Friday, January 1, 2010

Oliva Connecticut Toro

This cigar presents with a nearly flawless blond wrapper that has nearly invisible vein structure. The wrapper is flawlessly applied and the construction seems supple and well directed. The pre light aroma is of sweet bread and molasses. The pre light draw shows hints of pepper and a woody sweetness.

The cigar opens with a surprising burst of pepper. At the back of the palate there is a wonderful sweetness that cancels some of the early pepper flavors. The draw is smooth and produces booming clouds of smoke. The burn is slow and even, creating a solid medium gray ash.

The first third of the cigar continues to show notes of pepper and a woody sweetness. At the back of the palate there are notes of bread and molasses that create an excellent smoking experience. The draw continues to be above average and the burn is sharp and impressive.

The middle third shows some mellowing of the peppery notes and an increase in woody sweetness. At the back of the palate there is still a bready note that is very pleasing. The draw continues to produce ample smoke and the burn causes no issues.

The final third of the cigar shows a return of significant pepper notes. There also some notes of sweet wood, bread and molasses. I am surprised by the strength and character of this cigar as Connecticut wrapped smokes usually show a more mild strength profile. The draw continues to be excellent and the burn has not given a moment of pause,

The finish is long and smooth and shows notes of wood, bread and some lingering peppery spice.

Appearance- 93 a beautiful cigar
Taste- 92 a surprisingly complex and deep profile
Construction- 95 an excellent performance
Strength- 89 a fabulous medium that could have shown more power for more enjoyment
Overall- 92.75 a very interesting, and excellent,medium bodied smoking experience

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