By. J. Glynn Loope, Exec. Dir. | Cigar Rights of AmericaWith the flurry of legislation revolving over two dozen state capitols, we often worry about the precedent being set in one state that could have an impact on another. There are progressive, pro-cigar legislative models that have been introduced this year, and some that are completely disastrous. Our concern remains that in politics, bad legislation and concepts have a way of spreading to other states. That’s why we are especially concerned about Wisconsin. Republican Governor Scott Walker has proposed a $50 per month “fee” for state employees that smoke, as a surcharge on their health insurance. Also alarming, is that there are similar provisions in the new federal health care law that would allow insurance companies to charge smokers up to 50% more than non-smokers for their premiums. It is social engineering at its worst.To demonstrate how bad ideas spread, nine other states have similar policies penalizing those that simply want to enjoy a cigar. Testing for nicotine in the same fashion as illegal narcotics is a practice we can not tolerate nor accept in this nation.But we have to say, we’re not surprised about Wisconsin’s Governor, Scott Walker. In July 2010, Scott Walker, who was Milwaukee County Executive at the time, issued a release as he was in a heated contest for his party nomination, against the Wisconsin smoking ban.Walker stated, “I don’t think the government should have been involved in a smoking ban in the first place, and as governor, I would sign a repeal of this law.” He was seeking to ‘out-conservative’ the conservative, as he was running against U.S. Representative Mark Neumann, who had already been on record as supporting a repeal of the state’s smoking ban, after it had only been law for four days.
Walker wins the nomination, and goes on to win the Governor’s Office. Flash forward to June 30, 2011. Governor Walker states regarding the Wisconsin state smoking ban, “It is obvious to me that it works. Therefore I will not support a repeal.” Flip-flop politics, once again.In an open letter to Governor Walker, owner of Titletown Tobacco in Green Bay, Luke Russell, stated: “My colleagues and I have supported you in your election and recall election…We believed you supported businesses and defended individual rights. Therefore, it is with sorrow, frustration and confusion that I write this.” Mr. Russell continues, “…the issue at stake here is not smoking, it’s individual rights. The last time I checked, smoking is legal, which makes this proposal an affront to individual liberties…Governor Walker, Wisconsin is not a nanny state. Don’t make it one now. Light up a cigar, and relax.” Well said.Cigars and protecting the ability to enjoy cigars is not a partisan issue. We have many friends on both sides of the aisle in Congress, and in your state capitol. Make your voice heard. Don’t let proposals like this from Governor Walker of Wisconsin creep into your state or local government.Wisconsin CRA member Mike Cmeyla of Jackson, WI launched a great on-line petition regarding the Wisconsin smoking ban. CLICK HERE to sign the petition.CRA is letting Governor Walker know of our opposition to his budget proposal.# # #*MORE
Country of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 3½ x 58Strength: FullWrapper: Dominican YamasáFiller: DominicanBinder: DominicanPresentation: Boxes of 25 cigars / 4-packsLocation smoked: (1st cigar) BarLocation smoked: (2nd cigar) Office Paired with: Grand Marnier (1st cigar) / Coffee (2nd cigar)
Davidoff USA was kind enough to send me a Puro d'Oro Four pack and I smoked two of them for this review. The first one was smoked at a cigar bar during the evening, and the second was smoked in the morning about two weeks later in my office. Construction and Overall Appearance: Beautiful wrapper with a slight reddish patina. Well packed throughout. Nice presentation, too, with double gold banding at the neck and foot. Attractive little pigtail at the cap. The dimensions are 3½ x 58, but, once placed between the teeth, it feels like the ring is slightly bigger.
Draw: Very good.
Pre-light flavor: Slightly grassy and spicy.
Toasting & Light: Took a while to toast due to the wide ring, and I didn't want to incinerate the foot. First puff was very creamy with a delicate sweetness. Once lit the draw improved a little more. You really want to get this cigar burning evenly from the get-go.
Base flavors: Dark wood, white pepper, and some sweet tobacco
Retrohale: Very peppery.
Aroma: Excellent.
Burn / Ash Quality: The burn was a little uneven, but not problematic, with a dark grey ash that was somewhat flaky when tapped-off.
Balance of flavors: Very good.
Consistency: Excellent
General Observations: The first few puffs were smooth, creamy and slightly sweet but non-descript. However, shortly afterwards, the cigar began to show its true colors. The taste was primarily woody with a nip of peppery spice on the finish. I also discovered that you really have to take your time with this cigar. It's dimensions almost beg you savor each puff. That said, this cigar will go out quickly if you rest it longer than two minutes. Both cigars needed a couple of relights during the smokes, but the Gordito help up nicely, and did not get bitter. As I approached the mid-section, the flavors had become much more robust with a dominant woody flavor underpinned by a trace of sweetness that was more bittersweet than sugary-sweet. This profile remained pretty much consistent to the nub.
Summary: Though both "nub-like" cigars were tasty and quite full-bodied, I think this cigar went better with the Grand Marnier as an after-dinner smoke than coffee as a first-of-the-day smoke. This is a very "heavy" cigar in terms of flavor. The Grand Marnier seemed to bring out more complexities in this cigar. Overall, an enjoyable, spicy little number if you like a really robust smoke. I would not recommend the Gorditos to newer smokers who may have not yet acquired a palate for this flavor profile. Veterans will get a lot of bang for their buck.
Rating: ???½
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
In an effort to amend the Arkansas state smoking law, by REMOVING ALL EXEMPTIONS FOR CIGAR BARS, LOUNGES, CIGAR SHOPS, OUTDOOR RESTAURANTS THAT WELCOME US, and other establishments and existing exemptions, Representative John W. Walker introduced HB 2119. The bill was rapidly assigned to the Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee, with a hearing scheduled for Thursday, March 14 at 10:00 a.m. ACTION ALERTCRA urgently calls on the Arkansas CRA membership to contact your state Representatives and ask them to VOTE 'NO' on HB 2119.Click Here to Contact Your Representatives.
NEXT STEPSIf HB 2119 passes the Committee and House of Representatives, immediately contact your member of the Arkansas Senate and tell them to "VOTE 'NO' on HB 2119.
TALKING POINTS"The state is facing significant economic issues. We do not need to waste time on a statewide smoking ban. This is NOT an issue for the state."
"This legislation would destroy small business: it has no exemption for cigar shops, bars, or lounges."
"The local governments of Arkansas that want a smoking ban, have one. The state legislature does not need to meddle with these local government affairs. The existing state law, is working just fine."* * *In order to be successful in our fight to enjoy cigars without the threat of smoking bans and high taxation, CRA needs your help. Please consider partnering with CRA through two important methods:
MembershipThere is strength in numbers! The more members CRA has, the greater voice we have at all levels of legislature. Please help CRA by asking your fellow cigar enthusiasts to join CRA today! Membership starts as low as $35/year. Click here to join. To make a donation, click here.
# # #*MORE
OPINION | By Hayward "Lou" TenneyA while back, when we had our original blog page, we reported on the flippant musings written by the former figurehead of a certain cigar retailer. Quoth the maven: Boutique cigars are theoretically limited production cigars made by people no one ever heard of before, and fabricated from tobaccos no one knew existed before. In other words, they're cigars that are targeted for brain dead people who happen to have money to burn.
Besides the obvious offense to smokers of brands like Tatuaje, Padrón, Jesus Fuego and countless others, it presupposes that use of the term "boutique cigars" is little more than a marketing strategy. Seems to me the term could use some clarification. To employ a hackneyed device, Dictionary.com suggestions: of, designating, or characteristic of a small, exclusive producer or business...
So doesn't this encompass just about every cigar manufacturer? Well, not really. There are a couple billion dollar outfits that produce machine-made and/or handmade cigars. Altadis (Romeo y Julieta, Montecristo, Trinidad, etc.) and General Cigar (Macanudo, Partagas, Punch, etc.) come to mind.
Here's the rub: in my experience, those who regularly smoke these "non-boutique" brands tend to be one or two-brand smokers. Call me crazy, but wouldn't "brain dead" sooner describe those who have limited their repertoire to the mechanical "enjoyment" of one or two brands? Not that there's anything wrong with that...
Okay, so the word "boutique" may not be an ideal descriptor; indeed, a purveyor of women's apparel on Rodeo Drive or a small-batch New England chocolatier are more probable candidates for the designation. But as I clip and toast my Cojonu 2006…Mmmm, damn that's good…Well, I forgot what I was going to say.
What defines a boutique cigar manufacturer? Sales? Size of operation? Please share your thoughts with a comment.(_{HLT]__{{{~*MORE
Country of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 7 x 50Strength: FullWrapper: Nicaraguan HabanoFiller: Nicaraguan LigeroBinder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars, 5-packs, and singlesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee
Appearance and feel: Nice shimmery wrapper. Somewhat veiny, but no protruders. The cigar was tightly packed. I couldn't find a soft spot anywhere. Top drawer construction. Draw: Good, not great, but didn't cause any problems.Pre-light flavor: Leathery. If you draw on it long enough, it gets spicy.
Toasting & Light: Due to all the ligero in the cigar it took a little longer to toast and light. After a few puffs I had to hit it again, but that nailed it. The draw also opened up a bit more.
First puff: Mellow and creamy, with plenty of thick, chewy smoke, some saltiness, and a touch of spice on the finish.
Retrohale: Smoother than I expected with a distinctive nuttiness.
Base flavors: Leather, sweet wood, nutmeg.
Aroma: Very appealing. Hard to describe, but I thought I picked up a note of caramel in there.
Burn / Ash: Burn was razor sharp. Ash was grayish-white in color and semi-firm. First ash broke-off at 1/2 inch, leaving the beginning of a round cone.
Balance: Dead on. You can taste every nuance of flavor in every puff. None seems to outshine the others.
General Observations: At seven inches, this is a LOT of cigar, so I smoked it as slowly as possible for fear of it getting too juicy too fast on such a long trip. The smoke started out a bit salty, then turned a little sweeter just past the first inch. As the cigar burned on, the smoke took on a more sweet spice flavor, and the ash stayed afloat longer, but no ash tapped-off longer than a half inch. Because I was working while smoking this cigar it went out several times. However, it survived several relights beautifully and never became prematurely bitter. Once past the halfway mark, a more peppery character emerged, then rounded out to a more of a sweet, woody flavor.
Summary: I apologize for not having more photos of the cigar at various stages, but those shots did not come out well enough to post. That said, this cigar is very well-made, flavorful and heady. I've smoked a number of sizes in this line by now, and the Churchill seems to pack the most punch. It's not strong in the overpowering sense; rather, it creeps up on you. The balance was perfect all the way. Though the cigar took on a more peppery spice character the final third, the smoke still had enough sweetness to keep me interested. Suffice it to say, I prefer the Toro and Robusto in this line, but if you're looking for a good, long, after-dinner cigar, the Inferno Churchill makes a fine companion.Rating: ???½
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Country of Origin: Dom. Rep.Size: 5 x 50Strength: MediumWrapper: Ecuadorian HabanoFiller: NicaraguanBinder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 24 cigars/5-packs/SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Starbuck's Frappucino
Construction and Overall Appearance: Beautiful. Light Colorado hue on the wrapper; entirely even in tone. Well-done triple cap, which clipped-off easily in a perfect circle. The cigar was very well-packed. Barely any soft spots. Draw: Very good.
Pre-light flavor: Somewhat woody.
Toasting & Light: Excellent. Tobacco took to the flame evenly. First puff was slightly sweet and earthy.
Base flavors: Mainly woody with a note of spice.
Retrohale: A little peppery, but not overpowering in the early stages, with very little change in the latter stages.
Aroma: Excellent. Has a slight caramel-like scent. Very appealing.
Burn / Ash Quality: The burn was clean and slow, exposing a more white than grey ash that was semi-firm in consistency. Going into the second half of the cigar, the ash firmed-up. At one point the ash hung-on for over an inch-and-a-half.
Balance of flavors: Excellent. Each puff was equally smooth and flavorful. Not much change at all, especially in the first act.
Consistency: One of the most consistent cigars I've smoked this year. The flavors hardly wavered, nor did the smoke ever become rough or acutely bitter.
General Observations: Very well made all around. I could hardly find any flaws in this cigar. The flavors were not complex, but straightforward with a rich, woody character and a pleasing aroma. In the last couple of inches the cigar did reveal a much more strength. Surprisingly, the retrohale was less peppery in the final stage. Suffice it to say, it hit on all cylinders right down the line.
Summary: In blending this cigar, I don't think Jon Huber could have made it much better. The Four Kicks Robusto is a straight-down-the-middle medium-bodied smoke; and a very enjoyable one at that.Rating: ????
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Country of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 6 x 52Strength: FullWrapper: Nicaraguan HabanoFiller: NicaraguanBinder: NicarauguanPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars/5-packs/singlesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Very attractive. Nice even tone. Cap popped-off perfectly. Draw: Perfect
Pre-light flavor: woody-leathery
Toasting & Light: Toasted-up quickly and evenly. First puff, VERY smooth and creamy with some sweetness, plus some "herbal" flavor that was very appealing. Strength was on the medium side up-front. Off to a very tasty start. Finish had a note of pepper on it.
Base flavors: wood, earth, sweet tobacco, spice
Retrohale: Very smooth and creamy. Picked up a note of vanilla.
Aroma: Earthy and sweet.
Burn / Ash Quality: Burn was right on all the way through. The ash mostly light grey and firm enough to hold on for about 3/4 of an inch for the first nugget. The remaining ashes were smaller, and thankfully, none wound up on my lap.
Balance of flavors: Beautiful.
Consistency: Excellent
General Observations: Very interesting flavor combination. Complex from the start. The finish is long with a snap of pepper. Flavors bloomed well with excellent balance. Each puff was delicious and only got better as the cigar smoked onward. During the last inch or two it became a little bitter, but the cigar never required a relight.
Summary: Another cigar that's listed as "full," that I would place more in the medium-full category. "Younger" cigar smokers will very likely find it full. Though they may miss some of its more subtle nuances the first time around, unlike some more potent cigars out there, since it was not overpowering, I would not dissuade them from giving it a whirl. The cigar wasn't overly sweet or spicy, either. It seemed to have just the right amount of everything. Based on the Toro this brand shows great promise.Rating: ????
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
By Hayward "Lou" TenneyI promise this is relevant to cigars, so please…bear with me.
The Loudness War has seen recorded music compressed into oblivion, forsaking dynamic range (the difference between quiet & loud parts) for apparent loudness throughout any given track. The resulting records pack more punch, but are fatiguing to listen to.
In the classic Mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, guitarist Nigel Tufnel is proudly displaying his assortment of guitar amplifiers (see video clip below). Among them is one particular model whose knobs all go up to 11, for when they need that extra punch ("It's one louder than 10, innit?"). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ll7rWiY5obIHaven't cigars basically done the same thing? It used to be that Punch, Hoyo de Monterrey, and La Gloria Cubana were strong cigars. Besides ample strength and body, these cigars had tons of nuance. But these do not compare in strength to La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero or Camacho Triple Maduro, let alone the following crop of ultra-strong blends: Oliva Cain F, Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Dark Corojo, E.P. Carrillo Cardinal Series, among others.Don't get me wrong…I enjoy a really strong cigar now and then. I really do (I'm smoking a 601 Green as I type this). And I grant you that everything becoming more extreme is sort of a sign of the times. But where do we draw the line?Have cigars forsaken character for raw power? Have your say below with a comment!(_{HLT]__[[[~*MORE
Country of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 5 x 52Strength: MediumWrapper: Nicaraguan Habano MaduroFiller: NicaraguanBinder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 20/5-packs/singlesLocation smoked: HomePaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: The dark Nicaraguan Habano wrapper has an attractive sheen and silky texture. The hue looks more like sun-grown, than the usual dark brown Maduro, and is very even in tone. The cigar was well packed; virtually no soft spots. Well rolled with barely visible seams. I like the design of the double bands, too. They give the cigar a much more expensive appearance. Draw: Excellent all the way.
Pre-light flavor: Leathery
Toasting & Light: Cigar toasted and lit well. First puffs were smooth and creamy with a great aroma.
Base flavors: Sweet tobacco, wood, toffee, and spice
Retrohale: Creamy with a light woody note, and a spicy element I can't seem to put my finger on, but it was nice.
Aroma: Earthy with a sweet caramel-like essence.
Burn / Ash Quality: Burn was very clean. Ash is mostly grey with black pinstripes, and firm enough to hold up for at least an inch or more, especially if you let the cigar rest a little longer than usual.
Balance of flavors: Excellent all the way.
Consistency: Excellent.
General Observations: A very remarkable cigar with thick, chewy smoke. The body is primarily medium, yet offers up a LOT of flavor. (Some newbies may find it more on the full-bodied side,) The spice in this cigar is more of the sweet variety. No discernible "hot" peppery notes. The flavors caramelize well, turning a little more complex in the last act. The smoke was more dense in the final inches with some stronger spice notes, yet never lost its sweetness. Smoked it to the nub.
Summary: Considering the La Terraza Robusto's extremely reasonable price point, it behaved like a cigar costing twice as much. I found it mighty impressive in this regard, as well as the overall flavor, balance, aroma and burn. This cigar could do no wrong by me, and impressed me enough to buy a box. I've found it to be a great cigar for starting the day, but it is just as satisfying after lunch and dinner -- a good "mixer" cigar. This cigar improves quickly with age, too. Since I purchased the box almost a month ago, the cigars have been tasting better and better. The only caveat I can impart is the Nicaraguan wrappers are very delicate, so be careful handling this cigar. (You may want to keep them in their cellos.) I also prefer the La Terraza's maduro leaf for its natural sweetness and silkier texture, over the more commonly used Connecticut Broadleaf. Highly recommended, and one of the best values I've found in a while.Rating: ????
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
By Robert "The Reverend Hurricane" Meyn
Salutations from New Orleans where we are in the midst of the Lenten Season – the time of year some folks give up their favorite vice (coffee, chocolate, alcohol, etc.) in preparation for Easter Sunday. Well, The Rev has a little confession to make: while I do NOT give up anything for Lent (especially alcohol!), I have for many years used a very non-alcoholic beverage, namely, bottled, non-carbonated water, as the beverage I pair with a cigar the very first time I try a stick that's new to me. Here's the science behind my choice:
We all know that the organs that allow us to perceive the sensation of taste are the taste buds located on the tongue, soft palate, upper esophagus and epiglottis. (Notice that taste buds are not located just on the tongue but also further back in the mouth which explains why "rolling" cigar smoke produces a greater and more intense sensation of a cigar's flavor - but that's a whole other column).
Taste buds only sense 5 flavors - salty, sour, bitter, sweet, and umami (or savory) which, in combination, give each cigar blend its unique flavor. The myriad of flavors we enjoy are permutations of those 5 basic flavors. Imagine coloring the whole world in all its brilliance with a just 5-color Crayola set. Amazing. However, taste buds, like any sensors, either biological or man-made, can only function maximally and accurately if they're clean. Think about it: a camera lens - a sensor of light - doesn't work if the lens cap is on. Similarly, taste buds can't capture the true essence of a cigar's flavor if they are covered in gunk. And this is where drinking plain old H20 with a new cigar comes into play.
To get an accurate sensation of the flavor and body of a first-time-to-you cigar, you want to clear away from your taste buds any residue that may be impeding their function WITHOUT leaving behind any additional flavors that would mask the "true" flavor of the cigar. A little research in the culinary sciences tells us that the majority of flavors in foods are carried in fats rather than in proteins or carbohydrates. Fats, while good at carrying flavor, are "sticky" from a chemical standpoint. That's what makes them good carriers of flavor but also difficult to dissolve away when you want to get rid of them. This explains why oils stain your clothes and why they can "clog" your taste buds. But how do we cleanse the palate of these pesky oils while not leaving behind other flavors? The answer: solvents - specifically, polar protic solvents.
Without getting too chemistry-geeky, a polar protic solvent is any molecular solvent which contains dissociable H+ (a/k/a - a hydrogen ion). Examples of such solvents are water, ethanol (the good stuff in any alcoholic drink) and acids (like citric acid found in lemon and lime juices). These solvents are hence effective at dissolving the pesky oils and fats that keep you from enjoying your cigar's true essence.
Although I mentioned that alcohol (especially my favorite, Maker's Mark) is the same kind of solvent as water, I would dissuade y'all from drinking alcohol if you're trying to assess a new stick's true flavor, simply because alcoholic beverages come with their own characteristic flavors which will interfere with your taste buds in a way that water - which, by definition is flavorless - will not. Trying a cigar for the first time accompanied by water will also give a truer sense of which alcoholic beverages will go best with that same cigar when you move on to the 2nd and 3rd cigars you sample, and that is something I'm always looking forward to.
The most recent recommendable cigars that I have recently tried for the first time accompanied by water are varied in body and flavor include the Rocky Patel Honduran Maduro, a full bodied yet mellow stick that has a lot of cocoa and toastiness in its makeup.
When I recently reviewed the Alabao by Perdomo, I had a glass of room temperature water at my side. Truth be told, while I usually smoke 2-3 sticks with water before selecting an accompanying adult beverage, I was mixing up my customary Sazerac to enjoy with my second Alabao even while I was finishing the first; it was THAT good. If full-bodied cigars are more in your strike zone, try an EPC Short Run which, due to its rich flavors, you will want to try unclouded by alcohol, both in palate and in mentation.
Medium-bodied cigars I'd recommend enjoying first with water are Perdomo Lot 23 (Natural) and the Plasencia Reserva Organica. Both sticks, to my palate, are dead-center medium on body but with plenty of flavor as well.
Finally, the next cigar I want to sample is the new lighter bodied La Floridita Gold, and as soon as Gary cuts loose and sends me a couple to review, I'll be pouring a glass of water and taking notes on what sounds like a great morning or coffee cigar.
While I'm never going to suggest teetotaling for most of your cigar experiences, if you want to get a true, precise sense of the cigars you're smoking, enjoy the first one with a glass of water at hand. You'll be much better prepared to pair it with other beverages in the long run.(_[ca]__{{{~This article originally appeared on April 14, 2011.*MORE
Country of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 6" x 54Strength: FullWrapper: Connecticut BroadleafFiller: Nicaraguan from 3 different farms. (I'm guessing EstelÃ, Condega, and Jalapa)Binder: EcuadorPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigarsLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Deer Park Water
Construction and Overall Appearance: Very nice, dark, even patina. Well rolled, with no apparent soft spots. Band was a little loose, but that just made it easier to remove. Some bands give you a lot of trouble. Cigar had a nice weight and dense feel in the hand. Draw: Just right. Cigar had a chewy mouthfeel.
Pre-light flavor: Very leathery with a note of pepper.
Cut, Toast & Light: Cap popped of cleanly in a perfect circle. Toasted well, but you could see by the black areas on the foot, this cigar had a lot of ligero. It took several tries to get it all burning without killing it. First puff was somewhat spicy and woody. No leather notes at all.
Base flavors: Dark wood, sweet tobacco and spice.
Retrohale: WOOOWEEE! Very peppery with a hint of wood at the start. Once it got past the first inch, the spice was gone, revealing a much creamier retrohale without the sting. I retrohaled this cigar a number of times during the smoke and the latter description held-up until the last couple of inches when it turned spicy again, but nothing like that first wallop.
Aroma: Very appealing. Somewhat sweet and herbal with a redolent woody character.
Burn / Ash Quality: Super clean with a firm, almost solid grey, scalloped ash. The ash would usually only hang-on for about a half an inch, but it wasn't weak or flaky. All-in-all, the burn was excellent.
Balance of flavors: Perfect. No surprises.
Consistency: Excellent. Hardly wavered at all from it's base flavors. Every puff, the first couple of spicy puffs excluded, was as smooth and flavorful as the one that preceded it.
General Observations: Started out with a spicy shot. After the first ash fell off, at about 1/2 inch, the flavors mellowed somewhat to a more medium-bodied smoke and the flavors came flooding in. Notes of wood, some sweet tobacco, a hint of cocoa, all caramelized beautifully. Ultra smooth, which makes this heady cigar that much more stealthy.
Summary: The literature on this cigar says "…it's the richest, most full-bodied cigar in the E.P. Carrillo portfolio." I would tend to agree, but I found it no stronger, say, than the E.P. Carrillo Dark Rituals, one of my EPC favorites. Among the things that won me over was the subtle sweetness built into this cigar. It made a nice contrast to the cigar's spicier qualities. This cigar hit on all cylinders, and I enjoyed it immensely. I was also glad I paired it with spring water, which allowed me to pick up all its tasty nuances. You may notice that the EPC bands all look pretty much alike. However, the Cardnial is distinguished by a thick red swash at the bottom of the band. If you're a full-bodied hound, this cigar is right up your alley. I can't wait to try the Ecuadorian Sumatra.
Rating: ????
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
OPINION | By Jonathan Detore
Working in a call center can be difficult at times, especially when you get complaints. I consider myself to be a very positive person so, at times, it can be difficult being in a position such as mine. However, the one thing that I take solace in is when I get into a good conversation with a customer about cigars. Although it is usually a small conversation in-between tracking a package or setting up a replacement order, it really brightens my day to talk about not only why our customers love cigars, but I also get to express what I love about cigars. Just last week, I had a very good conversation with a customer about a very interesting topic: How often do you smoke cigars?
Every so often we get calls from customers informing us that their cigar order has not arrived on time. This causes some customers to go to a local cigar store and spend an-arm-and-a-leg for a handful of cigars just to hold them over. This is precisely how my conversation began with a particular customer last week.
In frustration, he asked me how I would like it if my cigars were late and I had nothing to smoke for the weekend. I completely understood his position, since sometimes packages do get lost or delayed, and it’s a bummer. After convincing the customer I’m not the enemy in this situation, we started talking about our favorite cigars. I told him a few of my favorite such as the Xikar HC Series Habano Colorado, the CLE Corojo, and the Montecristo Platinum, all of which I rotate through and smoke on the weekend or during special occasions. He then told me he could never afford to smoke such cigars every day since they are expensive premiums, especially the Montecristo. This struck a chord with me because, respectfully, I think of cigars differently than this customer. I think of cigars not as an everyday habit, but as a luxury item for special occasions. Of course, I’ll enjoy a smoke at lunch every once in a while, but smoking one or more cigars every day takes the nostalgia and excitement away from smoking.
I used to keep my humidor on my desk here at work, so almost every day I could rummage through my stash and pick out a cigar that I would enjoy during my lunch break. I really developed my palate doing this and I learned a lot about what each wrapper type can offer me. Through this, I found my favorite and least favorite wrapper types. Then, over the past two to three months, something happened that discouraged me from having a cigar so often. I found the flavors in each cigar were sort of running together. None really tasted different than the others, and the complexity of great cigars, such as the Oliva 3 Master Blends, became one-dimensional in my mind. That is NOT supposed to happen, so I made a change. As my loyal readers know, a few articles back I wrote that I was taking a month off from smoking cigars to cleanse my palate. I took my humidor home so my stash was not at my fingertips to tempt me all day long, and since we just started entering the cold months, I knew I wasn’t going to be smoking outside at all at home.
After my month of abstinence, the effect of not smoking was huge. I once again found the complexity that I had lost from smoking almost every day. Smoking cigars was no longer a mundane chore that I habitually succumbed to in order to kill time during the day.
There is a reason we give cigars out for the birth of a child or at weddings. They help us enjoy special moments together and allow us to bond. In my opinion, cigars are a luxury item to be cherished, not to be smoked daily. For me, it takes the meaning out of why we picked-up our first cigars, and it can put up a road block in our journey to experience the mingling of flavors in premium cigars. Some of us cigar smokers may become complacent with our “regulars,” because smoking cigars becomes commonplace instead of picking up a new stick to be enjoyed and analyzed with a clean palate.
There are many cigars out there to be enjoyed. In my mind I would not want to see a cigar smoker pick out a regular for the sake of finding an every day smoke at a cheap price point, rather than picking up a few upmarket premiums and smoking them on a fresh palate over a longer period of time.
(_{JD]__[[[~The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of CigarAdvisor.com or its affiliates.*MORE
Country of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 5¼ x 54Strength: FullWrapper: Ecuadorian Habano RosadoFiller: Nicaraguan, HonduranBinder: Connecticut BroadleafPresentation: Boxes of 24 / 5-packs / SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Beautiful even toned milk chocolate wrapper. No unsightly veins. Well-packed. Cap clipped perfectly. Draw: Excellent
Pre-light flavor: Leathery
Toasting & Light: Evenly toasted and lit well. First few puffs were woody and sweet with a note of light spice.
Base flavors: Sweet wood & spice, white pepper
Retrohale: Very peppery. A real nose stunner!
Aroma: Sweet. Very inviting.
Burn / Ash Quality: Very clean with a soft, mostly grey marble ash.
Balance of flavors: Excellent
Consistency: Good, though the flavors did bounce back and forth every so often.
General Observations: Very smooth and creamy with a lot of smoke. Cigar started off more medium in body with some spicy notes. By the midpoint it had developed into a full-bodied cigar with more spice and deeper tobacco flavors, with a modicum of sweetness remaining. Flavors were all very smooth and well-balanced. Into the last third the spiciness dropped-off and a little sweetness came back, but the dominant flavor remained woody. By the final inches it was primarily all dark tobacco laced with some sweet spices.
Summary: There was something very appealing about this cigar. It was the combination of flavor and aroma that kept me interested, but I can't seem to describe it. It just tasted good. I had to step out of the office a few times, and the Roadie went out pretty quickly, but it held up well to several relights. Suffice it to say, this was a real "solid" cigar. Excellent flavor, aroma, construction and balance.Rating: ????
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Country of Origin: USA (Miami, FL)Size: 5 x 50Strength: MediumWrapper: Ecaudorian Habano ColoradoFiller: NicaraguanBinder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 20 / 5-PacksPaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Nice even milk chocolate color. A bit bumpy with slightly prominent veins. Attractive cream & gold band. Looks nice against the wrapper leaf. Well-packed and rolled. Cap clipped off in a nearly perfect circle. Draw: Perfect
Pre-light flavor: Bready, toasty
Toasting & Light: Excellent all around
Base flavors: Toasty, nutty and sweet
First puff: Creamy and toasty with prominent floral notesRetrohale: Smooth and earthy with note of pepper
Aroma: earthy, sweet and very floral
Burn / Ash Quality: Very clean, even burn resulting in firm, almost solid gray ash.
Consistency: Excellent throughoutGeneral Observations: Very smooth with plenty of creamy smoke. Finish is a tad on the dry side. Every puff was very flavorful. This is what they mean by a "full-flavored" cigar. Not all that complex in the first act. Strength ramped up by the midpoint, while maintaining a nice balance of flavors, primarily sweet wood with notes of leather, nutmeg, and roasted nuts.
Summary: Made for Nestor Miranda by Willie Herrera (formerly of Titan de Bronze. Now with Drew Estate) who made a very impressive cigar. Very smooth, consistent in flavor with an excellent balance. A good choice for newbies if you're ready to move on from your Macanudos. Not a bad alternative to the heavier fare for the more experienced, either. Rating: ????
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
By Robert "The Reverend Hurricane" Meyn
If the world hasn't already ended and you're reading this article, I'd like to share with you one of my favorite Christmas traditions, one celebrated a few days earlier this year. Allow me to explain:The Rev loves the Holiday Season and smokes a lot of cigars with friends, family, acquaintances and total strangers at Christmas parties, Chanukah parties, Kwanza parties, or any other kind of party I can get myself invited to. During the Holidays I also celebrate my own Christmas tradition that unlike all of my other cigar smoking experiences, I enjoy all alone.
My twins were born on December 21, 1999 and the world was fraught with fear and loathing about the Y2K computer glitch that was going to end the world as planes fell from the sky, nuclear missiles shot off, etc., because all of our incredibly smart computers couldn’t count to 2000. Since the world was going to end, I figured I better make this a great Christmas for my newborn boys since it would be their only chance to get presents from Santa before Armageddon struck. So on Christmas Eve, I poured a glass of Springbank 18 year old scotch, lit one of my good Cuban Cohiba Esplendidos, and set to work as one of Santa’s elves in my workshop constructing toys for Walker and Murphy to enjoy on Christmas morning. Of course, this show was mostly for their mother because what three-day-old can realize what’s under a Christmas tree, but since the world was ending, I carried on late into the night, diligently sipping scotch and puffing on my Cohiba, constructing their gifts and arranging them under the tree. On Christmas morning, I was tired but satisfied in the knowledge that my boys would have a helluva first and last Christmas.
As luck would have it, the world survived, and so did my tradition of preparing gifts late into the night with my old pals Springbank and Cohiba. Although the twins' gifts these days don't require much assembly (Nintendo, Wiis, and 3-Ds come pre-assembled, thank God!), I have continued my Christmas Eve tradition of putting together the toys for my three younger kids: Hudson, Lola and Charlotte.
This year will be no different except that, as the world is supposed to end a little earlier this time, on my twins’ birthday, as the Mayan calendar expires and we somehow all perish instantly, I’m going to get into my workshop, pour my glass and light my Cohiba a few days earlier so I can enjoy my yearly tradition, just in case the Mayans are right.
(_{RM]__[[[~*MORE
Country of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 6½" x 54Strength: FullWrapper: Ecuadorian SumatraFiller: Dominican RepublicBinder: NicaraguaPresentation: Boxes of 48 / 5-packs / SinglesLocation smoked: Leaf Cigar BarPaired with: Svedka Citron Vodka & Tonic
Construction and Overall Appearance: Very attractive dark Sumatra wrapper. Cigar was well packed with no remarkable imperfections. Draw: Excellent
Pre-light flavor: Very sweet & woody
Toasting & Light: Cigar toasted and lit perfectly. First puffs were sweet with some woody notes. Smoke was thick and ultra creamy.
Base flavors: Sweet cedar, earth, notes of leather and spice
Retrohale: Wood and light pepper flavors
Aroma: Sweet and spicy with light floral notes
Burn / Ash Quality: Excellent. Burn was clean with a firm grey ash.
Balance of flavors: Excellent
Consistency: Excellent. Though the flavors and strength changed significantly from beginning to end, the smoke was consistently creamy, balanced and never became overpowering.
General Observations: This cigar started off very sweet and mild in flavor. Notes of wood, earth and light spice prevailed with a modicum of cocoa in the mix. By the midpoint the flavors came alive. The sweetness was still there with some nutty and espresso flavors leaking in. By the last act, the sweetness was barely noticeable as the flavors of espresso, cocoa and spice intensified. By now, this was a true full-bodied cigar with a complex finish that lingered on the palate.
Summary: I've always enjoyed the La Flor Dominicana selections for their creaminess, excellent balance and first-rate construction. The Limitado V was particularly impressive, in that, there were plenty of flavors to be discovered along the way. The Nicaraguan binder, Dominican ligero and Sumatra wrapper seem to be where this cigar gets its punch, especially in the last couple of inches. Fans of La Flor will be drawn to the Limitado V, as will cigar smokers who enjoy full-bodied, multidimensional cigars.
Rating: ??? ½
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Country of Origin: HondurasSize: 5 x 50Strength: MediumWrapper: HabanoFiller: HondurasBinder: HondurasPresentation: Boxes of 25 / 5-packs / SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Very Colorado Habano wrapper with a buttery "Cuban-like" patina. Well packed with dark tobaccos placed well in center. Cap cut perfectly. Very impressive construction overall. Draw: Excellent
Pre-light flavor: Leathery
Toasting & Light: Toasted evenly across. Ligero needed a little more time. The first puff were very creamy, earthy, and produced so much thick smoke, it went right up my nose revealing plenty of spice.
Base flavors: Sweet tobacco, loam, and subtle spicy notes
Retrohale: Robust, peppery spice with a long finish. (The pepper really hangs in there.)
Aroma: Strong with a sweet and spicy nose
Burn / Ash Quality: Good clean burn with a semi-firm, grey marbled ash.
Balance of flavors: Excellent
Consistency: Excellent. Very little change until the very end.
General Observations: In addition to the wonderful flavor of this cigar, the aroma really stood out. Every puff surrounded me in a cloud of aromatic smoke. From the start the flavors were well-balanced and creamy. As the cigar smoked on, the dominant flavors were that of sweet wood and light spices. These flavors built considerably as the cigar smoked on. In the last couple of inches, the smoke had increased in spiciness and strength with only a modicum of sweetness. I smoked it down to literally the last inch (I actually have a ruler I keep on-hand to measure these things. Go figure.)
Summary: I think my nose got as much smoke during this cigar as my mouth. It seemed as if the smoke was purposely seeking out my nostrils. Much like the CLE Corojo I reviewed several weeks ago, this was an excellent, and very flavorful smoke. Though it's listed as "medium," I'd have to poise it more on the full end of medium. I remember the Corojo coming-off as a little more complex, but the Cuarenta has a lot going for it. For cigar smokers who love full-flavor and spice, it makes an excellent afternoon or after dinner cigar.
Rating: ???½
=============== Rating scale ? = Fair to Middling ?? = Good ??? = Very impressive ???? = Excellent ????? = Spectacular!*MORE
How proper maintenance will help extend the life of your torch lighter
By Jonathan DeTore
The Back StoryChristmas is right around the corner and people are going bananas trying to find that perfect gift for their friends and loved ones. It can all be very stressful. Through all the stress during the holidays, I find my cigar smoking buddies to be very easy to shop for and so I’d like to share these three recommendations with you.
1) Cigars (duh)2) Fine Bottle of Scotch3) A Torch Lighter
Lucky for my friend, Richie, he’s got both a birthday and Christmas within a week of each other, so he’ll get two items from my list. (I’ll tell you right now, it’s not going to be the scotch - sorry for ruining the surprise, buddy.) A great gift for Richie will be a good torch lighter; I’m thinking along the lines of XiKAR or Lotus. Usually when my buddies and I smoke cigars, we use a Nibo lighter given to me by my brother six years ago. That’s right, SIX YEARS and I still haven’t lost it! That must be some sort of record. Better yet, the lighter continues to work like new, and it’s due in large part to two things - proper maintenance and periodic purging. But our regular use of my lighter has left Richie completely unaware when it comes to the subject of proper maintenance of a lighter. So for those of you who can relate to my friend, here’s the 411 on how to get better performance and longer life from your torch lighter. Why do you need to purge?When you first buy a torch lighter, it does not come filled with butane. Instead, your lighter’s gas chamber is filled with oxygen that needs to be purged by being replaced with butane. Have you ever received a new lighter, filled it with butane, and when you tried to light it, a flame shoots out for a split second and immediately goes out? Well this is because the butane is trying to ignite, but because oxygen is not as flammable as butane, the oxygen from the chamber blows the flame out. To prevent this from happening, you need to purge the air so that only butane is released. Another reason to purge your lighter is to release excess air pressure that builds in the gas chamber, expelling butane from your lighter every time you fill it. If the pressure is not released after each use, it can build and build with every refill, meaning less and less butane will flow into the gas chamber every time you refill it. This may lead you to believe that your lighter just isn’t holding butane any longer, but you’ll see that regular purging will make a world of a difference.
How to PurgePurging a lighter is very easy to do and only requires a can of butane and a paper clip. Simply take your new lighter and turn it upside down. You should see the fuel valve on the bottom of your lighter. While learning these steps, keep in mind you NEVER want to aim the fuel valve towards your face (this you can learn the easy way or the hard way).
1) Take your can of butane and fit the nozzle over the fuel valve. Firmly push down to fill the gas chamber in 5-10 second intervals until it cannot take any more.
At this point, both oxygen and butane are in the gas chamber and pressurized. The butane will appear as a liquid in the gas chamber, and the oxygen is still in its gaseous form. What you can’t see is there is vapor from the liquid butane mixing with the oxygen. The next step will release this mixture, leaving behind a small amount in your gas chamber. Be careful on this next step because the butane comes out extremely cold. It won’t give you frostbite, but it is pretty unpleasant if you get too much on your fingers.
2) Use your paperclip to release the mixture by bending it so one end sticks out like a spear. Turn the lighter upright and use the pointed end of the paper clip to press down firmly on the fuel valve. Be careful because the butane comes out extremely cold. While it won’t give you frostbite, it is pretty unpleasant if you get too much on your fingers.
After you complete these steps, fill the fuel tank again with butane and you should be good to go. If it still does not light, adjust the fuel level to increase or decrease the amount of fuel being expelled each time you press the button to ignite the lighter. Follow these same steps after a few uses to relieve the excess pressure in your lighter and it will continue to take a proper amount of butane during each filling.
In ClosingLighters make great gifts for holidays, birthdays, and many other special occasions, but if you want your lighter to last as long or even longer than my trusty Nibo, it’s useful to know how to care for it properly. Without proper maintenance the quality of the lighter gradually declines with some damage being irreparable. I always preach that it’s important to learn about cigars in terms of leaf type, flavor profiles, etc., but it's equally important to learn how to properly use and maintain your accessories. By learning proper use and maintenance, you’re sure to get the best from not only your cigars, but your lighters, cutters, and humidors, too, lasting for years to come. You might even get to the six year mark like me!
(_{JD]__[[[~ LEARN MORE HERE!*MORE
Country of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 6 x 54Strength: Mild to MediumWrapper: Ecuadorian ConnecticutFiller & Binder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars / SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Water
Construction and Overall Appearance: Well packed with a shiny, light brown wrapper that appears two-toned (light brown and tan) depending on how the light hits it. Excellent triple cap, which cut off cleanly. Draw: Just a bit snug before lighting. Loosened up a bit afterwards.
Pre-light flavor: Somewhat grassy and spicy.
Toasting & Light: Cigar toasted and lit well with little effort. First puffs were creamy, thick and chewy with a sweet aroma and sweet-nutty flavor.
Base flavors: Roasted nuts, earthiness, sweet tobacco, and a note of toffee.
Retrohale: Peppery, but not spicy-hot peppery
Aroma: Dynamite. Especially when you're just pulling the cigar away from your lips and that excess smoke is swirling around you.
Burn / Ash Quality: This cigar offered a decent burn that revealed a semi-firm grey ash.
Balance of flavors: Excellent
Consistency: Superior
General Observations: This cigar smoked great and hit on all cylinders in terms of flavor. Just one glitch. During the last third, the wrapper cracked and began to unravel. (I think it was a combination of the cigar being over humidified and toking on it too often.) I was able to fix part of it with some cigar roller's glue, but a lot of binder was exposed. In spite of that, the cigar maintained an excellent balance of flavor. Normally, I would've written it off and smoked another, but it really hung in there. Eventually, the cigar caught up to the wrapper and it was smooth sailing again from there.
Summary: If I had to compare this cigar to another Perdomo it would have to be the 10th Anniversary Champagne. The flavors are similar, as is the wrapper. This could easily become an everyday smoke for me. Moreover, I would definitely recommend it to new cigar smokers or others seeking an affordably-priced cigar that's mild, yet full-flavored.Rating:?? ????
===============Rating scale?? = Fair to Middling??? = Good???? = Very impressive???? = Excellent????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Country of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 6 1/8" x 64Strength: FullWrapper: Connecticut BroadleafFiller: Specially selected Dominican, Nicaraguan VisoBinder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 24 / 5-Packs / SinglesLocation smoked: Leaf Cigar Bar (Easton, Pa)Paired with: Svedka Citron & Tonic / Water Construction and Overall Appearance: A bit overwhelming in terms of size, but the cigar was attractive and well packed with a superbly done triple cap that clipped-off cleanly.
Draw: Very good. No problems. Gobs of thick, creamy smoke, especially in the first couple of inches.
Pre-light flavor: Cocoa and leather
Toasting & Light: The cigar took a little longer to toast, but I kept the flame at a good distance so as not to overdo it. Never had to relight the cigar, either.
Base flavors: Earthy, woody, and leathery.
Retrohale: Very earthy and woody with some spice. Another retrohale later on offered an additional nutty flavor.
Aroma: This is where it gets confusing. My friend Steve was sitting next to me smoking a Liga Privada No.9. The aroma from that cigar (fantastic!) was overpowering my No.64. Finally, I got a couple of good whiffs and concluded the aroma was hearty and spicy.
Burn / Ash Quality: The burn was a little off at the beginning, but righted itself soon enough. Though I rolled off the first ash, which revealed a nicely shaped cone, all of the ashes were firm with a whitish-grey color, yet much more white than grey.
Balance of flavors: Very good, even during the last third in which the cigar become much more potent.
Consistency: Excellent. Though the cigar went through several strength changes, the base flavors never really varied or became more complex.
General Observations: The shape of the cigar was more of a semi-box-press than fully round. And once it got going, it looked more like a fire log burning than a cigar. (I meant that as a compliment.) This additional girth also took a little while to adjust. It wasn't uncomfortable, just different. Even if you smoke a lot of 60's, you realize what difference another four rings makes. The flavors were consistently woody, earthy and a bit leathery. For me, this was not a very complex cigar. But as I've said in prior reviews, not every cigar has to be complex, nor can it be.
By its midpoint, spicier and darker tobacco flavors emerged, and the body kicked into high gear. Then, suddenly…I noticed the cigar was starting to split. Because I've had similar issues with wide ring cigars, I began to think that this was the beginning of the end. So, I let the cigar rest a little more between puffs, and miraculously, the split didn't lengthen, and even more impressively, the cigar burned right past the split as if it was never even there. (See photo.)
During the final inches this cigar was a total spice bomb. It was as if every aspect of the cigar's flavor, body, and aroma doubled-up simultaneously.
Summary: For cigar smokers who love full-bodied, wide ring cigars, INCH should be on their list. I enjoyed the flavor and aroma of this cigar, as I have with just about all of the EPC sticks I've smoked. The problem was, I couldn't finish it. The flavors had become so spicy and heavy (not bitter, though), that I let it go with about 2½-inches left. Considering the size of this vitola and the length of time it took to smoke, I'd say that was pretty good. Pretty…pretty…good.
(I'll be reviewing the Sumatra wrapper version soon.)Rating:?? ???½
===============Rating scale?? = Fair to Middling??? = Good???? = Very impressive???? = Excellent????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Country of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 5" x 52Strength: FullWrapper: Brazilian Mata FinaFiller: Nicaraguan & Dominican CriolloBinder: Dominican Criollo ’98Presentation: Boxes of 20 cigars / 5-packs / SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Spring water Construction and Overall Appearance: At the risk of sounding redundant, I just LOVE those sweet curlicue pigtails on some cigars, and according to Abe Flores, his are done by one of the best in the business. The chocolaty brown Mata Fina wrapper was thick with an attractive, shimmery patina and even in tone. Cigar was well-packed and rolled.
Draw: Very good. No problems here.
Pre-light flavor: Very spicy and a bit salty
Toasting & Light: Excellent
Base flavors: dark wood, earthy, mild pepper, and a hint of sweet tobacco
Retrohale: Woo! Creamy, yet potent.
Aroma: Very inviting with a unique malty quality
Burn / Ash Quality: Even-Steven burn, resulting in a very firm grey marble ash.
Balance of flavors: Excellent and impressively complex
Consistency: Excellent
General Observations: I cut the pigtail at the base, and though it looked like it was still sealed, the cigar drew well. The first few puffs weren't spicy, but the malty aroma really stood out. Shortly after, some pepper entered the picture leaving the back of my throat a little prickly. That said, the smoke was impressively smooth. At just under an inch the pepper faded, and all I could say for the first act was "Wow." The smoke was very creamy with plenty of earthiness, plus some light peppery notes that didn't overpower the lighter flavors. The finish was long with some pepper remaining on the palate
At the midpoint the flavor was more like that of dark wood, with light peppery notes and a hint of sweet tobacco. Looking at the clock, I noticed this cigar had been burning for a long time, which was most likely due to the choice of dark tobaccos and the excellent packing.
By the last third, the cigar bloomed into a very robust smoke. Mostly very dark woody, charry flavors while the pepper, though not overpowering figured more prominently in the mix.
Summary: I really enjoyed this cigar and smoked it down to the last inch. Even then, it never turned bitter, had great balance all the way, and the cigar burned perfectly, even after surviving three re-lights. Though I paired it with spring water, and smoked it during the afternoon, I think this cigar would be wonderful as an after dinner treat with a good Port to give it some extra sweetness, or a fine single malt to dovetail with the cigar's earthier elements. Not for rookies, as this blend may be a bit too heavy for those new to cigars. Suffice it to say, you will really get your money's worth out of this reasonably-priced cigar.Rating:?? ????
===============Rating scale?? = Fair to Middling??? = Good???? = Very impressive???? = Excellent????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Country of Origin: HondurasSize: 5" x 50Strength: Medium - FullWrapper: Honduran-grown Cuban-seed CorojoFiller: HonduranBinder: HonduranPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars, 5-packs, singlesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Spring waterConstruction and Overall Appearance: Very well-packed with a beautifully applied triple cap. Wrapper is especially silky in feel and even in hue from end to end. Draw: Perfect. Just the right amount of pull.
Pre-light flavor: WOW. Nice malty caramel-like flavor with a hint of cognac, or perhaps, rum?
Toasting & Light: Toasted almost instantly and lit well. First few puffs were mellow, creamy, toasty and earthy (very Honduran.)
Base flavors: Layers of earthiness, cream and a spot of cognac.
Retrohale: Very light and creamy. No trace of pepper.
Aroma: Earthy and semi-sweet.
Burn / Ash Quality: The burn was so, so, but not annoying. The ash was black & grey marbled. Though it held up well until ashed, it was more flaky than rigid for most of way until it tightened up in the last couple of inches; enough to "round" it off against the side of the ashtray.
Balance of flavors: Excellent.
Consistency: Excellent. Even in the last third, when the flavors firmed up to a spicier character, the cigar carried on steadily.General Observations: This cigar gave off a lot of smoke when puffed. Very creamy- earthy start, and surprisingly mild. Early burn was just a bit off. Though it's listed as "full-bodied," I found this cigar more medium, and solidly mild in the first inch. As the cigar burned past the second inch, the smoke revealed a fuller character. By the last third the smoke finally turned the corner. The flavors become richer, darker, and spicier, yet never lost that sliver of cognac flavor.Summary: I really loved the flavor of this cigar. It had a nice Cuban-style component to it. The burn was good, but never razor clean. It always had a slightly ragged edge, but at least it never canoed. Though the balance of flavors was excellent, I expected this cigar to be more complex. But I'm not complaining. In and of itself, it had a very unique flavor profile, and that’s fine by me. Christian Eiroa probably knows as much or more about authentic Corojo leaf than anyone, and he really did a splendid job on this cigar, which turned out to be a one-inch nubber. If you enjoyed Christian's former Camacho Corojo cigars, I'm confident you'll find the CLE very impressive.Rating:?? ????
===============Rating scale?? = Fair to Middling??? = Good???? = Very impressive???? = Excellent????? = Spectacular!*MORE
Try these tips to ensure they stay fresh
By Jonathan Detore
It's that time of year again, folks! It's time for family, togetherness, and giving to those who are less fortunate or to show our appreciation for our loved ones. It's certainly my favorite time of year, and it always puts me in a giving mood whether it be volunteering in my community, a neighboring community, or simply getting a gift for someone special to me -- and what gift is better than cigars? Well, our wives and girlfriends might want to get us cologne to counter the smell of cigar smoke. Maybe a razor to shave that ZZ Top beard or epic moustache, but we know cigars are number one on our Christmas lists, and for those who wish to buy cigars for others this year, I've got a few tips to ensure they stay in smoking fresh condition.
I reached my first full year of working in Customer Service this past September (hold the applause), and the trend I see around the holidays is that our loved ones, who are typically not cigar smokers, buy cigars for those of us who do enjoy cigars. Last year, and I'm positive this year, we will get plenty of calls from those customers on December 26th to the tune of "My cigars are dry and they were a Christmas gift!"
The number one mistake a lot of gift-givers make is buying cigars too early. Don't get me wrong, I am a big supporter of getting Christmas shopping done early just to get it out of the way, so I can truly enjoy the holidays; but with cigars, this poses the problem of the cigars possibly drying out, which in turn causes these phone calls and emails. This is a very common during the winter months, especially in the Northeast and Midwest, since the temperature drops along with the humidity which are not the best conditions for cigars. Instead of surviving up to a month without humidification in the summer months, which is stretching it, you would be lucky if a cigar lasts 2 weeks without being dry as a bone. So here are some tips on how to combat this from happening.
First of all, if you are storing cigars for a future date and you don't have a humidor, order a Boveda Humidipak. The Humidipak is a modern marvel that keeps cigars humidified until the pack itself is dried out, all while keeping the relative humidity of the enclosure in which you store your cigars at a constant level. When you order cigars for your giftee, add one of these to your order. They only cost around $3 each, and one Humidipak will last for up to 90 days. If placed in a baggie, the cigars keep fresh for 2-3 months in and even longer in a sealed Tupperware container. If the gift is a box of cigars, they will stay fresh for about a month with no additional humidification as long as they are kept sealed and stored in a cool, dark space in the house.
Tupperware is one of the best methods for keeping cigars fresh for short or long amounts of time. You can use one of two methods: The first method is to pick up a simple round humidifier or water pillow for around $1-$4, soak it in distilled water, throw it in a Tupperware container along with the cigars, seal it and forget about it. Instead, you can use a crystal-type humidifier. Plus, if your gift is a sampler, it makes a nice extra, especially if your giftee is currently using a foam humidifier. The crystal humidifier works way better, helps prevent against mold, and lasts a lot longer.
The second method is a bit archaic, but it works. Take a clean sponge and dampen it with distilled water or 50/50 wetting solution (i.e. Monster Venom). Place the sponge in a small Tupperware container with no lid on it. Then, put the container with the sponge inside of a bigger Tupperware container, giving enough clearance to close the lid. Place the cigars inside of the big Tupperware container, but not inside the small container and then seal the lid. This will keep the cigars fresh for about 2 weeks before you must repeat the process. Again, this is a little "old school" and less reliable, so spending the extra $1-$4 for water pillows or a Humidipak will do you better.
I hope you keep these tips to mind when buying a friend or relative cigars this holiday season, or share this article with people you know are getting cigars as gifts and may not have a proper humidor for storage.
I want to wish all of you a happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas to all of you who read my articles and Cigar Advisor. Hopefully, I'll have another column before Christmas.
Finally, make sure you take time to appreciate the little things around the holidays and reflect on this past year so you can make the New Year even better. Please leave your comments below if you have any more tips and tricks. Every bit of knowledge helps!
(_{JD]__[[[~*MORE
Country of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 7" x 50Strength: Medium - FullWrapper: Brazilian MaduroFiller: Cuban Seed Dominican, Cuban Seed Honduran, Cuban Seed NicaraguanBinder: Cuban Seed HonduranPresentation: Boxes of 20/5-packs/SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee (cream & sugar)Construction and Overall Appearance: Nice, glossy sheen on the wrapper, with Kristoff's familiar bushy foot and twisted Cuban pigtail cap. Color was even in hue. The cigar was well-packed with a few faint soft spots. Draw: Excellent. Just the right amount of pull.
Pre-light flavor: Earthy, woody.
Toasting & Light: Toasted up nicely (the remains of the shaggy foot helps). First puff was creamy, smooth and mainly earthy in flavor.
Base flavors: earth, sweet wood & spice, espresso
Retrohale: Creamy, earthy and semi-peppery.
Aroma: Sweet
Burn / Ash Quality: Pretty clean burn, with a decent black & grey streaked ash that tapped-off in semi-firm, 3/4-inch nuggets.
Balance of flavors: Very good.
Consistency: Burn, flavor and aroma were highly consistent.General Observations: As with most Kristoff cigars that I've smoked, the GC Signature was very creamy. It started out fairly mild, and smoke passed easily through the head while resting in the ashtray. During the first inch or so, earthy woody flavors were joined by a sliver of nutmeg. Unfortunately, the wrapper revealed a tiny split at the 4¾" mark, which caused it to swell slightly. I let it rest as long as possible and took light tokes until it worked its way past the tear. Apparently, this worked like a charm, and had no negative affect on the burn. Closing in on the midpoint, dark tobacco and espresso-like flavors began to emerge. In the last third, the cigar became much more robust, but a little bitter as well. Letting it rest helped. The smoke remained thick and creamy all the way through.
Summary: Though this cigar is listed as "full-bodied," I'd say it's more in the medium-full zone. This particular stick must have been exceptionally moist or oily, as several tears and bulges appeared during the smoke, They may have been where some of the soft spots were. This had no detrimental effect on the flavors or my enjoyment of it, but I did have to nurse this cigar a little more than usual. In the end, the smoke turned out alright. The cigar built steadily in flavors, finishing in full-body mode, and for the most part, the flavors were pretty consistent. Most impressive was how this cigar survived the several tears in the wrapper. It never burned poorly. Fans of Kristoff and cigar smokers who like a robust and creamy smoke will very likely enjoy this cigar.
Please note that I have returned to a 5-diamond rating system. Numbers just seem too cold and finite. Since reviews are so subjective, stars, IMO, indicate a more emotional response based on the overall experience. - G.K.
Rating:?? ???
Rating scale?? = Fair to Middling??? = Good???? = Very impressive???? = Excellent????? = Spectacular!*MORE
90 Miles 1980 Edition GorditoCountry of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 5 x 52Strength: Med-FullWrapper: Mexican San AndresFiller: Nicaraguan & Dominican LigeroBinder: Ecuadorian-grown Connecticut BroadleafPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigarsLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Water
An additional note on the blend: The manufacturer felt it was important to point out that the binder is very unique. So, I contacted Yadi Gonzalez-Vargas of Flor de Gonzalez Cigars and asked her what was so special about it.
"The binder is a Connecticut-seed Broadleaf grown on our plantation in Ecuador, which had not been grown in Ecuador in 20 years," said Yadi. "It had not been grown in so long because the yield was never high enough, but we were confident we had good seeds and went for it. It turned out fantastic! The only difference we saw is that the leaf is not as thick as the plant grown in Connecticut." Construction and Overall Appearance: Seamless rolling; not one soft spot. The Mexican wrapper was flawless and even in color from head to toe.
Draw: Excellent
Pre-light flavor: Nutty and sweet
Toasting & Light: Cigar toasted and lit evenly. First puff was very creamy with notes of caramel up front.
Base flavors: sweet tobacco, sweet cream, toasted nuts, some spice notes
Retrohale: Spicy, but smooth and well-balanced
Aroma: Excellent
Burn / Ash Quality: Great silvery and decidedly firm ash, with a squeaky clean burn.
Balance of flavors: Spectacular.
Consistency: Excellent.
General Observations: This cigar gave off a thick fog of creamy, aromatic smoke. I liked this cigar right from the start, primarily for it's sweet characteristics. With every puff, I wanted all that creamy aromatic smoke to whirl around and envelop me.
After the first ash dropped off, a perfect cherry cone was revealed. The flavors become more defined, more robust, and some spicy notes entered the mix. Letting the cigar rest longer between puffs kept the flavors consistent. Each puff had just the right balance of earthy, nutty and sweet tobacco flavors.
By the midpoint the finish remained sweet with a subtle layer of spice. Not much had changed in the mix. However, as I passed the midpoint, the flavors and strength ramped-up. The smoke and the aroma were much heartier. The burn was perfect, and required only one relight after I'd put it down a little too long, which it stood up to quite well.
I finally let it go at the 1-inch mark. It was a long smoke, and by that point, having gone through a lot of Ligero, it began to taste a bit tarry.
Summary: Extremely impressive. Of all three 90 Miles selections, the 1980 has gone to the top of my list, followed by the original blend and the Reserva. This was a real "take your time" smoke, too. Despite the heavy amount of Ligero, this was not a heady smoke. I'd classify it as medium-full, leaning more to the full side. I believe even novice smokers will enjoy this cigar. It has a lot to offer, making it well worth trying.
Rating: 94
Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!*MORE
By John Pullo
OK, ok. It’s not really like that e-card. But for some unknown reason, I find it insanely difficult to part with an empty cigar box. I still have my first one - it’s got concert ticket stubs in it. I also have a Villiger box on my desk that holds rubber bands, next to a Royal Jamaica box full of pencils. Elsewhere in my house there’s an Alec Bradley box full of cigar bands, an Arturo Fuente Flor Fina box full of unidentified keys, a Cohiba box filled with empty cigar tubes (yep - I save those, too) and a San Luis Rey box filled with...other small cigar boxes. (Ring!...ring!) “Hello, Hoarders?”
Yes, I am aware that cigars will not magically reappear in them. Yes, I do know that I can’t trade them in like a bottle return. But why do we keep them, and what do we do with them? We did a Facebook post a couple of weeks ago about what cigar smokers do with their empties - and got some pretty interesting responses...here are some; maybe you’ll find some inspiration:
StorageProbably the easiest repurpose, is using it as a nicer box to just put “stuff” in. As I mentioned, I keep some pencils and random office supplies in one of mine. There’s a Baccarat box in the garage with a few random plumbing parts from a house I don’t even live in anymore. But I went back to that Facebook post and looked at what some other people store in their empties. Some of what they said: loose change...school supplies...receipts...teabags (reverse infusion?)...jewelry...knick knacks...specialized tool sets, like specialty drill bits and ¼” sockets (brilliant!)...watches...baseball cards (now THAT’S old school)...a handgun...candy...the list went on and on.
A very common response was “other smoking accessories.” This is true for me, too. I have a box filled with an assortment of matches, cutters and lighters that I just don’t use very often. But you always need backups, and it’s nice to have those things in their proper place. This was pretty common. One guy mentioned that he uses an empty box as the money box for poker night. I love this idea, too.
There were also an increasing number of people who responded with suggestions for dining. If you’re a rugged foodie like Donnie, “scrape the paint off and smoke salmon in it.”
Allyson uses them "to hold my salt & pepper shakers, sugar bowl & napkins on my kitchen table. I use them outside in summer for forks and knives and stuff at bbq's."
Crafts are big, too. “I use them for bead storage for my jewelry making supplies- they are the perfect size,” said Martha.
Anne’s Grandmother "used to keep thread and other sewing supplies organized in them.”
And Sam glues “magnets in them for my mother so she has easy storage for her needlework tools.” Nice going, Sam.
Then came the coup de grace of them all: “I used my last empty [cigar] box as a casket for my hamster who passed away last week.”
We are all sorry for your loss. (I can’t even type that with a straight face.)
DécorHere’s why Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace, True Value, etc. are incredible wonderlands...they have kits for everything! And if you’re looking to take your empties to the next level, that's good news for you. In addition to moments of brilliance - like the person who used some empty Nub boxes as indoor planters - completely defeating the notion that men cannot care for houseplants - cigar boxes can tell time. More and more I’m seeing the cigar box clock. (clock movement kit, drill, battery, make numbers - done.)
If you want to really go the extra mile and keep the cigar theme in your man cave, might I suggest the cigar box lamp.
Here’s the cool part – not only is it insanely easy to do (lamp kit, drill, lampshade) – take a look at the middle part below the shade and above the box. Now I know what I’ve been saving my empty tubes for!
Looking for inspiration? Check out Cigarboxnation.com. Someone posted this picture of birdhouses he made:
If you use an all-wood box, hit it with an extra coat of shellac and hang it outside this winter. Your feathered friends just might thank you.
InstrumentsThere has been a reemergence – actually, an explosion – of cigar box instruments over the past year or so. They actually date back to the days of the Civil War, and gave rise to the “found object” movement that informed American blues at the turn of the 20th century. It’s a whole other topic for another time, but if you haven’t heard what some artists today are turning out – go to youtube.com and search “cigar box guitar.” Then tell me your mind isn’t blown when you’re done listening.There are some real artists – and I say artists, because there’s actually a good bit of skill that goes into making some of these (Google it and you’ll see) guitars. Ukuleles and banjos are becoming more common, too. And if you really want to go full-cedar on the roaring crowd, some people who know basic electrical are making amps to go with the guitars (you have to add a pickup of some kind). Seeing these works of art, I decided to get a little creative – and along with a gross overestimation of my woodworking abilities, decided that I should make guitars with a few of them. My first try:
No frets, the action is high and it plays like a slide guitar. The three string is most traditional, though some have gone for 4 – and I went ahead and added a real guitar neck to this Partagas box, to create...wait for it...the “Stogiecaster.”Call it recycling, or UPcycling - you’re really only limited by your imagination, as this is just a sample of what people are doing with their empties. And the best part is, you already own the box – so repurposing it into something else can cost you next to nothing.I’d like to know what you do with yours, and pictures are certainly welcome!
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Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto Double MaduroCountry of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 5" x 60Strength: Medium - FullWrapper: Nicaraguan Cuban seed MaduroFiller: Nicaraguan Cuban seedBinder: Nicaraguan Cuban seed MaduroPresentation: Boxes of 24 cigars / SinglesLocation smoked: HomePaired with: Spring Water / Offley Tawny Porto
Construction and Overall Appearance: Not unlike the Connecticut and the Sun Grown, the toothy Maduro wrapper leaf on this cigar is thick and even in color throughout. The tobaccos are well-packed giving the cigar a very solid and hefty feel. Draw: Excellent
Pre-light flavor: woody and semi-sweet
Toasting & Light: Had a little trouble getting this cigar toasted and lit. (More on that later) However, the first puff produced thick, creamy and woody smoke with a somewhat mild body.
Base flavors: Oaky-woody with a hint of sweet caramel and espresso
Retrohale: Medium peppery and creamy.
Aroma: Spicy, sharp and a little sweet.
Burn / Ash Quality: Burn got off to a crooked start, yet the ash was firm with a mostly grey color.
Balance of flavors: Excellent. Creamy, woody flavors with a hint of espresso were all present throughout the smoke.
Consistency: Very good, though the flavors shifted from a milder, sweeter character to a more woody and spicy smoke.
General Observations: I found this cigar to be the mildest of the three Grand Cru 2006 blends. What caused the early burn problem appeared to be a Ligero leaf that was closer to the outer rim of the cigar forming a hard, stick-like coal. After a brief touch-up the cigar righted itself and never returned. The smoke progressed from medium to a more full-flavored smoke at the mid-point. Every puff was creamy and well-balanced with a long finish.
Summary: The Double Maduro performed very well, like its Connecticut and Sun Grown cousins. I started the cigar with a bottle of spring water. By the midpoint the flavor ramped-up by revealing a spicier, dark tobacco flavor with notes of espresso and dark chocolate. At that point, I was curious to see how it would pair with a bottle of Offley Tawny Port I picked up at my local Wine & Spirits store for $7.99 on sale. This Port was particularly sweet, even for me, but it did make a nice counterpoint to the spicier flavors during the last act. I also had some chocolate covered almonds with it. Between the Port, almonds and the cigar, it made a great mix.
Finally, I would classify this cigar as a "true Maduro." The flavors are dark, woody and semi-sweet with a shot of spice on the finish, and I believe Maduro lovers will take well to this blend. As long as you don't have a problem with the 60-gauge ring, I recommend giving it a try.
Rating: 90
Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!
To read my review of the Grand Robusto Sun Grown click here.To read my review of the Grand Robusto Connecticut click here.*MORE
Aging Room Small Batch M356 "Presto"Country of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 4½" x 48Strength: FullWrapper: Dominican HavanoFiller: DominicanBinder: DominicanPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars / 5-packs / SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee; lightly sweet w/half & half
Construction and Overall Appearance: Well-packed with a deftly-applied triple cap that clipped-off neatly. Wrapper leaf had a few conspicuous veins, but the feel was silky, smooth and the vein pattern actually gave the cigar an attractive look in an off-beat sort of way. Draw: Very good. Smoke traveled easily from the get-go.
Pre-light flavor: Earthy and nutty
Toasting & Light: Cigar was a bit over-humidified, but toasted and lit evenly.
Base flavors: Sweet grass, spice, earthy-loamy
Retrohale: Very peppery
Aroma: Sweet and earthy. Very appealing.
Burn / Ash Quality: Very clean burn that results in a semi-flaky, black & gray-speckled ash.
Balance of flavors: Very impressive. As the flavors intensified they held together well.
Consistency: Excellent all the way through.
General Observations: Smoke was smooth, tasty and somewhat bittersweet. Just past the one-inch mark, the flavors took on a spicy, light peppery component. As the cigar worked its way toward the head, the smoke intensified in strength and spiciness with just a trace of the sweet, grassy component. No burn issues to speak of. By the last act, the body had taken on a much fuller character evidenced by darker and more complex tobacco flavors.
Summary: A well made cigar that starts out medium-sweet, then slowly works its way toward full-bodied-spicy. The flavors turn darker, spicier, and more complex as it continues; personally, I would have preferred if it had maintained more of the sweeter components. I would certainly recommend the Presto for smokers with a more "refined" palate. It may seem a little pricey for newbies who may not be familiar with the Aging Room Small Batch selection, but if they're looking for something with a little more kick, it's well worth checking out.
Rating: 89Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!*MORE
By Gary Korb
In April of 2011 I wrote an article titled, "A closer look at cigar bands" in which I attempted to point out the often unseen and fascinating details that, under closer inspection, can be found in cigar bands. For this post, I decided to go one step beyond. Rather than simply point out what's in the band, let's see what goes on behind the band in the hope that this could be the start of a whole new series.
It all started a few months ago when I received some samples of the Alec Bradley American Classic and Alec Bradley American Sun Grown cigars. The bands were not only colorful, but extremely ornate. I'd seen similar eye-catching bands in the past, but it wasn't until I saw these bands that the light bulb went on and inspired me to find out what really goes into the design of a cigar band. I spoke to Jeff Moss, Creative Director/Art Director for Alec Bradley Cigars. Now with "ABC" for more than a year, Jeff has quite an impressive resume:
Over 25 years experience working in advertising, branding and design as an Art Director and Creative Director. His past client list would be easier to weigh than count. Among them include Steven Spielberg & Jeffrey Katzenburg with GameWorks, Polygram Records, Diageo, Cuervo, Bailey’s, Ciroc Vodka, Captain Morgan, Smirnoff, The International Horror & Sci-Fi Film Festival, The Dial Corporation, Sara Lee Foods and numerous other creative concepts and brands seen worldwide.
Jeff is also the recipient of several Addy and Telly Awards, including having his work published in several international design publications.
Since joining Alec Bradley Cigars, Jeff has been responsible for creating the company's new brand identity. His first assignment was creating the now familiar red badge "Crown" icon and logotype that would be used on everything brand-related for the company. After that lengthy process came his first cigar band and packaging design: The American Classic.
In addition to the Art Director, I wondered how much input comes from the top. According to Sam Phillips, Marketing Director for Alec Bradley, it's a "team effort." Alan Rubin, Ralph Montero, and Phillips, himself, are all closely involved in the creative process.
"For the American Classic design, Alan gave me the concept that it was to be 'reminiscent of the cigars of the 1940's and 50's, like the cigars your father or grandfather smoked'," said Jeff. "I wanted the design to feel 'authentic' to the period, so I began by researching within that specific era."
Due to the highly complex nature of the design, the entire process took several weeks. Once Jeff had the initial design fleshed out, he and Alan, along with input from the others on the team, worked closely to finalize the artwork.
"Alan has an amazing eye for design and a great sense of what works in the consumer's mind," added Jeff. "That insight helped me ensure that the artwork would translate as conceived on such a small canvas, while commanding the most attention. The 'feel' for both the American Classic, and the American Sun Grown that followed, was vintage American heritage and needed to look legitimate, not kitschy."For the American Classic band, Jeff chose images of the American Heartland that include a red barn flanked by an American flag on the left, and a Western mountain range on the right. He enhanced the box label design by using the image of George Washington on a white horse in the center of the artwork.Jeff went with similar icons for the American Sun Grown band: a farmhouse and a corral on the left side of the band, with the image of the Grand Canyon on the right. On the American Sun Grown box, he used the classic image from Archibald M. Willard's painting, "The Spirit of '76" featuring the fife, drum and flag. Both boxes are flanked by medallions, which are commonly found on hundreds of cigar bands and boxes."These images felt 'traditional' to me," said Jeff. "All of the elements were specifically laid out for an overall attractive visual flow."
At a glance, both cigar bands look identical. It's not until you look closely that you notice the difference in the images as well as the choice of colors for the words "ALEC BRADLEY" at the bottom of the bands - red for the American Classic and white for the Sun Grown Blend. Another feature they share are the Latin words Libertas/Aequitas, which translate to Freedom/Equality.
"Attention to minute detail was paramount, and the visually correct use of the new “badge” icon [at the peak on both designs], not only had to work on this band, but every band in our portfolio moving forward," added Jeff. "This band was the foundation of all designs to come."
Jeff also created the bands and packaging for the Alec Bradley Black Market, the Connecticut, the new Tempus Maduro, Nica Puro, and Fine & Rare cigars.
"For me it's all great fun!" said Jeff. "The working connection that I have with the team is unique. Alan's creative mind works very similarly to mine, and I know this combo is going to produce some great work moving forward."
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Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary ToroCountry of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 6½" x 52Strength: FullWrapper: Ecuadorian SumatraFiller: Nicaraguan EstelÃBinder: Nicaraguan JalapaPres.: Boxes of 20 cigars / 5-Packs / SinglesLocation smoked: Leaf Cigar BarPaired with: Vodka & Tonic
Construction and Appearance: About as good as it gets. Wrapper is solid dark chocolate-hued with a silky feel. A few noticeable veins that did not distract from the overall appearance of the cigar. The cigar is perfectly packed, and has a nice balanced weight to it. (BTW, this cigar is rolled using the "entubar" method in which each leaf is individually rolled inside the other.) This method is a little more expensive, but makes a big difference in terms of draw, burn and flavor. Draw: Excellent
Pre-light flavor: Sweet with a nip of cocoa.
Toasting & Light: Cigar toasted and lit perfectly. First puff was especially creamy, and you could taste the base flavors immediately.
Base flavors: Earthy, dark chocolate, espresso and sweet tobacco.
Retrohale: Earthy and peppery
Aroma: WOW!
Burn / Ash Quality: Whistle-clean burn. Ash is exceptionally firm with an attractive gray/black marble pattern.
Balance of flavors: Spectacular.
Consistency: All of the base flavors, and a few nice surprises were present in every puff. The cigar burned "cool" from end to end and never became too strong or bitter.
General Observations: This is one of those cigars that you can look at and your gut-check will tell you, "this is gonna be good." I was impressed with just about every aspect of this cigar. I loved its complexity, balance of flavors, sweetness, and extraordinary aroma. There's little more than that I can add. That said, if I had to compare it to another cigar in its class, I'd say there was only a baby's hair of difference between it and a Padrón 1964 Anniversary Maduro Imperial.
Summary: This was actually my first Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary. I purposely brought it to Leaf, where Rocky was hosting end of their weekend long 1st Anniversary celebration. I'd had it in my humidor for a while, so it was about time to set it free. When I arrived I showed it to Rocky who remarked that this particular stick was a personal favorite. I can see why now. Considering the excellence of this cigar, I was surprised to see that the box price for the Toro was well under $200. I highly recommend this masterpiece, especially for those who are beginning to move up to more full-bodied, complex cigars. (Yes, I nubbed the hell out of it.)
Rating: 96
Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!*MORE
Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto Sun GrownCountry of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 5" x 60Strength: FullWrapper: Cuban Seed Sun GrownFiller: NicaraguanBinder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 24 cigars / SinglesLocation smoked: HomePaired with: Vodka & Tonic
Construction and Overall Appearance: Beautiful, virtually seamless wrapper with an attractive reddish patina. Well-packed; very solid. Excellent triple cap. Draw: ExcellentPre-light flavor: Woody.Toasting & Light: Cigar toasted and lit well. First puff was thick, creamy and oaky.
Base flavors: Oak and sweet tobacco
Retrohale: Medium peppery with a hard to describe creamy flavor with an element that might be described as a more intense oakiness.
Aroma: Sweet.
Burn / Ash Quality: Extraordinary. Like the GC2006 Connecticut, very firm with plenty of staying power.
Balance of flavors: Excellent. Creamy, oaky and sweet tobacco flavors all presented themselves evenly.
Consistency: Excellent. Flavors, burn, balance, body and aroma hardly varied at all.
General Observations: As the cigar worked its way past the first inch, the smoke was medium in body and quite sweet with a rich oaky flavor. The ash dropped off after the first two inches. The flavors had all settled in nicely, and I thought I picked up a note of hickory. I also liked the sweetness when pressing my tongue against the tobacco.
Summary: Like the Connecticut, the 2006 Sun Grown was equally impressive and I nubbed it. What I enjoyed most about this cigar was the smoky, oaky flavors and sweetness on the palate. I can't say I liked it better than the Connecticut, because there is a noticeable difference in the flavors, obviously supplied by the difference in the wrappers. So far, this line has been a great way to show what a difference a wrapper makes. Next stop: The Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto Maduro. Stay tuned!Rating: 91
To read my review of the Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto Connecticut click here.To read my review of the Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto Double Maduro click here.
Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!*MORE
This is the first of three reviews on the new Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 selection, which is offered in Connecticut, Sun Grown, and Maduro.
Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto ConnecticutCountry of Origin: NicaraguaSize: 5" x 60Strength: FullWrapper: Ecuadorian ConnecticutFiller: NicaraguanBinder: NicaraguanPresentation: Boxes of 24 cigars / SinglesLocation smoked: HomePaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Beautiful, buttery smooth, even-toned light brown wrapper. Cigar was well packed; no soft spots found at all. Cap is applied well. Draw: Excellent
Pre-light flavor: Toasty and nutty.
Toasting & Light: Cigar toasted and lit evenly. First puff offered thick, creamy and sweet smoke.
Base flavors: Woody, nutty and semi-sweet tobacco.
Retrohale: Velvety and woody.
Aroma: Sweet and earthy.
Burn / Ash Quality: Extraordinary. Very firm ash that refused to drop off.
Balance of flavors: Excellent. Flavors of roasted nuts and sweet tobacco all drew equally.
Consistency: Excellent. Other than picking up a little in strength, the flavors stayed true to the nub.
General Observations: I started with the Connecticut because I prefer to work my way from mild to full. This cigar was very enjoyable. I liked the sweet, nutty character of this cigar, too. If I had to compare it to other Perdomo cigars, I say it's a cross between the Exhibición Connecticut and the 10th Anniversary Champagne. Besides the flavors, one of the most outstanding thing was the ash.
Summary: Frankly, I was not a big fan of the former Grand Cru selection, but I was very impressed with this 2006 version. It's also one of the few 60-ring cigars that hasn't burst on me at some point. It's not a very complex smoke, but it had plenty of flavor, which impelled me to smoke it down to the last inch. If you're a fan of quality Connecticut wrapper, rich Nicaraguan tobacco flavor, and don't mind a wide ring, I highly recommend this cigar. If I could I would smoke this one everyday with my morning coffee, but I believe it will do equally well with a fine single malt, bourbon, or Port.
Rating: 90
To read my review of the Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto Sun Grown click here.To read my review of the Perdomo Grand Cru 2006 Grand Robusto Sun Grown click here.Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!*MORE
By John Pullo
I’ve been using a V-cutter almost exclusively for about 10 years now, and it’s treated me well. Not to say I haven’t used other types of cutters, but this just somehow became my go-to. Here's the thing: if I’m ever without my cutter for some reason, I can never find a V-cutter. I’ve been to two dozen different B&Ms over the last 10 years, and I can probably count on one hand the number of shops that had a V-cutter of some kind...and no one there used it. Come to think of it, one actually looked like a slot machine. So, for a guy who likes the V-cut, it was like hitting the jackpot! So it got me thinking - am I the only one who ever uses the V-cut? Size matters...maybeI started doing some searching - different blogs, forums, and other online destinations for fellow BOTL’s, and it seems there’s a small group that swears by it; a large majority that don’t indulge; and a handful that just say, "Eh."This led me to a lot of conflicting advice. One site I visited said that a V-cut should only be used on “smaller diameter cigars.” Really? I usually smoke 46 ring or above and it works just fine for me. Then the next blog I read said: “V-cutters don't do well with smaller RG.” Oh, great...but then others said the same: “I like the V cut on my large gauge NC's,” said one. Another guy uses a V “mostly on larger RG cigars to control the draw.” So, no clear consensus there.
Keeping it cleanThis is what I like most about the V-cut: it's CLEAN. As long as the cigar has been stored and properly humidified, and the cutter is sharp, I’ll get a nice crisp cut on that ‘gar every time. Sure, I’ve ripped a few caps up because they were a little dry, but I believe a good cigar shouldn’t really shed anything after a V-cut. So, back to the blogs I go to see if I’m alone on this one:
...leaves a clean cleft tip and it's usually deep enough to give you a good draw.
...neat, clean, and exposes just the right amount of tobacco under the cap for a superb draw.
...I like to use the V-cut on just about every cigar I smoke because I feel like I don't get the small leaves in my mouth.
...I find it is cleaner and leaves fewer shreds of tobacco after cutting.
NOW we’re getting somewhere!
Mmmm. Tasty!Taste seemed to be a big factor for more and more of the people whose comments I read. Some mentioned that it “gives great circulation and will reduce the bitterness,” while someone else said “on oilier blends of cigar, I find it causes more tar buildup.” I agree with the second statement. Since you’re narrowing the opening in the cap, it’s more concentrated and tends to center the smoke on the palate, which may be why some people absolutely hate the V-cut; but that's one of the reasons I love it.
Easy-peasy...What I like is a full draw with thick smoke, and the V-cut has been delivering! Since we all know that too deep a cut is a real drag (no pun intended) and a too-shallow cut gives you that pain-behind-the-eyeball feeling after a few drags, consistency is the name of this game. My experience with premium cigars has shown that, since you make the same shaped cut, you should get a consistent smoke. For someone accident-prone like me, removing the element of human error is a huge bonus. Most agree, saying it loosened up the draw, had less a chance of screwing up the cut or cap, or that “the V-cutter gets it right the first time.”
Do we now have a consensus? Far from it. I turned in-house to Leaf Cigar Bar & Restaurant’s Certified Master Tobacconist, Jeff Brown.
“A V-cutter is a matter of personal preference," said Jeff. It is more difficult to use on ‘shaped’ cigars like figurados because a V-cut works better on a flatter surface. The benefits are more cap on the cigar, or as some say, better 'mouth-feel,' and it tends to be more of a consistent cut than a double blade. By that, you tend to remove the same amount every time you use a V-cutter. The down side is more buildup of tar and nicotine at the head, and it tastes even more bitter if you need to relight the stogie.”
There you have it. Jeff said what I think we’ve found here: personal preference. My research showed me that the V-cut is far from everyone’s cup of tea, but ever since first trying it I liked it. Finally, though I’m not exactly sure why, it seems that the "V" remains the mark of some secret society or something...and I’ve stumbled into their ranks! What about you?
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C&C Corojo RobustoCountry of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 5 x 50Strength: MediumWrapper: Dominican-grown CorojoFiller: DominicanBinder: DominicanPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars / 5-Packs / SinglesLocation smoked: Office Paired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Well-packed and rolled from top to bottom. Nice triple cap sliced-off easily. Wrapper had a nice even color all-around and a silky feel. Draw: Good, but a little too easy.
Pre-light flavor: Leathery
Toasting & Light: Superb. No problems with the tobacco taking the flame. First couple of puffs had a little shot of spice, then quickly disappeared.
Base flavors: Sweet tobacco and nutmeg
Retrohale: Very smooth and lightly spicy with a note of whiskey
Aroma: Earthy and relaxing
Burn / Ash Quality: Inconsistent at first, but fell into line at about the 3½-inch mark. Ash was granular and a bit loose. Probably one reason the draw was too loose.
Balance of flavors: Very good.
Consistency: Very good. General Observations: Wrapper offered nice flavor and aroma. Cigar got off to a crooked burn. I thought I'd wait it out and see what happens, rather than touch it up. Unfortunately, the cigar went out, so I was forced to relight. Smoke picked up in spiciness after the first inch. Because of the loose draw I had to be careful not to draw too often to keep the cigar from turning bitter or hot. Cigar started to burn unevenly again, so I let it burn, and whad'ya know, it straightened right out and burned beautifully. The cigar has a little note of peppery spice on the finish. The flavors started to bloom around the 1/2way mark. Peppery notes inched-up a bit, while the nutmeg flavor remained constant. I was now more interested in seeing what would come next. From that point on the smoke was very consistent. Some notes of espresso leaked-in, but this was primarily a very rich-tasting smoke with dark, spicy tobacco flavors.
Summary: This cigar was more complex than I expected, but it didn't open up until about halfway through. As noted above, I had to take it easy due to the loose draw. Not overpowering. A good selection for those who enjoy medium-bodied cigars with a slightly spicier character. Very smooth, well-balanced, and, IMO, the most flavorful of the three blends.Rating: 85
To read my review of the C&C LRMD Robusto, click here.To read my review of the C&C Connecticut Robusto click here.
Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!*MORE
By Bob "The Reverend Hurricane" Meyn
With the start of football season, The Rev needs to make a confession: as much as I promote the long standing tradition of cigars being best enjoyed slowly in the company of others in a relaxed and contemplative state of mind, there is one circumstance where I totally break this tradition and become a helpless, fast-paced, cigar chain-smoking mess. New Orleans Saints football season.
First a little history...The Rev has worked in Behavioral Health for almost 20 years. I chose this field as a form of self-preservation because watching the Saints maddeningly snatch defeat from the jaws of victory since 1967 has put in me a very real sense of PTSD and dread every single time the Saints go into the fourth quarter with a lead. This distress continues to this day even though the Saints are considerably more successful in the Drew Brees era than in the Billy Kilmer/ Archie Manning/Aaron Rogers, et. al. eras. My loyalty to the Saints has made me superstitious, anxious, insomniac and downright irritable with my friends and children especially during Saints games. As a coping mechanism, I have, over the years, turned to smoking at least five to six cigars in rapid succession during the games as opposed to turning to powerful psychotropic medications that have horrible side-effects. Not the way I usually use cigars to unwind but I find this a much better coping mechanism than getting drunk and yelling at my family, although they ALL know not to approach The Rev during any game that is close in score.
Since I'm sure fellow cigar smokers who are fans of other footballs teams might also use cigars in such a manner, I have some recommendations of what sticks to burn during your weekly 3-hour stomach-knotting NFL contests. Clearly, I am not gonna chain-smoke my higher end sticks nor my cigars from an island (ahem) just south of Florida. No, this is a time to use cheap but flavorful cigars that I don't mind burning through quickly. My usual choice are Roly's - the seconds of Puros Indios - and great cigars for the price for any outdoor sporting event such as golf or softball. They are a little raggedy in construction, but taste delicious, and are so inexpensive I don't fret dropping, throwing and stepping on one during a fit of anger when Patrick Robinson blows another coverage assignment.If you really are cheap, I'd even say machine-made Garcia y Vegas are appropriate. House-brand cigars made by the better manufacturers, like Inferno by Oliva, Perdomo Alabao, or Rocky Patel Selects Classic, are also a good choice because they're very high in quality and a lot less expensive than the typical sticks you would reserve for your team's Super Bowl victory party.
Enjoy your football season and, Who Dat!(_{RHM]__[[[~*MORE
By Gary Korb
A few months ago I mentioned that I was converting a "Musico" box from the 2003 Hoyo de Monterrey Seleccion del Arte edition into a humidor. At the end of August it was finally ready, and though the original cigars were 6" x 48, I decided to use it for many of my best Robustos.
In order to do this, I had to go through my regular humidors and decide which Robustos would be relocated to their fragrant new home. I knew I wouldn't be able to get all of my Robbies in there, so as I went through the process, I carefully scrutinized each cigar by its condition and label.
Here's a 601 Green Oscuro, oh, and a 601 Blue, too; here's a La Aurora Corojo; a Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne Connecticut; Camacho Triple Maduro, an E.P. Carrillo Encantos...and so on. Ah, vintage CAO Sopranos! We'll just keep those in the original humidor. What's this? I still have some Davidoff's I got at their IPCPR dinner in 2005? Let's keep them where they are, too. Suffice it to say, I had decided that some cigars were "more special" than others. Sound silly? Take it one step further. I was thinking about doing something like this with all of my humidors. One would hold Toros, another for Churchills or wide ring cigars; maybe use one humidor only for Maduros. Not only did I begin to question the sensibility of all this, I started to think about some of the other rituals I perform with regard to my "precious" primos.
For one, I remove the cellos from practically all of my cigars. Though I prefer a twin-flame torch lighter, sometimes I toast my cigar with a torch lighter, then finish it with a cedar match. In my humidor, I line-up my cigars by length. I check my humidity and temperature levels at least every few days. I rotate my cigars every few months. I divide my daily cigars into "morning" and "afternoon" smokes. I consider some cigars "everyday" while others are just for "special occasions." (God forbid I should smoke one of my Don Carlos 2006 Edición de Aniversario cigars during a poker game. LOL) I prefer to partake with other cigar smokers, rather than by myself. Well, you get the idea, so I'll leave it there.
I also know that I'm not alone. Cigar smokers by nature are collectors. Collectors covet what they collect. (Remember Dr. Hannibal Lector's mention of this to Clarice Starling in The Silence of the Lambs?) As a result, collectors devise their own idiosyncratic rituals as a means by which to "protect" their collections, investments, etc. - in this case - cigars.
Based on many of the weekly surveys we've done, I know that cigar smokers have rituals such as sorting their cigars by wrapper, length, shape, brand, etc. That they'll only cut their cigars with a particular type of cutter. Speaking of which, it could be the method they use to cut their cigars. Some smokers may use a careful, almost surgical-like technique to remove the cap, while others just chop it off like it's the French Revolution.
Then there are the lighting techniques. Some cigar smokers prefer a torch lighter, while others go "old school" with a long cedar match. Some toast their cigars like it's the Spanish Inquisition. Some don't bother to toast their cigars at all, while others toast them as if they were a master chef adding the finishing touches to a crème brulee.
There are a slew of other rituals we cigar smokers practice. Some may be more habit than ritual, but the two are often interchangeable.
Wetting a cigar with your tongue before lighting-up.Sniffing your cigar before lighting up.
Rolling a cigar over your ear first to see if it's fresh.
Listening to music, reading, or working on your laptop while smoking.
Trying to keep the first ash going as long as possible before it falls off.Puffing out a thick cloud of smoke and letting it swirl all around you.
Wearing a special cigar smoking shirt or hat when you partake.
Always having the same drink with your cigar.
Keeping a detailed cigar diary.
Chewing on your cigar as you smoke.
Aging your cigars for X number of days, weeks, months, or years before lighting them up.
The method for removing your cigar from its cello: Push, tear, squeeze, etc.
Here's the deal: Whether these so-called rituals and others make sense to you or not, it makes sense to the smokers who do, or they wouldn't do them. I'm even more curious about other cigar smoker rituals. I'm sure there are some good ones, too. If you feel like sharing, please use the comments section. Oh, and by the way...there's nothing wrong with you.
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C&C Cigars LRMD RobustoCountry of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 5 x 50Strength: MediumWrapper: Dominican-grown MaduroFiller: DominicanBinder: DominicanPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars / 5-packs / SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Nice-looking milk-chocolate-hued wrapper leaf, virtually no veins, and slightly toothy in feel. Packing was excellent. No soft spots found. Excellent cap. Sliced off easily leaving a perfect circle of surface area and no shreds. Draw: Excellent.
Pre-light flavor: Nondescript.
Toasting & Light: Excellent. Lit perfectly evenly across on the first toasting. Smoke was exceptionally creamy.
Base flavors: Primarily earthy and nutty with a light trace of spice and bittersweet cocoa on the finish.
Retrohale: Semi-spicy and floral.
Aroma: Sharp
Burn / Ash Quality: Very clean. Ash was quite firm. Not as flaky as on the C&C Connecticut. This one had much more staying power. First ash was just over an inch.
Balance of flavors: Good, but not very complex.
Consistency: Excellent.
General Observations: A well-made cigar with a great burn and solid ash. Flavors were well balanced and consistent, but not sweet enough for me. The only real negative was that the cigar turned bitter in last two inches.
Summary: I liked the fact that they used and all-Dominican-grown blend, but thought I'd be more impressed with this cigar. Though it was well made and smoked just about perfectly, the flavors just didn't do it for me. That said, I think my opinion may be the exception as this cigar begins to get legs. I believe most cigar smokers will take to this cigar pretty well.
Rating: 86
To read my review of the C&C Connecticut Robusto click here.To read my review of the C&C Corojo Robustio click here.
Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular*MORE
By Jonathan Detore
Being a customer service agent, it's often we're presented with many questions of the cigar universe such as, "cellophane on or off" in the humidor, or "what's the best cutter to use with such-and-such cigar?" But I've come to realize there's one question that seems to arise about every fifth call or so. "Does size really matter?" When asked directly, my response is, "of course it does." We often receive phone calls from customers asking us to suggest a fantastic 60 ring size cigar. I began to realize that some smokers are stuck in the state of mind that only big cigars are the best, simply because they feels they get more for the money. But IS bigger really better?
Personally, I find the Toro (6" x 50) to be my favorite size cigar. It suits my personal style for smoking a cigar comfortably; the way I hold it in my mouth, the way I smoke, etc.- all of which affects the flavor and the quality of the smoking experience. ¡Viva Corona!One of my favorites is the Liga Undercrown by Drew Estate - I love Liga Undercrowns! They are a fantastic smoke all around. The first one I tried was indeed a Toro, and for me it was an instant top-10 cigar! TONS of flavor, about an hour and fifteen minutes burn time, huge smoke and a great aroma. But recently, instead of my usual Toro, I went with the newly released Corona Viva (5 5/8" x 46), and found it to be just as good, if not, better. In my book, the flavor was a little more defined, but I must admit I was disappointed that it did not last as long as I would have liked. This is the main reason smaller cigars are not favorites in my book. With that being said, when I tried the massive Gordito (6" x 60), it smoked for about two-and-a-half hours before I threw the rest in the woods, and stumbled back to my house to take a nap.
Subjectivity strikes againSo what is the right answer to our question - IS bigger really better? Well I'm afraid that answer can only be determined by each individual cigar smoker. The great thing about enjoying a fine cigar is getting a chance to try a variety of sizes and shapes, and learn what appeals to your palate. Enjoyment is shared, but strength, tastes and flavors are all subjective. Each cigar size brings out different qualities, different flavor notes, and can also affect the overall strength Remember: the bigger the cigar, the more nicotine (see the Inch by E.P. Carrillo cigars No.64 at right). You'll also want to take into account the "mouth feel," which is how comfortable a particular cigar feels in your mouth. The comfort factor plays a big part in your overall enjoyment of smoking a fine cigar.
So, what's the answer?My answer to our question, IS bigger really better? No. I don't believe bigger cigars are always better. Find a size that suits you best. For those of you who buy big cigars to get the most for your money, you may not realize it, but you're missing an important part of the overall experience.
Smoke for the enjoyment, and if you're looking to get more bang for your buck, try some exclusive brands. Many of them are made by the very same manufacturers who produce the pricier cigars (see Bayamo at left). You may just discover that, in the long run, bigger isn't that much better after all.
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This is the first of three reviews on the latest offerings from C&C Cigars (Connecticut, LRMD, and Corojo)
C&C Connecticut RobustoCountry of Origin: Dominican RepublicSize: 5 x 50Strength: MildWrapper: Ecuadorian ConnecticutFiller: Dominican Piloto CubanoBinder: DominicanPresentation: Boxes of 20 cigars / 5-Packs / SinglesLocation smoked: OfficePaired with: Coffee
Construction and Overall Appearance: Nice silky wrapper with few flaws. Cigar was well-packed. Triple cap was well done. Draw: Excellent. Nothing more to add.
Pre-light flavor: Lightly grassy and nutty
Toasting & Light: Excellent. Foot took nicely to flame. First puff was subtly sweet, toasty and creamy.
Base flavors: Roasted nuts, caramel
Retrohale: Creamy and somewhat sweet with just a hint of pepper.
Aroma: Earthy, sweet, slightly peppery.
Burn / Ash Quality: Whistle clean burn. Ash was almost entirely white and very firm.
Balance of flavors: Excellent. Rich, nutty, and naturally sweet.
Consistency: Excellent. Flavors never wavered.
General Observations: As mild cigars go, I really liked the C&C Connecticut. Every puff was extra smooth, creamy and sweet from beginning to end. The ash was also very impressive. The first ash held on just over an inch before breaking off. Smoke was impressively thick and creamy all the way through. One of the better-tasting and aromatic Ecuadorian wrappers I've smoked, too. The flavors held on down to the stub, too. (see photo below)
Summary: Not a particularly "complex" cigar, but not every cigar has to be. I liked how the flavors were very consistent all-around. I'd classify it as "mild to medium" for newer cigar smokers, since it does build a little in strength and flavor by the midpoint. All-in-all, a very good cigar for its class and makes a very affordable alternative to cigars like Macanudo Cafe, Romeo y Julieta 1875, Private Stock, and the like.
Rating: 88
To read my review of the C&C LRMD Robusto (Maduro) click here.To read my review of the C&C Corojo Robusto click here.
Rating scale75-79 = Fair to Middling80-84 = Good85-89 = Very impressive90-94 = Excellent95-99 = Spectacular!*MORE
By Brandon Jelson | coolcarsandcigars.com
Recently, a certain cigar made of bubblegum (instead of tobacco), was placed in my hand to signify the birth of a new boy cousin just prior to the new year. The little pinkish-red bundle, named Avery, was sound asleep as we partook in the only form of cigars that the hospital would allow within 100 miles of their campus. The abolition of smoking the more popular paper and wrapper-leaf-encased tobacco in public view has drastically imposed on our abilities to celebrate newborns. Of course, I would never clip and light up in the same room as the baby, but a patio or lounge somewhere within a day's walking distance would have been nice. As I unwrapped the bubblegum stick, I tried to envision a Cohiba or Padrón underneath the funky opaque cellophane. It just wasn't the same. The redolent aroma of Dominican or Nicaraguan tobacco was replaced with "Sour Blue Raspberry." Sure, the celebratory intent was on par, but the follow-through left me wanting more. Heck, even the smoke duration of the "quick and easies" known as Backwoods cigars is longer than the flavor of bubblegum nowadays. Instead of woodsy or leathery notes, my palate was assaulted with blue food coloring; nothing less than a cigar aficionado's Hell. So, there I sat, hiding my anguish as a real cigar smoker, while the men in the family (and a little girl) acted like street hardened mobsters with blue stogies clutched between their pearly whites. Please, someone offer me a cigar I can't refuse!
With a new birthday freshly penciled in amongst the already hectic holiday schedule, preparations for celebrating the New Year had begun to take flight. Finger foods, music, drink choices and invitation lists all concerned the household, while personally, the only thing worth debating was whether or not I wanted a cigar with a light or dark shade wrapper. I could've gone for a bellowing smoke to keep the crowd away, or something more mild and aromatic to please the senses. Since smoking on the patio was the only option, I didn't want to drive all my friends away just yet.
Since the weather was temperate - in the mid 40's - why not champagne? A Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne Churchill won the debate over the nub Cameroon in the old travel humidor. Nothing but the most buttery-smooth smoke was gracing my picky palette as the great countdown began. Smoking that 7" x 54 with its elegant, oversized gold and black label, it looked worthy of celebration, too. I planned on starting 2012 alongside my family and friends. And, just in case the Mayans were right and the Earth suddenly exploded, at least I was in good company and had a great cigar before the world went up in smoke.
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Saturday night I was supposed to meet up with a friend from work, but unfortunately he got sick and I was getting bored watching the World Series at home. I'd been in the house all day and wanted a cigar, so I drove over to Leaf to watch the game there and have a cigar I don't smoke all that often: the infamous Fuente Fuente Opus X. In this case, an Opus X Double Robusto. I don't know how long it had been in my humidor, but I figured at least a couple of years or more. I've always thought that Opus X cigars were overrated and overpriced. To be fair, you could say that for a lot of other luxury class smokes. However, though there are plenty of cigars just as delicious and more complex for less, this one lived up to its advertising.
As expected, the cigar had an attractive, coppery wrapper leaf and was well packed. The cap clipped off perfectly and offered an excellent draw. The pre-light flavor was earthy and woody. Once lit, the first few creamy puffs offered flavors of sweet cedar. As things rolled along, nutmeg presented itself and that was pretty much it in terms of flavor. I expected it to be much more spicy, complex and full-bodied. Maybe it was due to the aging, but this cigar never wavered from it's sweet cedar and nutmeg base. Moreover, the ashes were all at least an inch or more in length. I puffed on the cigar only about once a minute, letting it smoke itself, and even down to the nub, it never became harsh or bitter.
During the latter stages of the cigar, I did notice darker tobacco flavors sneaking in and a little more strength, but the balance of flavors was so dead-on center, once it had rounded out again, it was pure joy.
I've still got a couple of other Opus X cigars in my humidors, which I'm now looking more forward to. If you have the means, and always wanted to try an Opus X, the Double Robusto is a great cigar to start with. Get one for a special occasion like your birthday, anniversary or a bonus from the boss. At about $14/stick, you'll get your money's worth out of it.
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Leon Jimenes Prestige RobustoCountry of Origin: Dominican Republic Size/Strength: 5" x 50 / Medium - Full Wrapper: Dominican-grown Connecticut seed Filler: Long-aged Nicaraguan and Dominican Binder: Dominican Presentation: Box of 20 cigars en tubo
A couple of months ago, I received a dandy little care package with some new releases from the good folks at Miami Cigar. I'll be getting around to reviewing some other cigars that came in the box, but since I just had the new Leon Jimenes Prestige Robusto last Friday after work at Leaf Cigar Bar, I figured, I figured it qualified for this column.
First of all, the cigar has an attractive band, and if you didn't know the wrapper was grown in the Dominican republic, you'd swear it was genuine Connecticut Shade. The leaf is blonde, silky, practically devoid of veins, and well-packed. So, it looks like a mild cigar by appearance. However, this is no Macanudo. I decided to pair mine with a glass of Sandeman 10 Year Old Tawny Port. The cap was beautifully done and clipped-off in a perfect circle offering just the right amount of pull on the draw with a wood-nutty pre-light taste. The cigar also lit evenly exposing a firm, gray marble ash.
The smoke started off on the mild side with a creamy, woody base. One of the first things I noticed was how nicely balanced it was. By the midpoint, the smoke began to reveal a more nutty flavor and had a longer finish. The cigar also picked up in spiciness, which I would attribute to (as Miami Cigar puts it), the "feisty" binder, which I presume is a ligero, and the Nicaraguan filler which is most likely Estelà ligero. Regardless, the cigar was consistently smooth, creamy, very aromatic, and never drifted too far north of medium-bodied.
In the last couple of inches, the cigar remained well-balanced, yet had gained somewhat in strength with darker, richer tobacco flavors, some oakiness, and a hint of semi-sweetness in the finish. I would add that if you've smoked some good Cuban cigars, this cigar comes pretty close in character.
Leon Jimenes cigars have always been top-quality handmades, yet you don't often hear much about them. With this new Prestige line, the brand has reinvented itself with a true luxury class cigar that's well worth trying. For more information visit the Leon Jimenes Prestige page at MiamiCigarandCompany.com.
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By Gary KorbDuring the past year, I noticed that I was getting more and more press releases announcing new 6 x 60 ring gauge cigars. Do you remember how a few years ago Lanceros had come back into vogue? So, manufacturers began adding more 7 x 38 cigars to their repertoire. Now it seems as if just the opposite is happening with the demand for 6 x 60 cigars. The more 6 x 60's I saw coming into the market the more curious I became about this trend. So, I wrote to a number of well-respected cigar makers to get their take on this "Grand Toro" shape phenomenon, and asked, "What gives?"I felt it appropriate to start with Nick Perdomo Jr., since Tabacalera Perdomo was among the first manufacturers to introduce extra-wide ring cigars when they released their Cuban Parejo line in 2001. According to Nick, from a cigar manufacturer's perspective, making a 60 ring cigar is not all that profitable because the yields are poor and you have to use a lot of good quality tobacco to make that ring size.
"I started the Cuban Parejo line because so many customers were asking for it," said Nick. After trying several different widths between 54 and 70, he finally settled on 60 since it seemed to be the best fit. As a result, the 6 x 60 began showing up in almost all of Perdomo's leading selections including, Perdomo Habano and the 10th Anniversary Champagne series, among others. Moreover, these cigars have done so well that half of their rollers have been assigned to making Grand Toros just to keep up with the demand.
"I'd prefer to do cigars that were closer to forty-two and forty-four. I'd have a higher yield by using a lesser amount of tobacco, and they're easy to blend. But the demand for sixty ring cigars is just un-frickin' believable!"
According to Nick, the big wide cigar trend is something that's really now, but it's been in longer than most people think. When the trend started about seven or eight years ago, a lot of factories begged-off the fat cats due to their high cost.
"It takes about thirty-three pounds of tobacco to make one-thousand standard size cigars. To make a six by sixty it takes upwards of fifty pounds," said Nick. "The profit margin per stick is lower, but the customers love it. And because I make what my customers want, not what I want, it's worked really well."
The most consistent thing about the Grand Toro format (also called a "Double Toro") is its extra flavor and complexity. Not surprisingly though, there is a cadre of cynical cigar smokers who have criticized the shape, claiming that by making them manufacturers can get rid of some of their low-grade tobacco.
"You can't really cheat on a cigar like that," said Nick. "I can only speak for myself, but we don't do that. An experienced cigar smoker will be able to tell in an instant, because [a 6 x 60] cigar has so much tobacco, you pick up way more nuances and flavors. It's got'a be rock solid. All I can add is, this format has been a big winner for us."
* * *
According to Ernest Perez-Carrillo, president of E.P.C. Cigars and creator of the original La Gloria Cubana blend, "We introduced a 60 ring gauge cigar in the Serie R line in 2001. We only had a couple of sizes, so I asked, 'What can we do next?' First we decided to go with a four and three quarters by forty-eight Rothchild. Then I found these old sixty ring molds, so I said, "Let's try a sixty instead."
As for the trend itself, Carrillo feels that cigar smokers have been asking for wider ring sizes because they believe the cigar will be stronger. But that's not necessary true. What is true is that when you have a cigar of such big proportions, you get much more flavor.
"If you're making a Corona or a Lonsdale, you are limited to about three filler leaves (Viso, Seco, Ligero) plus the binder and wrapper. For a 60 ring cigar I can use anywhere from four to six different fillers, then you have one or two binders and the wrapper. Due to the large filler to binder and wrapper ratio, the result is a cigar with much more complexity."
So is the 6 x 60 cigar trend a novelty? "No," says Carrillo. "It's a cigar that delivers in flavor. We have the "Golosos" in our original E.P. Carrillo series, the "El Decano" in the New Wave Connecticut series, the "2010 Dominantes" and "2011 Inmensos" from our Short Run series, and we're adding a 60 ring size to the Elencos series."
* * *
Alan Rubin, president of Alec Bradley Cigars submitted this reply: "We did it five years ago with Maxx, but we, too, are listening to our customers. We've added a six by sixty ring to the Family Blend line called the GS57, a Double T, to the Prensado line, which is a 6 x 62 box-pressed, and Black Market and American Classic Blend, our two new releases, have six by sixties."
As for the "why?" Rubin feels the economy dictates that we want more for less.
"A big beefy cigar provides more smoking time for the money. Maybe not more flavor, maybe not more complexity, but more time. Cigar smokers can take an hour and a half to two hour vacation and never leave their chairs when smoking a big cigar. And why not, we all deserve a little more down time."
* * *
"For a period of time we noticed smokers were cutting back to shorter or quicker smoking cigars," said Janelle Rosenfeld, VP of Premium Cigar Marketing & Communications for Altadis, U.S.A. "Recently, perhaps with the increase of cigar lounges, or perhaps as a 'revolt' against smoking regulations, we have had smokers asking for longer smoking cigars. It's as if some smokers are saying 'I'm going to smoke a cigar and I want to relax and enjoy it and not rush through the experience.' I say...GREAT!"
To fill those requests Altadis has released 6 x 60 cigars this year in several of their premier editions. Their latest Grand Toro release is the "Magnum" which has been added to their popular Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real line.
"60 rings take a lot of tobacco, and you have to get the mix just right in order to maintain that wonderful balance and keep the smoke true to the original blend," she added."
* * *
Nestor A. Plasencia Jr., whose family has made just about every cigar shape and size imaginable added the following comment:
"We have noticed this trend lately, too. I think most of the new brands we are doing have at least a 58 ring gauge. Cigar smokers are always looking for something new. From a blending perspective, I really like this because we can play with different tobaccos and create very complex blends; something you cannot do with smaller ring gauges."
* * *
Jose Oliva of Oliva Cigars/StudioTabac said: "Large ring cigars are part of the trend towards full flavored cigars. They offer a large volume of smoke, thus increasing the flavor profile. The current trend to large ring cigars is far greater than the previous interest in Lanceros. While Lanceros continue to be a favorite among the avid enthusiasts, they don't compare with the much broader segment of smokers who enjoy a larger ring."
* * *
So, it appears the two primary reasons cigar smokers love a large ring gauge is, 1) they're getting a lot more bang for their buck, and 2) the cigars offer a lot more flavor. The more tobacco, the more complex the smoke; it's that simple. The 60-ring cigar craze has a dedicated following, and its not a small group, either.
"Based on our research it's growing," said Nick Perdomo. "The demand for the six by sixty format has grown 50 percent. It's the number one selling sku in our Habano line, Gran Cru and 10th Anniversary Champagne, It's hard to keep up with production. I had no idea it would ever take off like this."* * *P.S. (Sep. 25, 2011) After reviewing the comments, I was reminded of my first 6 x 60 cigar. It was a Rocky Patel Sun Grown "Sixty." I beleive it was in 2005, and that Rocky was preparing them for market, because when he handed it to me, he said it was a new size they were adding to the line, and added, "It's fresh from the factory." I don't think it had a band, but I remember was how creamy and flavorful it was. So, whenever I think of 6 x 60 cigars, the RP Sun Grown Sixty comes to mind first, maybe because it was my first. Although I've grown fond of many other cigars in this format, the Sun Grown Sixty remains on my hit list.(_[GK]__{{{~*MORE
…and a very enjoyable evening at Leaf This past Saturday, I had been anticipating having a cigar at the new Leaf Cigar Bar and Restaurant which just opened last month. Oh, I've smoked cigars in there several times already at work, but I wanted to see what kind of scene was materializing on the weekends.
Of course, I had to choose a cigar to bring with me. Did you ever open your humidor and see a cigar that was practically begging for you to pick it up but you resisted. Such was the case for the Diamond Crown Figurado No.6 that I'd had in my humi for at least 5 years. "Tonight's the night," I said. I stuck it in my sport jacket pocket, turned off the Phillies/St. Louis game, and headed over to 90 Mort Drive in Forks Township (Easton), PA figuring I'd catch the last few frames of the game on the bar TV. On my way there, I listened to the game on the radio and arrived at Leaf just after 10:00 PM. The game was in the 8th inning. To my frustration, all they had on the TV was college football. Apparently, Direct TV doesn't get the local Philly channel 17, but thankfully a friend of mine texted me the results of the Phils' 9-2 victory over St. Louis thanks to a Raul Ibañez homer. (Go Phils!)
Meanwhile, I sat at the bar and ordered my usual and perfectly mixed Absolute Citron & Tonic with a wedge of lime (kudos to Matt the bartender - both of them). Several people from the Humidor at Leaf were there including Nikki, the store inventory manager who had just closed the shop. The bar was pretty busy. Most of the patrons had finished dinner, though there were a few couples still sitting at some tables.
I took out my Diamond Crown and lit its perfecto tip. I expected this cigar to have a little more juice; instead, it was very mild and creamy like a Macanudo Cafe. (Maybe I let it mellow in the humi too long?) The base flavors were of sweet cedar and an aroma that was almost more enjoyable than the flavor. That said, as the cigar reached the middle of the bulb it ramped up a bit while remaining impressively smooth and creamy. The ash was also amazingly firm and crept along to well over an inch before gravity overcame it (see photo at left). Once the cigar had reached the narrower midpoint, I was getting more flavor from the wrapper, which had taken on a more herbal character. Eventually, I wound up nubbing it.
Finally, because I had expected a much more complex journey from my No.6, I concluded that it wasn't worth waiting so long to smoke it. That said, the important thing is I enjoyed it. The only thing more enjoyable was the company of the very attractive woman seated next to me. But that's another story for another time.
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By Gary KorbIf you're like me, you've put together your mental list of cigars that you plan to smoke over the extended Labor Day weekend. I think it's safe to say that cigar lovers crave having another day to relax or get in an extra round of golf, whatever, with some of their favorite smokes. Since I recently received samples of new cigars, I’m considering taking some of them for a test drive. Among them include Drew Estate's new Liga Undercrown, Kristoff's new GC and Corojo Limitada, plus the new Casa Miranda, Leon Jimenes Prestige, and La Aurora Cameroon from Miami Cigar & Co.
The aforementioned cigars represent the future; therefore, here are a handful of the more memorable Labor Day smokes I've enjoyed in the past and why: Casa Magna Oscuro Toro (6 x 52): A big, chewy, full-bodied cigar that's robust and fantastically smooth for a rich, earthy, naturally sweet, and moderately spicy smoke with notes of espresso in the mix. A dynamite "special occasion" cigar with great balance.Padron 1964 Anniversary Exclusivo Maduro (5 1/2 x 50): I've mentioned this cigar often in past articles, and I just never get tired of smoking this dark, box-pressed beauty. The smoke is full-bodied, the wrappers are delectably sweet, and the perfectly balanced smoke chugs along with Padron's trademark coffee and cocoa notes. A marvelous treat that I file under "Nubber."
601 (Green) Oscuro La Fuerza (5 1/2 x 54): I fell in love with this cigar from the first puff. Though it's considered one of the more potent cigars in the 601 line, I find it amazingly smooth, devoid of peppery spice, sweet, and brimming with caramelized flavors. A super complex cigar that hits on all cylinders.
Winston Churchill Marrakesh (6 x 50): I've only had a few of these since they were released in 2008, but this Toro is one of the most memorable Davidoff cigars I've ever smoked. Rich, creamy, complex, aromatic, and perfectly balanced, not to mention a thing of beauty and joy to admire. Yeah, it's pricey, but you only live once.
My Father No.1 (5 1/4 x 52): A masterpiece from Jaime Garcia, wrapped in a gorgeous Ecuadorian Habano Rosado/Criollo hybrid wrapper. The first few hits are a little startling, but once it gets going, morphs into a virtual buffet of well-balanced flavors ranging from sweet wood to coffee, to nutmeg, and more. A real palate pleaser.
As Frank Sinatra used to croon, "One more for my baby, and one more for the road"...
Kinky Friedman The Governor (5 3/4 x 60): This is the cigar you usually see Kinky sucking on when he's on TV. This big boy is one of the creamiest cigars that virtually sings with a marvelous balance of caramelized flavors of nutmeg, cocoa, toasted nuts, and sweet tobacco flavors that refuse to get off the stage.
Finally, a couple of suggestions that come to mind are the Guillermo Leon Gran Toro (6 x 58), the Rocky Patel Decade Toro (6 1/2 x 52) and the Oliva Serie V Double Robusto (5 x 54), all of which are pure joy!
Care to share? Let me know what's on your list by leaving a comment below. Happy holidays!(_[GK]__{{{~*MORE
By Gary Korb
As much as you love smoking cigars, do you ever feel like giving yourself a break? If I had to guess, I'd say those who smoke cigars on a daily basis would most likely prefer to leave their regimen as-is. Like most habits, it's hard to break. I'm also reminded of a recent news story about a study in which researchers took away the cell phones from a group of participants. A number of them exhibited acute withdrawal symptoms similar to those exhibited by alcoholics and drug addicts. (I actually know a few people who would probably react the same way if they went without their cell phones for just a few hours.)
So, do you think you could go at least two days without smoking a cigar? I have, mostly the weekends I spend with my sons. For the most part, if the cigars are out of sight, they're usually also out of mind. But not for long. I've noticed that I tend to be a little more irritable on that first day. Though I have no empirical evidence, it appears that regular cigar smokers, not unlike cigarette smokers, acquire an addiction to nicotine (mouseover image of brain below to see how this works). Moreover, I know cigar smokers who smoke up to 8 or 9 cigars a day. Now THAT'S a habit! I don't think I could ever smoke that many cigars in one day for reasons I'll touch on later. I've discovered there are times when I just have to give my palate a break. That said, unless I've got a cold, the break is usually a day to two, because I really miss smoking my cigars. So, there you have it: "My name is Gary and I'm a cigar addict."
The longest I ever intentionally went without a cigar was a few years ago when I stopped smoking cigars for an entire week prior to attending the IPCPR convention. The idea was I wanted to sample all those new cigars with a "clean" palate. What made it tougher was being surrounded by my cigar-smoking colleagues at work, but I prevailed.
Presuming that you take an occasional break from your cigars, sickness or certain conditions notwithstanding, there are several factors that may necessitate a nicotine hiatus. It could be that you're smoking too many "cheapo" cigars. Lesser quality tobaccos tend not to taste as good due to inferior fermentation and curing. Additionally, because the cigars are cheaper, you may tend to smoke more of them, too; which leads me directly to another cause - you're smoking too many cigars. I've also noticed that a lot of cigar smokers who tend to over indulge also tend to "lose their palate" or sensitivity to the nuances and/or complexities of the cigars they smoke. Of course, there are exceptions to everything.
Before preparing this article, I took a little in-house survey on palate burnout, and the first thing that came to mind for a lot of people was smoking too many full-bodied cigars. This has often been the case for me, and is one of the reasons I prefer to mix it up between mild, medium and full-bodied cigars. Mood plays a factor, too, but I've also found that if I buy a box of cigars and smoke through the box within a month, I get bored with them, even if they're a regular favorite, and I may not order those cigars again for months.
There's another phenomenon that I call "literal palate burnout." That's when the tip of your tongue feels irritated each time you puff. As I write this article I'm smoking an Oliva Cain Serie F 550 Habano. It's only the second cigar I smoked today, but though I love the flavor of this cigar, my tongue is starting to wear out, and as I take the cigar out of my mouth after each puff, it feels like I've burned it. Maybe I should puff less often, or not keep the cigar in my mouth while I'm writing, because hitting on a cigar too often tends to make it turn bitter. Though this Cain F doesn't taste bitter, my tongue seems to have had it. One would think I might simply put it down and let my tongue rest, but it tastes SO GOOD I can't stop. That said, I've found that if I let the cigar rest a bit longer, my palate revives itself to some degree.
In closing, I've found that if I haven't smoked cigars for a couple of days, they tend to taste better - especially that first one. Mmmm.
Have you had similar experiences? Am I off-base, or did I touch a nerve? I'd really like to get your take on this, so, I hope you'll leave a comment. By the way, I wound up nubbing that Cain F 550.
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By Gary Korb
A few months ago I was sitting at home smoking one of my favorite cigars. I don't remember how the idea came into my head, but I began to think, "If cigars were bands or musicians, singers, etc. how would they match up?" As a marketing writer, I've personified cigars in many different ways over the years, but I thought this would be an amusing challenge. So, as I kicked back with my cigar and my vodka & tonic with a slice of lime, I began to ponder the question.
It could be any cigar or brand, but the strength, flavor and complexity of the cigar should play some part in the decision. For example, Crème de Jamaica cigars made me think of Bob Marley for obvious reasons. Moreover, they're pretty mild and laid back like reggae music, too. However, you may associate a cigar like Graycliff with Bob Marley, or maybe more appropriately, Phillies Blunts. ;-) First, I made up my own list. I could've gone on forever, but here are 10 more match-ups that I came up with:
ACID = Jimi Hendrix
Arturo Fuente = Bob Dylan
Avo Classic = Frank Sinatra
CAO Italia = Louis Prima
Joya De Nicaragua 1970 Antaño = AC/DC
Macanudo Café = Barry Manilow
Oliva Serie V = Led Zeppelin
Padron Anniversary 1964 Maduro = Nirvana
Rocky Patel Vintage = The Rolling Stones
Tatuaje = Red Hot Chili Peppers
Next, I sent an email around the office asking the regular cigar smokers on the staff to take a shot at it. Some are a bit farfetched, but that's part of the fun.
Adam Fullen / Web Application DeveloperAlec Bradley Overture = RadioheadBayamo = Johnny CashOnyx Reserve = RancidPadron = Ray LaMontagne
Jeff Brown / COO Cigar Works Division Nicaraguan Selection 3000 = MotorheadVudu = Buckwheat Zydeco
Hayward Tenney / Marketing CopywriterLa Flor Dominicana = (old) Metallica
Humberto Gonzalez / Buyer, Sampler MonkeyBahia = PrinceCAO Flavours = Spice GirlsGran Habano = Smashing PumpkinsGurkha = Blues TravelerIllusione = Dean MartinJaime Garcia = Ruben BladesKristoff = The PoliceLa Flor Dominicana = Guns 'n RosesLeon Jimenez = The Mormon Tabernacle Choir
John Spisak / Graphic Designer, CatalogBackwoods = Lynyrd Skynyrd Opus X = The Beatles Phillies = Black Eyed Peas
Mike Klingerman / Inventory ManagerFonseca = The DoorsDon Pepin = John LennonDon Tomas = INXSLa Aurora = Luther Vandross
Khoung Pham / CigarMonster.com ManagerCAO Flavors = The Go Go’sCapoeira = The Village PeopleGran Habano = The Butthole Surfers
Scott Shemtov / Programmer, SEOPhillies = Cypress HillWhite Owl = Wu Tang Clan
I also put this out to some of our regular contributors:
Robustojoe, Purveyor, Robustojoe.comCu Avana Punisher = Ravi ShankarPadilla Dominus = Steely DanPadron Anniversary 1964 = The DoorsPerdomo Champagne = Enya
So, now I put the question to you. Please type your musician comparisons to your favorite cigars/brands in the comments section. I'm looking forward to reading your picks. Have fun!
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By Gary Korb (Additional content by Khuong Pham)The last couple of weeks we've covered how your cigar smoking experience is affected by strength and by blend, we’ve compared them to cigarettes, and even questioned whether cigars are healthy for you. This week, on an inspired suggestion from Khuong Pham, who administers CigarMonster.com, I thought we'd look at what personally makes a cigar a favorite for you. As a former B&M cigar store owner himself, Khuong has come across just about every kind of cigar smoker, observing how people "smoked" their cigars while in his lounge, as well as at in-store events, etc.
"The question 'Why is your favorite cigar your favorite cigar?' begs two aspects of cigar smoking," says Khuong. "Is it solely because of the cigar itself, or the circumstances or situation surrounding you when you first smoked that cigar that made it so memorable? "Let’s say your favorite cigar is an Oliva Serie V Belicoso. Try to remember the environment and situation when you smoked it for the first time. Chances are, it was an 'ideal setting,' you had the perfect drink to accompany it, and you had just the right people to smoke it with. Would that cigar still be your favorite cigar if you had smoked it right after your girlfriend dumped you, or you got pulled over for speeding?"
Consider the aforementioned scenario, where you have a highly-rated, uber-flavorful and complex cigar like the Oliva V Belicoso, or a Davidoff Aniversario #3, or a Padron Anniversary 1964 Exclusivo Maduro. All are magnificent cigars on their own. Yet, if the atmosphere is not conducive to your enjoyment of a cigar - any cigar for that matter - or if you're not in the best mood, you are more likely to perceive that cigar in a negative light.
This raises the question, Are the two inseparable? For instance, must the atmosphere be right in order to truly appreciate the flavors and aroma of a good cigar? Not necessarily. I smoke a lot of cigars at the office while I'm working. Some of them are manufacturer samples, while others are cigars I bring from home. The rub is that because I'm trying to concentrate on my work, it's not always easy to concentrate on the cigar. You wouldn't believe how many cigars I feel I wasted because I just couldn't give it my full attention. However, it would be disingenuous of me to say that I haven't savored many of these "at work" cigars to their fullest. So, there is something to be said for the cigar itself.
As for the atmosphere aspect, the experience of smoking a cigar with my fellow cigar smokers in a lounge, a friend's house, or alone with a good book or watching a ballgame on TV is far superior because I'm able to relax and simply enjoy the smoke. And isn't relaxation what smoking premium cigars is all about?
If I plan to review a cigar, I prefer to take it home where I won't have distractions or interruptions other than maybe jotting down a few notes. To be fair to the manufacturer, I like to be sure that the cigar I’m reviewing is smoked under the most ideal conditions possible. After all, how can you honestly evaluate a cigar if you can't concentrate on its finer attributes?
On the other hand, when I'm smoking purely for enjoyment, the experience is that much better whether I'm among others or not. I don't want to have to think a lot about my cigar when I'm smoking it.
Another way of looking at the question “Is it the cigar or the atmosphere?” is not unlike the relationship between two people. Take a girlfriend for example; there's a lot to be enjoyed simply by appreciating her beauty and personality. Whereas sharing each other's company at a good restaurant, a movie or concert, a walk in the park, or even a quiet evening at home, can make being with her even more special.
We all have our own idea of what we consider the "ideal" cigar smoking situation. So, whether it's the cigar itself that's so flavorful it can be enjoyed under any conditions, or the atmosphere, which makes your cigar more pleasurable, each has its own merits.
I'd really like to get your take on this question, so please use the comments box to describe your experience.
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Among the most popular topics I've written about over the years have been on cutting cigars and cigar cutters. I've used just about every cigar cutter imaginable and practically every cutting technique until last night. While watching the ballgame I was suddenly in the mood for an Arturo Fuente Chateau Fuente Maduro, a sweet-tasting little Rothschild en cedro. Thing was, I couldn't find a cutter. I knew I had a couple of them upstairs, but I was looking for one I had seen somewhere earlier in the house. I poked around and nada. Too lazy to run upstairs and get one of my Xikars, I thought, "Hey, I've never cut a cigar with my fingernail." I had read about this technique which is practiced in Cuba, so I figured I'd give it a try. First, I needed a nail long enough to cut through and around the circumference of the cap. Since I stopped biting my nails long ago, my nails tend to get a bit long at times. My thumbnail looked like it might do the trick; besides it was thicker and I felt I could get the best leverage with it. Being lefty, I held the cigar in my left hand, carefully pressed my right thumbnail in under the cap and rotated the cigar until I had completed the circle. Next, I pulled up on the cap and it came off fairly clean. The loose bits of tobacco that made up part of the shoulder I bit off as evenly as I could. As you can see by the somewhat blurry photo, it wasn't the prettiest cut I'd ever made, but the cigar smoked beautifully.
Then, this morning as I was preparing to write this little anecdote, I realized that there was still one more type of cutter I hadn't used, and I doubt many of you reading this have either, because it's so new. It's called the SHURIKEN cutter. Distributed by Cigar Tech, SHURIKEN, which means "blade hidden in the hand," is better known to martial artists as a Japanese Throwing Star. Inside the cutter are six razor sharp blades (see photo).
To cut your cigar, you place the head of the cigar into the housing, push it forward and the blades cut slits around the perimeter of the shoulders. The further you push the head into the blades the deeper the cut. I tested it out this morning on a Robusto and would have taken a photo, but the slits are so thin, you can barely see them. It drew pretty well, but putting some gentle pressure on the head opened the slits a bit more and the draw improved dramatically, even with the cap still intact! More to come on this newfangled cutter, as I plan on doing a video on it soon.
So, just when I thought I'd done it all. Go figure…(_[GK]__{{{~*MORE
Among the cigars I got to smoke this weekend were a La Gloria Cubana Wavell. I hadn't had one in quite a while, and I had just received a sampler of new EPC Carrillo cigars, so I thought it would be good to go back to one of Ernesto's classics and compare. I really enjoyed this cigar. It had a rich woody character, excellent balance, a dash of spice, and burned beautifully. Although Senor Carrillo moved on two years ago to start his new venture, the Wavell is still a well made and dependable medium-bodied smoke.
The next cigar I had was a La Flor Dominicana 2000 No.1 that I got in a La Flor Dominicana 2000 Test Flight sampler. I'm down to only a couple of sizes now, and frankly I thought this line extension would be better. They're not bad, just not great. However, so far, the No.1 has been the best of the bunch The construction is excellent with a semi-box-pressed shape, and the flavors were that of dark tobacco, sweet cedar, and notes of espresso in the later stages. The aroma was also well worth noting. I'm now looking more forward to the next one. I also had a Cohiba Black Robusto. I'm a huge fan of this blend for it's rich taste, creaminess, excellent balance, and naturally sweet character. Plus, the ebony-hued wrappers are gorgeous. Unfortunately, these are not sold at Famous, but I still recommend it, especially if you already enjoy the Cohiba Red Dot cigars in the Cameroon wrappers. I smoked most of it outside and finished it off watching the Phillies game in the house (see photo).
Finally, I had a Gran Habano No.1 Robusto from a box I split with one of my office buddies. Since I discovered these a while back, they have become one of my all-time favorite morning cigars. They have a very smooth, creamy and nutty taste that's great with coffee. The Connecticut wrappers are sweet in flavor and aroma, but extremely delicate. Don't even try to remove the band until you're really close to burning it.
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