"The cigar performed wonderfully. I love how all of the flavors worked well together. At times it was sweet and at others, it was dark and deep. Never once was it out of balance with itself and with a super long finish its flavors never really went away. If you are a fan of deep complex flavors this is the cigar for you. As for me, I will for sure be picking up some more to enjoy with a nice cup of black coffee or espresso. " -Estevan Z. (TheRealBanzi)
La Gloria Cubana is adding a 7 x 70 size to their Serie R line. The collection is known for its fat ring gauges and this marks the brand’s largest size to date. The La Gloria Cubana Serie R No 8 uses an Ecuadoran Sumatra wrapper, Nicaraguan binder and Nicaraguan and Dominican blend.
"Overall this cigar had everything going for it. There was plenty of smoke output. Lots of leather, wood, coffee, and walnut notes. It was NOT a one-trick pony, this was a very balanced cigar that held my attention from 1st light to last puff. I would say this is a box purchase for me for sure, and the size was perfect. " -Mickey T. (irratebass)
"A nice quick morning smoke. A very simple cigar with notes of bread, sweet tea, and lots of oak. Minor touch-up is needed to help with the burn. A cigar I'd seek out and add to my humidor. Pairs well with a cup of coffee and a fire." -Sean F. (fullermaine)
Macanudo is adding a fourth size to its Inspirado Green line this February, Gigante. The new cigar will measure 6x 60 and uses the same blend. The Inspirado Green line launched in 2020 with Robusto, Toro and Churchill vitolas.
"While milder than I tend to reach for, this cigar is quite satisfying. The sum of its parts, in the end, is better than each individual third. The aroma of this cigar is great and would likely not drive away someone otherwise opposed to cigar smoke. It will certainly raise questions from anyone passing by at the lounge. I do wish it could handle maintaining flavors whenever I put the cigar down for a rest. The frequency of puffing required makes this a pretty quick-burning cigar. I might not make this a regular smoke, but it is quite enjoyable" -Isaac M. (The Nothing)
"This is an extremely full-bodied cigar with core flavors of earth and wood. When the initial pepper spice was joined by some mineral early on things calmed down a bit, I only wish that the addition of coffee and orange zest that appeared in the final third had arrived earlier in the smoking experience as they added some complexity and balance to the cigar that I felt was needed. As far as pairings are concerned, I highly recommend a bourbon that has a natural touch of sweetness to it." -Matt Cade (CadeTNCC)
"Overall, this blend has the potential of being a big hit. Whilst it created large plumes of smoke, the construction was big on the loose side, creating burn issues where the cigar’s exterior had a hard time staying lit. Wonderful medium-bodied notes of oak, vanilla, various peppercorns, and malty sweetness provided an intriguing profile that kept me coming back for more. While the construction issue may be a one-off, I would recommend trying this stick out." -John A. (Bostoneo)
CAO has announced a new cigar in their Arcana Series: Firewalker. The Arcana Firewalker follows the Arcana Mortal Coil released last year. The series focuses on old-world processing methods and a limited run. Firewalker was inspired by the Chincagre method of aging and will come in one vitola a 6.5 x 56 toro.
"This was a cigar that hit all the high notes when it comes to flavors that I enjoy. Leather, baking spices, creaminess, all wrapped up to create an enjoyable smoking experience. The retro was smooth and the strength was just right. I would definitely try this cigar again. Worthy of at least a fiver if not a.box. Thanks for the experience! " -Kevin J. (maninblack77)
