"Overall, this was an outstanding cigar, all the flavors were very enjoyable with vanilla, baking spice, cedar, cashew, and finishing off with some roasted coffee. The texture and temperature of the cigar was very enjoyable. I would definitely recommend this cigar to friends and family and look forward to seeing what it is." -Angel M. (Angel)
"This is a highly intriguing smoke, the flavor profile is very diverse and exceedingly pleasant. While well balanced, the predominant notes of caramel, earth, cherries, and baking spice were most consistent, making this an excellent pairing for a dram of Buffalo Trace or Knob Creek." -Fred L. (Fred L.)
Rick Rodriguez of CAO fame and Luciano Meirelles of Luciano cigars are collaborating on a new project, The Maker. The new cigar will be released at the "My Old Kentucky Herf" event, The limited-edition cigar is available nationwide and distributed by “My Old Kentucky Herf” (Fatash Cigar cigars and lounge).
Following the release of the West Tampa Tobacco Company Black & White lines earlier this year, Rick Rodriguez has announced a sophomore release, the Attic Series. The first in the line will be called Attic.
"This cigar could be made 100x better if the construction was in such a way where the draw wasn't so loose. As a result of this loose construction, I feel the flavors were a bit light on the mouthfeel. Flavor-wise, it wasn't too interesting but wasn't horrible by any means as leather, char, and some other earthlike flavors were evident. Not sure if I'd pick this one up again as it just wasn't my gig to repurchase. Perhaps you might like it, give it a go!" -John A. (Bostoneo)
Smoking Time (in minutes): 80
"This was a solid cigar overall. The initial flavors were very good. My only complaint about this cigar is the final portion changed significantly from the first two portions, and the flavors became more muddied. As it stands, I would gladly smoke another of these again, and would happily recommend to a friend to give a try." -Jason H. (Jokey Smurf)
"One of those delectable treats you get in the form of a cigar. Very straight-forward, but very rewarding as well. If you want stability, sweetness, and no kickback, this should be right up your alley." -Doug S. (Unpossible_1)
West Tampa Tobacco Company has announced the third core line for the company, West Tampa Red. The blend uses the same Mexican San Andreas wrapper used in their limited edition Attic Series release. The rest of the blend is completely different and uses all-Nicaraguan binder and fillers.
"Another great cigar that I enjoyed. Beautiful light chocolate wrapper with bumps and veins showing. Nice notes of sweet tea, hickory, black pepper, and butterscotch balance this cigar out. Minor splitting at the end that corrects itself. Even burn with a nice inch long ash. Great late afternoon smoke. A cigar I'd try again." -Sean F. (fullermaine)
Rick Rodriguez wasted no time after retiring from STG/General Cigar Company before announcing his next project, West Tampa Tobacco Company. There, he will serve as Master Blender/Co-Founder along with his former colleague, now business partner, Gus Martinez. Martinez will serve as President/Co-Founder of West Tampa Tobacco Company.