems to be too soft, but there aren't any areas that cause me any concern. The pre light aroma is of tobacco, spice and dark fruit. The pre light draw shows notes of spice and earth.
The cigar begins with some light pepper notes, but there is a metallic bite on the back of the palate in the opening stages. The draw is a bit loose, but it is not overwhelming. The burn starts slightly lopsided, but evens about an inch into the cigar. The profile develops quickly with notes of coffee, spice and pepper.
At one third of the way into the cigar I am detecting a profile of coffee, spice and pepper. There is still a slightly metallic note at the back of the palate, but it is lessening as the smoke progresses. The draw is still loose, but not causing any issues. The burn has leveled off and is forming a nice white ash.
Near the halfway point the core of the profile is coffee, but there are notes of cinnamon and clove on the palate as well. The draw remains loose and is beginning to produce some heat. The burn is solid, but the ash is a bit flaky.
The final half of the cigar is excellent. The core of the profile is of coffee, but there are notes of spice, cinnamon, vanilla and clove. The depth and complexity of the final half of the cigar is noteworthy. The draw is causing some excess heat and it is detracting from the experience. The burn has stayed strong.
The finish is smooth, with notes of spice and coffee.
Appearance- 90 a nice looking cigar, but veining hurts the look
Taste- 89 excellent in the last half, but metallic notes in the early stages hurt the score
Construction- 84 the loose draws caused too much heat
Strength- 91 a nice medium/full experience
Overall- 88.5 a nice smoke, hurt by construction issues
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
CAO La Traviata Radiante
This is a new offering from CAO, and is the first CAO cigar that I have reviewed for this blog. It presents well with a rich, oily wrapper that has little veining. There is some fraying at the foot, but it does not appear to be an issue. The construction is firm, but I do not detect anything that would lead me to believe that there will be a problem. The pre light aroma is slightly sour, but has compelling notes of coffee, pepper and dark fruit. The pre light draw is peppery.
The cigar opens with a profile that is peppery and full of nicotine, the is a slight sourness at the back of the palate. The draw is excellent and the burn has begun in razor sharp fashion with a nice gray ash, that appears to be heavy.
The first third of the cigar shows notes of coffee and pepper, the flavor depth is a bit shallow, but the overall profile is nice. The draw has loosened and the cigar produces copious amounts of smoke. The burn has stayed consistent, but is starting to show some lopsidedness.
At the halfway point the cigar has maintained a core of coffee and pepper, the flavor has added some depth and is showing some promise. The draw is still loose and I am detecting some heat in the draw, so I slow it down and sip the cigar like a fine scotch. In slowing down I discover some added nuance in the profile and detect notes of cocoa. The burn is starting to canoe a bit, but I am attempting to smoke through it.
The final third of the cigar shows a core of coffee and pepper, but earth and cocoa tones are laced into the profile at this point. The draw has stayed loose and even though I have slowed down considerable the draw is showing some heat. The canoe has not straightened out, but I am close to the end so I leave it to it's own devices.
The finish is average and shows notes of earth and tobacco flavors.
Appearance- 91 a nice looking cigar
Taste- 88 some sour notes in the open hurt the score
Construction- 82 the loose draw caused too much heat
Strength- 88 a nice medium/full smoke
Overall- 87.25 a nice effort
The cigar opens with a profile that is peppery and full of nicotine, the is a slight sourness at the back of the palate. The draw is excellent and the burn has begun in razor sharp fashion with a nice gray ash, that appears to be heavy.
The first third of the cigar shows notes of coffee and pepper, the flavor depth is a bit shallow, but the overall profile is nice. The draw has loosened and the cigar produces copious amounts of smoke. The burn has stayed consistent, but is starting to show some lopsidedness.
At the halfway point the cigar has maintained a core of coffee and pepper, the flavor has added some depth and is showing some promise. The draw is still loose and I am detecting some heat in the draw, so I slow it down and sip the cigar like a fine scotch. In slowing down I discover some added nuance in the profile and detect notes of cocoa. The burn is starting to canoe a bit, but I am attempting to smoke through it.
The final third of the cigar shows a core of coffee and pepper, but earth and cocoa tones are laced into the profile at this point. The draw has stayed loose and even though I have slowed down considerable the draw is showing some heat. The canoe has not straightened out, but I am close to the end so I leave it to it's own devices.
The finish is average and shows notes of earth and tobacco flavors.
Appearance- 91 a nice looking cigar
Taste- 88 some sour notes in the open hurt the score
Construction- 82 the loose draw caused too much heat
Strength- 88 a nice medium/full smoke
Overall- 87.25 a nice effort
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Alec Bradley Family Blend No.1
This cigar presents in a curious size between a robusto and a toro. It is finished with an interesting pigtail cap that is a bit stunted when compared to traditional pigtail finishes. The wrapper is a beautiful, rich looking leaf that has some veining, but nothing too prominent. The pre light aroma has notes of cedar and spice. The pre light draw is a bit thin, but shows some woody notes, most noticeably cedar.
The cigar begins with a solid profile of cedar and some light spice. There is some sweetness in the profile, but I can't assign a particular attribute to it. The draw is excellent and the burn is acceptable, developing a dirty gray ash.
At the one third point of the cigar the profile has maintained notes of cedar and some light spice, but there is a solid earthy undertone influencing the smoke at this point. The draw has stayed consistent and the burn continues to be solid, showing no issues.
To the halfway point I am disappointed by the lack of complexity and depth, but I like the flavors in the profile. At this point I am noticing some creamy vanilla notes, but the core of the profile is still of cedar, wood and spice. The draw and burn are still showing strength.
The final half of the cigar continues to show notes of vanilla, spice and cedar. I am still disappointed buy the lack of complexity and depth in the profile. The burn and draw have stayed solid throughout.
The finish is acceptable, showing notes of earth, wood and spice.
Appearance- 87 an attractive cigar, the weird pigtail hurts the score
Taste- 86 a solid profile, but lacking in complexity and depth
Construction- 92 a well made cigar that smoked impeccably
Strength- 88 a nice medium
Overall- 88.25 an above average smoke, that could be fantastic with more depth and complexity
The cigar begins with a solid profile of cedar and some light spice. There is some sweetness in the profile, but I can't assign a particular attribute to it. The draw is excellent and the burn is acceptable, developing a dirty gray ash.
At the one third point of the cigar the profile has maintained notes of cedar and some light spice, but there is a solid earthy undertone influencing the smoke at this point. The draw has stayed consistent and the burn continues to be solid, showing no issues.
To the halfway point I am disappointed by the lack of complexity and depth, but I like the flavors in the profile. At this point I am noticing some creamy vanilla notes, but the core of the profile is still of cedar, wood and spice. The draw and burn are still showing strength.
The final half of the cigar continues to show notes of vanilla, spice and cedar. I am still disappointed buy the lack of complexity and depth in the profile. The burn and draw have stayed solid throughout.
The finish is acceptable, showing notes of earth, wood and spice.
Appearance- 87 an attractive cigar, the weird pigtail hurts the score
Taste- 86 a solid profile, but lacking in complexity and depth
Construction- 92 a well made cigar that smoked impeccably
Strength- 88 a nice medium
Overall- 88.25 an above average smoke, that could be fantastic with more depth and complexity
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Gurkha Triple Ligero Toro
This is a cigar that comes packaged in all kinds of flair. It has a cedar sheath, two elaborate bands and a black ring around the bottom. The wrapper is toothy and full of veins, an inspection of the cigar shows no firm or soft spots, but the foot has some damage. The pre light aroma has notes of earth and spice. The pre light draw is nondescript and gives no indication of a profile.
The cigar begins with a profile of tobacco and dark wood, there is a sourness at the back of the palate that is not pleasant. The draw is excellent and the burn is crisp, with a white ash. The first inch and a half proceeds in the same fashion as described.
At just before the halfway point an ugly runner has developed and it is threatening to be a full canoe. I smoke on and hope for the best. The profile has developed more tobacco character and still shows notes of dark wood, but the sourness has not dissipated. The draw is still acceptable, but the burn is continuing to run.
The final half of the cigar continues to run and forms into a full canoe with about one third of the cigar remaining. The wrapper also begins to unravel toward the end of the smoke, leading to some further issues. The smoke is hot, and the profile takes on a charred character. There are still notes of tobacco and earth, but the charring hurts the experience.
The finish is short and bitter.
Appearance- 87 a nicely packaged and well presented cigar
Taste- 73 a very sub par profile with sour, charred notes throughout
Construction- 71 a poor example
Strength- 82 a medium/full offering that was difficult to judge against a poor profile
Overall- 78.25 a very poor effort, a cigar I will not smoke again
The cigar begins with a profile of tobacco and dark wood, there is a sourness at the back of the palate that is not pleasant. The draw is excellent and the burn is crisp, with a white ash. The first inch and a half proceeds in the same fashion as described.
At just before the halfway point an ugly runner has developed and it is threatening to be a full canoe. I smoke on and hope for the best. The profile has developed more tobacco character and still shows notes of dark wood, but the sourness has not dissipated. The draw is still acceptable, but the burn is continuing to run.
The final half of the cigar continues to run and forms into a full canoe with about one third of the cigar remaining. The wrapper also begins to unravel toward the end of the smoke, leading to some further issues. The smoke is hot, and the profile takes on a charred character. There are still notes of tobacco and earth, but the charring hurts the experience.
The finish is short and bitter.
Appearance- 87 a nicely packaged and well presented cigar
Taste- 73 a very sub par profile with sour, charred notes throughout
Construction- 71 a poor example
Strength- 82 a medium/full offering that was difficult to judge against a poor profile
Overall- 78.25 a very poor effort, a cigar I will not smoke again
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Padron 2000
This is one rough looking cigar. It is bumpy, rough, dry and box pressed. The cigar actually looks a lot like a cheroot, and I am hoping it has not been dipped in some awful flavor. All kidding aside, an inspection of the cigar leads me to believe that it is well made (despite appearances) and will smoke acceptably. The pre light aroma is full of earth and coffee essence. The pre light draw shows notes of light pepper and heavy tones of earth.
The cigar opens with a profile of heavy, loamy earth notes that are accented by some light notes of coffee. The draw is a bit loose, but it is performing well to this point. The burn is a bit lopsided, but with the issues noted in the appearance I am not surprised by this development.
At the halfway point the profile is still strikingly earthy, there is a sweetness that has come into the picture at this point as well. I am also detecting some light coffee elements, as well as a light note of pepper. The draw is still too loose, but the burn has stayed slightly lopsided but without issues.
The final half of the smoke continues to show notes of earth and coffee, but there are also notes of pepper, cocoa and some sweet milky flavors. The draw has remained loose and the smoke gets hot prematurely. The burn has stayed consistent.
The finish is a bit short and had some bitter notes, but there was a nice core of earth and tobacco on the finish.
Appearance- 75 this is not an attractive cigar at all
Taste- 89 I enjoyed the profile and only took away points for bitterness on the finish and some lack of depth
Construction- 86 points off for loose draw
Strength- 87 a nice medium cigar
Overall- 84.25 a nice cigar that would have been better with a stronger finish
The cigar opens with a profile of heavy, loamy earth notes that are accented by some light notes of coffee. The draw is a bit loose, but it is performing well to this point. The burn is a bit lopsided, but with the issues noted in the appearance I am not surprised by this development.
At the halfway point the profile is still strikingly earthy, there is a sweetness that has come into the picture at this point as well. I am also detecting some light coffee elements, as well as a light note of pepper. The draw is still too loose, but the burn has stayed slightly lopsided but without issues.
The final half of the smoke continues to show notes of earth and coffee, but there are also notes of pepper, cocoa and some sweet milky flavors. The draw has remained loose and the smoke gets hot prematurely. The burn has stayed consistent.
The finish is a bit short and had some bitter notes, but there was a nice core of earth and tobacco on the finish.
Appearance- 75 this is not an attractive cigar at all
Taste- 89 I enjoyed the profile and only took away points for bitterness on the finish and some lack of depth
Construction- 86 points off for loose draw
Strength- 87 a nice medium cigar
Overall- 84.25 a nice cigar that would have been better with a stronger finish
Monday, October 26, 2009
Casa Fuente Corona Gorda
This is the elusive cigar available only in Las Vegas, I have only smoke one before and it was while I was there. This is the first, and probably last that I will smoke outside of Vegas. The cigar presents with a nice, silky smooth medium brown wrapper. The construction of the cigar appears to be excellent and I detect no serious issues. The pre light aroma is of cinnamon and light spice. The pre light draw shows notes of cinnamon and strong tobacco flavors.
The cigar begins with full tobacco notes with hints of spice. This is very reminiscent of Opus X cigars that I have smoked. The draw is near perfect and the burn is sharp. This core of flavor is very deep, but lacks some complexity at this point in the cigar.
At the two inch mark the profile has developed into very strong notes of tobacco and spice, there is a hint of leather in the mix as well. The draw and burn have stayed superb.
At the halfway mark the cigar is still showing strong tobacco and spice notes, the leather notes are thready and that is disappointing. Burn and draw have stayed consistent to this point. The development of the palate has been deep, but it still lacks some complexity.
The final half of the cigar continues to show nice strong tobacco notes and some diminishing leather undertones, but the complexity is still lacking. The draw and burn have stayed excellent throughout the smoke.
The finish is a touch thin, there are notes of tobacco and spice, but a grassy and metallic note hurt the final impression.
Appearance- 89 a very attractive cigar, with fascinating band work
Taste- 88 the profile was nice and deep, but lacked complexity and was hurt by the finish
Construction- 96 an extremely well made cigar with nary a single issue
Strength- 91 an excellent full smoke that complimented the profile well
Overall- 91 largely due to the construction score
The cigar begins with full tobacco notes with hints of spice. This is very reminiscent of Opus X cigars that I have smoked. The draw is near perfect and the burn is sharp. This core of flavor is very deep, but lacks some complexity at this point in the cigar.
At the two inch mark the profile has developed into very strong notes of tobacco and spice, there is a hint of leather in the mix as well. The draw and burn have stayed superb.
At the halfway mark the cigar is still showing strong tobacco and spice notes, the leather notes are thready and that is disappointing. Burn and draw have stayed consistent to this point. The development of the palate has been deep, but it still lacks some complexity.
The final half of the cigar continues to show nice strong tobacco notes and some diminishing leather undertones, but the complexity is still lacking. The draw and burn have stayed excellent throughout the smoke.
The finish is a touch thin, there are notes of tobacco and spice, but a grassy and metallic note hurt the final impression.
Appearance- 89 a very attractive cigar, with fascinating band work
Taste- 88 the profile was nice and deep, but lacked complexity and was hurt by the finish
Construction- 96 an extremely well made cigar with nary a single issue
Strength- 91 an excellent full smoke that complimented the profile well
Overall- 91 largely due to the construction score
Saturday, October 24, 2009
La Triunfador Lancero
This is a new offering from Pete Johnson and Don Pepin Garcia. The cigar has a ruddy appearance, with a low quality cigar band. There are prominent veins and the cigar has a bumpy exterior. The wrapper is dark and silky. The pre light aroma is mild with notes of sweet fruit and light tobacco. The pre light draw shows light spice and a sweet note.
The cigar begins with a sweet flavor that is difficult to name. There are some nice tobacco notes present and light spice that adds character. The burn is solid, but the draw is tight as expected from this vitola.
At the one quarter point the sweetness has developed well and is reminiscent of coconut. There are still some nice tobacco notes and some spice present as well. The burn is consistent and the draw is still tight.
At the halfway point the cigar has maintained a sweet core, there are still some fleeting tobacco notes. The burn is a bit lopsided, but there does not appear to be any issues on the horizon. The draw opens a little bit affording some more depth to the flavors.
The final half of the cigar proceeds much the same as the first. The sweet profile has maintained it's prominence, and there are notes of spice. The cigar has lacked depth and complexity.
The finish is acceptable with more sweet notes and some light spice.
Appearance- 83 not an attractive cigar
Taste- 86 some lack of depth and complexity hurt this score
Construction- 89 a well made cigar
Strength- 85 an unexpected medium/mild
Overall- 85.75 I expected more
The cigar begins with a sweet flavor that is difficult to name. There are some nice tobacco notes present and light spice that adds character. The burn is solid, but the draw is tight as expected from this vitola.
At the one quarter point the sweetness has developed well and is reminiscent of coconut. There are still some nice tobacco notes and some spice present as well. The burn is consistent and the draw is still tight.
At the halfway point the cigar has maintained a sweet core, there are still some fleeting tobacco notes. The burn is a bit lopsided, but there does not appear to be any issues on the horizon. The draw opens a little bit affording some more depth to the flavors.
The final half of the cigar proceeds much the same as the first. The sweet profile has maintained it's prominence, and there are notes of spice. The cigar has lacked depth and complexity.
The finish is acceptable with more sweet notes and some light spice.
Appearance- 83 not an attractive cigar
Taste- 86 some lack of depth and complexity hurt this score
Construction- 89 a well made cigar
Strength- 85 an unexpected medium/mild
Overall- 85.75 I expected more
Mi Dominicana by Jose Seijas Corona
This cigar presents with a pale beige wrapper that is almost yellowish in color. There are some prominent veins, but an inspection of the cigar indicates that construction should not be an issue. The pre light aroma shows some floral notes with hints of nuts and spice. The pre light draw shows light pepper and some grassy notes.
The cigar begins with some nice spice and some peppery notes at the back of the palate, the flavors are not deep or complex. The burn is strong, but the draw is tighter than I usually care for, there is a little labor involved to produce smoke.
Two inches into the cigar the core has transitioned into pepper with hints of grass, again the depth, complexity and balance seem off to me. The burn is straight, but the draw has not opened up at all and is causing some heat along the body of the cigar.
At the halfway point the profile shows noted of spice, pepper and grass. An unfortunate metallic note has also surfaced at the back of the palate. The burn is still acceptable and I have slowed down to diminish the heat which is producing less smoke.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of pepper and roasted nuts, but the metallic flavors are hurting the profile. The burn has stayed sharp and the draw opens slightly in the final half.
The finish is acceptable, with notes of pepper and spice. There is still a metallic undertone, but it has diminished.
Appearance- 84 veining and color hurt the score
Taste- 79 grass and metallic notes hurt the score
Construction- 77 draw problems limit the score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 80 below average smoke
The cigar begins with some nice spice and some peppery notes at the back of the palate, the flavors are not deep or complex. The burn is strong, but the draw is tighter than I usually care for, there is a little labor involved to produce smoke.
Two inches into the cigar the core has transitioned into pepper with hints of grass, again the depth, complexity and balance seem off to me. The burn is straight, but the draw has not opened up at all and is causing some heat along the body of the cigar.
At the halfway point the profile shows noted of spice, pepper and grass. An unfortunate metallic note has also surfaced at the back of the palate. The burn is still acceptable and I have slowed down to diminish the heat which is producing less smoke.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of pepper and roasted nuts, but the metallic flavors are hurting the profile. The burn has stayed sharp and the draw opens slightly in the final half.
The finish is acceptable, with notes of pepper and spice. There is still a metallic undertone, but it has diminished.
Appearance- 84 veining and color hurt the score
Taste- 79 grass and metallic notes hurt the score
Construction- 77 draw problems limit the score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 80 below average smoke
Friday, October 23, 2009
Don Pepin Garcia My Father Le Bijou 1922
This is the new offering in the My Father line, it is a pricier cigar with an $11+ retail. The cigar is beautiful to look at as it is draped in a nice oscuro wrapper that has some prominent veining, but it appears to be well made. The roll seems firm, but supple and the cigar has a nice oily gleam. The pre light aroma has light notes of spice, candy and fruit. The pre light draw has notes of tobacco, earth and spice.
The cigar opens with more strength than I expected. The profile is deep and has flavors of earth, rich tobacco and a sweet candy note at the back of the palate. The burn is a bit slow, but the draw is smooth and easy producing plenty of smoke.
At the one third mark the profile has opened up. There are notes of caramel, spice, tobacco and wood and at the back of the palate a coffee note has presented as well. The burn has become lopsided and I am starting to experience a runner. The draw has stayed smooth and bountiful.
At the halfway point the runner has developed into a full blown canoe, I am still attempting to persevere as I do not want to char the excellent profile of the cigar. The profile is showing notes of earth, tobacco, wood and coffee. The draw has stayed consistent.
With about a third of the cigar left I opt to knock off the canoe instead of relighting. This can be a rather neanderthal approach, but I sometimes go to this move to save the profile. Satisfied that I am past it I refocus. The profile has maintained notes of earth and tobacco, but the caramel notes return in the last third. The draw has stayed easy throughout.
The finish is long and smooth. It showed notes of earth, coffee and tobacco.
Appearance- 90 veining hurt the score
Taste- 94 an excellent, complex profile
Construction- 82 the canoe severely detracts from the score
Strength- 88 stronger than I thought and at times in the way of a wonderfully complex profile
Overall- 88.5 construction hurt the score, but the taste was excellent
The cigar opens with more strength than I expected. The profile is deep and has flavors of earth, rich tobacco and a sweet candy note at the back of the palate. The burn is a bit slow, but the draw is smooth and easy producing plenty of smoke.
At the one third mark the profile has opened up. There are notes of caramel, spice, tobacco and wood and at the back of the palate a coffee note has presented as well. The burn has become lopsided and I am starting to experience a runner. The draw has stayed smooth and bountiful.
At the halfway point the runner has developed into a full blown canoe, I am still attempting to persevere as I do not want to char the excellent profile of the cigar. The profile is showing notes of earth, tobacco, wood and coffee. The draw has stayed consistent.
With about a third of the cigar left I opt to knock off the canoe instead of relighting. This can be a rather neanderthal approach, but I sometimes go to this move to save the profile. Satisfied that I am past it I refocus. The profile has maintained notes of earth and tobacco, but the caramel notes return in the last third. The draw has stayed easy throughout.
The finish is long and smooth. It showed notes of earth, coffee and tobacco.
Appearance- 90 veining hurt the score
Taste- 94 an excellent, complex profile
Construction- 82 the canoe severely detracts from the score
Strength- 88 stronger than I thought and at times in the way of a wonderfully complex profile
Overall- 88.5 construction hurt the score, but the taste was excellent
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Camacho Coyolar Puro Rothchild
This cigar has about a year of humidor aging and is from a box I acquired last fall. The cigar presents with a nice darker brown wrapper that has little, if any, veining. The pre light aroma has notes of earth, spice and roasted nuts. The pre light draw shows a nice earthy note with some undertones of spice.
The cigar begins with a serious burst of power. There are notes of earth, spice and a strong tobacco thread that brings it all together. The draw is superior and it provides ample smoke. The burn is strong and the ash is a sturdy gray. The first inch of the cigar proceeds in excellent fashion.
At the two inch mark the profile has notes of leather, earth, spice and tobacco. The flavor is deep and savory and I am surprised by the complexity and depth of the cigar. The draw and burn continue to be impressive.
Just past the halfway point the profile is showing notes of roasted nuts, leather and tobacco. The draw and burn remain solid to this point. I am continuing to be impressed with this cigar and it is well documented that I am not a fan of Camacho offerings.
The final third of the cigar continues to show notes of leather, roasted nuts and tobacco. There is a little bit of a floral note at the back of the palate. In addition there is a slightly metallic note near the end that is distracting.
The finish is a bit disappointing, showing notes of earth and leather, but there is a metallic note that hurts the experience.
Appearance- 91 an attractive cigar
Taste- 88 some metallic notes at the end and on the finish hurt the score
Construction- 94 an excellent experience
Strength- 87 a very full experience, but it does not compliment the profile well
Overall- 90 an excellent smoking experience
The cigar begins with a serious burst of power. There are notes of earth, spice and a strong tobacco thread that brings it all together. The draw is superior and it provides ample smoke. The burn is strong and the ash is a sturdy gray. The first inch of the cigar proceeds in excellent fashion.
At the two inch mark the profile has notes of leather, earth, spice and tobacco. The flavor is deep and savory and I am surprised by the complexity and depth of the cigar. The draw and burn continue to be impressive.
Just past the halfway point the profile is showing notes of roasted nuts, leather and tobacco. The draw and burn remain solid to this point. I am continuing to be impressed with this cigar and it is well documented that I am not a fan of Camacho offerings.
The final third of the cigar continues to show notes of leather, roasted nuts and tobacco. There is a little bit of a floral note at the back of the palate. In addition there is a slightly metallic note near the end that is distracting.
The finish is a bit disappointing, showing notes of earth and leather, but there is a metallic note that hurts the experience.
Appearance- 91 an attractive cigar
Taste- 88 some metallic notes at the end and on the finish hurt the score
Construction- 94 an excellent experience
Strength- 87 a very full experience, but it does not compliment the profile well
Overall- 90 an excellent smoking experience
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Vegas Cubana Robusto
This is another Don Pepin offering. The cigar presents with a light beige colored wrapper that has a nice sheen and little veining. The pre light aroma is of cedar. The pre light draw has notes of grass, cedar and earth. The construction appears to be sound and an inspection does not show any areas of concern.
The cigar begins with a loamy profile that has notes of earth and grass. The draw is acceptable, but maybe a little tight. The burn starts out well, but the cigar is a little hot. The first inch and a half maintains the same profile and burn attributes.
At about one third of the way into the cigar the profile picks up some flavors of mushrooms while continuing to present earth and grassy notes. The draw has loosened up and the burn is acceptable.
At the half way point the cigar picks up strength, but the profile remains disappointing. There are notes of earth and grass and a hint of pepper. The draw and burn have remained consistent, as is the tradition of Pepin cigars.
The final half of the cigar maintains an earthy profile, there are notes of grass and pepper. There is some bitterness at the back of the palate and a sour note as well. The burn and draw are still above average.
The finish is short and metallic.
Appearance- 87 a bit off color
Taste- 81 grass and mushroom notes coupled with bitterness at the end hurt the score
Construction- 93 an superbly made cigar
Strength- 85 an average medium
Overall- 86.5 a cigar saved by construction
The cigar begins with a loamy profile that has notes of earth and grass. The draw is acceptable, but maybe a little tight. The burn starts out well, but the cigar is a little hot. The first inch and a half maintains the same profile and burn attributes.
At about one third of the way into the cigar the profile picks up some flavors of mushrooms while continuing to present earth and grassy notes. The draw has loosened up and the burn is acceptable.
At the half way point the cigar picks up strength, but the profile remains disappointing. There are notes of earth and grass and a hint of pepper. The draw and burn have remained consistent, as is the tradition of Pepin cigars.
The final half of the cigar maintains an earthy profile, there are notes of grass and pepper. There is some bitterness at the back of the palate and a sour note as well. The burn and draw are still above average.
The finish is short and metallic.
Appearance- 87 a bit off color
Taste- 81 grass and mushroom notes coupled with bitterness at the end hurt the score
Construction- 93 an superbly made cigar
Strength- 85 an average medium
Overall- 86.5 a cigar saved by construction
Room 101 Robusto by Camacho
This is a new offering from the Eiroa's, I will preface this by saying that it is no secret amongst those that know me that I do not like Camacho cigars. This cigar presents well, it has a nice dark wrapper that appears to have some tooth. An inspection reveals that the cigar seems to be well made, and I detect no soft spots or other flaws. The pre light aroma has notes of anise and spice. The pre light draw shows signs of tobacco and spice.
The cigar begins with a sour note that is off putting, I can't discern any flavors for the first inch or so due to the sour notes. The burn is acceptable and the draw is above average. The cigar progresses in much the same fashion for the first inch, until I get past whatever the sour note was.
At the inch and a half mark the cigar really opens up. The profile shows notes of coffee, anise, spice and tobacco, it is an excellent mix of flavors. The burn has started to stray a bit and it is becoming lopsided. The draw has stayed consistent.
Until I had about three eighths of the cigar left I was enjoying the profile and the smoke, that is when things took a dark turn. I encountered a horrible canoe that nearly made the cigar unsmokeable, it was almost as if the filler on one side was just a bundle of stems. I try to fight through it, to no avail, and gently retouch the cigar by burning out the imperfection. The profile has also turned for the worse. The sour notes had returned before the canoe took place, and they were coupled with notes of paper and grass.
The finish was a bit short, there were muddled notes of grass and paper.
Appearance- 88 an attractive cigar that appears a bit dry
Taste- 83 this only gets this score because of the middle portion, if the rest of the cigar were that good a 90+ score would have been a certainty
Construction- 75 the canoe was one of the worst I have seen
Strength- 88 a nice medium/full presentation
Overall- 83.5 could have been much better
The cigar begins with a sour note that is off putting, I can't discern any flavors for the first inch or so due to the sour notes. The burn is acceptable and the draw is above average. The cigar progresses in much the same fashion for the first inch, until I get past whatever the sour note was.
At the inch and a half mark the cigar really opens up. The profile shows notes of coffee, anise, spice and tobacco, it is an excellent mix of flavors. The burn has started to stray a bit and it is becoming lopsided. The draw has stayed consistent.
Until I had about three eighths of the cigar left I was enjoying the profile and the smoke, that is when things took a dark turn. I encountered a horrible canoe that nearly made the cigar unsmokeable, it was almost as if the filler on one side was just a bundle of stems. I try to fight through it, to no avail, and gently retouch the cigar by burning out the imperfection. The profile has also turned for the worse. The sour notes had returned before the canoe took place, and they were coupled with notes of paper and grass.
The finish was a bit short, there were muddled notes of grass and paper.
Appearance- 88 an attractive cigar that appears a bit dry
Taste- 83 this only gets this score because of the middle portion, if the rest of the cigar were that good a 90+ score would have been a certainty
Construction- 75 the canoe was one of the worst I have seen
Strength- 88 a nice medium/full presentation
Overall- 83.5 could have been much better
Monday, October 19, 2009
El Martillo 2009
I was unable to find much information about the lineage of this cigar, but it appears that it is something due to be released soon. The cigar is big, dark and oily. The wrapper has no flaws and the veining is slight, the cigar is beautiful to look at. The construction appears to be solid, and a quick roll through the fingers shows no signs of any issues. The pre light aroma is distinctly of raisins. The pre light draw is sweet and has notes of tobacco, earth and hard candy.
The cigar begins with notes of rich tobacco, earth and a light sweetness. The draw is acceptable and the burn is sharp. The first inch of the cigar maintains the above profile and burn characteristics.
At just past the one third point the profile develops with notes of dark wood, earth and straight blasts of rich tobacco. There is a slightly dirty or ashy flavor that is sneaking onto the back of the palate and I am worried about some nasty aftertaste on the finish. The draw and the burn are holding up well, but there is some labor in both, it almost seems as if the cigar is moist.
The final half of the cigar continues to show notes of wood, earth and tobacco. The ashy notes have become prominent and they are detracting from the overall experience. The burn and draw continue to be laborious, and are getting more so, the closer to the end of the smoke I progress.
The finish is short and dirty, with ashy flavors and a muddy undertone.
Appearance- 92 an excellent looking cigar
Taste- 77 the ashy notes in the profile and the muddy finish hurt the score
Construction- 79 some burn and draw issues caused labor to produce a pleasing amount of smoke
Strength- 83 a full offering that did not compliment the profile well
Overall- 82.75 not very good, saved by the appearance score
The cigar begins with notes of rich tobacco, earth and a light sweetness. The draw is acceptable and the burn is sharp. The first inch of the cigar maintains the above profile and burn characteristics.
At just past the one third point the profile develops with notes of dark wood, earth and straight blasts of rich tobacco. There is a slightly dirty or ashy flavor that is sneaking onto the back of the palate and I am worried about some nasty aftertaste on the finish. The draw and the burn are holding up well, but there is some labor in both, it almost seems as if the cigar is moist.
The final half of the cigar continues to show notes of wood, earth and tobacco. The ashy notes have become prominent and they are detracting from the overall experience. The burn and draw continue to be laborious, and are getting more so, the closer to the end of the smoke I progress.
The finish is short and dirty, with ashy flavors and a muddy undertone.
Appearance- 92 an excellent looking cigar
Taste- 77 the ashy notes in the profile and the muddy finish hurt the score
Construction- 79 some burn and draw issues caused labor to produce a pleasing amount of smoke
Strength- 83 a full offering that did not compliment the profile well
Overall- 82.75 not very good, saved by the appearance score
Savinelli Special Selection 2005 Torpedo
This cigar presents as a giant torpedo with a slightly lopsided look and a slightly rounded head. The wrapper looks dark and bold, but there are some prominent veins and some minor wrapper flaws. The pre light aroma is fruity and has notes of tobacco and spice. The pre light draw is sweet and has hints of fruit.
Upon lighting this cigar begins to deliver notes of tobacco, spice and dark fruit. The draw is decent and the burn begins well. I detect a slight bitter note at the back of the palate, but it is not prominent or overwhelming. The first inch and a half of the cigar performs well, but I am hoping for some development in the final two thirds.
The middle third of the cigar continues to show notes of tobacco and fruit. There is some further development of a tobacco note, but the flavors are shallow and thready. The draw has stayed consistent, but the burn has started to run a bit, but does not yet require attention.
The final third of the cigar continues to show the run that was beginning in the middle third, but I am still trying to smoke through it. The profile has begun to show notes of pepper, tobacco and earth. There is still a bitterness through the nose and at the back of the palate. The draw and burn stayed consistent throughout.
The finish is short and a bit acrid, it shows notes of pepper and tobacco.
Appearance- 84 not the most attractive of cigars
Taste- 83 some bitter notes and a poor finish hurt the score, but the profile showed promise
Construction- 83 some burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 86 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 84 a slightly below average offering
Upon lighting this cigar begins to deliver notes of tobacco, spice and dark fruit. The draw is decent and the burn begins well. I detect a slight bitter note at the back of the palate, but it is not prominent or overwhelming. The first inch and a half of the cigar performs well, but I am hoping for some development in the final two thirds.
The middle third of the cigar continues to show notes of tobacco and fruit. There is some further development of a tobacco note, but the flavors are shallow and thready. The draw has stayed consistent, but the burn has started to run a bit, but does not yet require attention.
The final third of the cigar continues to show the run that was beginning in the middle third, but I am still trying to smoke through it. The profile has begun to show notes of pepper, tobacco and earth. There is still a bitterness through the nose and at the back of the palate. The draw and burn stayed consistent throughout.
The finish is short and a bit acrid, it shows notes of pepper and tobacco.
Appearance- 84 not the most attractive of cigars
Taste- 83 some bitter notes and a poor finish hurt the score, but the profile showed promise
Construction- 83 some burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 86 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 84 a slightly below average offering
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Partagas Culebras (2006 Box Date)
This is a vitola that I have always wanted to experience. These come bundled together in sets of three cigars, for my birthday I was given one and shared it with two of my closest friends. The long, curly presentation reminds me of a vine or the crooked finger of an animated witch. There are no flaws in the wrapper and the cigar appears to be well made. The pre light aroma is leathery with hints of spice. The pre light draw is smooth and even, which surprises me because of the twists and turns in the body of the smoke, and has notes of tobacco, spice and leather.
The cigar begins with a profile of leather and earth. The weird vitola draws exceptionally well and booms out billowing pillows of smoke. The burn is also surprisingly sharp, despite the fact that it juts at a forty five degree angle up and away from my mouth. The cigar maintains this status until the halfway point.
In the second half of the cigar the crooks and turns straighten a little, I can only assume that the heat helps this process. The profile is still of leather and earth, but there is some light spice and a satisfying nicotine tingle. The burn and draw have continued to perform well above what I expected from this strange vitola.
The finish is smooth and long with notes of spice, earth and leather.
Appearance- 98 just look at one of these and you will be entertained and wonder how they do it
Taste- 91 a nice solid profile that could use more depth and complexity
Construction- 100 the only score possible for a cigar that performs this well after being twisted and turned
Strength- 90 a nice medium/full smoke
Overall- 94.75 this cigar was the most smoking fun I have had in quite some time
The cigar begins with a profile of leather and earth. The weird vitola draws exceptionally well and booms out billowing pillows of smoke. The burn is also surprisingly sharp, despite the fact that it juts at a forty five degree angle up and away from my mouth. The cigar maintains this status until the halfway point.
In the second half of the cigar the crooks and turns straighten a little, I can only assume that the heat helps this process. The profile is still of leather and earth, but there is some light spice and a satisfying nicotine tingle. The burn and draw have continued to perform well above what I expected from this strange vitola.
The finish is smooth and long with notes of spice, earth and leather.
Appearance- 98 just look at one of these and you will be entertained and wonder how they do it
Taste- 91 a nice solid profile that could use more depth and complexity
Construction- 100 the only score possible for a cigar that performs this well after being twisted and turned
Strength- 90 a nice medium/full smoke
Overall- 94.75 this cigar was the most smoking fun I have had in quite some time
Partagas Short (January 2009 Box Date)
This small cigar presents in a whimsical size for when you have less than thirty minutes for a smoke. The wrapper is toothy and prominently veined, there are also a few flaws in the presentation. The pre light aroma has notes of earth, leather and spice. The pre light draw smacks of tobacco and spice, but there is a metallic note there as well.
The cigar begins with more strength that I would usually anticipate from a cigar of this size. The profile has a core of leathery flavors, but there is some spice at the back of the palate. There is also a bitter, metallic bite on the palate that is hurting the experience. The draw is flawless and the burn, while a bit lopsided, is strong.
This cigar is so short that I can't review it in sections as I normally would. The profile continues hold a core of leathery flavors with some spates of spice, but the bitter notes are still detracting from the experience. I believe that this cigar needs more time, so I will be laying them down for awhile.
The finish is an explosion of nicotine and tobacco, but there is a metallic undertone that again hurts the score.
Appearance- 85 some flaws and veins hurt the score
Taste- 82 the overall core of the profile was excellent, but the metallic bite kills the profile
Construction- 91 this cigar performed extremely well aside from some flaking ashes
Strength- 87 a bit overwhelming from a cigar this size, with age this will mellow to the correct strength to profile ratio
Overall- 86.25 a score based largely on being saved by construction
The cigar begins with more strength that I would usually anticipate from a cigar of this size. The profile has a core of leathery flavors, but there is some spice at the back of the palate. There is also a bitter, metallic bite on the palate that is hurting the experience. The draw is flawless and the burn, while a bit lopsided, is strong.
This cigar is so short that I can't review it in sections as I normally would. The profile continues hold a core of leathery flavors with some spates of spice, but the bitter notes are still detracting from the experience. I believe that this cigar needs more time, so I will be laying them down for awhile.
The finish is an explosion of nicotine and tobacco, but there is a metallic undertone that again hurts the score.
Appearance- 85 some flaws and veins hurt the score
Taste- 82 the overall core of the profile was excellent, but the metallic bite kills the profile
Construction- 91 this cigar performed extremely well aside from some flaking ashes
Strength- 87 a bit overwhelming from a cigar this size, with age this will mellow to the correct strength to profile ratio
Overall- 86.25 a score based largely on being saved by construction
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Trinidad Colonial (January 2009 Box Date)
This cigar presents in a corona size and is finished with a pigtail cap. The wrapper has some minor flaws, and the roll seems a bit tight. The pre light aroma has hints of cinnamon and light spice. The pre light draw is slightly floral, but has some notes of cinnamon and nicotine.
The cigar begins with a complex profile that shows notes of cinnamon, leather and a floral essence. The is some clove at the back of the palate that is adding to the complexity. The burn is sharp, but the draw is tight in the first inch or so.
At the one third point the profile is maintaining it's complex character. There are flavors of cinnamon, leather and clove and it is very complex and deep for a cigar of such small stature. The burn is strong and the draw has opened up a little bit. The smoke is smooth and thick, coating the palate with flavors.
At the one half mark the core of flavors is leathery with notes of tobacco and spice, there are still notes of cinnamon laced throughout the profile. The burn is even and the draw continues to loosen up.
The final half of the cigar continues to show a sturdy profile of leather, tobacco, spice and cinnamon. The strength of the cigar is surprising and it has developed from a mild/medium experience at the start to a medium/full experience at the end. The burn is uneven at this point, but a light touch up corrects the issue. The draw has opened up fully and the cigar booms satisfying clouds of smoke.
The finish is bit short, but there are still notes of tobacco and leather coating the palate.
Appearance- 88 a nice looking cigar with some minor wrapper flaws
Taste- 94 an excellent profile of complex, deep flavors
Construction- 91 the burn issue at the end causes a small deduction
Strength- 95 an excellent evolved strength over the entire body of the smoke
Overall- 92 an excellent cigar with fantastic aging potential
The cigar begins with a complex profile that shows notes of cinnamon, leather and a floral essence. The is some clove at the back of the palate that is adding to the complexity. The burn is sharp, but the draw is tight in the first inch or so.
At the one third point the profile is maintaining it's complex character. There are flavors of cinnamon, leather and clove and it is very complex and deep for a cigar of such small stature. The burn is strong and the draw has opened up a little bit. The smoke is smooth and thick, coating the palate with flavors.
At the one half mark the core of flavors is leathery with notes of tobacco and spice, there are still notes of cinnamon laced throughout the profile. The burn is even and the draw continues to loosen up.
The final half of the cigar continues to show a sturdy profile of leather, tobacco, spice and cinnamon. The strength of the cigar is surprising and it has developed from a mild/medium experience at the start to a medium/full experience at the end. The burn is uneven at this point, but a light touch up corrects the issue. The draw has opened up fully and the cigar booms satisfying clouds of smoke.
The finish is bit short, but there are still notes of tobacco and leather coating the palate.
Appearance- 88 a nice looking cigar with some minor wrapper flaws
Taste- 94 an excellent profile of complex, deep flavors
Construction- 91 the burn issue at the end causes a small deduction
Strength- 95 an excellent evolved strength over the entire body of the smoke
Overall- 92 an excellent cigar with fantastic aging potential
Rocky Patel Olde World Reserve Churchill
This cigar has about a year of age on it, as I bought the box in October of 08. The cigar presents with a wrapper that is nearly jet black and has little veining. The construction is firm and supple and the cigar has an oily sheen. The pre light aroma is of coffee and earth. The pre light draw shows notes of rich tobacco and coffee.
The cigar opens with blasts of coffee and tobacco, there is a sweetness at the back of the palate that adds to the overall profile and initial enjoyability. The burn is a bit lopsided and slow, there is some labor to produce the right amount of smoke. The first two inches proceed in the same fashion.
At near the halfway point the profile has notes of coffee, earth, tobacco and cocoa at the back of the palate. There is a slight metallic note in the profile that is detracting from the experience. The burn has stayed a bit slow, but there is less labor to produce acceptable smoke at this point.
The final third of the cigar develops notes of coffee, tobacco and cocoa. There is still a metallic note in the profile that is hurting the score. The draw and burn are the same, and the burn is becoming uneven.
The finish is smooth, but there are still metallic notes in the profile. There are notes of tobacco and earth.
Appearance- 91 an excellent looking cigar, it is a bit ruddy in the roll
Taste- 88 the metallic notes hurt the score, but the profile is tasty
Construction- 90 well made, but there were some issues with the burn
Strength- 87 a nice full bodied presentation, could use some more strength
Overall- 89 an above average smoke
The cigar opens with blasts of coffee and tobacco, there is a sweetness at the back of the palate that adds to the overall profile and initial enjoyability. The burn is a bit lopsided and slow, there is some labor to produce the right amount of smoke. The first two inches proceed in the same fashion.
At near the halfway point the profile has notes of coffee, earth, tobacco and cocoa at the back of the palate. There is a slight metallic note in the profile that is detracting from the experience. The burn has stayed a bit slow, but there is less labor to produce acceptable smoke at this point.
The final third of the cigar develops notes of coffee, tobacco and cocoa. There is still a metallic note in the profile that is hurting the score. The draw and burn are the same, and the burn is becoming uneven.
The finish is smooth, but there are still metallic notes in the profile. There are notes of tobacco and earth.
Appearance- 91 an excellent looking cigar, it is a bit ruddy in the roll
Taste- 88 the metallic notes hurt the score, but the profile is tasty
Construction- 90 well made, but there were some issues with the burn
Strength- 87 a nice full bodied presentation, could use some more strength
Overall- 89 an above average smoke
Friday, October 16, 2009
Nestor Miranda Special Selection Coffee Break
This small rothchild sized cigar presents with a medium brown wrapper that shows some flaws and appears to be toothy and a little dry. The construction of the cigar seems to be acceptable when examined. The pre light aroma is of spice and tobacco. The pre light draw shows some peppery notes and a light sweetness.
The cigar opens with some peppery notes and a bitter undertone that detracts from the opening notes of the smoke. The burn is solid and the draw is smooth and even. The bitterness persists for the first inch or so and it cloys the other notes that may be in the profile.
At the halfway point the profile has lost the bitter notes and developed into a nice medium smoke with notes of wood, light spice, pepper and a graham cracker sweetness. The depth of the flavors is lacking, but the complexity is interesting. The burn and draw have stayed constant to this point in the smoke.
The final half maintains a profile of wood and graham crackers. There is still a peppery note at the back of the palate, but there is some bitterness through the nose. The burn and draw are still performing very well.
The finish is a bit short, but has notes of spice, wood and pepper.
Appearance- 83 not the most attractive offering, but it is made well
Taste- 88 the bitter notes hurt the score, and it could have used more depth
Construction- 87 a slight subtraction for wrapper flaws
Strength- 90 a nice medium/full presentation
Overall- 87 a nice smoke, could have been better
The cigar opens with some peppery notes and a bitter undertone that detracts from the opening notes of the smoke. The burn is solid and the draw is smooth and even. The bitterness persists for the first inch or so and it cloys the other notes that may be in the profile.
At the halfway point the profile has lost the bitter notes and developed into a nice medium smoke with notes of wood, light spice, pepper and a graham cracker sweetness. The depth of the flavors is lacking, but the complexity is interesting. The burn and draw have stayed constant to this point in the smoke.
The final half maintains a profile of wood and graham crackers. There is still a peppery note at the back of the palate, but there is some bitterness through the nose. The burn and draw are still performing very well.
The finish is a bit short, but has notes of spice, wood and pepper.
Appearance- 83 not the most attractive offering, but it is made well
Taste- 88 the bitter notes hurt the score, and it could have used more depth
Construction- 87 a slight subtraction for wrapper flaws
Strength- 90 a nice medium/full presentation
Overall- 87 a nice smoke, could have been better
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Arturo Fuente Chateau Fuente "Queen B"
This cigar presents wrapped in Spanish Cedar, in a sharp torpedo vitola. The wrapper is a dark sungrown vintage and is lightly veined and applied beautifully. The pre light aroma, as expected, smacks of cedar. The pre light draw shows notes of earth and tobacco. An inspection of the cigar leads me to believe that it is well constructed.
The cigar begins with notes of earth and tobacco, there is a light dusting of pepper at the back of the palate. The draw is tight, but produces enough smoke. The burn begins well, but is bit lopsided after about a half inch. The first two inches proceed in this fashion.
At just past the one third point, I encounter a runner in the burn, but I am able to smoke through it without touching it up. The profile has maintained a tobacco character with undertones of earth. The draw is still tight, but producing a nice amount of smoke.
At the midway point there is still no change in the profile and the notes of tobacco and earth dominate the core of the smoke, there is a light cedary sweetness through the nose. The burn is still off, but I am not encountering any reason to touch up. The ash has become flaky and is shedding onto my shirt. The draw opens up a bit and I am able to savor more smoke, however the profile stays the same.
The final half of the cigar shows no added depth or complexity, and notes of tobacco and earth are still prominent. There is another minor run in the burn, but it does not cause any distress. The draw has remained open and smoke is booming out of the cigar.
The finish is a bit short with some bitterness, but there is a lingering earthy note that is bordering on being muddy.
Appearance- 91 a beautifully presented cigar
Taste- 82 the cigar lacks depth and complexity
Construction- 83 the draw and burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 85 a nice Fuente medium as expected
Overall- 85.25 a nice solid smoke
The cigar begins with notes of earth and tobacco, there is a light dusting of pepper at the back of the palate. The draw is tight, but produces enough smoke. The burn begins well, but is bit lopsided after about a half inch. The first two inches proceed in this fashion.
At just past the one third point, I encounter a runner in the burn, but I am able to smoke through it without touching it up. The profile has maintained a tobacco character with undertones of earth. The draw is still tight, but producing a nice amount of smoke.
At the midway point there is still no change in the profile and the notes of tobacco and earth dominate the core of the smoke, there is a light cedary sweetness through the nose. The burn is still off, but I am not encountering any reason to touch up. The ash has become flaky and is shedding onto my shirt. The draw opens up a bit and I am able to savor more smoke, however the profile stays the same.
The final half of the cigar shows no added depth or complexity, and notes of tobacco and earth are still prominent. There is another minor run in the burn, but it does not cause any distress. The draw has remained open and smoke is booming out of the cigar.
The finish is a bit short with some bitterness, but there is a lingering earthy note that is bordering on being muddy.
Appearance- 91 a beautifully presented cigar
Taste- 82 the cigar lacks depth and complexity
Construction- 83 the draw and burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 85 a nice Fuente medium as expected
Overall- 85.25 a nice solid smoke
Brick House Robusto
This is a new cigar from J.C. Newman. The cigar presents well, with a nice medium brown wrapper that has acceptable veining and nice sheen. The roll feels a bit loose, but the cigar shows no soft spots. The pre light aroma is a touch sour, but has notes of cedar and a floral essence. The pre light draw is aromatic and has notes of light spice.
The cigar begins with some notes of cedar and spice, but there is a sour note at the back of the palate that is unpleasant. The draw is loose and the burn is flaky, but otherwise the cigar performs well. The sour notes persist through the first quarter of the cigar and detracts from the experience.
The middle half of the cigar shows a nice profile of vanilla, spice and cream. The flavors are shallow, but I am settling into enjoying the smoke. The draw is still loose, but the burn is acceptable.
The final quarter of the cigar maintains a profile of cream and light spice, but some sour, grassy notes have crept in, to once again detract from the experience. The draw has stayed loose, but the construction has otherwise held it's own.
The finish is middling, with notes of spice and cream, but sour undertones hurt the in the end.
Appearance- 87 an attractive cigar, with a nice sheen
Taste- 83 the sour notes detract from an otherwise nice experience
Construction- 84 the loose draw hurts the score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 83.5 an acceptable smoke
The cigar begins with some notes of cedar and spice, but there is a sour note at the back of the palate that is unpleasant. The draw is loose and the burn is flaky, but otherwise the cigar performs well. The sour notes persist through the first quarter of the cigar and detracts from the experience.
The middle half of the cigar shows a nice profile of vanilla, spice and cream. The flavors are shallow, but I am settling into enjoying the smoke. The draw is still loose, but the burn is acceptable.
The final quarter of the cigar maintains a profile of cream and light spice, but some sour, grassy notes have crept in, to once again detract from the experience. The draw has stayed loose, but the construction has otherwise held it's own.
The finish is middling, with notes of spice and cream, but sour undertones hurt the in the end.
Appearance- 87 an attractive cigar, with a nice sheen
Taste- 83 the sour notes detract from an otherwise nice experience
Construction- 84 the loose draw hurts the score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 83.5 an acceptable smoke
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Romeo y Julieta Habana Reserve Toro
This is one of the many offerings of Romeo that is available in the marketplace. I have been told by many that this is the best of the offerings from Romeo, but I had never smoked one before. The cigar presents with a reddish hued wrapper that has prominent veins. The cigar is soft and seems to be rolled loosely. The pre light aroma is of dark wood and tobacco. The pre light draw is cedary with floral and herbal notes.
The cigar begins with a medium bodied presentation of cedar and notes of light floral tones, the smoke seems a bit dry to me and it causes a bitter note. The draw is very loose and the burn is lopsided and canoe-like barely an inch into the cigar. The canoe continues to develop and eventually is approx. two inches in length. I touch up the cigar and continue, but I am not happy.
At the half way point another canoe is forming. The draw is still very loose and airy. The profile is showing notes of wood and herbs, but there is a thin papery quality at the back of the palate. I am forced to touch up again when the canoe reaches another two inches.
The final third of the cigar continues to burn poorly and the draw has continued it's inferior ways. The profile maintains flavors of cedar with an herbal essence, but the lack of complexity and depth is disturbing.
The finish is short and bitter with notes of paper, cedar and charred wood.
Appearance- 85 not a bad looking smoke
Taste- 78 lacking in depth and complexity, some thin papery notes hurt the score further
Construction- 72 a horribly made cigar that presented issue after issue
Strength- 80 an unremarkable strength
Overall- 77.25 a supremely inferior smoking experience
The cigar begins with a medium bodied presentation of cedar and notes of light floral tones, the smoke seems a bit dry to me and it causes a bitter note. The draw is very loose and the burn is lopsided and canoe-like barely an inch into the cigar. The canoe continues to develop and eventually is approx. two inches in length. I touch up the cigar and continue, but I am not happy.
At the half way point another canoe is forming. The draw is still very loose and airy. The profile is showing notes of wood and herbs, but there is a thin papery quality at the back of the palate. I am forced to touch up again when the canoe reaches another two inches.
The final third of the cigar continues to burn poorly and the draw has continued it's inferior ways. The profile maintains flavors of cedar with an herbal essence, but the lack of complexity and depth is disturbing.
The finish is short and bitter with notes of paper, cedar and charred wood.
Appearance- 85 not a bad looking smoke
Taste- 78 lacking in depth and complexity, some thin papery notes hurt the score further
Construction- 72 a horribly made cigar that presented issue after issue
Strength- 80 an unremarkable strength
Overall- 77.25 a supremely inferior smoking experience
San Cristobal Lancero
This is a special edition vitola from Ashton (the makers of this cigar, along with Don Pepin Garcia), and as I have stated before this is one of my favorite sizes when it is made right. The cigar is beautiful, containing a dark, rich looking wrapper. The head is finished with a quirky pigtail cap, in line with the tradition of lanceros. The pre light aroma is of deep, rich tobacco and spice. The pre light draw shows notes of tobacco, spice and cocoa.
The cigar begins with a powerful profile of tobacco and muted spice notes. There is a sweetness at the back of the palate that conjures pine nuts. The burn and draw are excellent, and I firmly believe that Pepin Garcia is the master of this vitola. The profile maintains this orientation for the first inch and a half.
At just before the two inch mark, the profile is mellowing out to a nice arrangement of pine nuts, earth and tobacco. The depth of the flavors is excellent, but the complexity is somewhat lacking and I believe that there is room in the profile for more flavors. The burn and draw remain solid and the cigar is performing extremely well.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of tobacco, spice, pine nuts and earth. Again the depth of the flavors is superb, but more complexity would be a nice additive. The burn and draw have been flawless and I would stack the construction of this cigar against any lancero that I have smoked.
The finish is smooth and potent, but a trace of bitterness is present. There are flavors of earth and rich tobacco.
Appearance- 93 an excellent looking cigar, the pigtail cap could be more prominent and the wrapper was slightly veiny
Taste- 91 an excellent profile that had lots of depth, but could have used more complexity
Construction- 96 a fine example of this vitola
Strength- 91 an enjoyable full bodied presentation
Overall- 92.75 an excellent smoke
The cigar begins with a powerful profile of tobacco and muted spice notes. There is a sweetness at the back of the palate that conjures pine nuts. The burn and draw are excellent, and I firmly believe that Pepin Garcia is the master of this vitola. The profile maintains this orientation for the first inch and a half.
At just before the two inch mark, the profile is mellowing out to a nice arrangement of pine nuts, earth and tobacco. The depth of the flavors is excellent, but the complexity is somewhat lacking and I believe that there is room in the profile for more flavors. The burn and draw remain solid and the cigar is performing extremely well.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of tobacco, spice, pine nuts and earth. Again the depth of the flavors is superb, but more complexity would be a nice additive. The burn and draw have been flawless and I would stack the construction of this cigar against any lancero that I have smoked.
The finish is smooth and potent, but a trace of bitterness is present. There are flavors of earth and rich tobacco.
Appearance- 93 an excellent looking cigar, the pigtail cap could be more prominent and the wrapper was slightly veiny
Taste- 91 an excellent profile that had lots of depth, but could have used more complexity
Construction- 96 a fine example of this vitola
Strength- 91 an enjoyable full bodied presentation
Overall- 92.75 an excellent smoke
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Toro y Leon Reserva Especial Torpedo
This is a motley looking cigar, that has a lopsided roll and a rough looking exterior. The cigar seems to be a bit dry, but I can find no other flaws and the roll seems well done and without soft or firm spots. The pre light aroma is full of cedary tones, with a undertone of light spice. The pre light draw hints of light spice as well.
The cigar opens well with fully developed notes of cedar and a hint of light spice at the back of the palate. The burn is solid and the draw is smooth and easy. After about a half an inch the cigar begins to show some grassy notes that detract from the experience.
Just before the half way point the profile is overwhelmed with notes of grass, there is still a cedary core but it is getting lost in the grassy overtones. The burn has stayed solid and the draw is still acceptable.
The final half of the cigar shows some fine notes of cedar, light spice and vanilla. There are still some thin grassy notes at the back of the palate, but they have faded in the late stages. The draw and burn stay strong throughout.
The finish is short and thready. There are notes of grass, vegetation, cedar and spice.
Appearance- 77 this really is an ugly cigar
Taste- 83 the grassy notes hurt the score, but there were some nice notes present
Construction- 88 the cigar performs well, but the lopsided build hurt the score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium presentation that needs more power
Overall- 82 this could have been much better, but still has some redeeming qualities
The cigar opens well with fully developed notes of cedar and a hint of light spice at the back of the palate. The burn is solid and the draw is smooth and easy. After about a half an inch the cigar begins to show some grassy notes that detract from the experience.
Just before the half way point the profile is overwhelmed with notes of grass, there is still a cedary core but it is getting lost in the grassy overtones. The burn has stayed solid and the draw is still acceptable.
The final half of the cigar shows some fine notes of cedar, light spice and vanilla. There are still some thin grassy notes at the back of the palate, but they have faded in the late stages. The draw and burn stay strong throughout.
The finish is short and thready. There are notes of grass, vegetation, cedar and spice.
Appearance- 77 this really is an ugly cigar
Taste- 83 the grassy notes hurt the score, but there were some nice notes present
Construction- 88 the cigar performs well, but the lopsided build hurt the score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium presentation that needs more power
Overall- 82 this could have been much better, but still has some redeeming qualities
Friday, October 9, 2009
Avo Tesoro Limited Edition 2008
This was the featured cigar at an Avo event at my local brick and mortar. I will say that meeting Avo Uvezian is an experience that every cigar smoker should have. The cigar presents with a medium brown wrapper that has no flaws, the cigar seems to be well constructed. The pre light aroma is herbal and shows some grassy notes. The pre light draw has an herbal character as well.
The cigar begins with a profile that is herbal and grassy. The draw is perfect and the burn is solid. The profile maintains this quality for the first inch and a half.
At the two inch mark the profile takes on a leathery note, but is still hindered by thin, grassy notes. The draw and the burn have stayed solid to this point.
At the halfway point, the profile has maintained a leathery character, but there are slight notes of cream. The thin, grassy character continues to hinder this cigar. The draw and the burn stay strong.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of leather, pepper and grass. The burn and the draw are still strong. This is my least favorite of the Avo LE offerings of the past 8 years. I have found several of the previous offerings to be excellent.
The finish is short and grassy.
Appearance- 90 a nice looking cigar, that was a bit dry looking
Taste- 83 the grassy notes throughout the profile hurt the score
Construction- 92 this is a well made cigar
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 87.5 a slightly above average score saved by construction and appearance
The cigar begins with a profile that is herbal and grassy. The draw is perfect and the burn is solid. The profile maintains this quality for the first inch and a half.
At the two inch mark the profile takes on a leathery note, but is still hindered by thin, grassy notes. The draw and the burn have stayed solid to this point.
At the halfway point, the profile has maintained a leathery character, but there are slight notes of cream. The thin, grassy character continues to hinder this cigar. The draw and the burn stay strong.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of leather, pepper and grass. The burn and the draw are still strong. This is my least favorite of the Avo LE offerings of the past 8 years. I have found several of the previous offerings to be excellent.
The finish is short and grassy.
Appearance- 90 a nice looking cigar, that was a bit dry looking
Taste- 83 the grassy notes throughout the profile hurt the score
Construction- 92 this is a well made cigar
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 87.5 a slightly above average score saved by construction and appearance
Trinidad Maduro Robusto
This is a dark maduro wrapper that teems with oils. There are some prominent veins in the wrapper and the cigar shows some firmness that has me concerned. The pre light aroma is sour, but has notes of dark fruit. The pre light draw is earthy and rich.
The cigar begins with an enticing note of dark fruit and earth, it is somewhat muddled by a sour note that is showing at the back of the palate about an inch into the cigar. The burn is solid, but the draw is tight and only some labor produces an acceptable amount of smoke. The first third of the cigar maintains these characteristics.
At just before the halfway point the profile takes on some notes of rich tobacco, the dark fruit and earthy notes are still present. Unfortunately the draw has not yet improved, but the burn is still solid.
The final half of the cigar shows some notes of cocoa and tobacco, but the sour notes have re-entered the experience. The draw has remained tight, but the burn is consistent.
The finish is mediocre and notes of earth and rich tobacco, there is a sour aftertaste.
Appearance- 86 prominent veining hurts the score
Taste- 80 this was severely hurt by the recurring sour notes
Construction- 75 a bad draw hurts this score
Strength- 88 a pleasing medium/full offering that compliments the profile
Overall- 82.25 a sub par experience
The cigar begins with an enticing note of dark fruit and earth, it is somewhat muddled by a sour note that is showing at the back of the palate about an inch into the cigar. The burn is solid, but the draw is tight and only some labor produces an acceptable amount of smoke. The first third of the cigar maintains these characteristics.
At just before the halfway point the profile takes on some notes of rich tobacco, the dark fruit and earthy notes are still present. Unfortunately the draw has not yet improved, but the burn is still solid.
The final half of the cigar shows some notes of cocoa and tobacco, but the sour notes have re-entered the experience. The draw has remained tight, but the burn is consistent.
The finish is mediocre and notes of earth and rich tobacco, there is a sour aftertaste.
Appearance- 86 prominent veining hurts the score
Taste- 80 this was severely hurt by the recurring sour notes
Construction- 75 a bad draw hurts this score
Strength- 88 a pleasing medium/full offering that compliments the profile
Overall- 82.25 a sub par experience
Ashton Heritage Puro Sol Double Corona
This cigar presents with a nice brown wrapper that has an oily sheen, there are no detectable flaws and the overall construction seems solid. The pre light aroma is a bit sour, but has a note of pleasant spice and ginger. The pre light draw has tones of leather and spice.
The cigar begins with a medium profile of tobacco, nuts and spice. The depth of the flavors is surprising and the character is complex. The draw is excellent and the burn is even. The first third of the cigar progresses in this fashion.
At just past one third of the way through the profile shows notes of leather and light spice, there is a floral essence at the back of the palate. The draw has stayed excellent and the burn is razor sharp. The ash has held for the first half of the cigar.
The final half of the cigar contains a complex arrangement of nuts, leather and light earth. There is a sour note that has crept into the mix. The draw and the burn are still well above average.
The finish is long and smooth. There are notes of light pepper, leather and earth.
Appearance- 93 an attractive cigar
Taste- 88 the sour notes at the end hurt this score
Construction- 94 this is a superior example
Strength- 89 this was a nice medium/full offering, but more strength would have helped the profile
Overall- 91 an above average smoke
The cigar begins with a medium profile of tobacco, nuts and spice. The depth of the flavors is surprising and the character is complex. The draw is excellent and the burn is even. The first third of the cigar progresses in this fashion.
At just past one third of the way through the profile shows notes of leather and light spice, there is a floral essence at the back of the palate. The draw has stayed excellent and the burn is razor sharp. The ash has held for the first half of the cigar.
The final half of the cigar contains a complex arrangement of nuts, leather and light earth. There is a sour note that has crept into the mix. The draw and the burn are still well above average.
The finish is long and smooth. There are notes of light pepper, leather and earth.
Appearance- 93 an attractive cigar
Taste- 88 the sour notes at the end hurt this score
Construction- 94 this is a superior example
Strength- 89 this was a nice medium/full offering, but more strength would have helped the profile
Overall- 91 an above average smoke
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Padilla Miami Churchill
This cigar has big shoes to fill as it has replaced the Miami 8 & 11, which remains the cigar with the highest score on this blog to date. Padilla and Pepin Garcia had a much talked about falling out and Padilla now has the brand, but not the blends. Thus, this cigar has been retooled.
The cigar presents well, with a dark, rich looking wrapper. There are some prominent veins, but I do not detect where they may cause an issue, the body of the cigar also appears to be issue free. The pre light aroma is earthy, but has touch of a sour note. The pre light draw is also earthy, but there are hints of pepper as well.
The cigar begins with sweet notes of earth and light blasts of pepper. There is a slightly sour note at the back of the palate that is detracting from the opening stanza. The burn is excellent, but the draw is a bit tight. In the first third of the cigar the profile keeps a core of sweet earthy notes with hints of pepper, but the sour note persists.
At the half way point I am discouraged by a continued sour note in the profile. The profile itself has taken on a flavor of leather with undertones of earth and pepper. Overall it is a nice experience that would be excellent without the sour underpinnings. The burn has stayed sharp, and I maintain an ash well past the two inch mark on two occasions. The draw has stayed a bit tight, but manages to produce acceptable amounts of smoke.
The final quarter of the cigar finishes strong. The profile maintains leathery flavors, but the peppery notes kick it up a notch. There are some signs of light spice and roasted nuts as well. The sour notes have left the profile and I am wishing the whole cigar was this good.
The finish is long and smooth with notes of leather, pepper and nuts.
Appearance- 90 an attractive cigar, some veining hurt the score
Taste- 84 came on strong in the end, but sour notes for the first three quarters of the cigar hurt the score
Construction- 89 well made and burned well, I detract points for the draw
Strength- 88 a nice medium to full presentation, could use some more oomph
Overall- 87.75 a nice solid smoke that would have been better without sour notes.
The cigar presents well, with a dark, rich looking wrapper. There are some prominent veins, but I do not detect where they may cause an issue, the body of the cigar also appears to be issue free. The pre light aroma is earthy, but has touch of a sour note. The pre light draw is also earthy, but there are hints of pepper as well.
The cigar begins with sweet notes of earth and light blasts of pepper. There is a slightly sour note at the back of the palate that is detracting from the opening stanza. The burn is excellent, but the draw is a bit tight. In the first third of the cigar the profile keeps a core of sweet earthy notes with hints of pepper, but the sour note persists.
At the half way point I am discouraged by a continued sour note in the profile. The profile itself has taken on a flavor of leather with undertones of earth and pepper. Overall it is a nice experience that would be excellent without the sour underpinnings. The burn has stayed sharp, and I maintain an ash well past the two inch mark on two occasions. The draw has stayed a bit tight, but manages to produce acceptable amounts of smoke.
The final quarter of the cigar finishes strong. The profile maintains leathery flavors, but the peppery notes kick it up a notch. There are some signs of light spice and roasted nuts as well. The sour notes have left the profile and I am wishing the whole cigar was this good.
The finish is long and smooth with notes of leather, pepper and nuts.
Appearance- 90 an attractive cigar, some veining hurt the score
Taste- 84 came on strong in the end, but sour notes for the first three quarters of the cigar hurt the score
Construction- 89 well made and burned well, I detract points for the draw
Strength- 88 a nice medium to full presentation, could use some more oomph
Overall- 87.75 a nice solid smoke that would have been better without sour notes.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Trinidad Edicion Limitada Toro
Altadis has several new Edicion Limitadas out and this is one of them. I have always liked Trinidad offerings in the past, but have always thought they were about two dollars over the price they should be.
The cigar presents with a tawny taupe wrapper and is finished with an understated pigtail cap. The wrapper is expertly applied and the cap is exceptional, the cigar is not too firm and appears to be well constructed. The pre light aroma is subtle, but has hints of leather and coffee. The pre light draw shows a character of light pepper.
The cigar opens with a mild/medium profile that has notes of leather and a light floral essence. The burn is excellent and the draw produces ample smoke. The cigar progresses on this course until just after the first third.
At just past the one third point the profile is maintaing notes of leather, but the floral essence has transitioned into a nice note of spice. The burn has stayed strong and the draw has stayed has stayed consistent.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of leather, spice and some light earthy notes. The burn was strong throughout the smoke. The draw faltered slightly towards the end of the smoke, but it did not seriously detracting from the experience.
The finish is a bit short, but has a pleasant note of leather and light pepper.
Appearance- 91 an attractive vitola
Taste- 87 the profile was nice, but lacked complexity and depth
Construction- 88 aside from the minor draw issue at the end this cigar was well made
Strength- 85 a nice medium presentation that could use more punch
Overall- 87.75 a cigar worth smoking
The cigar presents with a tawny taupe wrapper and is finished with an understated pigtail cap. The wrapper is expertly applied and the cap is exceptional, the cigar is not too firm and appears to be well constructed. The pre light aroma is subtle, but has hints of leather and coffee. The pre light draw shows a character of light pepper.
The cigar opens with a mild/medium profile that has notes of leather and a light floral essence. The burn is excellent and the draw produces ample smoke. The cigar progresses on this course until just after the first third.
At just past the one third point the profile is maintaing notes of leather, but the floral essence has transitioned into a nice note of spice. The burn has stayed strong and the draw has stayed has stayed consistent.
The final half of the cigar shows notes of leather, spice and some light earthy notes. The burn was strong throughout the smoke. The draw faltered slightly towards the end of the smoke, but it did not seriously detracting from the experience.
The finish is a bit short, but has a pleasant note of leather and light pepper.
Appearance- 91 an attractive vitola
Taste- 87 the profile was nice, but lacked complexity and depth
Construction- 88 aside from the minor draw issue at the end this cigar was well made
Strength- 85 a nice medium presentation that could use more punch
Overall- 87.75 a cigar worth smoking
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Arganese Nicaraguan Robusto
This small robusto presents with a nice dark wrapper that is a bit toothy. There are few veins and the wrapper and cigar appear to be well put together, but the roll might be a bit firm. The pre light aroma is of light spice and cocoa. The pre light draw is floral with a hint of spice.
The cigar opens with notes of brine and light floral essence. The draw is tight, but the smoke is being doled out in acceptable amounts. The burn is even and the overall construction is acceptable to this point.
The first half of the cigar maintains a core of brine with a floral essence. The draw remains stiff, but the overall performance of the cigar is passable.
The final half of the cigar develops a core of black pepper notes with undertones of light tobacco. The burn has stayed true, but the draw did not open up at all.
The finish is short with notes of brine and pepper.
Appearance- 90 an attractive cigar
Taste- 80 this profile lacked depth and complexity, the brine character detracts from the score
Construction- 85 the draw was stiff
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 83.75 without the notes of brine this cigar would have been better
The cigar opens with notes of brine and light floral essence. The draw is tight, but the smoke is being doled out in acceptable amounts. The burn is even and the overall construction is acceptable to this point.
The first half of the cigar maintains a core of brine with a floral essence. The draw remains stiff, but the overall performance of the cigar is passable.
The final half of the cigar develops a core of black pepper notes with undertones of light tobacco. The burn has stayed true, but the draw did not open up at all.
The finish is short with notes of brine and pepper.
Appearance- 90 an attractive cigar
Taste- 80 this profile lacked depth and complexity, the brine character detracts from the score
Construction- 85 the draw was stiff
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 83.75 without the notes of brine this cigar would have been better
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Cohiba Puro Dominicana Toro
This is an ultra premium offering from General Cigar, you can expect to pay twenty dollars or more at retail locations. The cigar is large and dark and has some prominent veins. The pre light aroma is not overpowering, but has notes of light spice. The pre light draw has a light tobacco character with some hints of light spice.
The cigar opens with earthy notes and a sour taste at the back of the palate. The draw is a bit tight, but the burn is not affected. The smoke is a little thin due to the draw. The first third of the cigar proceeds in this fashion.
At the halfway point the cigar develops a vegetal note, there is a sour sweetness as well that is not pleasing to the palate. The burn has stayed strong, but the draw remains tight. The main core of the profile is being ruined by notes that are not well defined and lacking in complexity.
The final third of the cigar shows some notes of cocoa and leather, but there is still a bitterness showing through. The burn has stayed acceptable, but the draw is still tight.
The finish is short and bitter with notes of leather and earth.
Appearance- 86 veins and a ruddy exterior hurt the score
Taste- 78 lacks complexity and depth, sour notes hurt the score
Construction- 79 tight draw hurts this score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium/full smoke
Overall- 80.75 average cigar at a way above average price
The cigar opens with earthy notes and a sour taste at the back of the palate. The draw is a bit tight, but the burn is not affected. The smoke is a little thin due to the draw. The first third of the cigar proceeds in this fashion.
At the halfway point the cigar develops a vegetal note, there is a sour sweetness as well that is not pleasing to the palate. The burn has stayed strong, but the draw remains tight. The main core of the profile is being ruined by notes that are not well defined and lacking in complexity.
The final third of the cigar shows some notes of cocoa and leather, but there is still a bitterness showing through. The burn has stayed acceptable, but the draw is still tight.
The finish is short and bitter with notes of leather and earth.
Appearance- 86 veins and a ruddy exterior hurt the score
Taste- 78 lacks complexity and depth, sour notes hurt the score
Construction- 79 tight draw hurts this score
Strength- 80 an unremarkable medium/full smoke
Overall- 80.75 average cigar at a way above average price
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