Tag Archives: cigar-reviews

WARPED FUTURO 2015 SELECCION

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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

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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.

FERIO TEGO METROPOLITAN MADURO BY QUESADA CIGARS

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Alright, let’s settle in and talk about the less heard of Ferio Tego Metropolitan Maduro in a 5×50 Robusto. This isn’t just another stick; it’s a creation from the skilled hands at Quesada Cigars in the Dominican Republic, featuring a Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper that immediately catches the eye, paired with Dominican binder and filler. It’s a blend that promises depth, and it certainly delivers.

From the very first draw, this cigar offers a generous volume of smoke, a welcome sign of things to come. The initial notes are quite inviting, with a subtle sweetness reminiscent of honey, quickly followed by a robust coffee or espresso character. There’s also a foundational hint of earthy richness that grounds the experience. What’s particularly noteworthy, and something that stays with you throughout the entire smoke, is a distinct saltiness on the wrapper. It brings to mind the satisfying taste of salted peanuts, a unique dimension that adds intrigue.

Moving into the second third, the experience largely maintains the established profile, but with a few nuanced developments. That initial honey sweetness deepens, evolving into something richer, more akin to a smooth caramel. Alongside this, soft whispers of leather begin to emerge, adding another layer of complexity without overpowering the core flavors. It’s a consistent, enjoyable progression.

As you approach the final third, the earthy notes become more prominent, shifting from a general earthiness to a drier, more mineral-like character. Yet, the coffee, the evolved caramel sweetness, and that persistent salty peanut essence from the wrapper all remain, creating a harmonious and satisfying conclusion to the journey.

Now, on the pairing front, I opted for a bourbon and coke with this one. While it wasn’t a bad combination, it felt a bit like a missed opportunity. The sweetness and effervescence of the drink didn’t quite elevate the cigar’s profile as much as I’d hoped. My gut tells me this Metropolitan Maduro would truly shine alongside a good cup of coffee, perhaps with a touch of cream. That creamy texture and the coffee’s inherent bitterness would likely complement the cigar’s rich, earthy, and sweet notes in a far more profound way.

Overall, the Ferio Tego Metropolitan Maduro Robusto is a well-crafted cigar that offers a consistent and engaging flavor profile. It’s a solid choice for those who appreciate a maduro with clear, evolving notes and a distinctive character.

This was another great stick from Standard + Twain. If you are not familiar with them yet, they describe their company as one that allows you to participate in blind tastings and eliminates brand bias, enabling you to evaluate cigars solely on their merit rather than reputation or price. This unbiased approach fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse range of cigars available, empowering you to discover your true favorites without preconceived notions.

Note: We do not recieve any monetary or other contributions from the companies listed or linked above.

PADILLA ARTEFACTO MADURO REVIEW

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

CAVALIER GENEVE TRES DELINCUENTES CONNECTICUT

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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!