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Winter 97/98
Volume III
Issue 1
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Winter
Smokes
Photographs by Jeff Schnorr
The holidays are here and so is the Second Anniversary SMOKE Cigar Review. Mirroring the ever-growing cigar boom, our Winter Review increases by a few notches as well, clocking in as our largest review to date.
For this extra-special review, our panelists sampled a ton of robustos, as well as a few petit coronas, and a few more gran coronas. As usual, there are many newcomers to let you know about, some which scored impressively, like BRIONES and PYRAMID. The old favorites are represented as well, by such solid performers as DAVIDOFF and ROYAL JAMAICA. To round it out, we also take a look at some of the best flavored cigars on the market today.
So remember, when you're shopping for gifts this holiday season, think cigars!
"'A man's shoes will tell you if lie has money, his clothes if lie has style. But if you want to know if lie's a good sport, see if he's wearing a good cigar. - Nat Sherman
Robustos...
PENGUIN Supreme Galapagos
Despite getting whistled for some structural flaws, the Penguin Supreme came through with a fairly impressive review. This Dominican smoke's highlights are a mild and rich flavor, a pleasing aroma, and a strong finish. Its peppery hints were a hit with our panelists, and few negative comments were heard once the Penguin was sparked up. These smokes would be better with a bit more precision in the factory, but they are still a worthwhile smoke that should please most.
HAVANA CIGARS DON PEDRO RAMOS Robusto
Lukewarm would be the best way to describe the reception given these Nicaraguan stogies, which seemed to underwhelm more than a few panelists because of their extremely mild flavor profile and occasionally tight draw. The positive aspects of this cigar were its pre-light characteristics, and some panelists appreciated the mellow flavors that made these stogies ideal as an early-in-the-day smoke.
BRIONES Robusto
Without a doubt, the Briones robusto received one of the most enthusiastic analyses in the Winter review. The Briones' appeal is that they are smooth enough for neophytes but flavorful enough to please the seasoned palate, and their top-notch construction didn't hurt their showing either. Constructed using a near-perfect blend of properly aged Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos and encased with a luscious Connecticut-seed Ecuadorian wrapper, the Briones has a spicy complexity that will be appreciated by most any cigar lover. Highly recommended.
BLAIR Natural Robusto
It doesn't appear that the Blair robusto (which is actually a toro, but the makers have named it robusto) will be bringing home any beauty awards, but this smoke still earned a positive review, for far more important reasons -great flavor. The Blair robusto packs the punch of a heavyweight, thanks to a spicy Honduran filler and binder, encased by a flavorful Ecuadorian wrapper. While the strong aroma might not endear you to your non-smoking friends, the Blair's red-blooded, spicy flavor and its head-spinning power will keep you enchanted.
CAOBA PLATINO Robusto
The Caoba Platino has nothing to be ashamed of concerning its review. Our panelists saw this mild cigar as a paragon of pre-smoke craftsmanship that kept up its strong performance after lighting. This Dominican cigar scored its highest praise for its lively flavor and appealing aftertaste, which all the reviewers viewed as a pleasant, lingering reminder of a very good cigar. The Caoba's solid core of smooth and complex Dominican flavor is what will keep you coming back. Recommended.
MONTAGUE GRAN RESERVE Robusto
According to the trusty SMOKE panelists, don't be afraid of the dark, particularly when it comes to the Montague Gran Reserve, which proved to be a refreshing mix of dinner and dessert; a meat and potatoes smoke with a delectably rich, maduro taste. The brightest spot for this cigar, beyond its excellent construction and smokability, is its sophisticated flavor profile, which impressed even our most choosy panelists. Made from a blend of Indonesian and Brazilian filler and binder, with a flavorful Brazilian wrapper, the Montague is a nice effort by the folks at Swedish Match, NA, who deserve high marks for bringing it to us. Recommended.
JL FERRER 1891 Robusto
While opinions on the JL Ferrer were mostly on the positive side, our panelists were somewhat dismayed by the inconsistent pre-light construction. Once lit, this Dominican cigar did a bit better, with a consistently good draw and even bum. While the experienced smoker might equate this mild cigar with a Merit Ultra Light cigarette, there was some positive feedback on the JL Ferrer's flavor, which is best suited for the novice smoker, or for those looking for something smooth and light.
LA GIANNA Havana Special Selection Robusto
The La Gianna scored high marks with our reviewers, who were attracted to this cigar's light-to-medium body and earthy, sweet flavor. This unassuming smoke is more of a leadoff batter - a strong singles hitter with a high average - as opposed to your home run hitting cleanup guy. It's a great stick to keep in your humidor for when you're not in the mood for a vertigo-inducing heavy hitter. Recommended.
DON SIXTO Robusto
Have no doubt, the Plasencias can make a good cigar, and the Don Sixto -named for Nestor Plasencia's father - was certainly a big hit with our reviewers. The craftsmanship that went into constructing the Don Sixto was not lost on our panel, and the cigar's robust flavor was appreciated, as well. Panelists were split on the body of the Don Sixto; most found it full-bodied, though it was defined as mild as well. It's a very user-friendly cigar, one that son, father, and grandfather alike could all light up and enjoy. Recommended.
ANILLO DE PLATA Robusto
Responses to the Anillo de Plata were mostly warm, and a few panelists found the cigar worthy of their recommendation; although the Anillo's blend comprising Dominican, Honduran, and Nicaraguan filler, failed to win over all our panelists. While the cigar earned praise for its aesthetics and construction, it appears there is still work to do before this blend can stand with the best. Still, not a bad showing, and for $2 a stick, this is a deal!
REGALOS Robusto
The Regalos robusto, from South Beach Cigars, of Miami, makes another strong showing, nicely following up its recommendation in the Summer '97 issue. The Regalos won over panelists from the opening whistle, with its shiny, silky-smooth wrapper doing a very successful job of selling the cigar. Once lit, this dark stogie kept its performance level high with its effective, medium-to-full-bodied flavor punch. A favorable aroma and aftertaste rounded out a solid performance. Recommended.
MAYORGA Robusto
The Mayorga, brought to you by the Mayorga family at Custom Cigar Company, kicks butt once again, echoing the stellar showing delivered by the Toro in the Fall '97 issue. Panelists appreciated the Mayorga's painless draw, which led to big flavor on the palate, highlighted by a good sprinkling of spice, with hints of sweetness. A medium-bodied Nicaraguan, the Mayorga tastes good, smells good, and leaves a pleasant aftertaste. Who can argue with that? Highly recommended.
MADRIGAL HABANA Robusto
A mixed review for the Madrigal Habana, with some panelists appreciating its great construction and light, tea-like flavors, while some felt the unique flavors were not to their liking. This Mexican-made smoke did great in the pre-light categories, showing that the makers of this cigar were at the top of their game. The problems came from the blend, which left a number of panelists cold. The bottom line is that this smoke delivers solid construction with a flavor that may not be for everybody.
ROLANDO Robusto
A decidedly non-confrontational smoke, the Rolando robusto scored moderately-high marks in our review. Common words used to describe these Dominican smokes were: light, agreeable, pleasant, rich, and satisfying. Nary a complaint was attached to this one, although several felt it clearly isn't ready for the "great cigar" category. Nevertheless, most panelists seemed happy to spark up this cigar. Perhaps not a nirvana-inducing cigar for the experienced, but one that leaves the smoker content and satisfied.
LA PERLA HABANA Robusto
The handsome La Perla Habana entices the smoker with its attractive appearance, and does not disappoint after lighting up. A flavorful smoke, the La Perla Habana stirred up thoughts of chocolate and spice, although several panelists commented on how the cigar started great but lost steam towards the middle, and finished weak. Still, most panelists recommended it despite this shortcoming. Made of Dominican filler and an Indonesian wrapper, the La Perla Habanas are well-constructed and provide an amenable aftertaste long after the smoke has been extinguished.
DON PEPE Robusto
Seemingly there's more to Brazil than just great coffee and soccer players.
The unique Don Pepe robusto, made of home-grown Brazilian filler, conjured
up images of fine Havanas among several of our esteemed panelists. A medium-body with a clean draw set the stage for a most agreeable smoke, and the
Don Pepe's flavor deemed rich, earthy, and nutty by our review group, was
considered unanimously enjoyable. An upper-echelon smoke, for sure.
Recommended.
DON JUAN URQUIJO VINTAGE 1993 Robusto
The Don Juan Urquijo robusto, a new cigar from the Philippines has nothing to be ashamed of for its performance in our review. A clean-smoking and smooth smoke, the Don Juan Urquijo brought home kudos for its stellar construction and appearance, while its light flavor also won praise from our panelists. The only knock against this cigar was that it might leave the seasoned smoker a bit hungry, but as far as mild players go, this one picks up momentum towards the finish line, and ultimately pleases the palate. Recommended.
PLASENCIA Robusto
The Plasencia robusto won the hearts of reviewers with its solid, no-nonsense
consistency. A mild smoke, the Nicaraguan-made (Cuban seed) Plasencia won
praise for its "cinnamon and spice, and other things nice," and provided a
thoroughly enjoyable aroma and aftertaste. The efficient, well-constructed
Plasencia drew well, and earned almost unanimous praise across the board.
This is one you'll always feel good about giving to friends and colleagues.
Recommended.
VILLEGA REALES Robusto
Reviewers were ambivalent about the Villega Reales robusto, which lost style
points with its somewhat raffish appearance, and seemed to lack consistency
in the flavor department. A mild smoke, the Villega Reales does not offer
much to challenge a veteran smoker looking for lots of flavor, though it should
impress the novice. There was positive feedback on this cigar, but the panelists
reported enough dissatisfaction to indicate that more work can be done here.
CAMORRA LIMITED RESERVE HONDURAN Roma
The Cam6rra Limited Reserve robusto earned a high grade and was named by some panelists as among their favorites in the review. This Honduran-made stogie offers a uniquely sweet flavor, but the spices kick in after you cross this cigar's 50-yard line. While panelists were not completely enamored with the Cam6rra's flavor, the complaints were mild, and the solid construction and aroma helped to push it over the top.
THE PYRAMID Rothchild "Khufu"
We're not sure what "Khufu" means, but it apparently means "freakin' good smoke" to our panelists, who were enraptured by this cigar's attractive look and kick-ass flavor. Words describing the Khufu's taste flew like grapeshot, and all of them were positive. It's cigars like this that make being a SMOKE reviewer all the more pleasant. This Dominican, with its bucket-loads of flavor, was one of our highest rankers. Highly Recommended.
COPA HAVANA Robusto
Fasten your seat belts - the Copa Havana is not for the faint-hearted. But if
you're game, this one's a thrill ride. As one might expect from a company
called Big Boss Man, the Copa Havana packs quite a wallop. Encased in a
dark, oily wrapper, it's incredibly deft for such a mammoth smoke, full of
intricate, inviting flavors. Much better suited for barbecues than dinner par
ties, this bully of a smoke was a big hit with our reviewers. Recommended.
FIGHTING COCK Rooster Arturo
The reactions to the Fighting Cock Rooster Arturo were mostly positive, with some panelists labeling them as more suitable for the rookies than for the vets, while others viewed them quite simply as high-quality, honest, and enjoyable cigars. Some complaints included problems keeping these sticks lit, but the panelists truly respected the smooth flavors these Philippine cigars dished out. These cigars have been popular here in the U.S. for a while now, and it is easy to see why. They're good. Recommended.
HOJA DE NICARAGUA Consul
Apparently, you can judge a book by its cover, at least in the case of the Hoja De Nicaragua. Made entirely of Cuban-seeded Nicaraguan tobacco, the Hoja De Nicaragua scored top points for aesthetics, and its construction was also at the top of the class. Even after the match was struck, the Hoja kept its perfect game intact with a smooth, complex, mild flavor, along with a wonderful aroma and satisfying aftertaste making for a great smoke. These might be the most pleasant surprise of the tasting, especially due to their low price of under $3.50 a stick. Check 'em out! Recommended.
CRUZ REAL No. 25 Maduro
A hale performance was delivered by this south-of-the-border smoke, which shouldn't be any surprise to the many smokers who regularly enjoy these solid and full-bodied cigars. The Cruz Real's quality craftsmanship was remarked upon by many of our reviewers, who also enjoyed the Cruz's smooth draw. Described as medium- to full-bodied, the Cruz brings forth a healthy dollop of smoke and a rich, complex flavor. Strong but gentle, and with a lingering sweetness, the Cruz sticks around in the form of a winsome aftertaste, reminding the smoker of a well-crafted, earnest cigar. Recommended.
PETRUS Rothschild
Another winner from Honduras, the Petrus Rothschild won over our panelists with its straightforward full-strength and solid core of spicy flavors. A big finish is the trademark of this smoke, as the Petrus gains steam from start to finish, leaving the smoker well-sated by the cigar's spicy and medium-bodied barrage. The Petrus did quite well with our reviewers, who were turned on by its no-nonsense, nothing fancy approach. Well, who wouldn't be? Recommended.
UMO V.S. Robusto
The UMO V.S., the new premium cigar in the line from Montenegro, had a very Jeckyl & Hyde showing. While panelists found the medium- to full-bodied flavors to be complex, spicy, and very appealing, a number of the panelists had major difficulties, specifically with dried-out wrappers that cracked and unraveled on a few of the samples. We realize that such problems can occur from mishandling during shipping and storage, so we feel it is best to point out that when the panelists had problem-free samples, they raved about them.
MACARENA Robusto
While we're all pretty much sick of that ridiculous Macarena dance, our panelists were fairly enthralled by its namesake cigar. A Canary Islands robusto, the Macarena is a mild smoke with more than a hint of character. Well-constructed and tightly packed, the Macarena has a clean and smooth taste and a friendly aroma - well-suited for a daytime interlude.
HUGO GOLD NICARAGUAN Robusto
Packed like the 'N train during rush hour and with a punch like a mallet to the head, it is probably best not to leave the Hugo Gold alone with unattended children, or novice smokers. Like a circus strongman with a penchant for Shakespearean sonnets, the Hugo Cassar is a strong smoke, but tiptoes along the palate with a delicate, sweet and spicy bouquet of flavor. The Hugo Cassar was, quite literally, a big hit with the SMOKE panelists. Recommended.
BALLENA SUPREMA Consuelo
Tang - it isn't just for breakfast anymore. The Ballena Suprema swooned our jury with its teasingly tangy flavor and plenty of body. This Honduran-made robusto from the McClelland Tobacco Company - known for their outstanding line of pipe tobaccos - leaves the palate with happy memories of a fine, flavorful, and refined smoke. With a little more bang for your buck, the Ballena Suprema is a solid choice. Recommended.
MANHATTAN CIGAR CO. LIMITED ED. Robusto
The Manhattan Cigar Company passed the test with flying colors in our last issue with a representative from their regular line of smokes, and now gives an impressive performance with their new Limited Edition robusto. Made in the Dominican Republic and aged for an additional period of time, this Manhattan is much like the cocktail of the same name: refined, tasteful, classy, yet packing a punch. Recommended.
PARTAGAS Robusto
Despite the rough and rustic exterior and a slightly loose roll on a few of the
samples, the Dominican-made Partagas robusto showed why this line is an
outstanding choice amongst the larger, mainstream brands. The truth is in
the taste, and the Partagas has plenty of it. Straightforward and supple, the Partagas combines cocoa and spice in an intriguing alchemy. Like in all great cigars, the flavor grows more defined as the smoke progresses. Highly recommended.
THE INTERNATIONAL Robusto
The International proves that the glowing review of its torpedo in the Fall '97 issue was no fluke. This time around our panelists were treated to the robusto, and responded with just about an equal level of glee. These cigars are proven top-of-the-line, and show it in the flawless construction that makes the International a problem-free smoke. Despite a couple of complaints that the tobacco might benefit from a few more months of aging, there is a definite core of medium- to full-bodied, complex flavors here to enjoy Recommended.
PHILIPPINE CIGAR COMPANY Robusto
The Philippine Cigar Company robusto proves to be a close sibling to the
Fighting Cock Rooster Arturo (also reviewed in this issue). Our panelists
found many similarities between the two smokes, most importantly, the
smooth flavor and outstanding construction. A treat for the senses, this
robusto's flavor brought to mind mocha, nuts, honey, and fruit. Additionally, this robusto offers a medium- to full-bodied taste, an ambient aroma, and a very agreeable aftertaste. Recommended.
Petit Coronas...
ROMEO Y JULIETA Cedros Deluxe No. 3
Despite hindrances caused by this cigar's tight roll and resulting tight draw, reviewers very much dug the richness and full of pop offered by this smaller cigar from Cuba, which pack all the flavor, punch, and complexity of a fine Havana cigar. And don't let the size fool you - it's all muscle - a pit bull of a smoke with a light and ephemeral aroma, but the draw problems keep this cigar from a recommendation at this time.
C.A.0. HONDURAN Petit Corona
Napoleon in a dark wrapper, this petite cigar from C.A.O.'s Honduran line packs plenty of palate-pleasing taste into its undersized frame. Reviewers covered all five basic food groups in their descriptions of the C.A.O.'s flavor, and the petit corona size makes this a logical choice for lunch or for those times when you don't have an hour to indulge yourself. Recommended.
DAVIDOFF Grand Cru No. 5
The SMOKE phones rang off the hook with reviewers calling up to find out the name of this little devil of a smoke. The Davidoff Grand Cru No. 5 was one of the biggest hits of the winter bunch, with panelists drawn to its exquisite construction and tasty, medium-bodied flavor. Like a 5' 10" hoop player who can post up with the big boys, this petit corona delivers tons of flavor and crispy billows of smoke, proving that if perfection in a cigar is your goal, then look to Davidoff for the answer. Highly recommended.
NICOLE MILLER Black Tie
Following up on the solid performance delivered by the Nicole Miller Torpedo in the Fall '97 issue, this significantly smaller entry from the Nicole Miller line shows that these cigars are not merely pretending sporting a famous name on the band. All of our panelists were very pleased with the well-rounded, complex, and spicy flavors that this Dominican smoke delivered. Furthermore, several panelists guessed (incorrectly) that this cigar was from somewhere other than the Dominican Republic. While it's not nice to fool a SMOKE panelist, hats off to any cigar that manages to do so.
HOYO DE MONTERREY Excalibur No. VII
Honduras' Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur won rave reviews, with a power that befits a much larger stick. A smooth, creamy, peppery flavor tickled the taste buds of our panelists, and great big puffs of agreeable smoke spouted from this little general. The word 'enjoy' seemed to follow this cigar around throughout its review. Amenable aroma, memorable aftertaste - the Hoyo de Monterrey apparently has it all. Recommended.
JOYA DE NICARAGUA Petits
The Joya de Nicaragua line of cigars has impressed many smokers over the years, and is known as one of the most consistent Nicaraguan smokes on the market. This petit corona shows why, as it impressed all of the panelists with its fine, full-bodied flavors, that seemed to be most impressive in the first half of the smoke. A few panelists commented on how the cigar seemed to "lose it" in the second half. Despite this fault, almost all of the panelists felt this cigar worthy of their recommendation, and the price is right, as well. Recommended.
UNCLE SAM Petit Corona
Those posters used to read, "Uncle Sam wants you," and apparently the SMOKE panelists feel the same way about this petit corona. Don't let the name fool you - this fella's a foreigner. Made in the Dominican Republic from Cuban seed tobacco, the Uncle Sam gives forth an undoubtedly rich taste that is crisp and smooth. The Uncle Sam's pleasant aroma is a treat for the olefactories, and its careful craftsmanship was appreciated by the panelists. Where do we sign up?
DON JUAN PLATINUM SERIES Lindas
The regular Don Juan line of cigars has won many fans over the years for being a full-bodied and flavorful smoke at a great price. Now, the folks at Tropical Tobacco unveil the new Don Juan Platinum series, which carries on the high-quality Don Juan tradition. Despite its small stature, the Don Juan Platinum fills a room with its robust smoke. It will also fill your taste buds with its complex smorgasbord of flavor, combining undeniable spice with some hearty, Havana-like flavors. Recommended.
LA AURORA Petit Corona
The La Aurora petit corona is a faithful testament to the fact that good things come in small packages. Like any good entertainer, this petit corona leaves 'em wanting more, tickling audiences with a creamy, chocolately flavor, and depositing a pleasurable cedar and spice veneer on the palate. Reviewers were really stoked to smoke the La Aurora, and gave it a ringing endorsement. Highly recommended.
Gran Coronas...
BOLIVAR Coronas Extra
Panelists found the Bolivar Corona Extras to be a streaky smoke. The good ones were dead-on, while the have-nots failed to impress. While the Bolivar impressed many with a rich, smooth taste that faithfully delivered its Havana flavors, it failed to show consistency from smoke to smoke, leaving some reviewers underwhelmed. Clearly the talent is here, but unfortunately this batch did not live up to the legendary quality usually associated with this brand.
PUROFINO Gold Label Gran Corona
Mild but not timid, the Honduran-born Purofino Gold Label gran corona wooed panelists with its surprisingly zesty blend. Boasting its big taste, the Purofino works the room nicely at dinner parties, emitting an unobtrusive floral aroma. Complex but mild flavor, with enough character for the jaded veteran, makes Purofino a strong choice.
ROMEO Y JULIETA Exhibicion No. 3
Just lift that damn embargo, will ya? A beautiful Colorado wrapper and outstanding construction enabled our panelists to enjoy the hell out of the Romeo y Julieta Exhibici6n No. 3, and enjoy them they did. Bold and strong, this popular Cuban cigar draws with near-perfect precision and offers a healthy, full-bodied smoking experience, with an impressive level of complexity. A proud smoke, the Exhibici6n No. 3 did not suffer from the same inconsistencies that plagued some of the other Cuban cigars in this tasting. This Romeo y Julieta is a truly classic Cuban cigar that must be tried. Highly recommended.
TENORIO Extra Corona
Expertly rolled and featuring an attractive claro wrapper, the handsome Tenorio Extra Corona beckons the smoker to put a match to it. Once lit, this Dominican-born cigar does not disappoint, as reflected in our panelist's consistently positive comments. With top-notch construction and a pronounced array of flavors that balances nutty and spicy tones, the Tenorio craftily works the palate and leaves the smoker satisfied. Recommended.
ESPANOLA RESERVE SERIES Corona Grande
The Espanola Reserve Series grand corona got straight Ns on its winter term report card, registering high marks in all subjects. Well-wrapped and expertly constructed, this Dominican-born lady has a medium-bodied kick and agreeable taste, described as earthy, spicy, and sweet. A cigar better suited for a light lunch than a steak dinner, the Espanola Reserve Series leaves a discreet but sublime taste and aroma behind - cheerful souvenirs of a most worthy smoke. Recommended.
ROMANO'S CONNOISSEUR SERIES Churchill
The Romano's Connoisseur Series - a healthy-sized gran corona brought to you by Tony Romano, who owns and operates a restaurant by the same name in the Virgin Islands - feels and tastes a bit coarse, but still clocked an overall favorable review. These cigars will indeed improve with a bit of aging, as a few panelists found the flavor a bit raw, but the cigar nonetheless showed some definite promise. A muscular smoke with a spicy and sweet taste, the Romano is a promising newcomer.
ORO DOMINICANA Gran Corona
One might not want to light up the Oro Dominicana, just because it's so appealing to the eye. But cigars are made to be smoked, and the Oro Dominicana is at its best after light-up. An even burner, the Oro hits a jackpot of spice towards its culmination. It's a big smoker that starts on the mild side, but builds to a medium- to full-bodied climax; a couple panelists actually compared this smoke to a genuine Havana - impressive for a Dominican made cigar, which are often known for their milder blends. Recommended.
SIGLO 21 No. 2
Well-constructed, with an easy draw, the Siglo 21 from Swisher won't knock you down with its flavor and body, but it's a steady smoke with character. Meaty for its size, the Siglo 21 is an ideal daytime smoke with cedary, floral tones to it. The Siglo 21 leaves a fleeting but favorable aftertaste and a pleasing aroma that will surely bring compliments from those around you.
NIVELACUSO PRIVATE RESERVE Grand Corona
Despite some problems with a tight draw, the Nivelacuso Private Reserve grand corona scored highly in the flavor department, proving itself to be a smoke that transcends any group of smokers' varied levels of experience. An attractive, tightly rolled cigar with a robust and spicy taste, the compelling blend in this Dominican-made cigar provided veterans with a satisfying amount complexity. Try it with a glass of your favorite vintage port.
CLIPPER GOLD RESERVE Hampton
Many experienced smokers who prefer stronger cigars keep a supply of mild smokes on hand for those moments when they want a smoke that will gently soothe the palate rather than overwhelm it. The Clipper Gold Reserve is just this type of smoke. While it is very mild in flavor and body, it is extremely well-made and has more than enough flavor to keep a novice smoker happy; likewise the experienced pro who just wants something mellow and unassuming, or a perfect early-in-the-day smoke. Recommended.
STURGIS CIGARS Churchill
Talk about a rich cigar! Like a candy bar in the hands of the chocoholic, the Sturgis and its sweetened Colorado maduro wrapper revealed its addictive qualities to our reviewers, bringing smiles to their faces. Offering a moderate flavor punch to go alongside its overriding sweetness, the Dominican-made Sturgis is a work of art in the aesthetics department, and offers a clean and smooth draw. These cigars have a strong sweet flavor that is almost akin to a flavored cigar, but most panelists found it intriguing rather than overwhelming.
LA CONCHA RESERVE Gran Corona
The La Concha Reserve wasn't the best looking cigar in the review, nor was it the best constructed. That aside, the La Concha Reserve smoked pretty well. There's nothing fancy or complex about the taste of this Dominican, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Wrapped in a maduro, the La Concha Reserve may be a bit limited, but what it does, it does well.
BALI HAI Java Special
These unique cigars looked rather rustic and lost some points in the pre-light categories, but they performed moderately well after light-up. The Java Special is mild- to medium-bodied, with a semi-rich and pleasurably spicy flavor that is smooth and buttery, and provides no harsh qualities at all. The flavor is comprised of the unique fire-cured Indonesian tobacco: smooth, nutty, and with a salty bite. The colorful bands are a scream.
ROYAL JAMAICA Director's No. 1
A handsome smoke, the Royal Jamaica Director's No. 1 performed admirably in our review, though a few panelists saw it as a little young, perhaps in need of a bit of contemplation in the humidor. A mild cigar, the Royal Jamaica has an herbal and grassy flavor, which most panelists found to their liking, proving that, as usual, Royal Jamaica delivers a very solid and consistent smoke. Recommended.
Flavored Cigars...
CHRISTIAN LEONE Vanilla Diva
The starlet of Christian Leone's Hollywood Series, the Vanilla Diva is made of top-quality Dominican long filler and binder, with a silky Sumatra wrapper. The Diva is aged for a minimum of six months, and is made in limited quantities. These cigars exhibit top-notch construction and an excellent mellow flavor. The vanilla flavor is subtle, and comes through well on the finish.
ORNELAS Vanilla
The popular Ornelas Vanilla comes in 8 sizes and is made of a blend of vintage Mexican tobacco. These are wellmade cigars that are stronger than most flavored offerings, providing a medium- to full-bodied smoke with a kick. The vanilla flavoring is very subtle, providing a rich contrast to the spicy tobacco flavors.
NAPOLEON'S DREAM Cognac
Gary Scott's Napoleon's Dream Cognac insists it's not a flavored cigar; instead opting to call it "cured." No extracts or artificial ingredients are used, just fine tobacco and choice distilled spiritis, providing for a clean-smoking, subtly flavored cigar that draws very well. Made of Honduran long filler, the Napoleon's Dream also comes in rum and Southern Comfort flavors.
WEST INDIES VANILLA
The Caribbean Cigar Company's popular West Indies Vanilla cigar features a blend of Dominican, Honduran, and Indonesian tobacco. This cigar is a machine-made cigar that is small in size, but is like a candy bar you can smoke, providing plenty of sweet vanilla flavor on the palate, with a pleasant pipe tobacco-like aroma. In addition to vanilla, rum and amaretto flavored cigars are also available.
DON PABLO Cognac
The Don Pablo Cognac comes in a healthy size, and is filled with Dominican long-leaf filler, some prime Mexican tobacco, and wrapped with a fine Connecticut shade wrapper. Don Pablo's vintage tobacco is dipped in fine French Cognac, giving the Don Pablo a distinctively smooth, but pronounced flavor. Also available in maduro, for a slightly richer smoke.
VICTOR SINCLAIR Chateau Amaretto
Victor Sinclair enters the flavored arena with the Chateau Amaretto. Rather than being dipped, like many flavored cigars, the handmade Victor Sinclair Chateau Amaretto is cured in barrels, providing for a subtle flavoring that doesn't overwhelm the palate. And, like the entire Victor Sinclair line, these cigars are well made and provide a smooth and enjoyable smoke.
TATOU SWEETS Rum
Rolled in Mexico, the Tatou Sweets Rum cigar offers natural flavors and premium short filler tobacco from Mexico
and the Dominican Republic, enclosed in a Mexican-grown Sumatran wrapper. These cigars draw well and are very sweet on the palate. Tatou, which also features amaretto, coconut, and vanilla flavors, comes in some very colorful packaging, making these a unique gift idea.
MAKER'S MARK Bourbon
Maker's Mark's entry into the cigar scene provides a whole new way to savor their outstanding bourbon. Handmade using Cuban-seed, Dominican long filler, these cigars are aromatically flavored in a unique process where the tobacco never actually comes in contact with the spirits. The bourbon provides a sumptuous sweet flavor.
Editor's note:
Our online summary of each review serves as a handy guide of our panelist's comments. Any "recommendations" within are made solely by the panelists, and DO NOT necessarily represent the opinions of SMOKE's editorial staff.
For complete details of this month's reviews, see the Winter 97/98 issue
of SMOKE Magazine - available at a tobacconist near you.
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