Size: 4.9" x 50
Shape: Robusto
Wrapper: Cuba
Binder: Cuba
Filler: Cuba
Date Code: 2005 (Special Regional release for Switzerland)
Location: Backyard deck
Was looking forward to a good experience, but this cigar turned out to be somewhat of a Jekyll + Hyde smoke.
Pre-light: Nice looking colorado wrapper with some small veins. Good heft, nicely firm feel with no soft spots. After cutting, the draw seems like it will be just right.
First half: The cigar started off with a blast of pepper and wood. The pepper soon faded into the background, replaced by some creamy leather and occasional hints of cinnamon. Burn and draw were both excellent, with the dark gray ash stacking up well. Overall the body and strength were in the mild-medium range.
Second half: The cigar started the second half by promptly going out. Rather odd as I was smoking at the same pace throughout. I gave it a minute, then purged + relit. Quickly the strength and body picked up into the medium / full range. The black pepper blast returned, along with some rich tobacco and coffee flavors. This continued for about 10-15 minutes where the cigar went out again. During this time the burn became rather erratic, with one side + the middle burning faster. I had to relight and touch up several times to keep it somewhat even. By the band point, the cigar was full strength with the pepper flavors overwhelming everything else, so I put it down.
Overall: I really enjoyed the first half and would have enjoyed most of the second had it not been for the burn issues. Probably just due to some oddball ligero leaf in that part of the cigar.
Thanks to Cliff for hosting this generous giveaway!
