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Summer 98
Volume III
Issue 3

Humo Jaguar

SMOKE Cigar Ratings
RatingQuality
  
0-2.0Poor
2.1-2.9Fair
3.0-3.5Good
3.6-4.4Excellent
4.5-5.0Superior
Price Codes
A$1.00 to $2.50
B$2.51 to $3.75
C$3.75 to $5.75
D$5.76 to $7.50
E$7.51 to $10.50
F$10.51 to $14.99
G$14.99 and above
Summer Smokes - Robustos
No time for a long smoke? SMOKE reviews Robustos - a short, stout cigar which packs a big cigar taste!


Gigantes | Torpedos/Pyramids | Robustos






Robustos...

CORDOVA Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Sumatra Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Tamboril Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1This is a nice cigar. If priced right, this would make a good regular smoke for those of who can't afford Castro-fruit.
Panelist #2This is a very assertive cigar, that tasted strong even after a hearty meal. Not for those who like mild cigars.
Panelist #3This is a good cigar for anytime of the day. It's like sex; once you start it you have to finish! I would buy this anytime.
Panelist #4A good medium-bodied cigar that has many good qualities. The spicy character makes it an ideal compliment to a cold ale.

CABALLEROS Rothschilds (4.75 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: MATASA Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1Not a cigar for the fans of heartier stogies, but if you like mild smokes with a little more body than most, give it a try.
Panelist #2Despite its pretty appearance, this cigar was too strong and harsh for my tastes. Fans full-bodied cigars might appreciate this.
Panelist #3A good late in the day cigar. Not for those who are starting out, but perfect for those who have graduated to medium-bodied smokes.
Panelist #4This is a good smoke. It is mild, but very tasty and has a pleasing finish. Highly recommended for fans of milder cigars.

SIGNET Bedford (4.75 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Lane Limited Filler: Dominican Republic Price: E
Panelist #1An ordinary work-a-day, mild cigar that didn't distinguish itself in the flavor department. I would recommend if the price is right.
Panelist #2This is a great anytime of the day cigar. It is consistently smooth and I would purchase them. Perfect for beginners or casual smokers.
Panelist #3Not a real eventful smoke, but it is definitely refreshing and easy to smoke. Good for beginners, and with a mild scotch.
Panelist #4A cigar for those who like them mild. It is not exceptional, but it does the job. Recommended (for mild cigar smokers).

EL REY DEL MUNDO Choix Supreme (5 x 48)
Country: Cuba Wrapper: Cuba Binder: Cuba
Manufacturer: Habanos S.A. Filler: Cuba Price: G
Panelist #1One of the best cigars I have ever smoked. It is a full-bodied cigar that needs to be smoked without any distraction.
Panelist #2Only for those who enjoy full-bodied treats. If you can obtain these I suggest aging them. You will be rewarded.
Panelist #3I would bet it all that this is a cigar of Cuban origin. It is a sin we can't smoke these legally. A crime against humanity.
Panelist #4A cigar for the true connoisseur. This shows why Cuba is, and always will be, at the top of the heap.

ROMANA Robusto (4.5 x 52)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: TABANTILLAS Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1This is definitely one of the best cigars in the tasting. Great for after dinner with a good beer.
Panelist #2A decent cigar that burns too hot and that has an ash that dropped on the floor, in the lap, and on the cat. Recommended if the price is right.
Panelist #3The sloppy ash hindered my enjoyment of this one. Still, it's a good cigar that many will enjoy.
Panelist #4The draw and construction are the best things going here. Not a real distinguishable smoke and tough to recommend.

SAVINELLI ORO 750 Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Indonesia Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Savinelli Filler: Dominican Republic Price: D
Panelist #1All samples had consistent flavor and construction, and provided for a high level of enjoyment. A robust and flavorful cigar.
Panelist #2A winner! This one has the body to be enjoyed outdoors or in. It might be too strong for a novice, but great for everybody else.
Panelist #3Even though the cigars had some construction problems, I will recommend them for their robust and consistent flavor.
Panelist #4The flavor is the highlight of this robusto. The construction could be improved, but overall it is a worthwile smoke.

AJ's Cigars

AZ Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Mexico Wrapper: Mexico Binder: Mexico
Manufacturer: Herdman Distributors Filler: Mexico Price: B
Panelist #1Overall this cigar was enjoyable. Given the rough look, I was very pleasantly surprised by its flavor.
Panelist #2This is a strong, consistent smoke, that is good for late in the day. It would hold up nicely with a fine cognac.
Panelist #3A good durable cigar for outdoor activities. If you have to put it down and re-light it later, it can take it.
Panelist #4This is a darn good smoke. I enjoyed its strength and especially the consistency from sample to sample.

NEXT GENERATION Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Indonesia Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Quality Cigar Partners Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1This cigar is definitely a keeper. I would buy it and recommend it to everybody.
Panelist #2A consistent and flavorful cigar. I was impressed with all aspects of this one. I would definitely suggest a sampling.
Panelist #3An OK smoke that finishes strong. The construction could use some improvement, but the complex flavor makes it worthwhile.
Panelist #4No doubt about it, this is a very good cigar. It went great with my favorite beer and was good to the last puff.

LA CONDESA Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Indonesia Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: GIROSA Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1There is enough strength and flavor here to interest those who abhor the mild smokes, yet it's smooth enough for beginners.
Panelist #2Even though I prefer a more full-bodied smoke, I enjoyed this cigar. It went well in the afternoon with a cold root beer.
Panelist #3The construction problems make this an average cigar at best. The blend has all the makings of a tasty treat.
Panelist #4A very consistent and pleasant cigar. It's not exactly my style, but it's a staple for lovers of Dominican smokes.

LA LUNA DE LA HABANA Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: U.S. Wrapper: Indonesia Binder: Ecuador
Manufacturer: La Luna de la Habana Filler: DR/Hon./Ecu./Indo. Price: D
Panelist #1A great "bar cigar" that enhanced a few of my nights out. I would like to know what this cigar is so that I can buy them.
Panelist #2This cigar has impressive medium-bodied spice flavors, with a zingy bite on the finish. The messy ash detracts.
Panelist #3A full-bodied cigar that lacks the character to be a good after-meal smoke. Nice for the afternoon.
Panelist #4A good smoke for the mild cigar smoker looking to move up to a fuller taste, or for the strong cigar smoker looking for a milder blend.

TABU Robusto (5 X 50)
Country: Nicaragua Wrapper: Ecuador Binder: Sumatra
Manufacturer: Eagle Cigars Filler: Nicaragua Price: D
Panelist #1I would tell everyone about this cigar and would definitely stock my humidor with it. A great afternoon smoke.
Panelist #2A good early-in-the-day cigar that would also do well after a light meal. It doesn't wow you with strength, but any smoker will enjoy the taste.
Panelist #3This is a very mild cigar, which to my jaded taste buds was bordering on bland. A good cigar for a novice smoker.
Panelist #4A very mild smoke that draws well and looks good. Best for the daytime, as its light style might be overpowered by a heavy meal or drink.

COHIBA Robusto (5 x 49)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Cameroon Binder: Indonesia
Manufacturer: General Cigar Company Filler: Dominican Republic Price: F
Panelist #1I enjoyed these immensely with a couple of cold Buds. It is an anytime of the day smoke that I would happily buy.
Panelist #2A solid and tasty smoke which, with a bit of time, will improve even more. A quality blend makes this a winner.
Panelist #3A well-made cigar, obviously made by a skilled roller. The blend is not to my liking, but some aging might help to smooth out the flavor.
Panelist #4A quality cigar with an interesting flavor. The smoothness indicates well-aged tobacco, and the aromatic nature is unique.

Bucanero Cigars

ROMANTICOS Eros (5 x 52)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: S&T Cigars Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1An attractive cigar that is beautifully rolled and that smokes great. The deliciously sweet, herbal flavor will grow on you.
Panelist #2This cigar is great! I'm hoping this brand is readily available in my neck of the woods. I'd love to get my hands on more.
Panelist #3Good for casual smoking while at work or in the car, but it won't hold up well after a hearty meal.
Panelist #4This would be a good every day smoke, depending on cost. A very nice blend that is not boring.

KING RICHARD Royal Knight (5 x 50)
Country: U.S. Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Connecticut (U.S.)
Manufacturer: King Richard Cigars Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1This cigar smokes well and is impressive visually. It's pleasing, but it lacks defining flavor. A good every day smoke if the price is right.
Panelist #2All samples were consistently great. Not only would I recommend these cigars, I would buy them by the box.
Panelist #3A lovely, mild cigar. Fans of full-bodied Cuban smokes might sneer, but I can always find a place for a cigar like this.
Panelist #4This cigar is well-made and provides a mild, one-dimensional taste that is very nice. Recommended for fans of mild and creamy cigars.

NAFILYAN SIGNATURE SERIES Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (Ecu) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Worldwide Cigar Co. Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1This cigar is strong enough to hold its own after a spicy meal. I'll be having some of these, once I find out what they are.
Panelist #2A mild, but enjoyable smoke, that I would buy as a middle of the day smoke, or for beginners.
Panelist #3A finely constructed, good tasting cigar that reminds me of an H. Upmann. All samples were extremly consistent.
Panelist #4A wonderful light cigar that I would swear is a Por Laranaga. Don't drink it with anything strong, as it might get overpowered.

LA UNICA #400 (Maduro) (4.5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: J.C. Newman Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1This cigar went great as a lunchtime smoke. I absolutely enjoyed it and would gladly recommend it to my friends.
Panelist #2This reminds me of a Punch Rothschild in maduro. It's a good unpretentious smoke that would be a great every day cigar if priced right.
Panelist #3I found this cigar to be somewhat plain. It just didn't have much of an impact on me. Some may appreciate the maduro flavors.
Panelist #4This is very similar to a Hoyo de Monterrey Rothschild. It's a well-made cigar with terrific hearty flavors.

MONTAGUE GRAN RESERVE Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Indonesia Wrapper: Indonesia Binder: Indonesia
Manufacturer: Swedish Match Filler: Brazil/Indonesia Price: C
Panelist #1This is a cigar I would smoke again, especially as a daytime smoke. It's very consistent, but also very mild.
Panelist #2High marks for appearance and construction, but the flavor has some rough edges. The strength is impressive. Try them after some aging.
Panelist #3A consistently good cigar that I would certainly buy for my humidor. Recommended for just about any smoker.
Panelist #4A good cigar, with some intriguing flavor. It's deceivingly strong, but very smooth at the same time. I would recommend it.

DON AUGUSTA Colossus Jr. (4.75 x 60)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: El Artista, Ltd. Filler: Dominican Republic Price: D
Panelist #1This monster tastes as good as it looks. Surprisingly fresh taste, since I thought it was a novelty cigar at first.
Panelist #2A very enjoyable smoke, even for somebody who normally sticks to smaller ring gauges. I would definitely recommend this cigar.
Panelist #3I was skeptical because of the huge ring gauge, but came away from this big one pleasantly surprised. Not earth shattering, but solid.
Panelist #4The huge ring gauge will limit the appeal of this cigar. Its flavor is very accessible, like a main-stream Dominican.

Davidoff of New York

TENORIO Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Tabar & Associados Filler: Dominican Republic Price: ??
Panelist #1I really liked this one. It's a classy cigar with finesse, respectable strength, and satisfying complexity.
Panelist #2A good cigar with some excellent earthy flavors, and a pleasing level of complexity. The uneven burn detracted slightly.
Panelist #3A good, solid smoke that is very likely an expensive premium cigar. A Davidoff perhaps? Recommended without hesitation.
Panelist #4A truly powerful cigar that needs to develop some balance. Like a tannic wine, this will improve with age. Recommended for bold smokers.

PENGUIN SUPREME Galapagos (5 X 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Connecticut (U.S.) Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Universal Premium Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1A very good, straightforward style of Dominican cigar. Fans of Leon Jimenes or La Flor Dominicana will like this.
Panelist #2There is nothing wrong with a cigar like this. While it is not the most unique cigar, it is consistantly good.
Panelist #3The only fault of this cigar is that it is ordinary. The quality is good, but unless it is smartly priced, it will not stand out.
Panelist #4This is sure to become a popular cigar among mainstream smokers. It's flavors are easy-going and excellent.

CONQUISTADOR Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Mexico Wrapper: Indonesia Binder: Honduras
Manufacturer: Jonathan Thomas Filler: Dominican Republic Price: A
Panelist #1Similar to a Punch Rothschild, but I think this cigar is better. I'm not usually a fan of maduros, but this is very satisfying.
Panelist #2This cigar will put a beginner on their butt. For those who love strong and robust flavor, check this one out.
Panelist #3It is tough to find a cigar outside of Havana with such depth. I am very impressed with this cigar! What is it?
Panelist #4This cigar kicks some butt! It is strong and complex. Might be Cuban, but not with the maduro wrapper. Recommended for the experienced.

CUPIDO Robusto
Country: Nicaragua Wrapper: Sumatra Binder: Nicaragua
Manufacturer: Cupido Cigars Filler: Nicaragua Price: E
Panelist #1This is a cigar for the savvy cigar smoker. There is a wealth of flavor and complexity here to enjoy.
Panelist #2An excelleny all-around cigar. The quality, construction, and flavor makes this a solid choice.
Panelist #3A cigar that never holds back its flavors. This is a cigar designed to provide a high level of satisfaction. Enjoy!
Panelist #4This cigar required a roach-clip to finist it. The flavors last and last. I didn't want it to end.

LA FLOR DEL TEIDE VINTAGE Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Canary Islands Wrapper: Sumatra Binder: Canary Islands
Manufacturer: International Cigar Ent. Filler: Canary Islands Price: C
Panelist #1A very consistant cigar that is well-made, but the simple flavors keep it from scoring high.
Panelist #2This is a good smoke, thanks to the roller, but the blend could use a bit of spicing up.
Panelist #3A cigar that would be worth buying only if the price is right. It provides some quality, but it's not a super-premium smoke.
Panelist #4A run of the mill cigar that would suffice as an everyday smoke if priced accordingly.

BROOKLYN BLUNT Robusto (5 X 60)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Sumatra Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: Manhattan Cigar Co. Filler: Dominican Republic Price: E
Panelist #1This cigar is way too much fun to smoke. It's great to take to a card game or to a bachelor party.
Panelist #2A very consistant cigar that was far better than I expected. If you are looking for something different, check this out.
Panelist #3An interesting cigar to smoke given it's novel size, but the overly sweet flavor is not to my liking.
Panelist #4A rich cigar that has a great blend of tobacco. It's fun to smoke, but it's tough to get your mouth around this one.

RG SANTIAGO DOMINICAN Robusto (5 x 50)
Country: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Indonesia Binder: Dominican Republic
Manufacturer: GIROSA Filler: Dominican Republic Price: C
Panelist #1A very respectable cigar, despite a lack of complex flavors. It is easy to smoke and enjoy.
Panelist #2An ok everyday cigar that could be enjoyed at work or while doing outdoor activities.
Panelist #3An average cigar with reasonable, but unimpressive, flavors. This one's only worth buying if under $4.
Panelist #4A good straightforward cigar of moderate strength and complexity. It might improve with age.



SMOKE - Summer 98


Cigar Rights of America

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