"Overall, this was an okay cigar for me. I’m not sure if I’d reach for a second given the issues I had with the burn, wavy and prone to going out, and draw, a bit tight but not unsmokable. The first third was the best with tasty oak, vanilla, and leather notes; however, it was a downward slope from there as the body & strength kicked up a few times throughout this session. Ultimately, this cigar ended with a muddled profile of sweetness and black pepper and eventually went out no matter how much it was stoked. " -John A. (Bostoneo)
"With the single exception of the first few puffs being ever so slightly harsh, I haven't a negative remark to make about this cigar as it truly blew me away in just about every regard. Not only were the flavors incredibly robust, the mix was well-balanced and was suited almost perfectly for my palate. A perfect draw, flawless burn, and impeccable construction checked off the remaining boxes for me which rounded out an immensely enjoyable smoking experience from start to finish. I imagine this cigar would pair well with just about anything which is also a high mark in and of itself. Assuming the price point isn't outrageous, this stick has already landed in my regular rotation. If it is then I will gladly splurge for a special occasion as I am quite certain that a stick this would never disappoint. " -Noah S. (Noah
"Among the handful of things I enjoyed most with this cigar was its simplicity. From the first puff to the last the flavors remained fairly one-dimensional but undeniably delightful and balanced while the smoke was nothing but buttery smooth throughout. My palate was never inundated with too many notes to keep tabs on nor was it left guessing with transition after transition which I found to be a pleasant change of pace. The only negative thing I can say about this cigar is that the draw was subpar from start to finish. Way too much effort was required to get a decent mouthful of smoke. Not only did the extra effort steal away from my relaxation, I'm sure the flavor profiles were muted as well which only leaves me wondering... What if??? I can say with certainty that a perfect draw would land this smoke smack dab in the middle of my regular rotation and I can't wait to give it another go." -Noah S. (Noah)
"This was the loss of sweetness in the final third away from being my favorite thing I have smoked for BMP. Looks great, smokes great, and tastes great. I’d be interested in smoking this in a Robusto if available, because while I liked everything about the flavor experience - I’d have preferred a bit shorter smoking time. " -Bill C. (Bill)
"I am always looking for short smokes that provide a fully satisfying experience, and this hit that nail right on the head. While it was very consistent from start to finish, the flavor profile really grabbed me. I’d easily recommend giving these a shot for those times when you need something quick. I’ll definitely try to snag some for my winter smoke selection." -Chris M. (Chris)
STG has announced the return of one of their more popular releases in recent years, the CAO Arcana Mortal Coil. That cigar got a 95 in our blind tasting during it's first release. The blend is a limited-edition cigar that features "Andullo" tobacco, which uses one of the oldest tobacco fermentation methods of the Dominican Republic.
"Even though the draw was tighter than ideal for the first third and the lineup of flavors doesn't match what I typically reach for when choosing what to smoke, this cigar was immensely enjoyable! I am quite fond of this particular vitola as the change in ring gauge and proportions of binder, filler, and wrapper all but guarantees an interesting progression or transition of flavors that I tend to think of as a story the blender is telling through the leaves. Not only did the profile of flavors build upon one another from start to finish but so did the strength which is always a plus in my book. After a bit of a slow start, this cigar truly shined in the latter two-thirds when the flavors were most balanced, complex, and robust. The smoke was incredibly smooth throughout and the flavors were clearly defined which always makes for a nice experience as I don't have to think too much about what I am smoking. This is exactly the kind of smoke I like when I am deep in a great conversation amongst great friends." -Noah S. (Noah)
"When it comes to short cigars, I really never expect there to be a ton of complexity, and this one is no different, but it definitely did not lack in flavor, with a constant barrage of cayenne and unsweetened cocoa. This really hit the spot as a post dinner cigar for me and would work well with a bit of time constraint necessary." -Doug S. (Unpossible_1)
Foundation Cigar Company has unveiled its latest cigar, The Tabernacle Knight Commander, a 6 x 3/4 x 52 Perfecto with a Connecticut Broadleaf Wrapper. The company says this cigar pays homage to the rich Ethiopian heritage and embodies the spirit of philanthropy.
During its June 8 broadcast of “Freestyle Live: Special Edition,” which aired from 7 to 9 p.m. Eastern on the company’s Facebook Live page (facebook.com/drewestatecigar) and YouTube channel (youtube.com/drewestatecigar), Drew Estate revealed that their latest Freestyle Live Event Pack mystery cigar was the Liga Privada H99 Connecticut Corojo Papas Fritas (115mm x 44).