"Overall, I would say, this was an excellent cigar. Although the flavors did not transition much from third to third, considering I enjoyed all of these flavors it was very pleasing. I would definitely recommend this to individuals who, like a little bit bolder of a cigar, considering it was medium to full throughout most of the cigar." -Angel M. (Angel)
The Crux Epicure Habano, rolled at Plasencia Cigars S.A. in Nicaragua, began shipping in June 2023. With high-quality Nicaraguan binder, fillers, and a habano seco leaf wrapper, it received overall positive reviews for its flavors and draw.
AllBlack Label Trading CompanyBlind Cigar ReviewsEmilio CigarsFeaturedJames BrownMaduroNicaraguaToro
·"When a cigar doesn't feature a ton of transitions and only minor changes throughout the smoke, I often wonder if the redundancies amongst the notes make for a boring review. Thankfully for me, this cigar was anything but boring and I wasn't the slightest bit mad at the lack of transitions! From start to finish, my palate was greeted with the smoothest of smoke that seemingly got creamier with each and every puff. A splendid balance of flavors and a complex mix of notes that were creamy, nutty, tangy, sweet and spicy had my tastebuds swooning the entire time. The near perfect draw, trouble free burn and solid nicotine buzz only added to an already incredible smoking experience that I can not wait to have again. I for one am excited to pair this smoke with a number of different beverages and I can definitely see it landing in my normal rotation of favorites." -Noah S. (Noah)
"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)
"With a gambit of robust flavors that complimented one another exceptionally as well as a smoke that was creamy, smooth and mouthwatering, the first two thirds is certainly where this cigar shined! Even though the smoke remained incredibly smooth, the flavors flatlined entering the final third which made for a lackluster ending to an otherwise great cigar. Had the pleasant mix of flavors been consistent from start to finish my remarks would certainly have been a bit higher. I have a feeling that a loose roll is the most likely culprit for the sudden downturn as the temperature of the smoke quickly rose and the flavors almost immediately became acrid. I'd gladly give this smoke another shot as I'm sure the loose roll is just a fluke." -Noah S. (Noah)
"After leaving the blocks a little slow this cigar found its stride in the second third and never looked back. It is a refined smoke that will only get better with time. There were a few rough edges earlier on but ultimately the smoking experience was very pleasant. This would a great cigar to start your day with a beverage of the smoker’s choice. The profile is easily approachable for any level of smoker. I would seek it out again once I know what it is." -Estevan Z. (TheRealBanzi)
Ferio Tego unveiled its first regular production line, the Ferio Tego Summa, at the PCA trade show. The Summa blend utilizes tobaccos from three countries and is noted for its balance and intensity of body and flavor.
"With a smoking time south of an hour, this smoke was quite literally short and sweet making it a shoo-in for a lunch break or any other occasion where time is not a luxury. It is hard to say with absolute certainty whether or not the missing chunk of wrapper right at the foot was intentional or not. The fact that the wrapper was not torn and the uniformity of the transition where the wrapper begins leads me to believe that this feature had a purpose. Regardless, it showcased and highlighted in an intriguing way just how much the wrapper leaf contributes to a cigar's aroma, blend, and flavor profiles. Without it, the cigar would certainly not be the same. Aside from the obvious transition that took place once the burn line reached the leading edge of the wrapper, this smoke was dead consistent with regards to flavors. A smoke this short doesn't need a ton of transitions and with such enjoyable flavors, I couldn't be happier in their absence. Not only were the flavors right in line with my preferences, they were well balanced and the smoke was buttery smooth. A top-notch draw and trouble-free burn were the cherries on top of an incredible smoking experience that I can not wait to have again." -Noah S. (Noah)
"In the best of ways, this smoke had a lot going on! Not only did the abundant lineup of flavors balance and complement each other perfectly, they were nothing but pleasant from start to finish. In addition, a handful of transitions kept my palate intrigued and engaged without making me think too much which always adds to my enjoyment. Rounding out a superb experience was a near-perfect draw, trouble-free burn, and a decent nicotine buzz by the very end. Needless to say, this cigar checked off almost all of the boxes for me and I will certainly be seeking it out once it is revealed. " -Noah S. (Noah)
"With the single exception of the first few puffs being ever so slightly harsh, I haven't a negative remark to make about this cigar as it truly blew me away in just about every regard. Not only were the flavors incredibly robust, the mix was well-balanced and was suited almost perfectly for my palate. A perfect draw, flawless burn, and impeccable construction checked off the remaining boxes for me which rounded out an immensely enjoyable smoking experience from start to finish. I imagine this cigar would pair well with just about anything which is also a high mark in and of itself. Assuming the price point isn't outrageous, this stick has already landed in my regular rotation. If it is then I will gladly splurge for a special occasion as I am quite certain that a stick this would never disappoint. " -Noah S. (Noah