"I think what I liked most about this cigar is that it serves as a reminder of how enriching the blind review process can be. Preconceived notions influence so many decisions and I find it to be a breath of fresh air when I get to experience something that I never would have chosen for myself in a completely subjective manner. I never would have picked a cigar of this length to smoke. Not only do I think that it looks silly, such a lengthy cigar never feels comfortable in the hand. Although the overall experience wasn't my favorite, it was far from awful and there were a handful of things that I truly liked about this cigar. In addition to a stellar draw and burn, the number of transitions that took place made it seem as though a different cigar was being smoked with every third making for a truly unique smoking experience. With regards to flavor, this cigar really shined the most throughout the latter part of the first third all the way through the second. Not only were the flavors balanced, complex and enjoyable but the smoke was buttery smooth. Had the initial puffs and final third been a little less harsh and more inline with my palate it certainly would have been given higher remarks. Although I wouldn't seek out this particular vitola, I am interested for the reveal as I would certainly give this blend another shot assuming it is offered in a different size." -Noah S. (Noah)
"In the best of ways, this smoke had a lot going on! Not only did the abundant lineup of flavors balance and complement each other perfectly, they were nothing but pleasant from start to finish. In addition, a handful of transitions kept my palate intrigued and engaged without making me think too much which always adds to my enjoyment. Rounding out a superb experience was a near-perfect draw, trouble-free burn, and a decent nicotine buzz by the very end. Needless to say, this cigar checked off almost all of the boxes for me and I will certainly be seeking it out once it is revealed. " -Noah S. (Noah)
"With a gambit of robust flavors that complimented one another exceptionally as well as a smoke that was creamy, smooth and mouthwatering, the first two thirds is certainly where this cigar shined! Even though the smoke remained incredibly smooth, the flavors flatlined entering the final third which made for a lackluster ending to an otherwise great cigar. Had the pleasant mix of flavors been consistent from start to finish my remarks would certainly have been a bit higher. I have a feeling that a loose roll is the most likely culprit for the sudden downturn as the temperature of the smoke quickly rose and the flavors almost immediately became acrid. I'd gladly give this smoke another shot as I'm sure the loose roll is just a fluke." -Noah S. (Noah)
"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)
"If you are looking for a deep, heavy-flavored blend without being too strong this is perfect. The mix of leather and hickory smoke held a solid taste throughout the entire cigar.
An opening of a bit of cedar sweetness, and some final pepper and mineral flavor add a bit of complexity to keep it interesting. I'll absolutely revisit this in the future." -Lauren S. (Lauren S.)
"Overall it had good flavors through and through. The strength of this cigar was more then I was expecting. The smoke output was a lot. The smoke texture was thick and really stuck to the palate. Musty mineral and rich earthy coffee notes. No sweetness to this smoke. Retrohale was very strong musty black pepper." -Chad M. (Chad Tchad)
"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)
"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)
"This was one of the easiest cigars I’ve ever smoked. It was perfectly constructed, had a perfect draw, and had no burn issues! Mild in profile for the most part, wonderful notes of leather, cream, honey, and cashew spotlighted the main flavors given by this fine stick. Burning on the faster side, this cigar gave off brilliant white ash and huge clouds of smoke when sampled. While it did burn on the fast side, this would be an easy cigar to recommend for a stable flavor profile that was enjoyable and relaxing without the worry of a poorly built stick; smoke it slowly though!" -John A. (Bostoneo)