Summer Block-Busters J-R ULTIMATE Special Selection Toro Country: Hon Manufacturer: Santa Clara Cigar Co. Size: 6 x 50 Filler: Hon Binder: Hon Wrapper: Hon Panelist #1 I never thought I’d rate a cigar perfect, but this one is it! Smokes like this don’t come around too often. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 You’ll want to have some of these on hand all the time. A very versatile smoke for all occasions. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 A man’s cigar in every sense, and a great dessert after a prime rib dinner and a good stiff drink! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 All the samples were incredible. I would absolutely buy these. This cigar is not for the faint of heart! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BERING Baron Country: Hon Manufacturer: Swisher International Size: 7 1/4 x 42 Filler: Hon/DR/CR Binder: Hon Wrapper: Mex Panelist #1 Improved construction would garner this one a higher score, but the flavor earns it a recommendation. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This one has trouble staying lit, but it’s worth it. I wouldn’t go out of my way to find it, but I’d have another. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 I’d recommend this to someone who liked both light cigars and maduros, though it’s probably a narrow field. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 This one would best be smoked pre-lunch. A good cigar for those who like mild ones, or for newcomers. MAY RECOMMEND FITTIPALDI Churchill Country: DR Manufacturer: Alliance Cigar Co. Size: 7 x 48 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: DR Panelist #1 I didn’t want this one to end. I would love to open up a full humidor and smell the bouquet of this one. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This is a leisure-time cigar that would couple well with a dark ale and a hearty barbecue meal. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 A quality smoke that I’d pass to a friend. It would go well with a cold cerveza at the 19th hole. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 My favorite of the bunch. The flavors stood up to a good dinner, and complimented the cocktails nicely. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED PARTAGAS 8-9-8 Country: DR Manufacturer: General Cigar Size: 6 7/8 x 44 Filler: DR/Mex Binder: Mex Wrapper: Cam Panelist #1 Recommended for experienced smokers, who can appreciate its fine line between genius and madness. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 The flavors in here were not to my liking. This isn’t a cigar I’d smoke again, but it may appeal to others. FAIR Panelist #3 Very appealing visually, this cigar’s flavor didn’t follow through with the same quality. Not for my palate. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 This is a very nice, comfortable “anytime” smoke: its light flavors can be enjoyed with any drink. RECOMMENDED DON TOMAS CAMEROON COLLECTION Robusto Country: Hon Manufacturer: U.S. Cigar Sales Size: 5 1/2 x 52 Filler: DR/Mex/Col Binder: Col Wrapper: Indo Panelist #1 Consistency and taste make this one a winner. A very nice, spicy smoke for unwinding at the end of the day. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This is truly a cigar lover’s stick! I would be very happy to get me some more of these babies! Just perfect! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 This cigar is best after a heavy meal, accompanied with a cognac. I would definitely buy it if the price is right. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 Simply a good, full-flavored, manly smoke. Enjoy this one after a meal, or just about any other time! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED INDIAN TABAC Super Fuerte Toro Maduro Country: Hon Manufacturer: Indian Tabac Cigar Co. Size: 6 x 52 Filler: Nic/Hon/CR Binder: Nic Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 This would appeal to a wide range of smokers. It might turn the opinion of those who don’t like maduros. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 A good, well-constructed cigar for those that like them mellow. Sort of a lamb in wolf’s clothing. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 Despite its appearance, this one became a friend. Enjoy this cigar in the evening with a German pilsner. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 A winner! I would enjoy this classy cigar after a hearty dinner with a scrumptious dessert. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED DAVIDOFF Grand Cru No. 1 Country: DR Manufacturer: Davidoff Size: 6 1/8 x 43 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 A great morning cigar that paired well with a Cuban espresso. This one’s perfect for Sunday brunch. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This is a cigar that needs to be smoked slowly. When you take it easy, the rewards are there. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 All the samples were consistent. I wasn’t crazy for it, but it is a decent smoke for about any time of day. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 Top-notch in appearance, flavor, construction and appeal; I can’t imagine anyone not liking this cigar. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SAVINELLI E.L.R. No. 1 Churchill Country: DR Manufacturer: Savinelli, Inc. Size: 7 1/4 x 48 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 I would buy these at any price! I smoked one on the deck with a little port; it made the perfect combo. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 You’d best smoke these outside, and late. These reminded me of my grandfather’s strong cigars. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 I wouldn’t put it in the top echelon of maduros, but this cigar has a nice flavor. Worth it if the price is right. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 All the samples were great, especially with a rum. This stick would be a welcome addition to any humidor. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED MONTECRISTO T Country: Cuba Manufacturer: Habanos SA Size: ?? Filler: Cuba Binder: Cuba Wrapper: Cuba Panelist #1 This one overpowered the espresso I had with it. I suggest a stiff drink and a room full of other smokers. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 Keep the novices away from this one, but veterans should enjoy it despite some harshness in the blend. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #3 Fair construction and undistinguished flavor make this one a give-away more than a go-to smoke. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 Outstanding. This is the kind of cigar that leather chairs, fireplaces, and fine, aged spirits were made for. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED PUNCH Rare Corojo Pita Country: Hon Manufacturer: General Cigar Size: 6 3/4 x 48 Filler: DR/Hon/Nic Binder: Ecu Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 A cigar that holds up as well with a brown ale as with a fine red wine. This one’s definitely a keeper! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This is a good choice for afternoon or evening. The construction is top-notch and the flavor is great. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 This is a fairly well-made cigar, with a pleasant, if undistinguished taste. I’d buy some if the price were right. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 Like a fine thoroughbred, this cigar never faltered in the stretch. One of the best smokes I’ve had in years. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED CARLOS TORAÑO Signature Collection Toro Country: DR Manufacturer: Torano Cigar Co. Size: 6 x 54 Filler: Nic/DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Braz Panelist #1 An enjoyable smoke, not for those who like mild cigars. It’s a man’s man’s cigar, with a lot of heart. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This is a maduro that even a non-maduro lover would like. I’d recommend this to just about anyone. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 Simply, this is a very, very good cigar, well-suited to the deck with a glass of port late in the day. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 Sip some B&B and smoke this one nice and slow. Also perfect with that porterhouse steak dinner. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ZINO Mouton Cadet No. 1 Country: Hon Manufacturer: Davidoff Size: 6 1/4 x 44 Filler: Hon Binder: Hon Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 It would make a good starter cigar, and the flavor will grow on you. A welcome addition to any humidor. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 I would offer this to anyone who appreciates a good mild cigar, or to a beginner who’s looking for flavor. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 Usually, I like a more robust smoke, but this is a good mild cigar that can be enjoyed nearly any time of day. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 I had to work through a slightly tight draw, but the rewards were worth it. A good cigar for the morning. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED PEÑAMIL ORO No. 17 Country: Can. Isl. Manufacturer: Cita Size: 6 7/8 x 41 Filler: DR/Braz Binder: Indo Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 This works as a good starter cigar. It’s also suitable for a nine-hole game, or to give to a client. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 I would have to consider this cigar lacking in personality. The look promises more than it delivers. FAIR Panelist #3 This lonsdale made for a fine early-morning smoke. I’d recommend it for its light taste and consistency. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 Overall, a pleasant cigar that I’d recommend depending on price. It’ll appeal to those who like ‘em mild. MAY RECOMMEND PERDOMO ESTATE SELECCION Monstro Country: Nic Manufacturer: Tabacalera Perdomo Size: 6 x 50 Filler: DR/Nic Binder: Nic Wrapper: Ecu Panelist #1 This is a real man’s cigar, meant for veteran smokers only. And that’s exactly the way I like ‘em! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 A very flavorful cigar. Based on the shape, I’d guess this is from Perdomo - a Counterfeit Cuban perhaps? RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 After a four-course meal, this is a fantastic dessert. In the daytime, on an empty stomach, it’d be suicide! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 If I didn’t know better because of the shape, I’d guess this ass-kicking stick was smuggled onto our shores. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED CAMACHO Corojo Cetro Country: Hon Manufacturer: Caribe Size: 6 1/2 x 44 Filler: Hon Binder: Hon Wrapper: Hon Panelist #1 This is a hell of a good cigar! Buy it, trade it, get it from the U.K. if you have to, but get your hands on it! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 This is a good hearty cigar, perfect for enjoying alongside your favorite Scotch whisky or bourbon. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 Just goes to show, looks can be deceiving. I didn’t expect to like this cigar, but I’d surely smoke it again. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 I’d buy this cigar - again and again and again! This puro goes well with just about any wine or espresso. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED OCCIDENTAL RESERVE Churchill Country: DR Manufacturer: Alec Bradley Cigar Co. Size: 7 x 48 Filler: DR Binder: Ecu Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 I’ll give it a cautionary thumbs-up. It did go well with an early-morning coffee on a mild-weather day. RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 All the samples were consistently above average. I’d recommend this to someone just starting to smoke. RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 I liked the taste of this cigar, but problems with the construction made it difficult to fully enjoy it. MAY RECOMMEND Panelist #4 The smooth and easygoing flavors and solid construction has me thinking this is a Davidoff or a Dunhill. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED EXCALIBUR BY HOYO DE MONTEREY NO. III Country: Hon Manufacturer: General Cigar Size: 6 1/8 x 48 Filler: DR/Hon/Nic Binder: Conn Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 Very consistent in aesthetics and flavor. I liked this cigar a lot, and will have it in my humidor soon. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 A great cigar! This went well with a dark rum. Slide in Gladiator in the DVD and light one of these up. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #3 A good smoke right down to the finger-burning end. This cigar pairs up well with Scotch after a big meal. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 Light and flavorful at the same time, this is a cigar that I could recommend to anyone at any time. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AVO Maduro No. 2 Country: DR Manufacturer: Davidoff Size: 6 x 50 Filler: DR Binder: DR Wrapper: Conn Panelist #1 Flavor wins out again over some aesthetic flaws. I’d guess this is Hon-duran, but can’t figure which brand. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Panelist #2 If you smoke this one, make sure you have something to wash it down with. Try it if the price is right. FAIR Panelist #3 Complexity of flavor and steadiness of body are two very good reasons to try this one. Don’t let looks deceive. RECOMMENDED Panelist #4 I would buy these for my mild maduro-loving friends. A pleasure for the palate as well as the nose. RECOMMENDED Continued on next page... CURRENT ISSUE ARCHIVES SUBSCRIBE REVIEWS CIGAR FORUM SEARCH CONTEST SHOPPING HTML Copyright © 2001 by Keys Technologies and SMOKE Magazine. All rights reserved.