This is one of my favorite sizes in the cigar world at 7x44. The cigar presents with a toothy reddish criollo wrapper that has some ruddy charm. There are prominent veins and one near the head that causes me some concern. A quick inspection of the construction does not cause me any concern. The pre light aroma has strong notes of cedar and dark fruit. The pre light draw is of sweet earth and cedar.
The cigar opens with a profile of cedar and spice. At the back of the palate there are some notes of earth and pepper with a nice tobacco undertone. The draw is a touch on the tight side, but it is not causing any issues in the early moments of the smoke. The burn is immediately lopsided and a runner threatens to form early.
The first third of the cigar progresses with a profile of cedar, spice and earthy notes. There is still a peppery tingle at the back of the palate that hints of developing the power that Joya's are known for. The draw is still a bit tight, but still not causing any concern. The burn did not develop a runner, but is still lopsided.
The middle third of the cigar begins to ratchet up the strength. There are rich cedar notes in the core of the profile that are accompanied by strong blasts of pepper and earth. The nicotine content causes the mouth to tingle in a unique way, this is a strength indicator that usually comes on much earlier in a cigar. The draw opens up a bit and creates a more enjoyable flavor experience. The burn is still off, but not in need of touch up.
The final third continues to show notes of cedar and earth. At the back of the palate there is plenty of strength from the nicotine and there are some sweet tobacco notes present. The draw is now acceptable and the burn continues to be off a bit.
The finish is sharp and full of pepper and earth notes.
Appearance- 83 the ruddy lopsided nature of the presentation lead to deductions with the prominent veins
Taste- 88 a nice profile that could have used more complexity
Construction- 84 the draw and burn issues lead to weakening of the score
Strength- 86 a very strong, full bodied experience that could have complemented the profile in a more harmonious way
Overall- 85.5 a slightly above average experience
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