Spring Cigars DAVIDOFF Special T Country: DR Manufacturer: Davidoff Size: 6 x 52 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 It overpowered a late morning cup of tea, but coexisted with (but didn't really enhance) an evening Scotch. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 It didn't deliver the rewards the apperance promised. Aging might make this one a good-to-go - cigar. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 All the samples were consistent in body and taste. If only the taste were easier to figure out... FAIR Panelist #4 Despite some tartness in the finish, this is a good after-dinner cigar. Smoke it slowly to best enjoy it. RECOMMENDED POR LARRANAGA Pyramid Country: DR Manufacturer: Altadis USA Size: 6 x 50 Filler: DR/Br/Nic Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 I judged this too soon by its appearance. This cigar is perfect with caffe con leche and hazelnut biscotti. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 The samples were all consistent. This was a good, mild-mannered cigar that finishes fairly strong. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 A little too mild and young-tasting for me, I would come back to them after about six months in the box. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 To unwind after a rough day, I would find this cigar to be the perfect choice. Great for taking it easy. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ROMEO Y JULIETA Romeo No. 1 Deluxe Country: Cuba Manufacturer: Habanos, S.A. Size: 5 1/2 x 42 Filler: Cuba Binder: Cuba Wrapper: Cuba Panelist #1 Before I knew it, the experience was over, and I wanted another. A perfect cigar to while away a lazy hour. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This cigar would pair well with a cognac or brandy. It's definitely one for the evening. Not for novices. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 I would've enjoyed this more if the construction held up better. I would try this blend in another size. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 This is the kind of cigar that real smokers appreciate. Complex nuances from beginning to end. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED VEGAS DE FONSECA Belicoso Country: DR Manufacturer: SAG Imports Size: 6 x 50 Filler: DR/Nic Binder: Conn Wrapper: Cam Panelist #1 Like the old fitness ad, this cigar started out a 95-pound weakling, then became Charles Atlas! RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 The wrapper of this dark cigar was dry, and began to peel right away. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 A nice companion to a cup of java. This cigar would make the rotation, but wouldn't be a go-to - smoke. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 This one lets you know you're smoking a cigar! Absolutely an evening, outdoor, end-of-the-day cigar. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED RED LION Figurado Maduro Country: DR Manufacturer: Heavenly Cigar Co. Size: 4 1/2 x 44 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Braz Panelist #1 This little gem gives 100 percent! For a great, quick smoke with all the trimmings, this is the one! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This accomplishes a great deal, for a small cigar. The shape is appealing and the construction is great. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 I smoked this in the evening, and it went very well with cognac. This is a small cigar with a big, spicy taste. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 A seductive stick for starting the day, with coffee and the financial section. This is a fine little cigar. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED CARLOS TORANO SIGNATURE COLLECTION Perfecto Country: DR Manufacturer: Torano Cigars Size: 5 x 51 Filler: DR/Nic Binder: Conn? Wrapper: Braz Panelist #1 If a better cigar is out there, it would take Sir Edmund Hillary and Admiral Byrd to find it! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 The inconsistencies were a big problem here. If only all the samples rose to the good ones' standards. FAIR Panelist #3 I didn't go too far with this one. I couldn't identify any characteristic in the flavor besides strong. - FAIR Panelist #4 A tricky shape that is well-executed here. Appropriate for a wide range of smokers and a variety of situations. RECOMMENDED C.A.O. L'ANNIVERSAIRE Belicoso Cameroon Country: Nic Manufacturer: C.A.O. Size: 6 x 54 Filler: Nic Binder: Nic Wrapper: Cam Panelist #1 A very consistent, simply wonderful cigar that goes nicely with a glass of port. I'm betting it's a C.A.O. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 The addition of the Cameroon wraper to what tastes like Nicaraguan filler is a winning combination. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 This one kicked butt - but not ass, - if you know what I mean. A bit more time could make it perfect! RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 Put simply, I smoked these cigars until my skin was burning and my lips were chapped! I want more! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED S.T. DUPONT Robusto Country: Can Isl. Manufacturer: S.T. Dupont Size: 4 3/4 x 50 Filler: DR/Braz Binder: DR Wrapper: Indo Panelist #1 It's a good thing this had no band, as I might've smoked right through it. Have one after a prime rib! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 I strongly advise having a strong drink handy to refresh your tongue between puffs. Not a casual smoke. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 Some people claim they can taste colors. Well, I sure tasted green here. Save it for the great outdoors. FAIR Panelist #4 A pleasant smoke that leaned a bit toward the dry side. The size makes it good for a morning quickie. RECOMMENDED CIBAO Torpedo Country: DR Manufacturer: Indianhead Sales Size: 7 x 54 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 This is a cigar destined for greatness! Enjoy this one at one of those extravagant occasions. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This cigar's looks didn't promise much, but this turned out to be a pleasant afternoon smoke. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 This didn't leave a lasting impression, but could earn a place in my driving home from work - collection. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 A pretty straightforward smoke, it didn't provide any punch or any distinctive flavor. Maybe for a novice. MAY RECOMMEND LA LUNA African Fuerte No. 4 Country: Hon Manufacturer: La Luna Size: 4 x 52 Filler: Hon/Nic/CR Binder: Mex Wrapper: Cam Panelist #1 Lots of punch in a little package. This is a perfect smoke for when you have about 20 minutes to spare. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 If you can stand the preliminary struggle, you'll be very satisfied. I'd like a box around for quickies. - RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 A great cigar for a little break or a short drive. I would keep them in the work hunidor for short notice. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 A perfect cigar for sneaking away with a cold one. Ideal when there's not a lot of time on your hands. RECOMMENDED PERDOMO2 Milenario Country: Nic Manufacturer: Tabacalera Perdomo Size: 6 1/2 x 55 Filler: Nic Binder: Nic Wrapper: Cam Panelist #1 Lots of character, on the outside and inside. This is one suited to be paired up with a dark, malty beer. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 Those around you will be sure you're smoking something forbidden. This one will enhance your stature. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 A cigar with a dark aura. It would go well with red wine and dinner, but definitely not for casual situations. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 This cigar begs to be enjoyed with a single malt in front of a roaring fire. I'd buy these in a minute! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BALMORAL Torpedo Country: DR Manufacturer: Agio USA Size: 6 1/4 x 52 Filler: DR/Braz Binder: DR Wrapper: Ecu Panelist #1 Recommended to anyone willing to make the time to enjoy them. Great for weekend poker with the guys. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This stick was great to look at, but tough on the palate. Might be OK for a smoker who draws very little. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 The look makes one believe he's getting something out of this world, but the taste doesn't quite deliver. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 A mild, inoffensive cigar that holds its flavor well. A good cigar for the novice; a little tame for the vet. RECOMMENDED PUROFINO Piramide Country: Hon Manufacturer: Purofino Cigars Size: 6 1/2 x 54 Filler: Mex/Nic/CR Binder: Mex Wrapper: Ecu Panelist #1 This cigar looks fit for a drugstore shelf, but you'll find it's worth your time. An enjoyable, relaxing smoke. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 Sometimes consistency is good; here, it's unfortunate. All the samples were bland and disappointing. FAIR Panelist #3 The samples were all consistent, unfortunately. this cigar is too poorly constructed to make the effort. FAIR Panelist #4 This big fella wasn't quite what I expected, but if it's inexpensive, it would make for a nice lunch smoke. MAY RECOMMEND COHIBA Siglo IV Country: Cuba Manufacturer: Habanos, S.A. Size: 5 5/8 x 46 Filler: Cuba Binder: Cuba Wrapper: Cuba Panelist #1 This no-nonsense stick was a treat from start to finish. Definitely a cigar suited to a special occasion. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This cigar's band should read, Wusses need not apply! - This one is an adventure for even a veteran. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 This one challenges you. I daresay, a newcomer to cigars wouldn't make it through 2/3 of this one! MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 There's nothing like great, well-aged tobacco in a well-made package. I want more, but are they legal? HIGHLY RECOMMENDED PADRON Londres Country: Nic? Manufacturer: Padron Size: 5 1/2 x 42 Filler: Nic Binder: Nic Wrapper: Nic Panelist #1 A good but unobtrusive stick, this is a perfect choice for when there's a lady in the room who hates smoke. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This easygoing cigar was the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee, and it's just the right size for lunch! RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 The construction was impressive here. A more complex blend would make this an excellent cigar. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 This was an experience that ended too soon! Let's have this blend in a Churchill or a lonsdale! RECOMMENDED LA FLOR DOMINICANA Perfecto No. 2 Country: DR Manufacturer: La Flor Dominicana Size: 4 1/2 x 54 Filler: DR Binder: DR/Nic Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 This unassuming little stogie surprised me with its layers of sweet flavors, and its complexity. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 The flawed construction makes me unable to rave about this one. The flavors in here deserve better. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 I'm sure there were some pleasant flavors here, but this little bugger burned too fast for me to enjoy 'em. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 A cigar you can have for lunch, it also would make a fine accompaniment to a champagne toast. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ASHTON Aged Cabinet Selection No. 3 Country: DR Manufacturer: Holt's/Ashton Size: 6 x 46 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 This was a very elegant cigar, a perfect companion for the 10-year-old port I enjoyed at its side. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 The construction was exquisite, the taste was just so-so. My taste usually runs toward more muscle. - MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 This one's pleasant enough, albeit mild for me. I'd happily offer it to friends at a celebration. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 An aristocrat of a cigar. This golden-skinned, mild-mannered stick would be right at home at a cocktail party. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED DON JUAN Torpedo Country: DR Manufacturer: Tropical Tobacco Size: 6 x 54 Filler: DR/Nic Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 Samples were consistently great. I'd only smoke these with others who would appreciate such a fine cigar. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 A good early-day smoke, It doesn't bring much to the table, but doesn't require too much work to enjoy. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 A genuinely decent cigar, it's got good craftsmanship, but no art. Still, I'd smoke one and not complain. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 Take this one with you for a night on the town. This cigar will make sure other smokers take notice. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SMOKE - Spring 2001 HOME ARCHIVES SUBSCRIBE PRIVACY POLICY INDUSTRY NEWS SEARCH CONTEST TERMS OF USE HTML Copyright © 2001 by Keys Technologies and SMOKE Magazine. All rights reserved.