This is a new offering from Ashton made by Don Pepin Garcia. The cigar presents with a mottled wrapper that is dry and somewhat reddish in color. The application of the wrapper looks acceptable and there are few veins. A roll through the fingers reveals a nice firm cigar and I do not detect any areas that may be of issue. The pre light aroma is of light wood. The pre light draw shows some light spice and some notes of cedar.
The cigar opens with a profile of light wood and some thready notes of spice. I am struck by how dry the smoke feels in the mouth, an attribute that I really do not care for. At the back of the palate there are some tangy notes that are citrus like, but the dryness of the smoke cloys the flavors. The draw is exceptional and booming clouds of smoke are hanging above my head. The burn is a bit lopsided, but it is not in need of a touch up at this point.
The first half of the cigar continues to show notes of light wood, but there is not enough depth or complexity to comment much further at this point, it is just straight wood. The smoke is still very dry and I am parched from smoking this cigar, not a nice experience. At the back of the palate there is still some tangy flavor, but I am hard pressed to identify it as anything other than citrus zest.
The final half of the cigar continues to show a profile of light wood, but there is nothing else there. I am disappointed by this smoke to this point, but it is also not terrible. The dryness of the smoke continues to be disturbing and it is causing some bitterness to creep into the smoking experience. The draw is still excellent and the burn is level.
The finish is tart with some bitterness. There are notes of citrus and dry wood.
Appearance- 83 dry and weird looking
Taste- 80 the dryness and lack of complexity and depth hurt the score
Construction- 90 an excellent performance
Strength- 80 a medium/full offering that was not complimentary to the cigar
Overall- 83.25 a very sub par cigar
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Savinelli RyR Robusto
This cigar presents with an interesting light brown wrapper that shows more tooth than the average cigar. The wrapper shows some prominent veins and a few flaws, but the visual impression is of a firm, girthy cigar. A quick examination shows a well rolled vitola that has some tightness that might be of some concern in the smoke. The pre light aroma has some barnyard qualities, but there are some notes of spice and pepper. The pre light draw is spicy and has some notes of pepper as well.
The cigar opens with a profile that is all spice and pepper. There is a sour undertone at the back of the palate that is not the most pleasant and it detracts from the opening salvo. The draw is a bit tight, but there is not any undue labor involved in maintaining the cigar. The burn is strong and even, if a bit slow.
The first half of the cigar shows notes of spice, pepper and dark wood. There is a toasty character that borders on showing notes of charred wood, and there is still some sourness at the back of the palate. The draw loosens up nicely near the one third point. The burn also continues to show well to this point.
The last half of the cigar is disappointing. The profile transitions into a strange melange of wood and earth, but it has an underlying note that hints of wet vegetation. The sourness is even more prominent in the back half of this smoke and it is vexing. The draw is acceptable at this point and the burn continues to be solid.
The finish is sour and has notes of wood, earth and damp vegetation.
Appearance- 87 not an unattractive cigar
Taste- 78 the final half killed what would have been an average score at best
Construction- 86 the tightness in the draw hurts the score
Strength- 80 a weak medium that did not compliment the profile
Overall- 82.75 a below average smoke that I would avoid
The cigar opens with a profile that is all spice and pepper. There is a sour undertone at the back of the palate that is not the most pleasant and it detracts from the opening salvo. The draw is a bit tight, but there is not any undue labor involved in maintaining the cigar. The burn is strong and even, if a bit slow.
The first half of the cigar shows notes of spice, pepper and dark wood. There is a toasty character that borders on showing notes of charred wood, and there is still some sourness at the back of the palate. The draw loosens up nicely near the one third point. The burn also continues to show well to this point.
The last half of the cigar is disappointing. The profile transitions into a strange melange of wood and earth, but it has an underlying note that hints of wet vegetation. The sourness is even more prominent in the back half of this smoke and it is vexing. The draw is acceptable at this point and the burn continues to be solid.
The finish is sour and has notes of wood, earth and damp vegetation.
Appearance- 87 not an unattractive cigar
Taste- 78 the final half killed what would have been an average score at best
Construction- 86 the tightness in the draw hurts the score
Strength- 80 a weak medium that did not compliment the profile
Overall- 82.75 a below average smoke that I would avoid
Friday, December 25, 2009
Mi Barrio El Acere
This is a cigar made for 601 by Don Pepin Garcia. It presents beautifully with a flawless wrapper in a deep, rich brown shade. An inspection of the cigar shows it to be rolled well and I can't find any areas of issue. The pre light aroma is very rich and shows notes of tobacco, fruit and sweet earth. The pre light draw is smooth and has notes of cocoa, tobacco and earth.
The cigar begins with a profile that has serious depth. There are notes of tobacco and earth that are extremely well developed so early in the cigar. At the back of the palate there are notes of cocoa and spice. The draw is perfect and produces copious amounts of smoke. The burn is razor sharp and produces a crisp white ash.
The first third of the cigar continues to deepen, showing more tobacco and sweet earth notes. At the back of the palate cocoa notes continue to intensify. The draw remains perfect and the burn continues to be impressive.
The middle third of the cigar shows a profile shift. The core segues nicely into a sweet earth presentation. There are still notes of tobacco and some spice present as well. The undertones of cocoa at the back of the palate are still present and intense. The draw continues to impress me with me with it's flawless consistency. The burn is still strong and the ash is beautiful.
The final third of the cigar is a fantastic closing salvo. The profile shows notes of rich tobacco, sweet earth and cocoa. There is so much going on that it is difficult to discern the depth and complexity of it all. The draw and burn both continue uninterrupted in their impressiveness.
The finish is long and smooth showing notes of sweet earth and rich tobacco.
Appearance- 94 a beautiful cigar'
Taste- 96 an excellent profile with significant depth and complexity
Construction- 97 I had no issues with this cigar and it is one of the finest constructions I have seen
Strength- 90 my only area of disappointment, this could have used more punch
Overall- 94.25 a nearly classic cigar
The cigar begins with a profile that has serious depth. There are notes of tobacco and earth that are extremely well developed so early in the cigar. At the back of the palate there are notes of cocoa and spice. The draw is perfect and produces copious amounts of smoke. The burn is razor sharp and produces a crisp white ash.
The first third of the cigar continues to deepen, showing more tobacco and sweet earth notes. At the back of the palate cocoa notes continue to intensify. The draw remains perfect and the burn continues to be impressive.
The middle third of the cigar shows a profile shift. The core segues nicely into a sweet earth presentation. There are still notes of tobacco and some spice present as well. The undertones of cocoa at the back of the palate are still present and intense. The draw continues to impress me with me with it's flawless consistency. The burn is still strong and the ash is beautiful.
The final third of the cigar is a fantastic closing salvo. The profile shows notes of rich tobacco, sweet earth and cocoa. There is so much going on that it is difficult to discern the depth and complexity of it all. The draw and burn both continue uninterrupted in their impressiveness.
The finish is long and smooth showing notes of sweet earth and rich tobacco.
Appearance- 94 a beautiful cigar'
Taste- 96 an excellent profile with significant depth and complexity
Construction- 97 I had no issues with this cigar and it is one of the finest constructions I have seen
Strength- 90 my only area of disappointment, this could have used more punch
Overall- 94.25 a nearly classic cigar
Bolivar Petit Corona (Unknown Box Date)
The age of this cigar is not known with certainty, but it is believed to be from a box from 2004 or 2006. The cigar presents well with a medium brown wrapper that has very little veining. A quick examination of the cigar reveals no areas of issue. The pre light aroma has notes of leather and rich tobacco. The pre light draw shows strong notes of leather and some light spice, there is also some excellent tobacco flavor present.
The cigar begins with a stunningly complex profile that shows deep notes of leather, tobacco and some spice. At the back of the palate there is an undertone of cinnamon that adds another exceptional layer to the opening moments of the cigar. The draw is very easy, and I am surprised by this as cigars of this vintage and vitola are typically tight. The burn is a bit lopsided and the ash is forming in a way that is somewhat askew.
The first half of the cigar continues to impress, showing deep leather flavors as the main component of the core profile. I also note some excellent tobacco flavors, some light spice and fantastic flavors of light wood. The back of the palate is assailed by notes of cedar and I am blown away by the complexity of this little cigar. The draw continues to be excellent and the burn begins to even out.
The last half of the cigar has a core profile that continues to show leather notes, but they are accompanied by fine notes of cedar and other light wood. At the back of the palate there are still notes of spice. The draw tightens slightly at the end of the smoke, but it does not cause me too many issues. The burn, once levelled out, was as it should be.
The finish is long and flavorful, showing notes of leather and cedar.
Appearance- 91 a nice looking cigar
Taste- 93 an excellent profile that shows fabulous character
Construction- 95 one of the finest examples of this vitola that I have smoked
Strength- 92 a nice medium/full offering
Overall- 92.75 an excellent smoking experience
The cigar begins with a stunningly complex profile that shows deep notes of leather, tobacco and some spice. At the back of the palate there is an undertone of cinnamon that adds another exceptional layer to the opening moments of the cigar. The draw is very easy, and I am surprised by this as cigars of this vintage and vitola are typically tight. The burn is a bit lopsided and the ash is forming in a way that is somewhat askew.
The first half of the cigar continues to impress, showing deep leather flavors as the main component of the core profile. I also note some excellent tobacco flavors, some light spice and fantastic flavors of light wood. The back of the palate is assailed by notes of cedar and I am blown away by the complexity of this little cigar. The draw continues to be excellent and the burn begins to even out.
The last half of the cigar has a core profile that continues to show leather notes, but they are accompanied by fine notes of cedar and other light wood. At the back of the palate there are still notes of spice. The draw tightens slightly at the end of the smoke, but it does not cause me too many issues. The burn, once levelled out, was as it should be.
The finish is long and flavorful, showing notes of leather and cedar.
Appearance- 91 a nice looking cigar
Taste- 93 an excellent profile that shows fabulous character
Construction- 95 one of the finest examples of this vitola that I have smoked
Strength- 92 a nice medium/full offering
Overall- 92.75 an excellent smoking experience
Toro y Leon Esteli
I did some research and can't find any information about this cigar. I do know that this is a new cigar company that is about to bring it's products onto the market. I reviewed one of the other blends from this company a month ago. This smaller cigar presents in size between and petit corona and corona. It has a tawny wrapper that is thick and leathery, but it has some prominent veining. The construction feels like it might be a bit tight and there is an area that I suspect may be plugged. The pre light aroma is leathery and sweet. The pre light draw shows notes of pepper and a sweet floral tone.
The cigar opens with notes of pepper, spice and some leathery undertones. At the back of the palate there is some bitterness that is initially bothersome. The draw is smooth and easy and produces ample amounts of smoke. The burn is a bit lopsided and the ash is a dirty gray.
The first half of the cigar continues to show spicy, peppery flavors that lack depth and complexity. Bitterness continues to foul the profile at the back of the palate. The draw is still wide open and producing nice smoke. The burn continues to be a touch off, but it is not causing any issues.
The final half of the cigar shows more notes of leather and spice. There is a nice creaminess at the back of the palate that has replaced the bitterness and gives a vanilla essence to the closing moments of the cigar. The draw and burn remain the same throughout.
The finish is a bit short, but shows notes of leather and spice.
Appearance- 83 very prominent veining hurts the score
Taste- 84 some early bitterness led to some reductions
Construction- 90 a well made cigar
Strength- 85 a medium cigar
Overall- 85.5 slightly above average
The cigar opens with notes of pepper, spice and some leathery undertones. At the back of the palate there is some bitterness that is initially bothersome. The draw is smooth and easy and produces ample amounts of smoke. The burn is a bit lopsided and the ash is a dirty gray.
The first half of the cigar continues to show spicy, peppery flavors that lack depth and complexity. Bitterness continues to foul the profile at the back of the palate. The draw is still wide open and producing nice smoke. The burn continues to be a touch off, but it is not causing any issues.
The final half of the cigar shows more notes of leather and spice. There is a nice creaminess at the back of the palate that has replaced the bitterness and gives a vanilla essence to the closing moments of the cigar. The draw and burn remain the same throughout.
The finish is a bit short, but shows notes of leather and spice.
Appearance- 83 very prominent veining hurts the score
Taste- 84 some early bitterness led to some reductions
Construction- 90 a well made cigar
Strength- 85 a medium cigar
Overall- 85.5 slightly above average
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Partagas Master Series Majestuoso
This is a new cigar from Partagas celebrating the career of their master blender Benji Menendez. The cigar presents well with a dark wrapper that shows lots of tooth, but seems a bit dry. The wrapper also shows some flaws and there is some prominent veining. The construction seems to be ok, but might be a bit firm. The pre light aroma is sweet and has notes of hard candy and fruit. The pre light draw is tight, but shows notes of leather and brine.
The cigar opens with a profile that has heavy notes of salt and rich tobacco. The draw is too tight, but there is not any undue labor involved in the smoke. The burn is solid and produces a nice white ash. At the back of the palate there are some leathery notes, but some bitterness is taking away some of the enjoyment.
The first half of the cigar maintains a profile of salt and rich tobacco flavors. At the back of the palate there is a nice mix of leather and roasted nut flavor. The draw opens slightly and the burn stays solid. Near the end of the first half some bitterness surfaces in the main body of the profile and it causes me some concern.
The second half of the cigar transitions slightly. There are leathery notes with some flavors of roasted nuts. At the back of the palate there are some peppery notes that are present, but some bitterness still persists. The draw is now acceptable and the burn still performs well. There is a significant lack of depth and complexity in the profile throughout the experience.
The finish is bitter, but has notes of pepper and leather.
Appearance- 83 veining and flaws hurt the score
Taste- 84 bitterness and lack of depth and complexity hurt the overall impression
Construction- 82 the tight draw in the early stages hinder the cigar
Strength- 85 a very average medium
Overall- 83.5 a below average cigar with a ten dollar price tag
The cigar opens with a profile that has heavy notes of salt and rich tobacco. The draw is too tight, but there is not any undue labor involved in the smoke. The burn is solid and produces a nice white ash. At the back of the palate there are some leathery notes, but some bitterness is taking away some of the enjoyment.
The first half of the cigar maintains a profile of salt and rich tobacco flavors. At the back of the palate there is a nice mix of leather and roasted nut flavor. The draw opens slightly and the burn stays solid. Near the end of the first half some bitterness surfaces in the main body of the profile and it causes me some concern.
The second half of the cigar transitions slightly. There are leathery notes with some flavors of roasted nuts. At the back of the palate there are some peppery notes that are present, but some bitterness still persists. The draw is now acceptable and the burn still performs well. There is a significant lack of depth and complexity in the profile throughout the experience.
The finish is bitter, but has notes of pepper and leather.
Appearance- 83 veining and flaws hurt the score
Taste- 84 bitterness and lack of depth and complexity hurt the overall impression
Construction- 82 the tight draw in the early stages hinder the cigar
Strength- 85 a very average medium
Overall- 83.5 a below average cigar with a ten dollar price tag
Friday, December 18, 2009
Padilla Signature 1932 2009 Limited Edition Salomon Oscuro
This is a huge cigar in a very rare vitola with an oscuro wrapper. The cigar is chunky and draped in an oily oscuro wrapper. The wrapper has no apparent flaws and is expertly applied. The construction appears to be solid and I do not detect any areas that would cause an issue. The pre light aroma is of tobacco, earth and some light spice. The pre light draw has an earthy sweetness and a hint of ginger.
The cigar begins with a profile of rich tobacco and some notes of spice. There is an earthy sweetness at the back of the palate. The draw is excellent, which is surprising to me for a cigar of this size. The burn is lopsided, but not causing some issues.
The first third of the cigar shows a profile of rich tobacco, spice and some meaty overtones that are interesting. There is some salt and mint at the back of the palate that is strange, but not off putting. The draw has stayed near perfect, but the burn has continued to deteriorate and may require a touch up (we all know how I feel about touch ups).
The middle third continues to show a profile of tobacco and spice, but is showing some minty notes as well. There is still some salt at the back of the palate. The burn has to be retouched twice in this segment of the cigar, and I am disappointed. The draw continues to stay strong to this point.
The final third shows a profile of pepper, pepper and more pepper. There is still some earthy sweetness and mint showing through at the back of the palate. The burn has continued to need retouching throughout the final two thirds, but the draw has been excellent.
The finish is lingering and shows notes of pepper, earth and spice.
Appearance- 94 it is impossible not to be impressed with this cigar
Taste- 88 not bad, but the profile lacked some depth and some of the flavors were not complimentary to one another
Construction- 85 the burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 88 a nice medium/full that could use more pop
Overall- 88.75 a nice smoke, with nice aging potential
The cigar begins with a profile of rich tobacco and some notes of spice. There is an earthy sweetness at the back of the palate. The draw is excellent, which is surprising to me for a cigar of this size. The burn is lopsided, but not causing some issues.
The first third of the cigar shows a profile of rich tobacco, spice and some meaty overtones that are interesting. There is some salt and mint at the back of the palate that is strange, but not off putting. The draw has stayed near perfect, but the burn has continued to deteriorate and may require a touch up (we all know how I feel about touch ups).
The middle third continues to show a profile of tobacco and spice, but is showing some minty notes as well. There is still some salt at the back of the palate. The burn has to be retouched twice in this segment of the cigar, and I am disappointed. The draw continues to stay strong to this point.
The final third shows a profile of pepper, pepper and more pepper. There is still some earthy sweetness and mint showing through at the back of the palate. The burn has continued to need retouching throughout the final two thirds, but the draw has been excellent.
The finish is lingering and shows notes of pepper, earth and spice.
Appearance- 94 it is impossible not to be impressed with this cigar
Taste- 88 not bad, but the profile lacked some depth and some of the flavors were not complimentary to one another
Construction- 85 the burn issues hurt the score
Strength- 88 a nice medium/full that could use more pop
Overall- 88.75 a nice smoke, with nice aging potential
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Rocky Patel Olde World Reserve Lancero
This is a rare incarnation of this blend, and I have seldom seen the lancero size available anywhere. The cigar presents well with a dark, nearly vein free wrapper. The construction seems to be exceptional, in my experience most cigars of this size seem as though they will be too tight. The pre light aroma has notes of cocoa and rich tobacco. The pre light draw shows rich tobacco notes and an earthy sweetness.
The cigar opens with full powered blasts of rich tobacco flavors, there are some sweet cocoa undertones that are intriguing. The draw is exceptional for a cigar of this size, and there is no labor involved in producing acceptable amounts of smoke. The burn is sharp and produces a crisp white ash.
The first third of the cigar shows excellent notes of rich tobacco, earth and cocoa. The depth of the profile is exceptional, but some complexity is missing. At the back of the palate there are some metallic, chemical flavors. The draw is still nearly perfect and the burn is performing well.
The middle third of the cigar continues to show nice depth, with flavors of rich tobacco, earth and some nice spice. The back of the palate issues are still present and the chemical, metallic notes are hurting the experience. The draw and burn continue to perform very well.
The final third of the cigar deteriorates. The chemical, metallic notes become more prominent and the rest of the profile takes on a charred characteristic. The burn and draw are still excellent.
The finish is short and bitter with metallic and medicinal qualities.
Appearance- 91 an attractive cigar, that is a bit lopsided
Taste- 82 some winning notes up front, that deteriorate in the body of the cigar
Construction- 95 this cigar performs very well
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 88.25 based on appearance and construction, otherwise this is a must miss
The cigar opens with full powered blasts of rich tobacco flavors, there are some sweet cocoa undertones that are intriguing. The draw is exceptional for a cigar of this size, and there is no labor involved in producing acceptable amounts of smoke. The burn is sharp and produces a crisp white ash.
The first third of the cigar shows excellent notes of rich tobacco, earth and cocoa. The depth of the profile is exceptional, but some complexity is missing. At the back of the palate there are some metallic, chemical flavors. The draw is still nearly perfect and the burn is performing well.
The middle third of the cigar continues to show nice depth, with flavors of rich tobacco, earth and some nice spice. The back of the palate issues are still present and the chemical, metallic notes are hurting the experience. The draw and burn continue to perform very well.
The final third of the cigar deteriorates. The chemical, metallic notes become more prominent and the rest of the profile takes on a charred characteristic. The burn and draw are still excellent.
The finish is short and bitter with metallic and medicinal qualities.
Appearance- 91 an attractive cigar, that is a bit lopsided
Taste- 82 some winning notes up front, that deteriorate in the body of the cigar
Construction- 95 this cigar performs very well
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium/full
Overall- 88.25 based on appearance and construction, otherwise this is a must miss
Monday, December 14, 2009
Casa Magna Corona
This is the much ballyhooed cigar of the year, from last year, according to the "pros" at Cigar Aficionado. They rated a different size, but the point is that a major publication believed that this was the cigar of the year. It presents well with a beautiful dark brown wrapper that is exceptionally oily and shimmering with the beginnings of plume crystals. There are few veins and the construction feels firm, but not unduly so. The pre light aroma is of rich cedar and there is light coffee notes with some floral hints. The pre light draw shows some light spice, cedar and floral notes, I note that the draw is a bit firm.
The cigar begins with a core profile of cedar and a sweet earthy spice. There are some notes at the back of the palate that are bit sour and thus cloying some of the essence of the core profile. The draw is tight, but not horribly so, just a bit too firm for my liking. The burn is sharp and a bright white ash is forming.
The first half of the cigar is awash with solid cedar and earthy spice essence. The sourness at the back of the palate is still present, particularly through the nose. The draw has loosened slightly and is becoming more acceptable as I progress. The burn is remarkable and the ash is firm, white and solid.
The final half of the cigar shows more notes of cedar and sweet earthy spice, there are some notes of coffee and a nice tobacco flavor at the back of the palate. However, the sour notes have not fully retreated from the experience and I have to consider them against the rest of the experience. The draw is now acceptable and the burn has stayed consistent.
The finish is not unpleasant, but leaves me wanting something more complex and bold. There are notes of coffee and earth, but there is not enough depth to fully contemplate giving a great score to the smoke.
Appearance- 94 a very good looking cigar
Taste- 82 the sour notes really detract from this experience
Construction- 86 tight draws for the first half hurt this score, otherwise excellent
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium smoke
Overall- 86.75 saved by appearance, no cigar of the year honors from me!
The cigar begins with a core profile of cedar and a sweet earthy spice. There are some notes at the back of the palate that are bit sour and thus cloying some of the essence of the core profile. The draw is tight, but not horribly so, just a bit too firm for my liking. The burn is sharp and a bright white ash is forming.
The first half of the cigar is awash with solid cedar and earthy spice essence. The sourness at the back of the palate is still present, particularly through the nose. The draw has loosened slightly and is becoming more acceptable as I progress. The burn is remarkable and the ash is firm, white and solid.
The final half of the cigar shows more notes of cedar and sweet earthy spice, there are some notes of coffee and a nice tobacco flavor at the back of the palate. However, the sour notes have not fully retreated from the experience and I have to consider them against the rest of the experience. The draw is now acceptable and the burn has stayed consistent.
The finish is not unpleasant, but leaves me wanting something more complex and bold. There are notes of coffee and earth, but there is not enough depth to fully contemplate giving a great score to the smoke.
Appearance- 94 a very good looking cigar
Taste- 82 the sour notes really detract from this experience
Construction- 86 tight draws for the first half hurt this score, otherwise excellent
Strength- 85 an unremarkable medium smoke
Overall- 86.75 saved by appearance, no cigar of the year honors from me!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Vegas Robaina Unicos (Unknown Box Date)
This cigar presents in a very pointy torpedo shape. The wrapper is a deep brown, that is somewhat dry, but has some toothy qualities. The roll feels a touch loose, but I can't detect any areas that are too soft and I do not anticipate a problem. The pre light aroma is satisfyingly like a barnyard. The pre light draw shows some floral notes, but there is also a little bite.
The cigar begins with a profile that is floral, but there are undertones of wood and some spice. The smoke is dry and has some definite bite at the back of the palate. The draw is very loose, and that is not typical with cigars of this origin. The burn is a bit off, but there is a nice shoulder that suggests some pretty lengthy aging.
The first third of the cigar continues to show some notes that are floral, but the woody undertones are becoming prominent as the cigar progresses. The bite at the back of the palate is also showing more influence as the smoke moves on. The draw has stayed loose and the burn is still showing some lopsided qualities, but is maintaining a nice shoulder.
The middle third of the cigar begins to show some notes of pepper and more spice, but those flavors are countered by some notes of charred wood that are bothersome. The back of the palate experience continues to have some unnecessary bite that is bordering on bitter. The draw has loosened further and heat begins to show in the smoke. The burn has evened, but still shows a nice shoulder.
The final third of the cigar is disappointing. The profile is predominantly of charred wood, there are some strands of pepper and spice, but they are not enough to hold on to. The draw and burn remain the same, but the heat in the smoke is distracting by this point.
The finish is short and bitter, there are some notes of charred wood and burned out floral aftertaste.
Appearance- 87 a nice looking cigar, but dryness hurts the overall appeal
Taste- 80 too much bite not enough depth and complexity in the profile
Construction- 84 the loose draw caused issues
Strength- 82 a below average medium
Overall- 83.25 below average, perhaps another fermentation through aging would be helpful
The cigar begins with a profile that is floral, but there are undertones of wood and some spice. The smoke is dry and has some definite bite at the back of the palate. The draw is very loose, and that is not typical with cigars of this origin. The burn is a bit off, but there is a nice shoulder that suggests some pretty lengthy aging.
The first third of the cigar continues to show some notes that are floral, but the woody undertones are becoming prominent as the cigar progresses. The bite at the back of the palate is also showing more influence as the smoke moves on. The draw has stayed loose and the burn is still showing some lopsided qualities, but is maintaining a nice shoulder.
The middle third of the cigar begins to show some notes of pepper and more spice, but those flavors are countered by some notes of charred wood that are bothersome. The back of the palate experience continues to have some unnecessary bite that is bordering on bitter. The draw has loosened further and heat begins to show in the smoke. The burn has evened, but still shows a nice shoulder.
The final third of the cigar is disappointing. The profile is predominantly of charred wood, there are some strands of pepper and spice, but they are not enough to hold on to. The draw and burn remain the same, but the heat in the smoke is distracting by this point.
The finish is short and bitter, there are some notes of charred wood and burned out floral aftertaste.
Appearance- 87 a nice looking cigar, but dryness hurts the overall appeal
Taste- 80 too much bite not enough depth and complexity in the profile
Construction- 84 the loose draw caused issues
Strength- 82 a below average medium
Overall- 83.25 below average, perhaps another fermentation through aging would be helpful
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Camacho Select Robusto
This cigar presents with an interesting wrapper that is a chestnut brown that has a lot of tooth. There are some prominent veins, but the cigar appears to be well made as I detect no areas of concern. The pre light aroma is sweet and has hints of fruit, but a slightly sour undertone. The pre light draw shows notes of tobacco and wood.
The cigar begins with a shallow profile of wood and light tobacco notes. There is a very dry quality to the smoke and it leaves the palate feeling somewhat parched. The draw is excellent and the burn is sharp, producing a nice crisp ash. At the back of the palate the dryness leads to some bitterness and some sharp aspirin like notes.
The first half of the cigar shows little development and maintains a dry and somewhat bitter quality. The profile has notes of wood and tobacco, but the lack of depth and complexity are vexing. The draw maintains a very high quality and the burn stays sharp.
The final half of the cigar shows nothing further and maintains a straightforward profile of tobacco and wood. There are some charred flavors showing through at the back of the palate and the overall dry texture of the smoke continues to bother me. The draw and burn have stayed consistent.
The finish is sharp, bitter and dryer still. There are notes of charred wood and light tobacco.
Appearance- 86 veining hurts the score
Taste- 79 the dry and bitter notes prohibit a higher score
Construction- 92 a well made cigar that performed very well
Strength- 85 an average medium offering
Overall- 85.5 saved by construction
The cigar begins with a shallow profile of wood and light tobacco notes. There is a very dry quality to the smoke and it leaves the palate feeling somewhat parched. The draw is excellent and the burn is sharp, producing a nice crisp ash. At the back of the palate the dryness leads to some bitterness and some sharp aspirin like notes.
The first half of the cigar shows little development and maintains a dry and somewhat bitter quality. The profile has notes of wood and tobacco, but the lack of depth and complexity are vexing. The draw maintains a very high quality and the burn stays sharp.
The final half of the cigar shows nothing further and maintains a straightforward profile of tobacco and wood. There are some charred flavors showing through at the back of the palate and the overall dry texture of the smoke continues to bother me. The draw and burn have stayed consistent.
The finish is sharp, bitter and dryer still. There are notes of charred wood and light tobacco.
Appearance- 86 veining hurts the score
Taste- 79 the dry and bitter notes prohibit a higher score
Construction- 92 a well made cigar that performed very well
Strength- 85 an average medium offering
Overall- 85.5 saved by construction
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Xikar HC Colorado Habano Toro
This is a new cigar from the famed accessory maker, it replaces the Defiance cigar (I would recommend getting some Defiance cigars if you can still find them, they were excellent). This cigar presents well with a Colorado Habano wrapper that does not have the typical reddish hue that I expect, but is more of a deep chocolate brown. There are some prominent veins in the wrapper and the roll seems a bit loose. The pre light aroma is of dark fruit, I sense black cherry. The pre light draw is a bit tight, which runs counter to the looseness of the roll, and is a bit confusing when it shows notes of spice, fruit and some sort of weird chemical/solvent undertone.
The cigar opens with notes of black cherry and spice, there is a bit of a clean tobacco flavor in the mix, but there is a definite chemical underpinning to the profile that is bothersome. The draw is a bit tight, but I am not having any real issues. The burn is even and produces a nice gray ash, that is firm.
The first third of the cigar progresses with a profile that has notes of dark fruit and floral sweetness. The chemical, almost medicinal, undertone is still in the profile and it is nearly enough to make me put the smoke down. The draw is still tight, but the burn is excellent. I perservere against my better judgement at this point.
The middle third of the cigar picks up some clean tobacco notes with hints of dark fruit and some more layers of floral essences. The chemical flavors have faded some and the profile is gaining some positive points, but still lacking in depth and complexity. The draw has opened up perceptibly and the result is more smoke, but the same flavors that lack depth. The burn is still above average at this point.
The final third of the cigar spirals out of control. The profile shows notes of charred wood and paper. The profile takes on a an acrid, acidic overtone and the chemical flavors are in my face. The draw has completely opened up allowing me to partake in the foul and malodorous experience in full effect. The burn is still performing well.
The finish is short, bitter, charred and acidic.
Appearance- 86 an above average looking cigar
Taste- 74 saved somewhat by the middle third
Construction- 84 early draw issues were a small problem
Strength- 70 too difficult to discern within the sub par profile
Overall- 78.5 they should have saved the tobacco for sacrifice in the next hurricane
The cigar opens with notes of black cherry and spice, there is a bit of a clean tobacco flavor in the mix, but there is a definite chemical underpinning to the profile that is bothersome. The draw is a bit tight, but I am not having any real issues. The burn is even and produces a nice gray ash, that is firm.
The first third of the cigar progresses with a profile that has notes of dark fruit and floral sweetness. The chemical, almost medicinal, undertone is still in the profile and it is nearly enough to make me put the smoke down. The draw is still tight, but the burn is excellent. I perservere against my better judgement at this point.
The middle third of the cigar picks up some clean tobacco notes with hints of dark fruit and some more layers of floral essences. The chemical flavors have faded some and the profile is gaining some positive points, but still lacking in depth and complexity. The draw has opened up perceptibly and the result is more smoke, but the same flavors that lack depth. The burn is still above average at this point.
The final third of the cigar spirals out of control. The profile shows notes of charred wood and paper. The profile takes on a an acrid, acidic overtone and the chemical flavors are in my face. The draw has completely opened up allowing me to partake in the foul and malodorous experience in full effect. The burn is still performing well.
The finish is short, bitter, charred and acidic.
Appearance- 86 an above average looking cigar
Taste- 74 saved somewhat by the middle third
Construction- 84 early draw issues were a small problem
Strength- 70 too difficult to discern within the sub par profile
Overall- 78.5 they should have saved the tobacco for sacrifice in the next hurricane
Monday, December 7, 2009
Perdomo Habano Connecticut Robusto
This is a beast of a robusto with a tawny blond wrapper that is oily and nearly vein free. There are no flaws in the appearance of this cigar and a quick inspection shows that there should not be any construction issues. The pre light aroma is of light spice and a floral sweetness. The pre light draw also has notes of floral sweetness and a peppery note at the back of the palate.
The cigar opens with a blast of peppery notes and a floral sweetness at the back of the palate. I am surprised by the power of this cigar, as a Connecticut wrapper is usually more mild. The draw is excellent and the burn is sharp.
The first third of the cigar continues to show notes of pepper and a floral sweetness. At the back of the palate the smoke is heavy and has some notes of light wood that seems a bit dusty. The draw and burn continue to perform well.
The second third of the cigar settles down and shows notes of light spice, light wood and some nutty flavors. At the back of the palate there are still some floral notes, but the finish still feels dusty on the palate. The draw continues to perform well, but the burn dies out and a retouch is necessary.
The final third of the smoke shows notes of spice, wood and nuts. At the back of the palate the floral sweetness has started to turn grassy and it hurts the profile. I find myself wanting more depth and complexity from this smoke. The draw is still excellent, but the burn has died again and it is beginning to be irritating.
The finish is sharp with notes of pepper and grass.
Appearance- 91 an excellent looking cigar
Taste- 84 I expected more here, grassy notes in the final third hurt the score
Construction- 85 the burn issues detract from the score here
Strength- 87 a nice full smoke that was surprising
Overall- 86.75 not bad, but saved by appearance
The cigar opens with a blast of peppery notes and a floral sweetness at the back of the palate. I am surprised by the power of this cigar, as a Connecticut wrapper is usually more mild. The draw is excellent and the burn is sharp.
The first third of the cigar continues to show notes of pepper and a floral sweetness. At the back of the palate the smoke is heavy and has some notes of light wood that seems a bit dusty. The draw and burn continue to perform well.
The second third of the cigar settles down and shows notes of light spice, light wood and some nutty flavors. At the back of the palate there are still some floral notes, but the finish still feels dusty on the palate. The draw continues to perform well, but the burn dies out and a retouch is necessary.
The final third of the smoke shows notes of spice, wood and nuts. At the back of the palate the floral sweetness has started to turn grassy and it hurts the profile. I find myself wanting more depth and complexity from this smoke. The draw is still excellent, but the burn has died again and it is beginning to be irritating.
The finish is sharp with notes of pepper and grass.
Appearance- 91 an excellent looking cigar
Taste- 84 I expected more here, grassy notes in the final third hurt the score
Construction- 85 the burn issues detract from the score here
Strength- 87 a nice full smoke that was surprising
Overall- 86.75 not bad, but saved by appearance
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Dunhill Signed Range Robusto
This is another offering at the high end of the retail spectrum. This is supposedly a departure from the mild cigar usually produced under the Dunhill label. The cigar presents well with a dark natural wrapper that has few veins. The roll seems to be a bit loose, but there are no soft areas that might create an issue. The pre light aroma is slightly sour, but has notes of nuts of spice. The pre light draw shows spice and floral sweetness.
The cigar opens with a profile of spice mixed with some flavors of dry wood. At the back of the palate there is a dry floral sweetness that has a touch of sourness. The draw is excellent and produces ample smoke with minimal effort. The burn is sharp and produces a dirty gray ash that is slightly flaky.
The first half of the cigar shows notes of dry wood and light spice. At the back of the palate there continues to be a dry floral essence that is turning slightly bitter. The draw and burn continue to perform well, but the ash is still flaky.
The final half of the cigar develops with notes of roasted nuts and dry wood. At the back of the palate the floral note remains bitter, but there is some spice that is interesting. The draw and burn stay consistent, but the profile lacks complexity and depth.
The finish is a touch short and bitter. There are floral and nutty notes, but there are some grassy overtones.
Appearance- 87 an acceptable looking cigar
Taste- 82 bitterness hurts and there is a lack of complexity and depth
Construction- 89 aside from the flaky ash the cigar performed well
Strength- 84 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 85.5 just an average smoke with below average flavors
The cigar opens with a profile of spice mixed with some flavors of dry wood. At the back of the palate there is a dry floral sweetness that has a touch of sourness. The draw is excellent and produces ample smoke with minimal effort. The burn is sharp and produces a dirty gray ash that is slightly flaky.
The first half of the cigar shows notes of dry wood and light spice. At the back of the palate there continues to be a dry floral essence that is turning slightly bitter. The draw and burn continue to perform well, but the ash is still flaky.
The final half of the cigar develops with notes of roasted nuts and dry wood. At the back of the palate the floral note remains bitter, but there is some spice that is interesting. The draw and burn stay consistent, but the profile lacks complexity and depth.
The finish is a touch short and bitter. There are floral and nutty notes, but there are some grassy overtones.
Appearance- 87 an acceptable looking cigar
Taste- 82 bitterness hurts and there is a lack of complexity and depth
Construction- 89 aside from the flaky ash the cigar performed well
Strength- 84 an unremarkable medium
Overall- 85.5 just an average smoke with below average flavors
Friday, December 4, 2009
Ashton VSG Robusto
This is a classic cigar that has been available at the top end of the market for years. The selection I have chosen has over a year of humidor age on it. The cigar is visually appealing with a nice dark wrapper that has few veins and zero flaws. The construction feels firm, but not too firm, and I don't anticipate any issues smoking this cigar. The pre light aroma is light and has notes of wood and crisp tobacco. The pre light draw is dry and woody with notes of clean tobacco and pepper.
The cigar opens with notes of wood, clean tobacco notes and hints of light pepper and spice. The draw is exceptional, and the burn is producing a sharp, crisp white ash. At the back of the palate the pepper note is more prominent, but I find myself wanting more depth up front.
At the one third point the cigar has developed nicely, but is still a medium offering. The profile shows notes of wood, spice and pepper. At the back of the palate there are some light notes of creamed coffee and a brown sugar like sweetness. The draw is still performing very well and the ease of this smoke adds to the enjoyability. The burn is still sharp and the ash is holding to well past the one third point of the cigar.
The middle third is still performing well but the profile is losing some of it's zest. There are notes of wood, pepper and tobacco but the depth is lacking and discouraging. The burn and draw have remained constant and I am still struck by the quality performance of this cigar.
The final third picks up some steam and is somewhere beyond medium, but not quite full in strength. The profile continues to show notes of wood, spice, pepper and tobacco. I am still wanting more complexity and depth from this cigar to the end. The burn and draw have stayed consistent.
The finish is smooth and long showing notes of pepper and clean tobacco flavors.
Appearance- 92 an excellent cigar to behold
Taste- 87 lacking in depth and complexity
Construction- 95 an excellent example of the craft
Strength- 88 could have used more power throughout
Overall- 90.5 overall an average tasting cigar buoyed by a strong performance construction wise
The cigar opens with notes of wood, clean tobacco notes and hints of light pepper and spice. The draw is exceptional, and the burn is producing a sharp, crisp white ash. At the back of the palate the pepper note is more prominent, but I find myself wanting more depth up front.
At the one third point the cigar has developed nicely, but is still a medium offering. The profile shows notes of wood, spice and pepper. At the back of the palate there are some light notes of creamed coffee and a brown sugar like sweetness. The draw is still performing very well and the ease of this smoke adds to the enjoyability. The burn is still sharp and the ash is holding to well past the one third point of the cigar.
The middle third is still performing well but the profile is losing some of it's zest. There are notes of wood, pepper and tobacco but the depth is lacking and discouraging. The burn and draw have remained constant and I am still struck by the quality performance of this cigar.
The final third picks up some steam and is somewhere beyond medium, but not quite full in strength. The profile continues to show notes of wood, spice, pepper and tobacco. I am still wanting more complexity and depth from this cigar to the end. The burn and draw have stayed consistent.
The finish is smooth and long showing notes of pepper and clean tobacco flavors.
Appearance- 92 an excellent cigar to behold
Taste- 87 lacking in depth and complexity
Construction- 95 an excellent example of the craft
Strength- 88 could have used more power throughout
Overall- 90.5 overall an average tasting cigar buoyed by a strong performance construction wise
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