Cigar Review – La Gloria Retro Especiale

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at General Cigar. Featured this time is the La Gloria Cubana Artesanos Retro Especiale ‘Club’.

Vitola: Robusto
Origin: Miami
Length: 5 ¾”
Ring Gauge: 47
Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan
Binder: Mexican
Wrapper: Honduran Connecticut
Strength: Medium
Price: $7

Among the recent creations from Team La Gloria, this line features a natural, velvet-looking, Honduran-grown Connecticut wrapper. They are made at the El Credito Cigar Factory in Miami, FL.

From the manufacturer:

“The Honduran Connecticut wrapper accentuates the fillers and binders resulting in a very unique cigar with spicy nuances. The Artesanos Retro Especiale is a smoke to be savored by those who are passionate [about] authentic boutique cigars.”

Following Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) club co-founders John & Fernand sat down to rate this cigar while enjoying a glass of rum.

With a beautifully smooth wrapper and a well-executed cap at the head, it appeared very well-constructed. There were visible ridges running the length of it which we attributed to the pressed that it was shaped in prior to wrapper application, but who knows.

The cigar’s draw was very good, if just a bit on the firm side of the spectrum. The burn was pretty good for the most part, except both our cigars went out at about the same point; just after the start of the second third. Smoke output was sufficient and it’s texture was pleasing. The ash was not always stable, but at least it was uniform and intact before falling.

The flavor started out a tad strong, but quickly mellowed into a welcomed smoothness. We noted sensations similar to cedar, sandalwood, and ‘fortunately’ very brief notes of menthol/ammonia near the end of the second third. That last part aside, we enjoyed the flavors of the Retro Especial very much, overall.

Our averaged rating for the La Gloria Cubana Artesanos Retro Especiale ‘Club’ is 85, a very good cigar.

Here's the points breakdown:

I. Appearance & Construction: 13 pts (87% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 22 pts (88% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 20 pts (80% of the points possible)IV. Overall Impression: 30 pts (86% of the points possible)

All in all, a very enjoyable cigar that we recommend you try for yourself. Visit your local tobacconist and pick up a few!

© 2011 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – La Gloria Cubana Serie R No. 3

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at General Cigar. Featured this time is the La Gloria Cubana Serie R No. 3 given to us back in April of this year.

Vitola: Robusto
Origin: Dominican Republic
Length: 4 1/2”
Ring Gauge: 56
Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan
Binder: Nicaraguan
Wrapper: Ecuadoran Sumatra
Strength: Medium
Price: $5.75

Produced in the Dominican Republic by El Credito B.V., it features a dark, rich looking Sumatra-seed wrapper grown in Ecuador. This short robusto holds a current Cigar Aficionado rating of 92 (June, 2010).

From the manufacturer’s website:

Renowned for its beefy ring gauges and full-flavored taste, La Gloria Cubana Serie R is one of the El Credito Cigar Factory’s hottest-selling offerings.
Serie R boasts an amazing spiciness and powerful, refined flavor which comes from a proprietary blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos. When balanced with a Nicaraguan binder and a wonderfully aged Ecuadoran wrapper (Connecticut Broadleaf wraps the Maduro cigars), La Gloria Cubana Serie R’s exquisite taste captures a place in the smoking repertoires of today’s tenured smokers who demand the ultimate in flavor.

Following CA's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) club co-founders Robert and John smoked and rated the two samples sent to us.













Both Robert and John appreciated the impeccable roll quality. The short presentation was uniquely alluring in its own way. The foot revealed layers of leaf individually discernable, suggesting that bunching was moderately loose. The cap was deftly applied and the band was attractive too.

The draw started out pretty easy; border-line on too easy. The burn did waver slightly as it went, but wow did this cigar put out tons of thick smoke. John remarked, “It was a still night, I exhaled a cloud of smoke that slowly drifted off...and held together for 50 feet!” The ash was solid and white. The only performance detriment was a re-light at one point.

There was a nice floral character initially, as well as a little vanilla; mellow with soft spices. Toward the middle, there was a sense of cafe au lait with a slight cinamon finish. Some woody notes joined the party too. The ending ramped to a spicy cedar.

Our averaged rating for the La Gloria Cubana Serie R No. 3 is 91.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 14 pts (93% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 22 pts (88% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 23 pts (92% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 32 pts (91% of the points possible)

Overall a very nice smoke that came across as relatively mild at times. Nice progressive flavor changes, voluminous amounts of smoke, and a welcomed smoothness.

Thanks again to General Cigar for providing us the opportunity to sample these tasty cigars. What a treat!

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Gift Review – Ashton Cabinet Selection Belicoso

by club member Patrick

Another in our ongoing series of occasional reviews of cigars given to us as gifts. Featured this time is the Ashton Cabinet Selection Belicoso, given to me by club founder Fernand back in March of this year.

Vitola: Belicoso
Origin: Dominican Republic
Length: 5 1/4”
Ring Gauge: 52
Filler: Dominican
Binder: Dominican
Wrapper: Connecticut Shade Grown/Natural
Strength: Mild
MSRP: $200 (box of 25)

Produced by Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia., it features a very light Connecticut natural wrapper and a well executed belicoso shape. The current Cigar Aficionado rating for it is 87 (Jun, 2006).

Following Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) I sat down to rate this cigar while enjoying a modified dark n’ stormy – ginger beer with Sailor Jerry spiced rum in place of the Gosling’s black rum.

A very attractive light colored cigar, the Ashton Cabinet begged to be selected from the humidor as it stood out against its darker leafed brethren. With a nearly perfect Connecticut wrapper, the quality of the Fuente company’s rollers was readily apparent, with a firm but not overly hard texture and only the smallest of blemishes and veins present.

Technically, the cigar is top-notch. While I started with a single clip of the head using a double-bladed guillotine, I opted for a second cut about halfway through which really opened up the airflow and gave the smoke some added volume, both of which weren’t necessary but were certainly appreciated in my enjoyment of this cigar. The ash clung tight for over an inch twice throughout the cigar, and seemed to easily turn an almost perfect white. I took this stick right down to the nub without a single technical flaw.

Keeping in line with its mild flavor profile, the first two thirds of the cigar bring some light woodsy notes, as well as the occasional graham cracker or wheat cracker taste – certainly present but not overpowering, and easy to see why both are generally consumed with something on them as opposed to by themselves. The final third delivers a bigger punch of flavor, with some notes reminiscent of Champagne and Prosecco coming through, followed by a nuttier and smokier finish that I would have loved to see present throughout more of the cigar, hence my desire to get every last puff out of it.

My rating for the Ashton Cabinet Selection Belicoso is 89.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 14 out of 15 pts (93.3% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 21 out of 25 pts (84% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 24 out of 25 pts (96% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 30 out of 35 pts (85.7% of the points possible)

The Ashton Cabinet Selection Belicoso is a thoroughly enjoyable cigar, if a bit mild for my taste. Price not an issue, this is a pick for the fan of milder cigars, or for those new to cigars and looking for an introduction from a gentler taste perspective. Considering price however, this cigar seems to push the higher limit that most new to cigars would seem to tolerate, although cigar veterans might not object to paying for Fuente’s quality of work provided it fits their taste preferences. It certainly earned its Ashton mark of quality and would be a welcomed smoke in the future.

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Punch Upper Cut Grand Corona

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at General Cigar. Featured this time is the Punch Upper Cut Grand Corona.

Vitola: Corona Gorda
Origin: Honduras
Length: 6”
Ring Gauge: 45
Filler: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Strength: Medium
Price: $6.49

Produced by Honduras American Tobacco, it features a dark, rich looking Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper and the much-anticipated Ometepe filler. The current Cigar Aficionado rating for it is 88 (Oct, 2009). We had previously reviewed another cigar containing Ometepe leaf from General Cigar, the La Escepción, check it out here.

From the manufacturer’s website:

An offspring of the Punch “Election” promotion, the blend created for Upper Cut by Punch is the direct result of a national taste test. Using this feedback, General Cigar’s elite new product development team in Honduras married the classic, rich taste of Punch with Nicaraguan spice to produce this alluring, medium-bodied smoke that peppers the palate with an array of complex flavors.

Dressed in a silky Ecuadoran Sumatra wrapper and framed with a Nicaraguan binder, Upper Cut’s Nicaraguan blend commands attention, for it features the unique flavor of Ometepe tobacco cultivated exclusively for General Cigar in limited quantity.

Our club’s three co-founders (John, Robert, Fernand) comprised this scoring panel, and as usual, followed CA's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression).

A rich, earthy aroma prior lighting had us eager to start things off without delay. Also, the Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper displayed a beautiful sheen and texture, despite some moderate veins and a few minor bumps. The roll quality of this slender parejo appeared true and uniform.

This cigar turned out to be a great performer. Our three samples all offered clean draws that delivered ample mouthfuls of delicious smoke which our tasters described as creamy and silky. These burned great too; touch-ups were a rarity and we were able to enjoy the sticks free of any effort to keep them going. Not much to report regarding the ash; it held on for a bit and had a compact, uniform appearance.

Robert thought it came across smoother than the La Escepción we reviewed previously. Fernand found the mid-portion very easy-going with an herbal sweetness. There were a couple brief periods of sharpness in the final third, but never enough to spoil it. John summarized his experience as, “Rich vanilla latte flavor, finishing with a hint of sandalwood.”

Our averaged rating for the Punch Upper Cut Grand Corona is 90.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 13 pts (87% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 22 pts (88% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 24 pts (96% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 31 pts (89% of the points possible)

An intriguing cigar to say the least. There’s something about that Ometepe leaf, perhaps. One apiece simply wasn’t enough, we’ll have to try more and we suggest you do the same.

Thanks to General Cigar for allowing us to sample this new blend.

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – La Escepción Batet

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at General Cigar. Featured this time is the La Escepción “Batet”.

Vitola: Figurado
Origin: Honduras
Length: 5”
Ring Gauge: 54
Filler: Nicaraguan, Ometepe
Binder: Ometepe
Wrapper: Honduran Habano Talango
Strength: Medium
Price: $5.39

The cigar is produced at the Honduras American Tabaco S. A. factory in Cofradia, Honduras. It’s blend features the much talked about Ometepe leaves; fruits of the rich volcanic soil found on the island of Ometepe, located in vast Lake Nicaragua.

From the manufacturer’s website:

La Escepción was once a Cuban brand that stood in the shadows of Hoyo de Monterrey. Today, General Cigar is proud to unveil a wholly-new expression of this storied brand by honoring its full-flavored tradition.

La Escepción debuts with an entirely new set of distinctions, for this bold ensemble was developed in accordance with national consumer feedback and features tobacco exclusive to General Cigar.

Boasting the world’s first Ometepe binder, La Escepción is handcrafted in Honduras and boasts a unique blend of proprietary Nicaraguan tobaccos. Enveloped in lustrous Honduran Habano Talanga, this medium-bodied collection offers a modern take on the brand, with an intriguingly rich, bold flavor and model construction that is evident at the first glance.

Taking part in this review were the club’s three co-founders (John, Robert, Fernand). As is our usual method, we followed Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression).

Right off the bat, we were struck by the convenient size of this stocky little cigar (which I liken more to a belicoso than a torpedo). Just right for a warm spring afternoon, not too big, not intimidating. Up close, it’s not without its share of imperfections; some surface roughness, veins, bumps and the occasional spot or blemish. There’s still something appealing throughout all that – something ‘natural’ about it.

The draw was very nice across all three of our samples. The burn was fantastic as well, some of the best we’ve seen in a long time (love a cigar that burns trouble-free). The quantity of smoke produced was plentiful and comfortable. The ash held long, didn’t flake much and gave an impression of quality leaves.

The flavor started out with just a nice, basic tobacco essence. Then came notes of vanilla and leather. There was also something of a mildly acidic sweetness, like dried apricot perhaps. One of us got a pretty solid sense of charred meat, like well-done barbecue. It was never bitter or tannic; smooth all the way down.

Our averaged rating for the La Escepción Batet is 88.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 12 pts (80% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 23 pts (92% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 23 pts (92% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 30 pts (86% of the points possible)

We were very pleased to get to experience the Ometepe tobacco. What a nice medium-bodied experience. We do recommend you stop by your local tobacconist to try these.

Thanks again to General Cigar Co. for giving us the opportunity to taste these unique cigars.

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Coronado Corona Especial

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at J&J Cigars. Featured this time is the Coronado by La Flor ‘Corona Especial’.

Vitola: Corona Gorda
Origin: Dom. Rep.
Length: 5 ¾”
Ring Gauge: 47
Filler: Dominican Sumatra and Piloto Cubano
Binder: Dominican Corojo
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Strength: Full
Price: $8.10

This beautiful cigar is produced in the D.R. at Tabacalera La Flor under the watchful eye of Litto Gomez. It features a Habano-seed Sun-Grown Nicaraguan wrapper and a filler/binder blend grown at the LFD farm in La Canela, D.R. The current Cigar Aficionado rating for it is 92 (Oct, 2007).

The three samples for this review were scored by club co-founders John & Fernand and club member Patrick. As is our usual method, we followed CA's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression).

With a light, milk-chocolate brown wrapper cloaking an elegant roll, the only visual detractions may have been a few minor veins and noticeable ridges & bumps. Two of the cigars drew just fine, but one was way too tight at first. Fortunately, it improved as it went. The quantity of smoke produced was sufficient, but not remarkable. The ash tended to fall sooner than we’re used to, though it wasn’t a hindrance to the experience.

As often happens, we all found different flavors in this cigar. John noticed leather, anise, and dark chocolate. Fernand found a grassy start, followed by black tea, and later a savory mid-section. Patrick detected a cocoa powder entry, then breads & grains, and even a little roasted marshmallow to cap it all off. One thing’s for sure, there’s likely to be something in this cigar’s flavor profile for everybody. In the end, the Flavor category is where our highest marks were scored.

Our averaged rating for the Coronado by La Flor ‘Corona Especial’is 85.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 13 pts (87% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 22 pts (88% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 29 pts (83% of the points possible)

This cigar doesn’t disappoint. For us, it seems, the performance aspects appear to be holding it back a bit. Incidentally, we have enjoyed other vitolas from this line before. In fact, one of those still resides among our Top Ten list (see the sidebar to the right).

Bottom Line: You won’t be sad you gave this brand a try, if you haven’t already.

Thanks to John at J&J Cigars in Shoreline for giving us the opportunity to review this very enjoyable cigar.

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Gift Review – Padron 3000

Another in our ongoing series of occasional reviews of cigars given to us as gifts. Featured this time is the Padron Series 3000, given to me by my friend Mike-C back in April of ‘09.

Vitola: Corona Gorda
Origin: Nicaragua
Length: 5 ½”
Ring Gauge: 52
Filler: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaragua (natural)
Strength: medium-to full
MSRP: $123.50 for a box of 26

Produced by Padrón Cigars Inc., it features a dark, rich looking Nicaraguan wrapper and a sturdy parejo shape. The most recent Cigar Insider rating for it is 89 (Jun, 2007).

From the manufacturer’s website:

Founded in 1964 and evolving throughout our history, the Padrón™ line today consists of fifteen medium-to full-bodied, long-filler cigars ranging from Panetelas to the large “A” size Magnum. All tobacco in this line is sun-grown habano that is aged for a minimum of two-and-one-half years. Every cigar in this line is available in natural and maduro wrapper. This line offers exceptional quality and value.

Following Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) I had two cigars from the gifted sampler, about two weeks apart.

No-nonsense is the name of the game with these Padron Series cigars. Sure it’s rustic looking, but you know what you’re getting and pretty much what to expect. The draw was quite easy on both and they also had trouble staying lit in the second half. I appreciated the quantity of smoke produced, but found the ash a little unstable and gnarly looking.

The flavor was initially woody with just a mild, pleasant spice up front. I found it to be of mild-to-medium strength through the first third. One had a period of dryness on the palate during the middle portion. Both cigars alternated between sweet & savory with something like molasses during the final third.

After averaging the two scorecards, my rating for the Padron Series 3000 is 81.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 11 pts (73% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 28 pts (80% of the points possible)

As 80-89 is defined as Very Good to Excellent, it’s easy to agree that this is still a very good cigar, despite a rating like 81 that appears to be comparatively low.

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Gift Review – Tatuaje Black

Another in our ongoing series of occasional reviews of cigars given to us as gifts. Featured this time is the Tatuaje Black Label Private Reserve, given to me by John at J&J Cigars back in November of ‘09.

Vitola: Corona Gorda
Origin: Nicaragua
Length: 5 5/8”
Ring Gauge: 46
Filler: Nicaraguan
Binder: Nicaraguan
Wrapper: Nicaraguan (binder leaf)
Strength: Full
Price: $13

Produced by Don Pepin Garcia for Pete Johnson, it features a Nicaraguan wrapper (said to be binder leaf) with a rough texture and a rustic appeal that’s strangely enticing. The uncut foot was a first for me and it also gives the impression that you’re about to experience something quite different and at the same time very special.

I scored this cigar following Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression).

The pointed head is so intriguing that it’s hard to cut it off, though the sense of anticipation forces one to make quick work of it. The rough wrapper and sturdy parejo shape combine to give a sense of solid construction and strength even before you’ve smelled or tasted it. One detraction, visually, was that the wrapper was a bit dry looking, perhaps a byproduct of it being from binder stock.

Unfortunately, my sample drew rather tight, but I was optimistic nonetheless. This thing starts out strong, as most every reviewer has described before me. Through the middle portion I enjoyed a sweet wood, like a black walnut. This later gave way to a tannic period during which I struggled with burn problems. The final third rallied with a savory richness that I found very appealing.

The quantity of smoke produced varied at times but was lacking more so than I would have liked. I also found the ash a little unstable, as it fell early in the first third; though that did improve later.

My rating for the Tatuaje Black Label Private Reserve Corona Gorda is 89.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 13 pts (87% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 17 pts (68% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 28 pts (80% of the points possible)

As you can see by my scoring in the category of Smoking Characteristics, the experience was hindered significantly by the poor draw and burn. This is in stark contrast to the very pleasurable time spent recently with the Black Tubos that I acquired this past December.

Thanks again, John, for this very generous gift!

© 2010 The Cohiba Club - All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Toraño 50 Year Robusto

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at J&J Cigars. Featured this time is the Toraño Exodus 1959 50 Years Robusto.

Vitola: Robusto
Origin: Nicaragua
Length: 5”
Ring Gauge: 50
Filler: Nicaragua
Binder: Honduras
Wrapper: Brazilian Arapiraca S.G.
Strength: Medium
Price: $7.50

Produced at the STG factory in Estelí, it features the new copper colored band and a dark, rich, and somewhat rough-looking Brazilian wrapper. The current Cigar Insider rating for it is 88 (Oct, 2009).

From the Toraño website:

“Who would have thought the Castro brothers would outlive the Soviet Union and eight U.S. presidencies, and be able to hijack a culture and people for five decades?” The speaker is Charlie Toraño, president of the fourth-generation Toraño family’s premium tobacco and cigar business. “We created our Exodus line of premium cigars to remind smokers of the hardship inflicted by Cuba’s Marxist communist regime, especially its exile of the world-renowned tobacco and cigar families, including ours. As expatriated Cubans, we have triumphed both as a people and as creators of a new cigar industry in the different countries where we all settled. That triumph is worth celebrating and we do so in our new cigar for 2009 ... Exodus 50 Years.”

Three of us took part in this review; club co-founders Robert & Fernand and club member Tom. As is our usual method, we followed Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression).

First appearance, with the new copper band, is very pleasing. The dark color and toothy texture of the Brazilian wrapper is enticing. Roll quality appeared pretty good, but unfortunately, one of our sample drew too fast while another was too tight (though it did improve for a brief period through middle portion of the stick). The success of burn seemed to coincide perfectly with the degree of draw. The fast cigar burned great and the tight cigar didn’t burn well. The quantity of smoke produced fell along those same lines as well. The ash was of a light-grey color and very stable; actually needing to be ‘broken off’ at times.

The Toraño 50 Year was milder than we expected, at the start. The flavor improved over time; started creamy and cool. We categorize it as mild-to-medium for the first half. There were nice coffee-woody notes along the way. Later it became stronger up to the end, where Robert found that a black cherry sweetness really kicked in. Tom & Fernand, on the other hand, found their samples finishing instead with a cedar-like sweetness.

Our averaged rating for the Toraño Exodus 1959 50 Years Robusto is 85.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 13 pts (87% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 22 pts (88% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 29 pts (83% of the points possible)

All in all, a very good cigar. One of our tasters felt that got better as it smoked. None of us found it hot or harsh and it had nice flavor transitions. We all agreed it’s worth going back for more.

Thanks again to John at J&J Cigars for giving us the opportunity to enjoy and review this fine cigar.

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Gift Review – CAO Criollo Conquistador

Another in our ongoing series of occasional reviews of cigars given to us as gifts. Featured this time is the CAO Criollo “Conquistador”, given to me by club Charter member Pat back in December of ‘08.

Vitola: Figurado
Origin: Nicaragua
Length: 6 1/8"
Ring Gauge: 52
Filler: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium
MSRP: $8.85

Produced by CAO International of Nashville, this Nicaraguan puro features a dark, rich looking Cuban-seed wrapper and a skillfully tapered torpedo shape. The current Cigar Aficionado rating for it is 88 (June, 2004).

As is typical with our reviews, I followed CA's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression). In the interest of full disclosure, it should be noted that I actually conducted this tasting back in October of ‘09. The holiday season has been busy so I’m just getting around to this posting.

With a severe conical-shaped head, it appeared very well-shaped. The wrapper was toothy like a coarse sandpaper. Unfortunately, there were some unsightly ridges beneath the wrapper. The draw was a little firm for my liking, but manageable. The ability of this cigar to burn is where things soon went downhill. Also the smoke produced was a bit thin, undoubtedly due to the firm draw.

The flavor started out woody and sweet like hickory chips then it changed to a slightly more pungent cedar with a bit of silage (fermented grain). The second half showed stages of bitterness.

Getting back to the burn, it was nothing short of atrocious. The constant relighting and coaxing was an incredible drag.

My rating for the CAO Criollo Conquistador is 78.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 13 pts (87% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 17 pts (68% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 27 pts (77% of the points possible)

All in all, a very demanding effort just to keep the cigar going; which really hurt the experience. Too bad because there was definitely some complexity to the flavors which probably warrant a second try.

Thanks Pat, for the Christmas gift!

© 2010 The Cohiba Club - All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Room 101 Robusto "305"

This is the first in a new series of reviews of cigars given to us by J&J Cigars of Shoreline. We're very pleased to have this relationship with such a fine tobacconist and are looking forward to reviewing many great cigars from his vast stock in the months ahead. Featured this time is the Room 101 “305”.

Vitola: Robusto
Origin: Honduras
Length: 5”
Ring Gauge: 50
Filler: Honduras, Dom. Rep.
Binder: Honduras
Wrapper: Semilla 101 (Honduras)
Strength: Medium
Price: $7.50

Produced by Camacho Cigars for brand owner Matt Booth, it features a dark, rich looking wrapper called Semilla 101 selected just for this cigar. Musician and accessory apparel designer, Booth also crafts sheik cigar cutters and lighters clad in sterling silver; among other luxury items.

Conducting this review was Cohiba Club Charter Member Joe and fellow club members Bruce and Peter. As is our usual method for reviewing and rating cigars, they followed Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression).














With a sturdy looking parejo shape, the appearance is initially pleasing to the eye. The head’s cap did look a little rough around it’s circumference. The texture was a tad dry to the touch, but smooth, and no offending veins were observed. The only troublesome attribute may have been a few soft spots or voids detected beneath this pretty wrapper.

The draw was very free flowing, in fact too fast on a couple of these sticks. The burn was mostly even and needed little or no re-lights along the way. One upside of the fast draw was voluminous smoke it produced. The ash was very stable, holding on for an impressive length.

The flavor for Pete and Bruce was mostly woody, a little dry, giving way to some bitterness near the end. Joe, on the other hand, found it beginning rich and dark in character, then mellowing as he got into the middle portion. He added that there were some intermittent fruity tones at one point. The three of them experience quite a bit of variation in their tasting impressions, with assessments ranging from ‘average’ to ‘very good’. Clearly the difference in palates was showing through here.

After averaging their scores, our rating for the Room 101 “305” is 84.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 13 pts (87% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 29 pts (83% of the points possible)

In the final analysis, this cigar inspired a mixed response. One of our tasters liked it, the other two (these guys grade tough) need to try more before making up their minds. Good advice, indeed – for all of us!
Head over to J&J Cigars in Shoreline and pick up a few.

Thanks to John of J&J for giving us the opportunity to review this intriguing cigar!

Photo credit to Room 101 Cigars.

© 2010 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Avo No. 2

by club charter member Pat

This is the final in series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at Cigars Direct. Featured this time is the Avo No. 2.

Vitola: Corona Gorda
Origin: Dominican Republic
Length: 6”
Ring Gauge: 50
Filler: Dom. Rep.
Binder: Dom. Rep.
Wrapper: Ecuador
Strength: Medium
Price: $162.95 (box of 25)

Inspired by legendary, Armenian jazz legend Avo Uvezian, this brand is produced by OK Cigar Corp. It features a beautiful Ecuadorian wrapper and a reliable parejo shape.

Following Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) I conducted this tasting back in July.

The appearance on this cigar was a not quite up to the usual Avo standards. There was a pretty large ridge visible under the wrapper leaf and unfortunately, the sample I received had a crack at the foot.

The cigar drew pretty well, but had a little more resistance than I would have preferred. It did burn pretty well too. The smoke started out thin, but luckily improved by the half-way point.

This cigar began very smooth. A gentle spice eased in at around the end of the first third, something like nutmeg, but subtle. While never getting all that complex, it was easy smokin’ and pleasurable all the way through.

My rating for the Avo No. 2 is 83.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 11 pts (73% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 30 pts (86% of the points possible)

The Avo brand is a very good cigar that I recommend you try.

Thanks again to Cigars Direct for allowing me to try this very interesting cigar!

© 2009 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Sol Cubano Maduro Torpedo

by club co-founder Robert

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at Cigars Direct. Featured this time is the Sol Cubano Maduro Torpedo sent to us back in May of this year.

Vitola: Torpedo

Origin: Nicaragua

Length: 6.5”

Ring Gauge: 50

Filler: Nicaraguan

Binder: Nicaraguan

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro

Strength: Medium

Price: $69.95 for a box of 25

This Sol Cubano features a dark, Nicaraguan wrapper and a rustic torpedo shape. It’s produced by Oliva for Abdel (A.J.) Fernandez, the Cuban expatriate who, like Don Pepin Garcia, travelled to Nicaragua to start his own cigar business. AJ is considered a master blender of tobacco, having studied under the renowned Cuban tobacco grower Alejandro Robaina.

Following Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) I began the tasting. As usual I rated this cigar while enjoying some Aberlour 12 year old scotch (neat).

The Sol Cubano “Cuban Sun” had a pleasant pre-draw aroma that reminded me of silage, that sweet summer barnyard smell of straw and feed. The appearance was a little rough, with some wrinkles in the wrapper and a slightly dry look.

The initial 1/3 was smoothed out after a rather uneven start. The flavors of leather and impression of silage continued.

The second third was also smooth tasting, pleasant enough, with consistent flavor. I usually don’t mind touching up an uneven burn if the taste is there, but this got a little annoying.

The final third didn’t last, that nice leather and a little hint of cocoa flavor gave way to harshness and ended up tasting ashy. Perhaps it was the repeated touching up to keep the burn even.

My rating for the Sol Cubano Maduro is 78.

Here's the points breakdown:

I. Appearance & Construction: 11 pts (73% of the points possible)

II. Flavor: 23 pts (92% of the points possible)

III. Smoking Characteristics: 17 pts (68% of the points possible)

IV. Overall Impression: 27 pts (77% of the points possible)

Though my scoring may seem a little tough, I did like this cigar (except the burn). It produced big mouthfuls of smoke and a good strong ash. The flavor was good, and that’s what really counts for me. Consistent taste in the first and second thirds, and you know, for under three dollars you can easily just put it down if the flavor goes away. I’ll try another one and see if it burns a little more even next time.

© 2009 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Diamond Crown No. 4 Maduro

by club co-founder Fernand

Another in our ongoing series of reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at Cigars Direct. Featured this time is the Diamond Crown Robusto No. 4 Maduro, given to us back in the Spring of 2009.

Vitola: Robusto
Origin: Dominican Republic
Length: 5 ½”
Ring Gauge: 54
Filler: Dom. Rep.
Binder: Dom. Rep.
Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro
Strength: mild-to-medium
Price: $148.95 (box of 15)

Produced by Tabacalera A.Fuente y Cia. for the Newman Family, it features a dark, rich looking Connecticut broadleaf wrapper and leaves some of which have five years of age on them.

Following Cigar Aficionado's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) I sat down to rate this cigar while enjoying a glass of bourbon.

The beautiful dark wrapper gave pre-light aromas of clove, while the foot smelled of cedar. The draw was a bit firm for my liking, but it certainly didn’t interfere with the burn which was stellar through the entire experience. In fact, it was one of the best burning cigars I’ve seen. The smoke was a bit thin, undoubtedly a product of the tight draw. The ash was quite strong, never falling, and requiring a bit of effort to ‘break off’ now & then.

The flavor started out like smooth wood. About an inch into it, leather was hinting every so slightly. The mild profile had me intrigued having mostly enjoyed stronger cigars lately. Later a gentle spice teased me a bit as well. At one point I even had hints of dark berries. In the end, I found it a little dry on the finish, occasionally metallic. Finally, it warmed to a dry, slightly bitter, conclusion which left me feeling like I needed to try more, one of these days.

My rating for the Diamond Crown No. 4 Maduro is 86.
Here's the points breakdown:
I. Appearance & Construction: 15 pts (100% of the points possible)
II. Flavor: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
III. Smoking Characteristics: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)
IV. Overall Impression: 29 pts (83% of the points possible)

Thanks to Cigars Direct for giving us the opportunity to try this cigar. Give the Diamond Crown maduro a try.

© 2009 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.

Cigar Review – Gran Habano No. 5 Corojo

by club co-founder John

Another in our ongoing series of occasional reviews of cigars given to us by the good folks at Cigars Direct. Featured this time is the Gran Habano No. 5 Corojo, sent to us back in the Spring of 2009.

Vitola: Churchill
Origin: Honduras
Length: 7”
Ring Gauge: 48
Filler: Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Mexico
Binder: Ecuador
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium to full bodied
Cost: $71.95 (Box of 20)

Produced by Gran Habano, it features a dark, rich looking Nicaraguan wrapper in a hefty Churchill shape. The current Cigar Aficionado rating for it is 90 (Aug, 2006).

Following CA's 4-part rating system (Appearance & Construction, Flavor, Smoking Characteristics, and Overall Impression) I sat down to rate this cigar while enjoying a the champagne of beers, …that’s right a cold can of Miller. I know, I know, it’s not the fancy libation you had expected, but I was camping with my buddies… so give a guy a break!

This cigar was a really well constructed Churchill; flawless wrapper, few minor blemishes, and a nice firm roll. The smoking characteristics almost matched the appearance. It produced thick mouthfuls of smoke with a long ash (dark) and only just slightly too tight of a draw

The flavors were bold and interesting and kept coming on; first licorice and cedar with full-strength and taste, and finally a hint of manure/silage during the second half (I never would have thought that I would appreciate a hint of horse apple in a cigar, but it really was tasty and rich!).

My rating for the Gran Habano Corojo No. 5 Churchill is 88.

Here's the points breakdown:

I. Appearance & Construction: 14 pts (93% of the points possible)

II. Flavor: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)

III. Smoking Characteristics: 21 pts (84% of the points possible)

IV. Overall Impression: 32 pts (91% of the points possible)

Overall, this was a really good cigar, a nice long, rich smoke, and great for the price!

Thanks again to Cigars Direct for giving us the opportunity to try this stick. Fortunately, they’re a bargain, so don’t hesitate to find out for yourself.

© 2009 The Cohiba Club – All rights reserved.