"This was a very enjoyable smoke. The flavors stayed present through all parts of the smoke. The thick mouthfeel was nice. The strong coffee flavor was intense to the point it felt like I was pairing a coffee with this cigar. Other notes of earthy, cocoa and mild black pepper spice came through as well." -Chad M. (Chad Tchad)
"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
Imagine a car enthusiast having an opportunity to tour the Ferrari factory in Maranello, or someone who is a collector of fine watches going to visit Patek Philippe in Geneva. The chance to actually see your favorite products being constructed by hand can be a real treat for the senses, and it can also give a heightened respect for the work that goes into creating these items that we love so much. For premium cigar lovers the products that we consume are some of the most artfully and painstakingly crafted products in the world. Still, so many cigar lovers still don't have the first-hand experience of seeing what goes into growing fine tobacco and crafting great cigars. During Puro Sabor 2018 I was able to visit a number of cigar factories, large and small. In this second article of the series about the festival I will take you through these factories in the same order that I visited them.
AllBlind Cigar ReviewsCorona GordaCrowned HeadsDon Pepin GarciaFeaturedHabanoJon HuberMaduroNicaragua
·"I really enjoyed this cigar and would definitely add it to my routine repertoire. I’m not a big pepper fan but the amount of pepper in this cigar was perfect. Not overpowering but well balanced with the other flavors to create a cigar that consistently kept my attention but was also relaxing and smooth. This is a great cigar for either an intermediate or experienced cigar smoker." -Diana (ArmyRN)
AllBlind Cigar ReviewsCorona GordaCrowned HeadsFeaturedGreggHabanoJiunnJon HuberNaturalNicaraguaRosadoSandeepStefan
·"Overall a pleasant but one dimensional experience. The predominant flavor is of leather and pepper with a grassy finish. Will definitely try this again and may benefit from some time in the humidor." -Sandeep (Djangos)
AllBlind Cigar ReviewsConnecticut BroadleafDon Pepin GarciaFeaturedIPCPRJohn A.John I.MaduroMickey T.NicaraguaPete JohnsonRobustoRyan H.Tatuaje
·"This cigar had everything going for me. Lots of cream, wood, chocolate, and just a hint of spice at the end. It lasted a full 2 hours and never increased in strength, just dynamite. " -Mickey T. (irratebass)
AllBlind Cigar ReviewsCorojoDerekDon Pepin GarciaEricFeaturedIPCPRJeffLa AuroraMatt H.NaturalNestor MirandaNicaraguaRobusto
·"Even though this cigar was a mild/medium taste, the woody flavors had a nice balance throughout. There were flavors of oak and cherry wood with a nice campfire aroma coming from the smoke. The after-taste was not over powering and left a nice taste behind. Even though a bitter flavor showed, it did not come until almost at the end. Overall I am very pleased and would love to enjoy this one again." -Eric (smalls29)
In the case of shop events, it can be challenging for a small cigar shop. The difficulty comes in a few different forms. On one hand, a smaller cigar shop simply doesn't have as much space for customers. Also, a brand owner would typically be less inclined to spend the time money and effort to hold an event at a small cigar shop. But brands who have a broad following and dedicated group of talented sales reps can take chances on small shop events, and sometimes turn them into a success. In late July of 2018, I spent the evening at my local shop and had a wonderful time at a small scale cigar event.
"This was a very enjoyable cigar based upon flavor and performance. My only complaint is the flavors becoming somewhat muted during the middle portion. I would highly recommend this to any smoker who enjoys bold flavors and has a bit of time to dedicate to the experience. I’d love to pick up a five-pack of these for future enjoyment." -Jason H. (Jokey Smurf
"From the mouth-watering dinner rolls to the unique ending, this cigar was all over the place. It kept me engaged the entire time, waiting to see what came next. Add in the fact that it wasn't overly light or heavy-bodied, it hit just right for me. I was pleasantly surprised with the entire experience and it is one that I could see myself picking up a fiver to have again." -Doug S. (Unpossible_1)