Fall
Smokes
photos by Jeff Schnorr
"I can think of nothing less than a life devoted to pleasure" - John D. Rockefeller
Stepping into my new role as Senior Editor, I was handed the Herculean task of assembling and overseeing the SMOKE Cigar Review. And what a task it is.
Picture, if you will, hundreds - hell, thousands - of cigars falling from the sky, and it's your job to catch them all. (It's an image several of you have undoubtedly indulged in while enjoying a smoke on a crisp and cool fall afternoon.) That should give you some sort of idea what it's like putting this monster together. We at SMOKE sort through the manna from heaven, turn our panel loose on them, and then tell you what's what. After going through the selection of robustos, Churchills, figurados, and coronas, here's SMOKE's take on the current review.
|
SMOKE Cigar Ratings |
|---|
| Rating | Quality |
|---|
| 0-2.0 | Poor |
| 2.1-2.9 | Fair |
| 3.0-3.7 | Good |
| 3.8-4.4 | Excellent |
| 4.5-5.0 | Superior |
As the cigar intelligentsia well knows, the manna doesn't have to be from Havana. No fewer than five Dominican sticks did as well as or better than venerable Cuban selections Partagas and H. Upmann, as did two Honduran stogies and two Nicaraguan. In fact, a Nicaraguan creation took home top prize: the Perdomo2 Torfecto nailed a top-of-the-tables 4.6, nipping the Costa Rica-born C.A.0. L’ Anniversaire Belicoso by a hair. Oh yeah - a U.S.-made cigar did pretty well too. True to its birth nation's character, the El Original comprises a melting pot of filler from five different coun-tries, and clocked in with a 4.3. An American original, indeed.
And another pearl of wisdom was supported by our find-ings: you don't have to pay big bucks for a quality cigar. Noteworthy were the Don Tomas Coronas, the
Puros Indios No. 4 Especial, and the Bering Imperials, each rating 4 and above, while costing $4 and below. At $1.95 a stick, the latter makes the concept of a $20 cigar as antiquated as a mellow Woodstock vibe.
"I might have just found my new regular cigar," gushed one panelist about the $3.50-per Puros Indios.
Hopefully we'll help you unearth some hidden treasures as well. After the smoke cleared, so to speak, and we brushed the remaining bits of filler from our hair, we found the results of this review very interesting.
Judging by their ebullient reviews, so did the winners of the SMOKE "Become a Reviewer Contest," which you can enter by visiting our Web site at www.smokemag.com (or clicking on the link above). We welcome winners Jacqueline Brewer, Jeffrey Burger, and Michael Moore to the panel, as well as our Celebrity Panelist, NFL hall of Famer Tony Dorsett, who enjoyed many unforgettable autumns with the Dallas Cowboys. Enjoy your autumn too.
- Michael Malone
Still want more?
Order the Smoke & Ash CD from Enthuse Publishing for a comprehensive database of ALL of SMOKE Magazine's famous cigar reviews! Smoke & Ash features full search capabilities, photos, a custom cigar journal, rating system, and more!
Robustos...
 |  | ARISTOFF BLACK Robusto | | Country: Dominican Republic | Wrapper: Cameroon | Binder: Dominican Republic
| | Manufacturer: CigarAmerica, Inc. | Filler: DR/Brazil | Price: $5.00
| | Panelist #1 | I burned my fingers on each of the
samples, but the taste made it
worth the pain. Builds to a tasty,
wonderful crescendo. SCORE: 4.9 | | Panelist #2 | A rough 'n ready smoke that I found
enjoyable. This would probably go
well with a pint of Guinness. Plenty
of flavor to offer. SCORE: 3.0 | | Panelist #3 | This is a perfect cigar to enjoy with
a cognac or a good glass of port.
This may well be my next box of
robusto-size cigars. SCORE: 4.4 | | Panelist #4 | An average cigar that goes well
with yard work. Alas, it lacked
consistency and complexity from
sample to sample. SCORE: 3.2 |
 |  | PUROFINO BLUE LABEL Churchill | | Country: Honduras | Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Costa Rica
| | Manufacturer: Purofino Cigars Intl. | Filler: Nic/CR/Hon | Price: $5.50
| | Panelist #1 | Not one of the greatest cigars
ever, but a strong starter smoke for
a newbie, or one looking for a
change of pace. SCORE: 3.7 | | Panelist #2 | As they say, you can't judge a book
by its cover. With a proper draw, it's
a real treat. Good flavor and a real
enjoyable finish. SCORE: 3.9 | | Panelist #3 | I like a full-bodied cigar, and this
really delivered. This fits the bill -
to a T! Consistent. Strong enough
to go with a big meal. SCORE: 4.5 | | Panelist #4 | Best suited for Saturday after
lunch, or while washing the car.
Some construction problems made
for a tough draw. SCORE: 3.8 |
 |  | PUNCH GRAN CRU Robusto | | Country: Honduras | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Honduras
| | Manufacturer: Villazon & Co., Inc. | Filler: DR/Hon/Nic | Price: $5.50
| | Panelist #1 | This stogie and a Mexican beer, and
you're sitting pretty. While the ash
was disappointing, it's still worth
its weight in smoke. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #2 | It's a nice cigar when it fires on all
cylinders, but its inconsistencies
prevent me from recommending it.
Too bad! SCORE: 3.0 | | Panelist #3 | What we have here is a good, mild,
well-made cigar that could be
enjoyed by many. Its main attribute
is its appearance. SCORE: 3.3 | | Panelist #4 | The samples were well-made, and
produced clouds of smoke. Subtle
flavor, but lots of action going on.
I quite liked them. SCORE: 4.0 |
 |  | BOLIVAR Royal Corona | | Country: Cuba | Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba
| | Manufacturer: Habanos, S.A. | Filler: Cuba | Price: >$8.00
| | Panelist #1 | I think I've found my new special-
occasion cigar, but I'll wager I can't
pick these up locally. The flavor was
heavy, like a Bolivar. SCORE: 4.9 | | Panelist #2 | If you couldn't tell by now, I liked it.
This cigar had enough complexity to
keep my attention, without knocking
me on my rump. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #3 | These were the most consistent
cigars in the review. Each and every
sample was perfect in appearance
and burn. Gimme more! SCORE:4.7 | | Panelist #4 | It possesses a full, nutty flavor
that's really enjoyable. Rich up
front, though the aftertaste was
underwhelming. SCORE: 4.0 |
 |  | CONDAL Robusto | | Country: Canary Islands | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Mexico
| | Manufacturer: CITA | Filler: Dominican Republic | Price: $3.90
| | Panelist #1 | While the bunching seems a bit
slack, the flavor makes up for the
difference. This worked well with
a Bloody Mary. SCORE: 3.8 | | Panelist #2 | This baby is real bland. It was well-built, but did not deliver in the
flavor department. I might recommend it to a rookie. SCORE: 3.0 | | Panelist #3 | A poor start slowly improved, but
never fully developed. Perhaps some
aging will improve this otherwise
well-made cigar. SCORE: 3.3 | | Panelist #4 | The taste is pretty one-dimensional, with a dry finish. No strong
feelings one way or the other.
OK daytime smoke. SCORE: 3.6 |
 |  | CREDO Arcane | | Country: Dominican Republic | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: DR/Mexico
| | Manufacturer: Arango | Filler: Dominican Republic | Price: $6.20
| | Panelist #1 | Some people like 'em mild, but this
was just too mild for me. Did not
hang on the palate at all. Perhaps a
good beginner smoke. SCORE: 3.6 | | Panelist #2 | Beginners who prefer simple taste
and light tobacco will love this one.
It's a well-constructed stick that
lacks elegance. SCORE: 3.8 | | Panelist #3 | Mild is not normally my cup of tea,
but this had class written all over it.
I marveled at every puff, and it held
my interest to the end. SCORE: 4.3 | | Panelist #4 | It's a great morning cigar, perfect
for riding around the lake. Won't
ruin your palate before dinner.
Light, never bitter. SCORE: 3.6 |
 | | LA ROSA ESPECIAL Mi Favorita | | Country: Honduras | Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Honduras
| | Manufacturer: Cigars by Santa Clara | Filler: Nicaragua | Price: $2.50
| | Panelist #1 | The construction was a bit iffy, but
the flavor pulled it off. I'd surely buy
these. And then not share them.
An after-dinner smoke. SCORE: 4.1 | | Panelist #2 | This cigar earned decent marks all-around, but isn't ready for the All-Star team. If it's reasonably priced,
it's worthwhile. SCORE: 3.2 | | Panelist #3 | Because the flavor really worked for
me, I'd recommend these to serious
herfers, if priced right. Tasty, despite
construction problems. SCORE: 3.3 | | Panelist #4 | This cigar's flavor of cocoa and
nuts is supple, and well-suited for
the P.M. Satisfying, if a bit frustrating to smoke. SCORE: 3.6 |
 |  | H. UPMANN Robustos #100 | | Country: Dominican Republic | Wrapper: Indonesia | Binder: Domican Republic
| | Manufacturer: Consolidated Cigar Co. | Filler: Dominican Republic | Price: $3.50
| | Panelist #1 | Am I a wimp? This little character
knocked my socks off. I'd have to
have a few in me to enjoy this one.
Too green. SCORE: 3.3 | | Panelist #2 | I was a tad skeptical before I lit it
up, owing to its sandy-textured
wrapper, but I'm pleasantly surprised by its complexity. SCORE: 3.8 | | Panelist #3 | I would give the thumbs-up to those
who enjoy tame cigars. Richer than
most mild ones, it mixed well with
a malt whiskey. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #4 | A truly mediocre cigar. A strong
cup of coffee or a scotch might
help subdue the bitterness. Not
a premium. SCORE: 2.8 |
 | | HOYO DE MONTERREY SELECCION ROYALE Baron | | Country: Honduras | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Honduras
| | Manufacturer: Villazon & Co. | Filler: Hon/Nic | Price: $4.75
| | Panelist #1 | For an experienced herfer, this stick
is great for any time of day. A somewhat harsh finish, but otherwise a
can't-miss smoke. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #2 | An overall pleasure to smoke. It's
easy to smoke any time of day.
Never intimidating or unpleasant.
A strong performer. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #3 | My kind of cigar - rich, elegant,
and flavorful. Could this be the new
limited release Hoyo Excalibur? Tell
me, tell me, tell me. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #4 | Smokes like a Padron Anniversario,
which is to say, classy and refined.
I can't wait to find out what this
is, and buy some. SCORE: 4.1 |
 |  | HOJA CUBANA YELLOW BAND Robusto | | Country: Nicaragua | Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Nicaragua
| | Manufacturer: Universal Cigar | Filler: DR/Nicaragua | Price: $2.39
| | Panelist #1 | There's not much good to say about
this - I'd have trouble selling them
in my shop. This stick needs a little
TLC and time. SCORE: 3.2 | | Panelist #2 | Its loose bunch and lack of complexity prevented me from giving this
stick a higher mark. If reasonably
priced, it might work. SCORE: 3.5 | | Panelist #3 | A beginning cigar smoker who's in
the mood for a mild oscuro might
gobble these up...if it's got a fair
price tag. Not bad. SCORE: 3.2 | | Panelist #4 | Newbies might stand on line for
this one, due to its mild, sweet
qualities. Staunch cigar smokers
will not be wooed. SCORE: 3.3 |
 | | ASHTON Magnum | | Country: Dominican Republic | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Dominican Republic
| | Manufacturer: HoltŐs Cigar Co. | Filler: Dominican Republic | Price: $6.50
| | Panelist #1 | It's just what the doctor ordered: a
perfect smoke for the afternoon.
Also good for the office - co-workers won't mind a bit. SCORE: 4.5 | | Panelist #2 | I had high hopes from the looks and
construction of this robusto, but the
flavor was not as impressive. Well-rolled, looks Cuban. SCORE: 3.0 | | Panelist #3 | I wasn't wild about the light and
grassy taste you see so often in mild
Dominicans, but it's one to behold.
A real looker. SCORE: 3.4 | | Panelist #4 | These are sure to please one and
all, though those who prefer
strong cigars will want these early
in the day. SCORE: 4.4 |
 |  | PARTAGAS SERIES D No. 4 | | Country: Cuba | Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba
| | Manufacturer: Habanos, S.A. | Filler: Cuba | Price: >$8.00
| | Panelist #1 | Extremely full-bodied cigar that's
good for giving the taste buds a
kick in the ass every now and then.
Send me more. Now. SCORE: 4.8 | | Panelist #2 | This cigar left me scratching my
head. There is a strength that hits
the back of your throat, but the
flavor never kicks in. SCORE: 3.8 | | Panelist #3 | A very serious smoke, full of spicy
flavors, for very serious smokers.
Some time will turn these into world
class smokes. Yesss!!! SCORE: 4.6 | | Panelist #4 | The construction is lacking, and
it's ugly, but the taste and aroma
make up for it. Made for folks
who like tobacco. SCORE: 4.0 |
 | | DON TOMAS Coronas | | Country: Honduras | Wrapper: Indonesia | Binder: Mexico
| | Manufacturer: US Cigar Sales Inc. | Filler: DR/Mex/Nic | Price: $3.30
| | Panelist #1 | This 'gar says scotch." Islay, preferably. It's got some flaws, and you
better be in the mood for a real
stick. It worked for me.SCORE: 3.5 | | Panelist #2 | Marginal construction raised some
doubts, but this world-class stick
delivered everything you'd want in
a cigar. SCORE: 4.5 | | Panelist #3 | I doubt it's Cuban, though I can't
rule out the possibility. Smoked a bit
hot, but I tremendously enjoyed it
from start to finish. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #4 | I won't hesitate to pick up a box
or five, for when I want something
more complex than an everyday
smoke. Thumbs up!. SCORE: 4.2 |
 | | BAHIA GOLD MADURO Robusto | | Country: Costa Rica | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Dom. Republic
| | Manufacturer: Tony Borhani/Tabacalera Tambor | Filler: Dom. Republic | Price: $8.00
| | Panelist #1 | This is a bold smoke that needs a
rich, gutsy red wine to tame its
considerable flavor. Good after a
heavy meal. SCORE: 3.5 | | Panelist #2 | This bad boy was every bit as strong
as the initial view implied. This
would be a very good cigar for those
who like strong stogies.SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #3 | Judging from its dark color and prelight aroma, I thought the wrapper
was sugar-cured. If so, they got it
right. Well done, boys. SCORE: 3.6 | | Panelist #4 | This stick's got some real pop. A
favorable complement to an inch-thick porterhouse, this foxy cigar
holds its own. SCORE: 3.9 |
 | | BUCANERO MADURO Robusto | | Country: Costa Rica | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Ecuador
| | Manufacturer: Bucanero Cigar Co. | Filler: DR/Nicaragua | Price: $8.00
| | Panelist #1 | All samples had great oily sheens
and pronounced veins. Burned consistently, but the taste was not as
consistent. Still, tasty. SCORE: 4.3 | | Panelist #2 | These were a bit inconsistent from
stick to stick, but overall they really
satisfied. I would certainly try them
again. SCORE: 3.4 | | Panelist #3 | Not too pretty to look at or feel, but
this stick performed pretty well. It
offers some decent flavors that make
it a good cigar. SCORE: 3.3 | | Panelist #4 | I wouldn't go out of my way for
this guy. Sometimes enjoyable,
but it needs a therapist for its
many personalities. SCORE: 3.3 |
 | | THE GRIFFINS Robusto | | Country: Dominican Republic | Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Dominican Republic
| | Manufacturer: Davidoff of Geneva | Filler: Dom. Republic | Price: $6.80
| | Panelist #1 | Not an overly robust robusto. Quite
mild. Good for beginners and as a
daytime smoke. Veteran herfers
might tire of it. SCORE: 3.9 | | Panelist #2 | Although full-bodied smokes are not
for everyone, there's a place in the
world for this well-made and tasty
little Dominican. SCORE: 4.0 | | Panelist #3 | This mild-mannered cigar would
make a good introduction for a
novice smoker. Good mid-morning
smoke for the vets. SCORE: 3.5 | | Panelist #4 | This shade-wrapped jewel cranks
out surprising amounts of spice.
The experience intensifies from
the get-go. SCORE: 4.1 |
 |  | ESPINOSA Robusto | | Country: Honduras | Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Nicaragua
| | Manufacturer: Espinosa Cigar Co. | Filler: Hon/Nic/DR | Price: $2.90
| | Panelist #1 | Again, it's good for "It's a Boy!"
type situations. Otherwise, this
stick did not do much for me. Dry
and flavorless. SCORE: 2.0 | | Panelist #2 | Maybe time will help this robusto.
As is, this cigar does some things
well, and other things not as well.
Good for beginners. SCORE: 3.1 | | Panelist #3 | A few construction problems stood in
the way of this cigar's true colors.
Some good taste and a nice finish.
Good everyday smoke. SCORE: 3.2 | | Panelist #4 | Lumpy and shabbily made, this
could've been better. Smoked well
despite these flaws, and hinted
at good things. SCORE: 2.9 |
 |  | QUINTERO Robusto | | Country: Honduras | Wrapper: Indonesia | Binder: Connecticut
| | Manufacturer: Tabacalera de Espana | Filler: Hon/Nic/Mex | Price: $3.00
| | Panelist #1 | The samples were very consistent,
which bespeaks stellar manufacturing. These robustos had their
moments. SCORE: 3.5 | | Panelist #2 | It's a cigar I wouldn't turn down. A
good everyday smoke. Won't blow
you away with power or flavor, but
it's consistent. SCORE: 3.9 | | Panelist #3 | If priced fairly, yeah, I'm interested.
There's always a place in the cigar
world for a well-made Honduran.
An effortless smoke. SCORE: 3.7 | | Panelist #4 | A cigar smoker's cigar. Lots of
tobacco fill this little devil. Not a
load of complexity, but that's OK.
Spicy and nice. SCORE: 3.8 |
 Continued on next page...
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