Alec Bradley Cigar Co have announced they will be initiating a full-scale re-release Medalist cigar line. The Medalist is cloaked in a golden ‘shade grown’ wrapper grown in Honduras, a Honduran binder and premium long-fillers from Honduras and Nicaragua.
"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)
"The flavor was slightly light and one note, but it was a nice sweet floral and cedar flavor. The cigar had a good creaminess until the final third, which transitioned into a heavy, bitter bite. The cigar smoked fast and seemed light, so I'm unsure if it was underfilled or mix-filled. I would smoke it again at the right price, but it is not the most complex stick." -Lauren S. (Lauren S.)
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·"I did enjoy this cigar, but I wish it had been a little more complex or had some more transitions. It wasn't as dry as some Connecticut cigars and I appreciated that, but it did get a little boring. If the price is right, I would consider picking up a five pack of these. For fans of milder and Connecticut cigars, I would recommend giving it a try." -Emmett (rhetorik)
"The final third of this cigar really upped the enjoyment factor. It took it from good to very good in my opinion. I have always been a fan of cigars with many transitions, and this one did not let me down and threw in a completely unexpected and unique flavor, that made the cigar a true star. The strength and body stayed right in the medium range and can be enjoyed by anyone. The flavors would go well with morning coffee as well as a lighter bodied beer that won't overrun it. I am really looking forward to finding out what this cigar is and recommend you try it when the secret is out! " -Kevin A. (Kevin A.)
Alejandro Martinez CuencaAllConnecticutFeaturedIPCPRJoya De NicaraguaJuan MartinezNaturalNewsNicaragua
·Today, Joya de Nicaragua unveiled a new Connecticut shade-wrapped version of it's Antaño line: Joya de Nicaragua Antaño CT. The word Antaño translates to "Yesteryear". The Antaño CT joins the original Antaño CT, Antaño Reserva, and Antaño Dark Corojo in the line.
"A great cigar for those that like coffee. Impeccable construction with a nice even burn and mellow smoke throughout the experience. The initial sweetness prepares the palate to accept the bitterness that coffee brings." -Jai P. (Jai)
"I personally did not have any problems with this cigar but it never captured my interest or cigar repertoire . The cigar seemed to be infused and the transitions were nil. I would recommend this cigar to the novice or first time cigar smoker as she/he will be able to immediately define flavors even from the cold draw, and those flavors remain consistent and constant throughout the whole cigar experience." -Matt C. (Big Matt)
AllBlind Cigar ReviewsConnecticutDerekFeaturedHondurasJamesJason H.Jim RobinsonMiltonOscar ValladaresPuros de BallardSandeepToro
·"Lovers of milder to medium cigars are going to love this one. Even though not very complex in the first and middle thirds, it picks up and compensates in the final third. I usually enjoy a little more pepper and more spice so I was a little disappointed in that. More sweeter flavors would have been welcome, but then again this was not a maduro. Overall, a good cigar that I will definitely want to visit again." -Sandeep (Djangos)
"This cigar was fantastic! this is coming from a guy who rarely smokes a Connie. I may have to rethink this after smoking this one. There was a Connie from DE many years ago, which is no longer in production, that I loved. This reminds me of that cigar and I will search it out once I find out what it is. I recommend you do the same." -James H. (Keikan Jim)


