Cigar Info
The saber Tooth is an extremely limited release of the Aquitaine EMH. Adding flair and flavor to the existing Aquitaine blend, is a thin barber-pole stripe of Ecuadorian Connecticut to the Habano Ligero wrapper. The Saber Tooth was made in a very small production run, with only 200 boxes and 50 bundles, each 24-count. With such a limited production and highly anticipated cigar, I count myself very fortunate that I was able to buy a box. The Aquitaine EMH Saber Tooth measures 5 x 56 and carries an MSRP of $10/cigar. As with all other RoMa Craft cigars, these cigars were rolled at Nica Sueño in Esteli, Nicaragua.
Pre-Light
The first thing I notice is certainly the barber-pole stripe of the lighter colored wrapper leaf, that is exposed beneath the oily Habano Ligero. The ligero has a great feel and texture. The tooth is subtle, but under intense light, I can see it within the network of tiny veins that run throughout the Ligero. The look and feel is superb, and the attention to detail is evident.
Handmade cigars are not at all easy to make, but something with a delicate swirl like this must take the most experienced hands in the factory. The cap is also a beautiful duo-tone. This not only adds visual appeal, but also gives a nice guide for your cutter blades, should you need it. The aromas from the wrapper and the foot ate peppery and leathery. The cold draw is bright and frontal.
First Third
When the fire hits this cigar I have the classic smack of pepper. Since this is a larger ring gauge than I commonly smoke, I have to be deliberate and slow my pace. As it warms up, the flavors and aromas are really interesting. The pepper is complimented nicely by some creamy and sweet notes, leathery aromas, and something that reminds me of citrus. The citrus note is fleeting, but noticeable from time to time. The retrohale is potent and peppery, but not offensive or painful.
Middle Third
I have a tunneling issue at about the halfway point. This requires a relight, and that brings a bit of harshness to my palate. Fortunately, it only last a few moments. The flavors are still bold and rich. I start to taste things like bitter coffee and roasted nuts. The pepper and leather are ever present, but there is a nice mix of elements with an undertone of sweetness. I still have plenty of zing on the retrohale at this point.
Final Third
As the burn line starts to approach the band, the spice notes increase. Instead of basic black peppercorns, I get brighter notes of red pepper, especially through the nose. That is contrasted nicely by more of the smoothness from the lighter wrapper, and a sweet note like caramel or brown sugar. I still find it interesting that I get a background note of citrus every once in a while. The leathery aromas are still there, albeit subdued. I also get a slight sour note on the finish as the nub heats up. Yes, the retrohale still stings, but I’ll be ok.
Closing Thoughts
Overall, this was a very flavorful cigar. Not only that, as far as I’m concerned it’s fun to smoke something that looks interesting. This is a cigar that is unique, full of flavor, with pretty good burn performance and construction. It can’t be easy to get a cigar of this ring gauge and a barber-pole wrap to have consistent combustion. Aside from a minor burn issue with my first experience, I call it a well built cigar that tastes good. It also happens to be a conversation piece, and one I look forward to sharing with others. Also, here’s a fun side-note for fellow fans of RoMa Craft cigars. I was able to remove the bands with virtually no damage.
-Matthew T. (A Huge Nerd)
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