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Winter Review - Holiday Cigars
 |  | ESTAVAN CRUZ Corona Gigante | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Estavan Cruz | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Nic/Braz | Binder:
Ecu | Price:
$7.00 | | Panelist #1 |
Magnificent! I would recommend this to anyone who likes ‘em with big, bold taste and lotsa smoke!
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #2 |
This baby is consistent; the quality never fades. A nice, colossal smoke to have out at the seashore.
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #3 |
A real winner. This baby has loads of flavor, great construction and consistency, and a robust character.
SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #4 |
Even though it took a good hour to smoke this, I didn’t want it to end. Make sure you’re sitting down!
SCORE 4.5 |
 |  | CAMACHO Nacionale | Country:
Hon | Manufacturer:
Caribe | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
Hon | Binder:
Hon | Price:
$4.50 | | Panelist #1 |
If you want a strong cigar, look no further. This is very robust, with a big dose of in-your-face flavor.
SCORE 4.6 | | Panelist #2 |
All samples were consistently good. I would enjoy this one after a big, fat, greasy cheeseburger meal.
SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #3 |
I liked this cigar’s taste, but was so annoyed that it didn’t burn well. I feel seduced and abandoned.
SCORE 2.5 | | Panelist #4 |
Don’t sit down or you may not get up! This is definitely the stogie to cap off a long, hard day’s work.
SCORE 4.5 |
 |  | BAUZA Jaguar No. 2 | Country:
Honduras | Manufacturer:
Mike’s Cigar | Wrapper:
Ecu | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$4.70 | | Panelist #1 |
This cigar looks more inviting than it actually is. The large veins and soft spots make for a mediocre cigar.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #2 |
From first glance, I expected more. This cigar just didn’t live up to the potential its appearance promised.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #3 |
A disappointment. A poor roll and inconsistent burn toward the end. An average taste bordering on poor.
SCORE 3.0 | | Panelist #4 |
The mild flavors here were not to my personal liking, but someone out there might like this type of cigar.
SCORE 3.7 |
 |  | PERDOMO ESTATE SELECCION Imperio | Country:
Nic | Manufacturer:
Perdomo | Wrapper:
Nic | Filler:
Nic | Binder:
Nic | Price:
$8.00 | | Panelist #1 |
Very high marks. This is a smooth and consistent smoke that boasts great construction and greater taste.
SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #2 |
Appearances can be deceiving. I was expecting a little more from such a well-constructed cigar.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #3 |
I liked this cigar. It’s strong, spicy, and fun. Smoke it after a steak dinner, while shooting a game of pool.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #4 |
I am beginning to become a fan of the box-pressed cigar. I can’t wait to find out who makes these babies.
SCORE 4.5 |
 |  | CIBAO Petit Corona | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Indianhead | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$2.50 | | Panelist #1 |
This is a cigar not to be missed -Perhaps as good as they come in this petit corona-size package.
SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #2 |
There were a few inconsistencies in the samples, but get a box of the better ones and you’re in for a treat.
SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #3 |
I feel like someone’s rushing these. Double up on the filler and give ‘em six months, and I’ll try them again.
SCORE 2.5 | | Panelist #4 |
I was sad to see this one end just when it started to get complex. Give me this blend in a Churchill size!
SCORE 4.1 |
 |  | ZINO Conoisseur 100 | Country:
Hon | Manufacturer:
Davidoff | Wrapper:
Ecu | Filler:
Hon | Binder:
Hon | Price:
$9.50 | | Panelist #1 |
I recommend this one, either with a nice Cabernet or Merlot, or with a pint of your favorite dark brew.
SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #2 |
The samples were very consistent, but after two, I could smoke no more. This was a disappointment.
SCORE 2.5 | | Panelist #3 |
This is an OK cigar, worth trying. I love a Churchill size, but there are others that are better.
SCORE 3.4 | | Panelist #4 |
This is a relatively well-made cigar that could benefit from about six months’ extra humidor time.
SCORE 3.5 |
 | | SANCHO PANZA Caballero | Country:
Hon | Manufacturer:
General Cigar | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Hon/Nic | Binder:
Conn | Price:
$3.20 | | Panelist #1 |
What a maduro is supposed to be. I liked this one. Bourbon and this little bomb is a great nightly ritual.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
This one won me over. For those entertaining the notion of trying a new smoke, I say, take the chance.
SCORE 3.9 | | Panelist #3 |
A bold red wine made a fine counterpart to this cigar. Strong enough that you’ll want a full stomach.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #4 |
I smoked each sample at a different time of day, and each one worked. It ain’t a Cuban, but it’s sure close.
SCORE 4.4 |
 | | DON TOMAS DOMINICAN SELECTION Corona | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
UST | Wrapper:
DR | Filler:
DR/Nic/Mex/Braz | Binder:
Mex | Price:
$4.75 | | Panelist #1 |
Nice with some Coltrane on the stereo and a dry, ice-cold Martini. Just beautiful all around.
SCORE 4.7 | | Panelist #2 |
Nothing really to shout about. Unfortunately, I’ve never been a fan of the extreme box-pressed style.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #3 |
A good cigar with a bit of harshness, this has some Cuban qualities. I’d buy a few and let them age.
SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #4 |
This is a kick-butt cigar. I would love to have a humidor full of these babies. Tell me what they are!
SCORE 4.5 |
 |  | FITTIPALDI Toro | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Alliance Cigar | Wrapper:
DR | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$5.50 | | Panelist #1 |
Recommended for everyone! It’s smooth enough for a newbie, but veterans will like the rich flavors.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
For those with a passion for cigars,
this is one that deserves to be tried, though not purchased in bundles.
SCORE 3.9 | | Panelist #3 |
Nothing too distinguished. To an experienced maduro smoker, these are a Big Wheel, not a Harley.
SCORE 3.1 | | Panelist #4 |
Not for the weak of heart or mild of palate. This one’s for those who want to hang with the big dogs.
SCORE 4.6 |
 | | OLIVEROS Dos Perez | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Oliveros | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$4.98 | | Panelist #1 |
In spite of its looks and weak draw, I found this to be pleasant, tasty, and consistent. Recommended highly.
SCORE 4.4 | | Panelist #2 |
This stick started out so well, then I smoked it. Not for my palate, but I could stare at them all day!
SCORE 3.0 | | Panelist #3 |
At best, it’s a one-dimensional, trouble-free cigar. It’s in need of a blend overhaul, and maybe some aging.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #4 |
I’d definitely suggest these to a beginner who wanted a mild smoke. Not my type, but really well-made.
SCORE 3.9 |
 | | MONTECRISTO No. 3 | Country:
Cuba | Manufacturer:
Habanos SA | Wrapper:
Cuba | Filler:
Cuba | Binder:
Cuba | Price:
$15+ | | Panelist #1 |
This is what savoring a cigar is all about. This powerhouse screams for a leather chair and a brandy.
SCORE 4.4 | | Panelist #2 |
A more friendly draw and finish would’ve made this the best. As is, it’s still pretty damn good.
SCORE 4.1 | | Panelist #3 |
The looks and construction promised a lot more than the smoke delivered. Not bad by any means, though.
SCORE 3.8 | | Panelist #4 |
The best in the survey. Perfect with an after-dinner whisky. A more even burn would’ve made it perfect.
SCORE 4.5 |
 |  | LA GLORIA CUBANA Serie R No. 6 | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Swedish Match | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Nic | Binder:
Nic | Price:
$6.00 | | Panelist #1 |
Eat a big meal, drink a mug of beer, and smoke this cigar. While its size may scare you, its flavors will satisfy.
SCORE 4.6 | | Panelist #2 |
A good smoke for anytime, but set aside an hour for it! A pleasant surprise for those who shun dark cigars.
SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #3 |
This cigar surprised me with its smooth flavor. Tasty and rich. I don’t think you can go wrong with this.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #4 |
Yes, yes, yes! This is a companion for a night of serious smoking with a glass (or two, or three) of brandy.
SCORE 4.6 |
 |  | C.A.O. L’ANNIVERSAIRE Corona Cameroon | Country:
Nic | Manufacturer:
C.A.O. | Wrapper:
Cam | Filler:
Nic | Binder:
Nic | Price:
$6.60 | | Panelist #1 |
Good-looking and better-tasting. The shape takes some getting used to, but delivers truckloads of flavor.
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #2 |
A likeable little cigar with more flavor than its looks seem to promise. I think it’ll surprise most smokers.
SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #3 |
I really liked this stick. I hated to finish it and I’m anxious to see what it is so I can get it into my humidor!
SCORE 4.7 | | Panelist #4 |
This puppy was great! From the neat shape to the excellent blend, this squared-off stick had it all.
SCORE 5.0 |
 |  | LA LUNA Colada | Country:
Hon | Manufacturer:
La Luna | Wrapper:
Costa R. | Filler:
DR/Hon/Nic | Binder:
Hon | Price:
$2.50 | | Panelist #1 |
If you’re short on time, but want a good smoke, this one may be just right for you. Highly recommended.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
If you like the mild and wimpy kind, stay away! I recommend this to anyone who likes a full-bodied maduro.
SCORE 3.9 | | Panelist #3 |
This one places little importance on beauty and concentrates on the smoking experience. Fine with me.
SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #4 |
This is a very good, solid smoke; not the best I’ve ever had, but a helluva good “afternooner.”
SCORE 4.1 |
 | | RAMON Y RAMON Nino | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
General Cigar | Wrapper:
Cam | Filler:
DR/Nic | Binder:
Conn | Price:
$11.50 | | Panelist #1 |
Each sample had an unfortunately poor draw, and puffing harder made the taste a bit less enjoyable.
SCORE 3.2 | | Panelist #2 |
Perhaps this is a young cigar in need of some more aging. In any case, these didn’t appeal to me much.
SCORE 2.8 | | Panelist #3 |
Interesting. The taste changed but didn’t get complex. Not a cigar I’d seek out, but not one I’d turn down.
SCORE 3.0 | | Panelist #4 |
This would be appreciated by smokers old and new. The flavors would complement a strong coffee.
SCORE 4.5 |
 | | SWISHER SWEETS PREMIUM Long Corona | Country:
Hon | Manufacturer:
Swisher | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Nic/Mex | Binder:
Hon | Price:
$2.15 | | Panelist #1 |
Smoking is believing. This only gets better with every draw and exhale. Buy ‘em by the truckload!
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #2 |
It was decent with a merlot. If you like sweet ones, however, they don’t come any better than this.
SCORE 3.3 | | Panelist #3 |
Way, way too mild and sweet for my liking. This also gave my lips a gummy feel that drove me crazy.
SCORE 2.9 | | Panelist #4 |
Everyone needs a good afternoon cigar that doesn’t knock you down. This is a real good example.
SCORE 4.1 |
 |  | BALMORAL Corona Tubo | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Agio Cigars | Wrapper:
Ecu | Filler:
DR/Braz | Binder:
DR | Price:
$4.00 | | Panelist #1 |
Nothing to write home about. This smoke doesn’t require your attention, because it doesn’t request it.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #2 |
It started off well, but declined toward the end. I’d have to smoke a few more to get a better feel.
SCORE 3.6 | | Panelist #3 |
The samples were consistent. I found these to be somewhat plain-Jane and underachieving.
SCORE 2.8 | | Panelist #4 |
A very satisfying smoke. Chai tea went well with this one. A good “kick back after work” cigar.
SCORE 4.0 |
 |  | CUBITA No. 898 | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
SAG Imports | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$5.40 | | Panelist #1 |
This was a perfect dessert smoke. I tried one with a cappucino, and felt like I was sitting in a European cafe.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
These need to work on their consistency, but I’d recommend the good ones for after a light meal.
SCORE 3.4 | | Panelist #3 |
This cigar’s not bad, just on the light side. Try it if you like mild. Others may find it too one-dimensional.
SCORE 3.7 | | Panelist #4 |
I had one of these with a Bailey’s on the rocks. I would definitely add this to my rotation if the price is right.
SCORE 3.8 |
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