This is a cigar I reviewed last year with a 90+ rating. It presents very well from a box that has three plus years of humidor age. The foot is split and frayed, but the wrapper is showing the hallmarks of aging. There is a light, dusty feel to the cigar and it is very smooth and appealing. There are some veins, but they are subtle and add character. The inspection shows that, other than the split at the foot, there are no issues with which to be concerned. The pre light aroma is of cinnamon and light tobacco essence. The pre light draw shows notes of pepper and light cinnamon flavors.
The cigar begins with a profile of light spice, tobacco and leather. The draw is excellent and the burn performs well. The split does not cause any issues and is beginning to show signs of evening out once I am past it. At the back of the palate there is a floral sweetness that is appealing.
The first half of the cigar shows a medium bodied profile of leather, spice, tobacco and light earth. At the back of the palate there is still a floral sweetness, but there is some sourness present as well. The burn continues to perform well and the split has disappeared and left no issues in it's wake. The draw is smooth and easy and provides ample smoke.
The back half of the cigar is very interesting. The profile transitions into a mix of spice, cinnamon and tobacco notes. At the back of the palate there is a note of sweet floral essence and a further blast of spice. In the last two inches there are some peppery notes that develop as well. The draw tightens perceptibly and causes some heat in the closing moments. The burn is still excellent and the ash is firm and heavy.
The finish is long and smooth showing notes of spice, cinnamon and pepper.
Appearance- 84 the split foot detracts from the score
Taste- 89 an excellent profile, but some sour notes early limit the scoring potential
Construction- 87 late tightness in the draw causes heat
Strength- 92 an excellent medium/full offering
Overall- 88 a nice smoke that could have been exceptional without the sour notes early in the smoke
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