Kristoff Criollo Torpedo

Score: 8.6

By Gary Korb

The Kristoff Criollo Torpedo is rolled to 6 1/8" x 52, and a very handsome cigar, as well. The blend consists of Dominican Olor and Cuban-seed Nicaraguan tobaccos wrapped in a buttery-smooth Nicaraguan Habano Criollo wrapper leaf with a semi-shaggy foot. (The tobacco is tucked under the foot, instead of loose.) The cigar was well packed, and I used a V-cutter to clip it. The pre-light flavors were somewhat woody and nutty.

Once lit, the cigar took nicely exposing a clean burn. The smoke at this stage was rather mild and predominantly woody in flavor. I found the smoke to be very mellow and so smooth that I smoked it dry during the first few inches. The flavor was highly consistent through the first act with a base of wood and nut flavors, a hint of almond, and just a trace of sweetness on the finish. During one drag I tasted a note of anise, but for the most part the cigar did not gain much in the way of strength.

During the second act, it turned into a true medium-bodied, yet extremely mellow cigar. I should also note here that this cigar displayed one of the best ashes I've seen. It was firm, and when tapped-off revealed a beautiful oval-shaped cherry. Although the woodiness intensified a little, the smoke did not exhibit any additional flavors.

Overall, it was quite enjoyable. I only drank spring water while smoking it. The water allowed me to better assess the cigar's flavors, but next time I'd like to smoke it with a good Port.

Scores
Appearance: 9
Construction: 9
Burn: 9
Draw: 9
Aroma: 8
Flavor: 8
Final Score: 8.6