"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)
The Knuckle Sandwich maduro might be my favorite cigar of the last year, and this one comes close to it. It is more refined, but without the power and spice that define the Knuckle Sandwich Maduro. I only have one of these cigars and I can't wait to pick up more to age and enjoy. This collaboration between Espinosa and Guy Fieri knocks it out of the park at every opportunity, and everyone should try a Knuckle Sandwich whether it's this one, or one of the other options.
"Overall this was a pleasant cigar to smoke sensed a little nicotine buzz during the final third nothing off-putting, however, very enjoyable smoke I would definitely recommend this to friends who like a milder cigar. The cigar would go well with coffee and cream, or for the beer drinker maybe a blond ale style beer. " -Angel M. (Angel)
Rocky Patel Premium Cigars (RPPC) has announced a new vitola to its Hamlet 25th Year line, a Salomon size. The new vitola was shown off at this summer’s IPCPR trade show and will be shipping late October. Like the rest of the line, it was created by Cuban cigar blender and master roller, Hamlet Paredes.
Camacho have announced the release of the original Diploma in the 11/18 figurado format. Made with hand-selected high priming Original Corojo tobaccos, the Camacho Diploma blend has been re-introduced to the marketplace for smokers who want a unique, intense and flavorful cigar.
Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG), parent company of General Cigar, has announced a new version of their Buffalo Trace blend, “Buffalo Trace Special F." This was made in collaboration with famed whiskey maker Buffalo Trace. The name Special F comes from the unique and difficult-to-roll shape, figurado. This new blend also uses a binder aged in authentic Buffalo Trace bourbon barrels from the brand’s Kentucky distillery.
"The beginning was interesting and the middle almost extraordinary…unfortunately the ending was not able to live up to the rest and the sharp, harsh ending had me glad to set it down. I’d try another one based on where it was heading but would end it early if it started to get hot like this one. " -Jason H. (Jokey Smurf)
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·"The most impressive portion of this cigar in terms of flavor came at the end, but combined with the top notch construction leads me to rate this a bit higher than I might. It burned really nicely for much longer than I usually nurse a cigar, and I'm a fool for a big ol perfecto. " -John I. (John I.)
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·While the Diademas size was amazing I always find them a struggle with construction, burn, etc. This cigar from a construction point of view was on point. The burn was great, and the cigar smoked perfectly. Would I spend $100 on this cigar if it was regular production? Of course not. Definitely a treat to smoke and I was happy to get the chance. I give this a score of 93.