Tag Archives: cigar

WARPED FUTURO 2015 SELECCION

Posted on by
Reply

Warped Futuro 2015 Review: A Taste of Nicaraguan Heritage

There’s a certain respect due to a cigar that knows its roots, and in the Warped Futuro 2015, you’ve got a smoke that’s pure pedigree. This isn’t some flash-in-the-pan blend; it’s a deliberate, thoughtful collaboration from the folks at Warped and the revered hands of the Fernandez Aganorsa farms in Nicaragua. It speaks to a certain old-world craft, even with its subtly modern name.

The Foundation (Construction & Prelight)

The stick in question is the 5 5/8 x 46 vitola, a classic Corona size often called the Seleccion Suprema—a fitting name for a cigar that presents itself with such quiet confidence. For a price point of roughly $12, you are getting a Nicaraguan Puro, meaning every leaf—wrapper, binder, and filler—hails from that fertile volcanic soil.

The wrapper, a Nicaraguan Corojo ’99, is handsome—often a beautiful golden-brown or light reddish tint, with a fine, oily sheen. Before the flame touches it, the aroma from the foot is a rustic promise: a blend of sweet tobacco, dry earth, and maybe a hint of cedar or clean hay, a scent that reminds you this leaf was grown outdoors, not in a factory. The construction is solid, a testament to its composition, offering a cold draw that hints at leather and spice.

The Burn: Unfurling the Story

Upon lighting, the Med-Full strength immediately makes its presence known, though with a balanced, educated hand, not a belligerent one.

First Third: The initial draws are a hearty handshake. We find only a touch of spice, but it quickly settles, leaving the palate awash in core, refined flavors. It is mostly leather, cedar, and a beautiful creaminess, all underscored by a slight, natural sweetness. This is a smooth opening that speaks to the quality of the aged Corojo and Criollo tobaccos.

Second Third: This is where the Futuro truly earns its stripes, finding its rhythm and easing back from the initial heat. The spice calms significantly, but the leather, cedar, cream, and underlying sweetness continue to stand out with beautiful clarity. A new layer of complexity surfaces with a distinct nuttiness joining the profile—like roasted almonds or pecans—adding a rich, mellow depth. The blend is harmonious, showcasing the Criollo ’98 binder’s work.

Final Third: As the last act begins, the cigar gathers its forces for a powerful finish. All the previous flavors—the rich leather, smooth cedar, and deep cream—come out in full, bold measure. We see a little added spice return to the fold, which gives the end a pleasant lift. Most notably, the sweetness takes on a more specific, delightful character, becoming almost Graham cracker-like—a perfect complement to the nutty and spicy notes. The experience finishes with a clean, earthy tobacco taste, leaving a warm, lasting impression of Nicaraguan complexity and strength.

Final Musings

The Warped Futuro 2015 is, simply put, a masterclass in modern blending built on classic, superior tobacco. It provides a rewarding journey from the creamy, refined start to the bold, Graham cracker-sweet finish. The Med-Full strength is well-matched by the full flavors, making it a perfect smoke for an evening of quiet contemplation or a spirited discussion among friends.

For those who appreciate the genuine, unadulterated taste of Nicaraguan Corojo and Criollo, this cigar is a clear signal that the future of traditional tobacco is in very capable hands. It’s an elegant, satisfying smoke, and one that rightly deserves a permanent spot in a well-curated humidor.

MIL DIAS HABANO BY CROWNED HEADS

Posted on by
Reply

You know the type of stick I’m talking about. Not some fancy, delicate thing you have to baby. This is a cigar built for the long haul, for those moments when you’ve put in the effort and you’re ready to just sit back and take it all in. We’re talking about the Mil Días Habano from Crowned Heads, a substantial 6 x 54 that feels right at home whether you’re unwinding after a day on the job or just watching the sun dip below the horizon.

This one registers as a medium-full strength, meaning it’s got some real character without being overpowering. The wrapper is an Ecuadorian Habano, a leaf known for bringing a rich, complex profile to the table. Beneath that, you’ve got a Nicaraguan binder, and the filler is a blend of Costa Rican, Nicaraguan, and Peruvian tobaccos. It’s all masterfully crafted in Nicaragua, a region that consistently produces some of the finest cigars in the world. And it’s worth noting, this particular line has a track record of earning high marks, often in the 90s, which speaks to its consistent quality.

Now, let’s get down to the experience. The first third of this Mil Días presents a distinct combination of flavors. There’s a clear note of orange zest, bright and fresh, mingled with the earthy scent of dry hay and rich soil. A hint of cedar comes through, reminiscent of fresh-cut wood. And then, a subtle peppery kick emerges, particularly noticeable on the retrohale – a clean, sharp spice that adds an interesting edge.

As you move into the second third, the orange notes become more pronounced, beautifully complemented by a semi-sweet dark chocolate. It’s the kind of dark chocolate that’s satisfyingly rich without being cloying. The earth and cedar notes recede somewhat, taking a backseat, but that pepper? It holds its ground, ensuring the profile remains engaging.

By the last third, the flavor profile remains largely consistent, though that cedar note intensifies slightly, coming back to the forefront with a bit more vigor. It’s a robust and satisfying finish.

Having sampled a few from the Crowned Heads Mil Días line, I can confirm that while each offers a unique experience, they consistently deliver. The construction on this Habano was impeccable, holding together flawlessly from start to finish. And the draw? Smooth and effortless, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable smoke.

So, for anyone seeking a cigar that can cap off a demanding day or simply provide a moment of quiet reflection, the Mil Días Habano is a strong contender. It’s a reliable, flavorful smoke that delivers on its promise.

PADILLA ARTEFACTO MADURO REVIEW

Posted on by
Reply

The Padilla Artefacto Maduro Torpedo (6×52) is a cigar that merits attention for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted smoking experience. Encased in a dark Nicaragua Artefacto Corojo wrapper, its appearance alone suggests depth and character.

From the initial moments, the construction of this toro stands out. The draw is excellent, remarkably clean, and the overall composition is impressive, providing a consistent and effortless burn from start to finish. This foundational quality allows the smoker to fully focus on the evolving flavors.

The first half of the Artefacto Maduro introduces dominant notes of dark coffee and rich chocolate, forming a deep, satisfying core. This is complemented by a subtle hint of spice, which adds a lively counterpoint without ever becoming overpowering. It’s a bold yet balanced beginning, setting a high expectation for what’s to come.

As the smoke progresses into the second half, the flavor profile gracefully transitions. The intensity of the coffee mellows, transforming into a smoother, more approachable coffee with cream, while the chocolate notes deepen and become more pronounced. This shift creates a richer, almost velvety texture on the palate, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Reaching the last third, the cigar continues to deliver on its promise. The established notes of coffee and chocolate persist, providing a consistent and satisfying conclusion. However, a delicate addition emerges in these final moments: just a whisper of leather. This subtle nuance adds a layer of complexity and a refined finish to an already impressive cigar.

The Padilla Artefacto Maduro Toro is a thoughtfully constructed cigar that offers a compelling and evolving flavor journey. Its exceptional build quality ensures a trouble-free smoking experience, making it a highly recommendable selection for those who appreciate a full-bodied Nicaraguan maduro with a harmonious blend of coffee, chocolate, spice, and a nuanced hint of leather. It’s the kind of cigar that invites you to slow down and truly savor the moment.

SIN COMPROMISO No. 4 – BY DUNBARTON TOBACCO AND TRUST

Posted on by
Reply

.

If you’re like me, you’ve smoked a fair share of cigars. Some are good, some are forgettable, and then there are the ones that make you pause, the ones that demand your full attention. The Sin Compromiso by Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust, well, that’s one of the latter. And after four sticks from a box of thirteen, I can tell you this isn’t a fluke. This is the real deal.

Now, before we even light it, let’s talk about the presentation. Each cigar is gently soft pressed and sleeved in Spanish cedar. It’s a subtle touch, but it hints at the care that went into crafting these. You get the feeling you’re holding something special, and you are.

First Third: A Creamy Introduction

From the first puff, this cigar makes its intentions clear. The smoke is big and bountiful, coating the palate with a creamy texture that’s immediately inviting. Right on its heels come big, bold notes of cocoa, not a bitter chocolate, but a rich, almost decadent cocoa. Underneath it all, there’s a delicate hint of cedar, a nice little counterpoint to the richness. It’s a damn good start.

Second Third: Can’t Put It Down

As you move into the second third, the experience doesn’t just hold steady; it intensifies. Those initial flavors? They’re still there, but they’ve deepened, becoming even more pronounced. The creaminess, the cocoa, the cedar—it all just seems to meld together even better. This is where you find yourself completely engrossed. You don’t want to set it down. You don’t want to talk. You just want to keep smoking.

Last Third: The Grand Finale

And then comes the final third, and this is where the Sin Compromiso truly sets itself apart. It’s not just “more of the same”; it’s a culmination, an even more refined and satisfying experience. What truly astonishes me with this cigar is its construction. It burns flawlessly, producing a clean, even ash throughout. I’m talking about the cleanest cigar I’ve had to date. And that’s not hyperbole. Four cigars in, and every single one has performed identically, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship.

The Perfect Pairing: Chocolate and Orange

Now, a great cigar often calls for a great pairing, and tonight, I hit a home run. I enjoyed this Sin Compromiso with a cup of Dreamer Tea from Bearded Man Provisions. If you’re not familiar with them, you should be. The Dreamer tea, with its blend of rich vanilla and sweet, crisp orange, proved to be the absolute perfect complement to the cigar’s dominant cocoa notes. It was a classic combination of chocolate and orange, elevated to another level. The flavors just danced together, enhancing both the tea and the cigar in a way that truly made the experience complete.

This isn’t just another cigar to add to the rotation. This is a cigar that has earned a permanent spot in my humidor. I’ll always keep a box of these on hand, though I probably won’t be sharing them unless it’s for the rarest of occasions. If you’re looking for a top-tier smoking experience, do yourself a favor and get your hands on a Sin Compromiso. And while you’re at it, grab some Dreamer tea from Bearded Man Provisions. You won’t regret it.

Bearded Man Provisions – website

CAVILIER GENEVE INNER CIRCLE

Posted on by
Reply

Hey Folks! Let’s get into another one of these. This isn’t just any stick; this is another blind smoke we’ve got in from Standard and Twain. So, no preconceived notions, no fancy labels to distract us, just the pure experience. We’re going to break down the Cavalier Genève Inner Circle 6×52 Toro.

Construction and Components

First off, let’s lay out what this thing’s made of. You’ve got a Habano wrapper and binder, which is a solid foundation, known for its consistent burn and flavor delivery. For the filler, they’ve packed in a blend of Pennsylvania, Jalapa, Broadleaf, and Piloto. That’s a serious combination of tobaccos, suggesting a complex profile that’s designed to unfold as you smoke.

The Sensory Experience

First Third

When you light this cigar, the initial impression is surprisingly gentle. The draw is smooth, and the flavors come through with a notable lightness. You’ll pick up distinct notes of honey, a natural, mellow sweetness that’s not cloying. Alongside that, there’s a clear hint of graham cracker, providing a warm, biscuity undertone. This opening section is bright and inviting, setting a very agreeable tone.

Second Third

As you transition into the middle of the cigar, the profile begins to deepen. A clean earthiness emerges, reminiscent of rich soil, grounding the experience. This is subtly complemented by a mild, almost aromatic touch of hay, adding a fresh, botanical nuance. Then, a soft note of vanilla appears, introducing a creamy sweetness that harmonizes with the developing earthy tones. This segment demonstrates a well-balanced evolution of flavors.

Last Third

Moving into the final portion, the cigar takes on a more robust character. The flavors intensify, presenting a richer, darker profile. Prominent notes of molasses come forward, a deep, sticky sweetness that adds considerable body. This is quickly followed by a strong presence of coffee, akin to a full-bodied, dark roast. The conclusion is impactful and lingering, providing a powerful and satisfying finish.

Final Thoughts

The Cavalier Genève Inner Circle is a well-crafted cigar that delivers a clear and purposeful progression of flavors. It starts with an approachable lightness, transitions into a balanced mid-section with earthy and sweet elements, and concludes with a deep, rich intensity. This isn’t a cigar you just idly burn; it’s one you engage with, appreciating the nuances as they develop. If you’re looking for a smoke with depth and a distinct journey from start to finish, this one’s a strong contender.

CAMACHO CONNECTICUT

Posted on by
Reply

You know, there are some moments in life that just call for a pause. Not a frantic scroll through your phone, not another email, but a genuine, honest-to-God halt. For me, that happens often because I just prefer life that way. But the times I enjoy things most are days like this day. My wife and I had friends over and with our family in the background, kids playing games, music, and a lot of laughter. It’s in those rich, easy lulls that one may start thinking about a good smoke.

I have a deep appreciation for anything well-crafted, from a meticulously curated art collection to a carefully crafted oatmeal stout. A cigar, when executed flawlessly, belongs in that same esteemed category. While some cigars might be seen as merely functional or utilitarian, they can also truly surprise you, offering a fascinating experience when paired thoughtfully. Sunday was precisely one of those days for me.

I landed on this specific cigar, a Camacho Connecticut, after some thought about what would best complement to my drink of the day: a “Perfectly Crafted Christmas Tree.” I still can’t quite explain it, but if this drink had a flavor, it would taste exactly like what the ideal Christmas Candle would smell like. I know, not what you expected me to say rolling into June in Texas, but that’s what my buddy brought over and it was magical like Old St. Nick himself.

We’ll dive deeper into that pairing soon, but first, back to the cigar. This particular stick, hailing from Honduras, is enveloped in a sturdy-looking Ecuadorian Connecticut leaf that promised a substantial smoke. Beneath that wrapper, a Corojo binder holds together a Dominican and Honduran filler blend, hinting at a balanced, medium-strength experience.

Lighting it up, the first draw was pure buttery goodness. There was a subtle sweetness, like dried fruit, but it was quickly overtaken by something woodsy – cedar, maybe a hint of oak. As I settled into the first third, a distinct creaminess emerged, smooth and mellow, followed by a surprising little kick of pepper. Now, I’ll admit, that pepper might have been influenced by my drink but it was there, nonetheless, adding a welcome layer to the initial profile. It wasn’t aggressive, mind you, but it had a presence. Moving into the second third, that creaminess really took center stage, becoming even more pronounced. By the final third, the cigar had truly opened up. It was as if all those flavors – the creamy notes, the wood, the earth, and that subtle pepper – intensified, coming together in a more robust and satisfying crescendo. It held its character right down to the nub, a testament to its good composition.

It paired well with the quiet (sometimes not so quiet) hum of the tree frogs. And speaking of pairing, this Camacho Connecticut was a great choice to go along with my drink: a concoction of 1.5 ounces of Cinnamon Whiskey by Tennessee Legend Distillery, a full can of Barq’s Root Beer, and 1.5 ounces of Jim Beam White Label. That blend, with its sweet spice and a solid bourbon backbone, mellowed with the creamy notes of the cigar just right, and likely amplified that initial peppery kick in the first third. It was a combination that just made sense, a natural fit for an outdoor evening.

This isn’t a cigar for fancy occasions or for impressing anyone. This is a cigar for reflection, for winding down, for appreciating the simple fact that you’re alive and breathing and the world is still turning. It’s a cigar for when you’ve earned a moment of family time and relaxation or around a campfire stargazing. At around $10 a stick, it’s a fair trade for that kind of quiet contemplation.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, and you happen to have a Camacho Connecticut handy, I’d say give it a light. You might just find it tastes exactly like what you needed.

UNDERCROWN MADURO BY DREW ESTATE

Posted on by
Reply

You know, sometimes you come across something that’s built on the back of a legend, but it’s still got its own grit. Like a good, solid hunting knife that might not be a custom job, but it’ll hold an edge and get the work done. That’s kind of how I look at this Drew Estate Undercrown Maduro.

Drew Estate, they’re known for those infused sticks, the ones that smell like a dessert cart. But then they dropped the Liga Privada #9, and that thing was a beast – full-flavored, a real treat. The problem with those top-shelf items, though, is they are not always easy to come by, or easy on the wallet. So, what do you do? You get resourceful.

The Undercrown, from what I gather, was born out of that kind of thinking. The folks rolling the Liga Privada in the factory, they put their heads together and figured out how to use similar tobaccos – stuff that’s more readily available – to make something that hits a lot of the same notes, but without the sticker shock. It’s a notch down in strength from the #9, sure, but sometimes, you don’t need to be wrestling a grizzly bear; a good black bear will do just fine.

This particular stick, the Undercrown Maduro, comes out of Nicaragua, a country that knows a thing or two about growing good tobacco. For about $12, you’re getting a solid piece of work. The wrapper is an Otapan Negro Último Corte, which sounds like something you’d find deep in the jungle. The binder is a T52 Connecticut River Valley Stalk Cut & Cured Habano, and the filler is a blend of Brazilian Mata Fina & Nicaraguan Cuban Seed. That’s a serious mix of dirt and sun right there. And the overall composition? Is Good, Really Good.. The strength on this one sits right in the Med-Full range, which means it’s got some backbone but won’t knock you flat.

First Third: Out of the Gate

You light this thing up, and the first few draws give you a solid, familiar feeling. I got a real sense of oak notes, mixed in with some dark coffee and a rich, almost bitter chocolate. But then, something interesting started to peek through – a hint of dark cherry. I was sipping on a classic Coke with this, and I gotta tell ya, it almost gave it this whole cherry coke vibe. It wasn’t overpowering, just a nice little twist, like finding a patch of wild berries on a long walk. It felt natural, not forced.

Second Third: Settling In for the Long Haul

As you get into the middle, that strong dark coffee and chocolate really take center stage. It’s the kind of deep, robust flavor that sticks with you, like a good, strong brew on a cold morning. Every now and then, I’d catch a whisper of leather and it was never the star of the show.

Now, a word of advice here, and it’s a practical one: take your time with this cigar. If you get too eager, drawing too quickly, and it starts to burn hot, it can get a tad bitter. It’s like trying to rush a stalk; you gotta be patient, let things develop, or you’ll spook the whole show. Slow and steady wins the race with this one.

Last Third: Bringing It Home

The final third of this Undercrown stayed true to form. It was still very enjoyable, consistent with the rest of the smoke. It didn’t fall apart on me, didn’t get harsh or unpleasant, which is a real mark of good craftsmanship.

I usually run through at least three of any cigar before I put my thoughts down, just to make sure I’m not getting a fluke. And I can tell you, this Undercrown did not disappoint me in any of those experiences. It’s a very good maduro to keep on hand, a reliable tool in the kit. In fact, I’m genuinely elated to have two more sitting in my humidor right now. It’s the kind of smoke you can count on, and sometimes, that’s all you really need.

OH NO! I HAVE NEVER HAD A CIGAR IN MY LIFE, WHAT DO I DO?

Posted on by
Reply

Alright, don’t panic. Cigars can be confusing, I get it. I started a little over a year ago and now I am a certified cigar sommelier. But… this is my job, you just want to get by with your buddies so you don’t look stupid. It’s all okay, I will get you to the point of comfort so you can actually enjoy this excursion instead of feeling like you have to ace a final.

So, you’ve decided it’s time to grasp the fundamentals of a good cigar. Maybe you’ve got a new golf buddy who savors a smoke on the back nine, or your best friend is getting married and all the groomsmen are sharing a cigar experience. When I started out, I couldn’t tell a foot from an elbow. I had no idea how to light a cigar, that flavor profiles were even a thing, the shapes, sizes, wrappers… what??? It’s a lot of information, I know, but let’s simplify it so you don’t embarrass the crap out of yourself. Trust me, nobody wants to be “that guy” fumbling with a stick when everyone else is enjoying a quiet moment. It’s easy for the world of cigars to feel a bit overwhelming, even expensive, but there’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars right out of the gate. We’re just here to cover some basics. Don’t feel out of your depth; every master of a craft started as an apprentice. I’m here to lay out the groundwork, ensuring your maiden voyage into the world of cigars is marked by confidence, not by fumbling.

The Cigar’s Blueprint: Anatomy of the Stick

Before you even think about putting flame to leaf, understanding how a cigar is put together is paramount. This isn’t some haphazard bundle of dried tobacco; it’s a precisely engineered piece of work, a real testament to skilled hands. Think of it like a well-built tool – each part has a specific job.

  • Foot: This is the end you’ll light, usually open and ready for business.
  • Head: The opposite end, the one that goes in your mouth. It’s almost always capped and needs a clean cut.
  • Cap: A small, carefully applied piece of leaf that seals the head, holding the wrapper tight. Mess this up, and your cigar will unravel faster than a bad fishing knot.
  • Wrapper: The cigar’s outermost layer. Often the prettiest leaf, and usually the most expensive, it plays a big role in the cigar’s main flavor and how it smells. It’s the face of the operation.
  • Binder: Tucked just under the wrapper, this tougher leaf holds the filler tobacco together. It’s crucial for a steady, even burn. This is the unsung hero, keeping the whole thing from falling apart.
  • Filler: The very heart of the cigar, made up of different tobacco leaves – sometimes from all over the globe. These leaves collectively decide the cigar’s strength, its complex taste, and its overall character. This is where the true essence, the real flavor, makes its home.

Selecting Your First Charge: Exercise Prudence

This rule stands firm. Just like you wouldn’t start learning about spirits by chugging a barrel-strength whiskey, don’t jump straight into a full-bodied, heavy cigar. Your palate needs to ease into it. Start sensible, like picking the right caliber for your first hunting rifle.

  • Seek out mild to medium-bodied selections: Good starting points include the Macanudo Cafe, an Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story, or an Ashton Classic. These offer a balanced, easygoing smoke, without knocking you flat. You don’t want your first puff to feel like you just swallowed a mouthful of campfire smoke.
  • Consider a ‘Flavored’ Introduction: Some beginners find an easier path in with a quality infused cigar. We’re not talking about those sickly sweet things you find at a gas station, but reputable brands that infuse their tobacco with subtle, often natural, sweetness or other pleasing aromas. These can be a gentle bridge, helping someone new to tobacco find some initial enjoyment before they learn to appreciate the pure, unadulterated flavor of traditional cigars. A solid recommendation here is the Drew Estate Deadwood Series, like the Fat Bottom Betty or Sweet Jane, known for their unique, sweet notes without being overly artificial. Think of them as training wheels for your taste buds. It’s a stepping stone, not the end of the trail.
  • A word of caution: This might be your pre-excursion cigar. Among truly serious cigar users, stick with a straight-up mild-to-medium bodied suggestion like those mentioned earlier. Why, you ask? To save yourself some embarrassment. Seasoned cigar smokers might try to pull your man card or give you a hard time if your cigar smells like a bowl of Fruity Pebbles. To them, those are often seen as toys for kids, not serious smokes for grown folks around the fire.
  • Heed the vitola (size): Smaller cigars, like a Robusto or a Corona, are a smart move. They burn quicker, giving you a good introduction without having to commit to a long smoke that might wear you out. You don’t want to be stuck with something you’re not enjoying for an hour.
  • Consult the purveyor: When you’re in a respectable tobacconist shop or a dedicated cigar lounge, tell them you’re just starting out. Ask for a mild, beginner-friendly cigar, and don’t hesitate to mention if you’re interested in a quality infused option, like something from the Deadwood Series. These folks are like seasoned guides; their knowledge is worth its weight in gold.

The Decisive Cut: Mastering the Blade

You absolutely cannot, under any circumstance, just bite off the end – that’s a rookie’s blunder, a real rookie move. A precise cut is essential for a clean draw and an even burn. Treat your cutter with the respect you’d give a sharp camp knife.

  • Common Cutting Implements:
    • Guillotine (Straight Cut): This is the most common and straightforward tool. It gives you a clean, decisive chop. Simple, effective, no fuss.
    • Punch Cutter: This tool makes a small, round hole in the cap. Some folks prefer it for a slightly tighter draw. Like drilling a small pilot hole.
    • V-Cutter (Cat’s Eye): This one makes a distinct “V”-shaped notch in the cap. For those who like a bit of finesse.
  • The Unbreakable Rule: Always cut above the cap line. Your goal is to just snip enough of the cap to create an open channel for the draw, without messing up the wrapper. A common mistake is cutting too deep. If you go too far, that wrapper will unravel faster than a bad rope in a white-water rapids, and you’ll be left with a sad, floppy mess of tobacco. Aim for one swift, confident action.

Ignition: The Ritual of the Flame

Lighting a cigar is a distinct skill, not like haphazardly flicking a lighter for a cigarette. It’s a deliberate act to make sure you get a broad, even light. Take your time with this, like you’re building a good fire in a chilly camp.

  • Preferred Fire Starters:
    • Butane Torch Lighter: This is the top choice. It throws a clean, odorless flame, free from any gunk. It’s your dependable workhorse.
    • Wooden Matches (unwaxed): An old-school method, a bit more challenging. Let the sulfur burn off completely before you even think about putting flame to tobacco. It works, if you’ve got the patience of a trapper.
    • Cedar Spills: These are thin, long strips of cedar. They burn slow and steady, giving off a subtle, pleasant aroma. For the purists, or if you’re feeling a bit fancy.
  • The Process:
    1. Toast the Foot: Hold the cigar’s foot just above the flame (never directly in it) and slowly rotate it until the entire surface gets a nice, even char and starts to glow. You’re not setting it ablaze, you’re preparing it, like searing a good piece of meat.
    2. Apply Flame While Drawing: Once it’s properly toasted, bring the flame to the foot and start taking gentle, measured draws, keeping that cigar rotating. Don’t take aggressive, rapid puffs; methodical patience gets you the best results. Think gentle sips, not trying to suck the smoke out with a vacuum cleaner.
    3. Verify the Burn: Check out the cigar’s foot. You’re looking for a consistent, glowing cherry all the way around. If a spot isn’t lit, gently put the flame back to that area. We’re going for an even burn here, not a lopsided hot dog on a stick.

The Smoke: Savoring the Journey

  • Never Inhale: This is the golden rule, and I can’t stress it enough. Cigar smoke is meant to be savored on your palate, not pulled into your lungs. Unless you want to cough like a wild goose caught in a thunderstorm, keep that smoke out of your lungs. Draw the smoke into your mouth, let its flavors linger, and then slowly exhale it.
  • Puff with Purpose: Treat this experience like you’re enjoying a slow-cooked meal after a long day in the field. Avoid puffing constantly. The sweet spot is usually one or two deliberate puffs every 30-60 seconds. Puffing too fast will inevitably overheat the cigar, making it taste harsh and bitter. Don’t puff like a steam engine; you’ll scorch the tobacco and ruin the flavor quicker than a bear raiding a picnic basket.
  • Discern the Evolution: Cigars naturally change in flavor as they burn down. Pay attention to the subtle notes that emerge – maybe you’ll pick up on cedar, strong coffee, a hint of nuts, or a developing spice. It’s a journey of taste, not a sprint to the finish line.
  • Respect the Ash: Don’t knock the ash off too soon. A longer ash actually helps insulate the cigar, keeping its temperature steady and promoting a cooler, more even burn. Let it build up to a good length, perhaps an inch or more, before gently rolling it into an ashtray. Think of that ash as a temporary trophy; let it grow, then let it go.
  • Knowing When to Conclude: When the cigar starts getting uncomfortably warm to the touch, or its flavor turns harsh, or simply when you stop enjoying it, that’s your cue to set it down. There’s no law saying you have to smoke it down to the very nub. Don’t be a hero; when it stops being good, it stops.

A Word on Decorum and Preservation

  • Ash with Responsibility: Always use a proper ashtray. Don’t be a slob; nobody likes rogue ash on the patio.
  • Relighting Protocol: While you can relight a cigar if it goes out, try to avoid doing so after a long stretch of time. The flavors trapped inside will be ruined. If it’s been sitting cold for ten minutes or more, it’s likely done for.
  • The Humidor: If you plan on buying more than just a handful of cigars, investing in a proper humidor is essential for keeping them fresh over the long haul. But for getting started, your tobacconist should give you a good bag for transport. Ask them if you can also pick up a Boveda pack for a small fee. This little, vital packet will keep the humidity just right, giving your cigars months of protection while you figure out if this pursuit is truly for you. It’s an inexpensive bridge, letting you test the waters before you sink a chunk of cash into a dedicated humidor. For now, let’s just get you squared away.

Embarking on your cigar journey is a commendable step into a world of deliberate relaxation, refined tastes, and good company. With these fundamental principles locked down, you’re now ready to approach your first cigar with unwavering confidence and, indeed, genuine satisfaction.

.

CAVALIER GENEVE TRES DELINCUENTES CONNECTICUT

Posted on by
Reply

Alright, let’s talk about the Tres Delincuentes from Cavalier Geneve. I recently spent some time with this particular cigar, and I’ve got some thoughts. Hailing from Honduras, this Robusto (5×50) comes wrapped in a Connecticut Ecuador leaf, secured by a Habano Ecuador binder. The core is a blend of Habano Nicaraguan, Piloto Dominicano, and Habano Honduras.

At eleven dollars, it falls into a reasonable price point for a cigar of its size and stated components. Most places, you’ll find it under the $12 mark, and if you’re lucky, some spots might even have it for under $10. The wrapper, as advertised, is on the delicate side, requiring a careful hand. A few minor touch-ups were necessary during the burn, but nothing that detracted significantly from the experience.

Now, let’s break down the journey this cigar takes you on. The first third presented with clear notes of earth and a pleasant nuttiness, all underpinned by a subtle creaminess. As I moved into the second third, those initial flavors persisted, but a new guest arrived: a fleeting, almost ethereal hint of something very light, like citrus or perhaps a distant fruit. However, the most noticeable and welcome addition here was a distinct vanilla note, which really elevated the profile. By the last third, it became a harmonious combination of all the preceding elements, thankfully without that brief, almost-missed citrus note.

The profile itself leans toward mild to medium. This isn’t a cigar designed to overwhelm the palate, nor does it present an aggressive nicotine kick. Instead, it offers a nuanced progression of flavor that unfolds subtly. It’s the kind of smoke that complements reflection, perhaps after a day spent outdoors, or when you’re simply seeking a moment of quiet contemplation. While it won’t demand your full attention with bold assertions, its gentle complexity offers enough engagement to make it a worthwhile companion. All in all, this was a great cigar for the price range it’s in, delivering a consistent and enjoyable experience.

Now, it would be a miss not to tell you how I happened upon this particular cigar. Frankly, it wouldn’t have been on my radar, as I typically gravitate towards darker, more robust companions. This cigar was a happy surprise from my bi-monthly (they do offer monthly, but I prefer the bi-monthly) bundle of non-banded cigars from Standard + Twain. If you haven’t heard of this company, allow me to sing their praises and strongly encourage you to visit their website at www.standardandtwain.com and explore what they offer. (This is NOT a paid review.) Their story is a truly an engaging one, marked by a timeless commitment to cigars and a nod to the old paper written by the one and only Mark Twain. Like Twain, they (and I, for that matter) believe a good cigar shouldn’t be judged solely by its price, its band, or even its box. So, they remove the original band and replace it with a QR-coded blank band. You smoke it, take notes with the provided card, and form your own opinion before scanning the code to reveal its identity. I won’t tell you which month or specific number this cigar was, as I wouldn’t want to spoil the fun for anyone who might stumble upon this review and subscribe. I will certainly be reviewing more cigars from this subscription in the future, as I genuinely love this concept!

Finally, I can’t wrap this up without mentioning my pairing for this particular smoke (Again, not paid for this plug), because it was simply excellent! I brewed some Black Rifle Coffee at home specifically their Bourbon blend. I added a touch of Chobani Sweet Cream to it, and the combination with this cigar was truly amazing. I highly recommend both the coffee and the creamer I used; they are, without a doubt, the best I’ve had so far. If you made it thus far I appreciate you more than you know. If you enjoy the reviews please recommend it to a friend or two so we can grow this community together. If you have a particular cigar, accessory, or pairing you’d like to know more about, shoot me an email at buffalonickelcigarreview@gmail.com, and I’ll do my best to help out!