"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)
"I was pleased with this cigar and what it had to offer. Once I gave it the proper respect, the flavors really came together to reward my efforts. Between the chai spices and almond biscotti, I would seek this out again no question." -Doug S. (Unpossible_1)
"This is a slow-burning cigar whose story is told in three chapters and with each chapter, the cigar’s smoking experience gets better and better. Solid easily discernible flavors, impressive transitions, and complexity, this cigar was far from boring by anybody’s definition and I would certainly smoke it again." -Matt Cade (CadeTNCC)
"This was a well-performing cigar with a medium to full-bodied experience. This cigar smoked wonderfully construction and draw-wise, however, the variety of flavors exhibited in this cigar were a bit sparse and stuck mostly with the pretzel-like oak-like sweetness. Being fairly linear, this cigars profile will not distract from the medium and full-bodied cigar smokers as it provides plenty of flavor to keep you coming back for more." -John A. (Bostoneo)
The latest cigar joining the long list of exclusive 50th anniversary celebration cigars from JR is none other than the Herrera Estelí by Drew Estate. This special version of the Herrera Estelí brand is not just a new size, it is a special blend, made just for this project.
"This would be the go-to cigar for someone who likes a very woody taste. It was never overly complex but a sneaky floral note would appear every so often. The white pepper added a bit of interest but the wood was the main taste. I don't know that I would smoke this all the time but it would be something I’d revisit." -Lauren S. (Lauren S.)
I was a bit hesitant as the larger cigars are just not my “go-to” smokes. The cigar was a delight for me to smoke and I would gladly do so again. This stick is full enough to provide a nice array of flavors but not powerful enough to make me want it done before actually reaching the end. For me, this would be a great “Christmas” smoke when in the vicinity of the kitchen with all the Holiday baking going on. " -Diana (ArmyRN)
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·"This was a much larger cigar than I normally like to smoke. However, I went into it very open-mindedly and found the flavor notes in the first third and partway through the second third to be very good with lots of spiciness. I liked the mix of earthiness mixed with the spice and was looking forward to how the cigar progressed. Withdraw problems leading to burn issues, I truly lost interest halfway through the second third. I muddled my way through the rest of the cigar hoping that that full flavor from the beginning of the cigar would re-emerge. I would try the cigar again, but it definitely would suit me in a smaller vitola." -Diana (ArmyRN)
"This cigar is one where the totality of the experience exceeds any particular portion. Honestly, I really can’t find anything to fault in this cigar. The fuller, deeper flavors were perfect for me today and the appearance and performance were remarkable. I can see where some smokers may be put off a bit by the fullness of the flavor, but the apparent lack of significant nicotine power should make this a good choice for anyone looking to venture out of their comfort zone. I’m glad I had an opportunity to give it a try and look forward to buying some in the future." -Jason H. (Jokey Smurf)
"I ended up enjoying this cigar quite a bit which somewhat surprised me after the first third. Once the pepper spice began to recede and the rather generic coffee note was the only prominent flavor remaining, I began to lose interest UNTIL things turned around for the better and some new notes quickly presented themselves. When you factor in those enjoyable flavors with the overall great construction, I would smoke this cigar again." -Matt Cade (CadeTNCC)