Yes, I knew what I was smoking. Yes, I am a fan of Drew Estate, especially the T-52 and also blends from Willy Herrera. Yes, I am a fan of Caldwell, especially The King is Dead and The Last Tsar. Take all of that into account, and call me a fanboy if you want. I just don't care, because this was an excellent cigar.
The draw on this cigar was a bit tight, but not tight enough to affect the smoke, which is common of most cuban cigar, and lancero cigars. The burn was perfect, never had to touch it and the construction was fabulous, especially holding up like this for 31 years. While this wasn't the most flavorful or complex cigar, it was elegant and nuanced. I was worried before smoking and during the first third that this cigar might have aged out being 31 years old, but she definitely still has some life in her and it was a pleasure and a privilege to smoke such an aged cigar.
For the most part, this tasted like a Cohiba, and not the best one I’ve had. I had expected a lot more from a special edition. The flavors were not all that complex and the transitions were moderately noticeable. Perhaps with some more time this would be something special, but for the moment, I doubt it will justify the hefty price tag it will take to get one.
“I really really really enjoyed this cigar. I have no guesses what it is because it hasn’t reminded me of anything I have had before, but if the price is right I will definitely be picking some up. The flavors were changing and complex, especially for a churchill. the flavor profile was right up my alley and if the other reviewers had a similar experience, I expect a high score.” –Emmett (BMP_Emmett)
AllBlind Cigar ReviewsDouble RobustoEmmettFeaturedIPCPRLeccia TobaccoMaduroNicaraguaOscuroRyanSam LecciaSandeepStefan
·"Overall I would say that it is an ordinary cigar that is a pleasant and easy smoke with no real wow factor. I personally like the nubs so I was slightly disappointed in this. I will try this again but may not go looking for one." -Sandeep (Djangos)
I imagine this is what a fresh Cuban Davidoff would have tasted like back in the 80's. I've been fortunate to have one that was almost 30 years old, so I know the profile, but in those 30 years, some strength is lost. I appreciated the Davidoff Nicaragua for it's Nicaraguan take on the classic Davidoff profile and it's perfectly balanced flavors. I appreciated the Escurio for how unique and different it was. But this, is something completely different. This is a truly full flavored cigar that teeters in medium-full strength and has such a great classic profile. This is a game changer, I can't believe I'm saying this, but I liked this cigar even better than the Box-Pressed Nicaragua.
This is a great set both in appearance and performance and would make a great gift or starter set. I highly recommend this product, just most other Xikar products. The set has a retail price of $129 which I think is reasonable for the quality you get and the lifetime guarantee that makes Xikar awesome.
AllAsylumBlind Cigar ReviewsC.L.E.Christian EiroaCraigEmmettFeaturedHabanoHondurasIPCPRNaturalRobustoSandeepStefanTom Lazuka
·"Overall this cigar was a great smoke with easy to discern flavors and pleasant the entire way with no issues. Will definitely get a fiver or so to age in my humi." -Sandeep (Djangos)
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 is the latest in the annual line of Reserva cigars to be released from Habanos S.A. It was debuted on the first night of the 18th Habanos Festival on February 29th. These are some of the most exclusive and expensive cigars that come out of Cuba. Hoyo de Monterrey was the only national brand to not have a Reserva release prior to this year.
AllBlind Cigar ReviewsCarlo CorazzaCosta RicaDouble RobustoEmmettFeaturedGreggHabanoIPCPRNaturalStefanSteveWes
·"A deceivingly strong stogie considering how smooth it is; about medium-bodied and with a relatively understated flavor profile, and a relatively high smoke output that is not offensive. Easily a 90+ points cigar in my book, reminding me of some of my favorite Dominican puros." -Stefan (Stefan)