Oliva Master Blends 1

Size: 7 x 50 Churchill
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Medium
Humidor Time: 5 Months

I was walking around a B&M and saw this gem, not knowing much about the cigars except that these are highly rated and on my list to buy. After I had this in my humidor for the last 5 months, I decided to do some research on this, little did I know I had grabbed a Master Blends 1, these are no longer produced and the current market is now selling the third blend. I put this in my travel box and as I contemplated smoking it, knowing these are not made and this is truly a rare cigar, I told myself that there is no point in waiting or else I will not be lighting it up.

First impression, this stands out, the band is colorful and the tattoo is awesome, check this out:



From what I gathered, this is laser etched on the wrapper. Would this not be cool to see as a band, nothing to remove, just smoke right through it?

The wrapper is a very nice brown colored leaf, smooth to the touch with smooth veins, only one or two small ones stand out, which happened to come from probably the binder instead of the wrapper. The cigar is firm, giving a firm draw with a pre-light flavor of cocoa and coffee.

Starting off, this cigar lit nicely giving of pepper and coffee flavors first. The smoke was thick, with a good solid texture that allows the smoker to fully enjoy the flavors emitting from the quality tobacco within. The coffee flavor increased with a woodiness making its way into the forefront of flavors. and cocoa on the finish.

As I made my way into the body of the cigar, the flavors are really strong, they are not over bearing. The ash was white, the burn was a tad rocky, with some rotating I was able to keep it from getting out of hand. Through the body of the cigar, the woody coffee flavor was rather consistent, the pepper flavors from the start quickly faded into the background. The aroma was awesome, it was like incense and filled to area with a wonderful scent.

As I was making my was through into the final half and reaching the last third of the cigar, I was given a new flavor to enjoy, licorice. The smoke became really creamy and the body picked up into the full range. This cigar was not going out without a bang, the flavors became much more pronounced, cocoa was hidden behind coffee and wood with a touch of that licorice. This cigar was just getting better as I kept smoking.

So here I was, I just finished an amazing cigar, knowing I will probably not get the chance to smoke another, but pleased to have been able to enjoy this now. I am relaxed, happy as I smoked this with friends at our local herf. It was a perfect time to light this beauty.

Recommended? Oh Yeah!!!

Leon Jimenes

Size: 5.5 x 50 Robusto
Wrapper: USA Conneticut Shade
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: Dominican Republic
Body: Medium- Full
Strength: Medium
Humidor Time: 6 Months

This was gifted to me some time back and I have been a tad hesitant to light it up, not sure why, but it has been giving me attitude and I have decided it was time to smoke it. The wrapper is a nice dark brown, not what I am used to seeing in a Connecticut shade. The wrapper is rough to the touch but extremely oily. The veins are not prominent but has a similar look that maduros have. The cigar responds with a nice rebound when squeezed. The pre-light draw tasted of mild cocoa, the air traveled nicely, not too loose, just right for me.

As I set the flame to the foot of the cigar, I was given a nice creamy cocoa flavor right off the bat. The foot did take a bit longer to light than I had anticipated, but the flavor from the start easily compensated for that. With a lot of thick smoke billowing out, the texture was creamy and smooth.

The ash held strong, the burn on the other hand was a bit rocky, I did not have to touch it up, but a good amount of rotating was needed to keep it from burning uneven.

As I was moving further into the body I was picking up a citrus flavor that mingled rather well with the cocoa flavors, this was enjoyable. The finish was nutty with a sweet aftertaste.

Every now and then I would get a light touch of pepper, I notice this would happen as I smoked too fast and heated up the cigar, so I backed off and the pepper would slip away and allow the cocoa citrus to remain the main flavors I tasted.

With only an inch left, I let this cigar rest in the ashtray and prove to me that this was no ordinary smoke, it was one that needs to be respected for the quality that it is. I was pleasently surprised and now want to make sure I have a few more of these on hand.

Recommended? Absolutely!!!

5 Vegas Cask-Strength

Size: 5.75 X 54 Toro
Wrapper: Cuban Seed Dominican
Binder: Dominican Corojo
Filler: Brazilian ('99), Piloto Cubano ('99), Nicaraguan('99)
Body: Med-Full
Strength: Medium
Humidor Time: 2 Months


After seeing these when they first came out I have been wanting to get my hands on them. These are 5 Vegas fullest cigar. The tobaccos were harvested in 1999, so what is to be expected is a good smooth solid smoking cigar, right?

Right from the start this is a beautiful cigar, a nice brown wrapper that is smooth with a light showing of veins. This cigar is rather heavy for it's size and solid, very little give when squeezed. The draw is surprisingly loose allowing air to freely draw through. The pre-light draw gives off strong tobacco and cedar flavors. the cut was with ease and the foot toasted up quickly.

My first taste was a woody pepper start, not to be confused with a spice, but nice pepper flavor. The smoke was thick and abundant, the loose draw really produces a lot. As I made my way into the body of the cigar I was given a strong robust coffee flavor with a creamy aftertaste, the pepper is still there but not on the front of the flavors.

The ash is gray and solid only falling when tapped off, the burn is perfect.

The body is turning out a lot of woody flavor, like the cedar I noticed in the pre-light taste. It is light in the woody department, but strong in the coffee. Every now and again I do get a slight cocoa touch. Throughout the cigar I do taste a lot of that coffee with a pepper background.

Reaching the final third of the cigar it was getting rather hot. The pepper was picking up and the coffee was becoming a hit and miss. I decided now would be a good time to let this one go out.

I probably should have let this cigar sit in my humidor for a longer time before smoking it. With such old tobacco together, I did expect a better cigar, this was not bad at all, but did not seem to have enough time to rest. As nice as it is to know that 9 year old tobacco was used for this blend, it would have been far better, I think, if the cigar was rolled 9 years ago and sat for the time to allow the leafs to marry the flavors together.

Recommended? Yes

Peterson- Gran Reserva

Size: 6.125 x 52 Belicoso
Wrapper: Cameroon
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan and Honduran
Body: Full
Strength: Medium
Humidor Time: 3 Months

This toothy cigar comes from Peterson, a well know tobacco company; in the pipe world. They have made a cigar that looks well presented and smells of good quality tobacco. The wrapper is rough in touch, but elegant in appearance, very few veins, just smooth to look at.

As I have stated before, I am not a Cameroon guy, so this will be interesting for me. The draw is very loose, having read this is full body I will be smoking this a bit slower than usual. This lights up easily and I am given a good amount of thick smoke with a lot of flavor.

From the beginning the smoke is smooth with a nice earthy flavor followed by a sweet finish. This is an interesting cigar as I get a flavor that I cannot quite place. The aroma is quite pleasant; the cigar is burning really well and producing a lot of smoke. The smoke is creamy with a butter texture.

The ash is gray and does not hold much at all, it drops easily from the end of the cigar. The burn is even and unfortunately faster than I would prefer, though not heating up the cigar.

Halfway into the cigar I finally was able to pin point that odd flavor, it is vanilla. For some reason, I am not surprised and it reminds me of pipe tobacco again. That is a recurring thought that keeps coming to mind as I smoke this cigar. As good as it is, it tastes like it is made of pipe tobacco. This becomes a monotonous flavor after a while.

I ended up putting this down with about 2 inches left; the flavor just became boring to me. I kept wondering if there was a leaf in the cigar that was treated like Cavendish. I wanted to be smoking a cigar, not a pipe.

Recommended? Yes, but remember that this is a pipe company’s cigar.

Fonseca Habana Seleccion

Size: 7 x 50 - No. 1
Wrapper: Nicaraguan-grown, Habana Criollo ’98
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Dominican Seco & Ligero
Body: Full
Strength: Medium-Full
Humidor Time: 3 Months


This cigar came to me by accident from an online retailer, I must comment on the color of this cigar’s wrapper, it sports a lovely brown with a reddish hue. The wrapper is a Criollo 98 leaf, the cigar is soft with a fairly smooth wrapper with only a couple of noticeable veins, the largest one is seen in the photo near the palm of my hand. With the cap cut, the cigar does not have a loose draw, it is a bit firm. The wrapper is a toothy velvet on the lips. As I think about this cigar before lighting, I am again wondering why I am going to smoke a 7 inch cigar, hopefully it will be time well spent.

The first initial draw on the cigar after lighting, I was instantly greeted with a creamy rich smoke that was thick, yet light at the same time. I am impressed with the smoothness, it is obvious that Fonseca used quality tobacco for this cigar. I notice a salty sour tang the head of the cigar, the first flavors I am given is a woody coffee. Exhaling through the nose is easy with this one, I am picking up some wheat flavor with a varnish finish.

Into the body of the cigar, this is smooth, the ash is white and holds for half an inch, the burn on the other hand is having trouble burning straight. The aftertaste is a pleasant toasted flavor. The aroma is similar to pipe tobacco, it is appealing. I am tasting that wheat flavor with a roasted bean touch. Before long the burn has evened up with some careful rotating, it is close to being straight. As I continue on, the flavors become bold and robust, I am getting a taste of burnt coffee, this cigar is really out to trick the smoker. In the background of the smoke, a sweetness is pleasant, not sure if I really like the burnt flavors, but the sweetness keeps me hanging on and wanting more.

As I reach into the second half of the cigar, the burn has decided to creep up one of the more prominent veins (the one seen in the photo), so it is no longer even. The flavors are still robust, giving off a brunt coffee and wheat flavors with a sweetness in the background. I am also still getting a salty citrus touch on my lips from the wrapper. The cigar stays lit very well, I had to run up to get my laundry out of our shared laundry mat at our condominiums and when I returned, this thing was still burning.

This is a very consistent cigar, not at all boring, with each puff I get a heady robust taste and a sweet finish. As I near the end of the cigar I am pleased to have devoted the two hours needed to smoke it. The body is full and the cigar finished in the medium to full range. The wrapper cracked under the bottom band as I clumsily removed it, the top band came off fine without any problems. The crack did not expand or cause any problems in the burn.

My final thoughts. I was impressed with this cigar, it is my first Fonseca and I enjoyed it. I do not care much for a burnt flavor, but with a sweetness hidden within, this was a delightful smoke. I do recommend this to those looking for a robust cigar that is rich in smooth flavors. The strength of this cigar will creep up on you if you are not careful, smoke it slow and enjoy what it offers. One final note, this cigar will make your breathe smell like a dead cigar, not very nice at all.

Appearance 2- I Like It
Construction 2- Soft and squishy
Burn 1.5- Took a while to burn straight, then picked up a vein and burned uneven again
Ash 1.5- Drops too easily
Flavor 3.5 - Very interesting
Smoke Profile 2- Smooth Easy and Nice
Aroma 2 - Enjoyable, this is not overpowering, nice and mellow


=14.5 Points

CAO CX2 - Belicoso

Size: 7 x 56
Wrapper: Cameroon
Binder: Cameroon
Filler: Nicaraguan, Columbian
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Mild-Medium
Humidor Time: 5 Months

My experience with Cameroon wrappers is not enough to distinguish if I enjoy them or not. From what I can remember I have had a couple, but I do not remember if I liked them or not. With the experience I have had withCAO, I am now questioning as to why I decided to pick The CX2 to review for a Cameroon cigar. I will go with the excuse that since this is a double wrapped Cammie, I will get a good grasp of flavors and decide whether I like and will look for other Cammies to smoke. With this being such a long cigar, this will probably be a long entry.

From the start I am impressed with the looks of this cigar, the wrapper is flawless, the torpedo head is perfect, the scent is a mellow cocoa, and the stick is firm with a nice springy bounce. There is a mild spice on the wrapper and it feels toothy on the tongue. This cigar is packed with a lot of tobacco, the cap was a bit tough to cut through and the draw is firm. The prelight draws presents a lot of grassy flavor. As I look at the cigar before lighting, I am thinking to myself that this is going to be a long smoke.

With the first draw after lighting, I get a distinct charcoal flavor, but I am surprised with how smooth and creamy the smoke is right from the beginning. The aftertaste is very pleasant reminding me of heavily creamed coffee. Even with a firm draw I am able to get an abundant amount of smoke out of this cigar. This guy is really presenting a strong flavor profile, it definitely is not lacking. I am not used to lighting a larger ring gauge cigar, so I had to reapply the flame twice to make sure I am starting off with a nice even burn.

With the burning starting to reach the body of the cigar, I am getting a great amount of woody coffee flavors, hidden in the background is a sweetness and lingers after exhaling. The ash on this is white and holds well as I tap it off at one inch, as of this point the burn is even. The smoke is really thick and mellow, at this point I am not getting any acrid flavor I usually find in CAO cigars, also I am finding this cigar quite enjoyable.

Into the body, the smoke becomes rather toasty and robust. I keeping getting a flavor I am unable to figure out. The smoke of this cigar is strong, trying to exhale through my nose proved to be a bad idea, but I was able to find out what that mysterious flavor is. I am getting a caramel touch, which is the sweetness I have been enjoying in the smoke. The toasty flavors are remaining strong without ever turning.

The background flavors have been turning on and off between caramel and coffee. As I start to enter the half way point in the cigar, I am starting to pick up some of the acrid flavors that I have found in CAO cigars. Purging the cigar helps, but the acrid flavor does not go away completely, instead it hides out with the background flavors, which is okay as it does not disrupt the coffee caramel, it is allowing me to continue to enjoy the toasty woodsy flavor.

Final third of the cigar, I am still getting the acrid flavor and having to purge often, but after the purge the flavors are still good. This continued through the end of the cigar, take a draw, purge then set it down, and I would repeat the process, doing so I was able to avoid any unpleasant flavors.

My final thoughts: If I had let this cigar sit for a few more months, the CAO acrid flavors may have been avoided. I am not all that bothered that I did not wait longer, I thoroughly enjoyed this cigar. I had to devote over two hours of my time to be able to smoke this monster and I am pleased that I did. I have read that Cameroon wrappers have some spice to them, but I did not pick any up during the smoke. This was a medium to full body and mild to medium strength cigar, mid afternoon to evening is a great time for this one, heck during a herf would be great as this will provide lots of flavor and not much is needed to keep it going. The burn held straight for the whole smoke, never needing a relight and it never smoked hot, even with multiple draws. I recommend this CAO CX2.

I like this Cameroon Wrapped Cigar.

Appearance 2- I Like It
Construction 3- Excellent
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 2- Solid
Flavor 3.5 - Not quite perfect, more time was needed in the humidor
Smoke Profile 2- Smooth Easy and Nice
Aroma 2 - Enjoyable, this is not overpowering, nice and mellow


=16.5 Points!!

Camacho Triple Maduro

Country: Honduras
Size: 6 x 60 Torpedo
Wrapper: Maduro
Binder: Maduro
Filler: Maduro
Body: Full
Strength: Full
Humidor Time: 4 Months


I have been patient trying to wait longer before lighting this cigar, but after looking at this cigar for 4 months and the beautiful silver band mocking me every time I opened my humidor, today is as good as any other to light this one up. I enjoy Camacho cigars and since the release of a triple maduro, I looked around fervently for some time until I was able to grab this beauty at a B&M in El Toro. This stick is solid, I would figure so since maduro tobacco is thicker than the average natural wrapper, but when I mention solid, do not under estimate that statement. The wrapper is a very dark brown with long thin veins flowing around the circumference of the cigar. I can see different color tobacco in the foot, the scent is rich and grassy.

Before lighting I moistened the cap and tasted a strong and rich cocoa flavor. As I have learned in the past with a dark maduro cigar, I took the moistened cap and wiped it with my finger, sure enough some color transfered onto my skin. So I moistened some more and wiped the cap until I could no longer see any color coming off the cigar. I do not want to look like I have chocolat eon my lips.

The cap was a bit difficult to cut, it was like I was trying to cut a branch with my cutter. The draw is surprisingly loose, considering it felt like I just cut a branch, I figured it would be like trying to breathe through a branch. The pre light draw gave me flavors of coca cola and grass. While lighting this cigar smelled like burning grass.

This cigar starts off with a whole lot of smoke, it draws easily through the cigar producing a thick amount to be enjoyed. At the start I was presented a mild spice with anise, the spice backed of some by the third draw and became more of a pepper tatse that lingers well after exhaling. Before getting into the body of the cigar I detected some cocoa flavors but not much, just a slight touch mingled in coffee.

Once I finally started into the body, the pepper backed off some more and the cocoa flavors really started to stand out, I was even picking up some almond flavors with that almond sweetness in it. The burn is not perfect and slightly wavy, the ash very white from the outside to the inside of the cigar and is not holding longer than a quarter of an inch.

The after taste leaves a burnt cocoa flavor in my mouth, the smoke is thick, but does not linger much at all after exhaling. The flavors pick up some, really not turning much, just s nice cocoa flavor, some good coffee and almond touch, but the sweetness turned a bit to toffee. So now I have toffee-coffee-cocoa-almond-root beer (anise) tasting cigar, sounds like something new for Starbucks to invent.

This cigar is burning extremely slow, I am only one inch into this stick, I started at 5:15 pm and it is now 5:40 pm. One inch in 25 minutes, I am going to be here for a while. The cigar has a lot more resting smoke than other cigars I have smoked, but it is not affecting the burn time at all.

The ash is holding better now it is almost 3/4 of an inch long, I decided to drop the ash at this point as I do not want it in my lap. The pepper and burnt after taste is completely gone, leaving a nice mellow flavor with a mixture of anise. I noticed at this point I have a salty taste on the outside of my lips from this cigar. The cocoa continues to slowly increase in strength. This is a full body cigar but the strength is very powerful, I can tell this can be dangerous if I smoke any faster, so I am going to stay at this pace, I am tempted to say this is stronger than the Camacho Corojo and certainly stronger than the Flor De Dominicana Double Ligero Chiselito. I can feel the nicotine trying to hit me like a Mack truck.

The burn has evened up and is almost razor straight. Just before I reached into the second half of the cigar I tasted a strong fruity flavor, I was not able to pin point the flavor exactly as I had only two puffs with this and I was jazzed to get a new flavor, at that point I was hit with a strong citrus. So now I am encountering new dimensions and this cigar continues to pour out a lot of the flavors mentioned above.

The smoke has remained smooth through the entire body of this stick, I am two hours in and still have one and a half inches left of this monster. I was given some tanginess in the smoke which I can still describe as citrus. The pepper background is starting to return as it once began. Through out the cigar I was picking up a trace of earthy leather that would show up then back off. I never had to relight this cigar. I am feeling this as I near the end, this is a powerful smoke, I am being cautious to not over do the puffing so I do not end up over the porcelain throne cursing the Cigar Gods.

Wow, what a cigar! This is not one to be tried by the uninitiated. After a solid two and a half hours of smoking I am near the end. Still not quite done yet, but I will add my final thoughts now. I strongly recommend this to those who love a powerful maduro smoke, be prepared and take it slow, this may burn faster, but I was not going to be trying at all. Smooth, rich, cocoa with sweetness and a mix of flavors. I wondered if this was going to be a waste of money, but I am pleased to say it was worth the $12 spent. I swear this cigar tried to kill me.

Easy to enjoy and also easy to give in to, did I mention this was a strong cigar?

Appearance 2- I Like It
Construction 3- Excellent
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 2- Very Nice
Flavor 3.5 - Not quite perfect, but very complex and enjoyable
Smoke Profile 2- Smooth Easy and Nice
Aroma 1.5 -Almost Enjoyable, this one is strong


=16 Points

Anejo - Arturo Fuente (Shark) #77

Size: 5 7/8 x 50/64
Wrapper: Connecticut Broad Leaf
Binder: Chateau de la Fuente Dominican
Filler: Chateau de la Fuente Dominican
Body: Med-Full
Strength: Med-Full
Humidor Time: 4 Months

For some reason I was drawn to smoke this cigar today, I was looking through my humidor wondering what I should have and this one stood out. Mind you that this stick was sitting on the bottom of my humidor with others stacked on top of it, but this one called out to me. The brown wrapper on this square pyramid cigar is toothy, the cigar is squishy and though it has a square shape from the mid body to the foot of the stick, it is not all that square. It does not look to be evenly rolled, when I removed the band, I can see that the band was placed a little tight causing a slight hour glass shape where it was on the cigar.

The wrapper smells like cedar, dirt, and desert grass while the foot smells strongly of maduro cocoa. Upon removing the red band on the foot of the cigar, I see it was covering some cracks in the wrapper. The cap on the cigar is a good size leaving room to cut and not worry about taking to much off, before cutting I moistened the cap and tasted a cocoa sweetness with spice. With the cap removed, my tongue tastes a sweetness and a salty flavor in the tobacco.

I just realized that the one cutter I own and am using, costs less then the cigar I am cutting. Also my lighter costs about a tenth of what I paid for this cigar, sad that the tools which will be around after I finish the cigar costs less total than the stick I am about to burn.

The cigar lights easily, the smoke is abundant and the aroma smells like a cigar shop. The smoke itself is smooth and thick with no spice or acridity I associate with many Arturo Fuente cigars. The first flavor I get is dirt. The draw is a tad tight, but not restricting a great amount of smoking coming through the cigar. A sweetness is hidden in the smoke with the salty touch.

The smoke is dry, the burn is rather straight and the ash is a very light gray holding only about 3/4 of an inch before falling.

As I was into the body I was picking up a nice light cocoa flavor and an acrid taste, which does not surprise me coming from an Arturo Fuente cigar. I cut about an eighth of an inch off more of the cap, it was a bit too tight for my liking, I am pleased I did so as the draw loosened right up as I prefer and I still have another eighth of an inch left of the cap on the cigar.

I was given a sharp flavor like Sumatra coffee. The burn has decided to do as it pleases and has become wavy on one side and starting to canoe on the other. I continued to get a nice coffee flavor, and as I was nearing the halfway point I tasted walnuts. With some rotating the burn self corrected and burning straight.

The acrid flavor is still there and getting in the way of a good maduro ciagr. Continuing on through the second half of the cigar I was given a nice woody flavor, an earthiness that is a good change of pace. The smoke is a tad harsh in the back of my throat, there is no spice to taste, but felt it. The flavor developed a bit of sourness but still creating strong coffee, cocoa, and the acrid touch is backing off slightly.

Into the final third the burn remained straight, the acridness has picked up a whole lot getting in the way of the other flavors this cigar is capable of. With just under two inches left I continue on for the sake of the review, but I am really disappointed so far with this cigar. I never did get another touch of harshness in the smoke expect that one time.

Okay, so after another half inch, I decided to put this cigar to rest, it was still acrid and not getting any better.

My final thoughts. This is certainly an Arturo Fuente cigar, that acrid taste is terrible and I notice it in a lot of their cigars. So far I have only enjoyed the Opus X they make, all the others have been a waste of my money. I can find other maduro cigars that I enjoy and do not have that bothersome flavor. I do not recommend this cigar for two reasons, 1) the acrid flavor gets in the way, and 2) the price for this is not worth the money. In my opinion this cigar is over rated, over priced, over hyped, and does not taste good.

I have one more Shark and one Churchill to smoke, we will see what happens in a year or so, but it will not be any time soon before I want another Anejo.

At Least I still have my cutter and lighter.

Appearance 1- Average
Construction 3- Excellent
Burn 1.5- Near perfect, just a minor wavy here or there
Ash 2- Very Nice
Flavor 1.5 - Many nice flavors, but all lost due to acridity
Smoke Profile 2- Only once did I question the smoke, as such it is not enough to affect the rating
Aroma 2 - Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance


=13 Points

Perdomo Lot 23 - Maduro (Smoked)

Size: 5.7" x 54 Belicoso
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Body: Full
Strength: Medium
Humidor Time: 3 Months

This review is of the Perdomo Lot 23 - Maduro that I did not smoke due to having the coloring from the dye on the wrapper end up on my fingers and lips, I set this cigar aside disappointed. Well, after some time of taking up space (and curiosity from others) I decided to light this one up. In the least, I have one extra space open for another cigar.

With the cap cut, I was given a loose draw, something that I have not had a problem with Perdomo cigars is they always seem to draw well, providing a great amount of spicy tobacco flavor. The first half inch provides a lot of spice, it was a bit much, but once past that first half inch the pepper fade a bit and the smoke was a tad sour. I was greeted with a lot of rich, rich cocoa over the sourness and pepper. The flavor was also acrid up to this point.

The ash on this cigar was extremely dark and the burn was quite rocky. The smoke profile was smooth and creamy. This was pleasant, considering I was not too impressed with a dyed wrapper. Oh, I moistened the wrapper and rubbed the coloring off so it did not end up on my lips.

While moving past the half way point of the cigar, the acridness that was a bother to me backed off and disappeared during the remainder of the cigar. From this point to the end, this cigar really opened up with a lot of cocoa, a bit of coffee, creamy, and rich in flavor.

So my final verdict, if a dyed cigar does not bother you, this can be a really good smoke. This cigar only had a couple of months on it, I would suggest about six months of aging at the least to mellow this cigar out. So will I try another? Well that is yet to come, I liked the flavors of the last half of the cigar, knowing it is dyed, I can smoke this one, but not before removing whatever color I can before lighting up.


Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 3- Good
Burn 0- Rocky and uneven
Ash 1- Dark but held strong
Flavor 2.5 - Good smoke, needs time in the humidor
Smoke Profile 2- Perfect, no harsh spots at all, smooth and nice
Aroma 2 - Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance


=12.5 Points

Ramon Allones Maestro

Size: 5 1/2 x54 - Robusto
Wrapper: Dominican Republic
Binder: Connecticut
Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Mild-Medium
Humidor Time: 5 Years


This little gem I have to review today is a plume covered, cedar wrapped Ramon Allones. I was excited to light this one up, the stick was firm and covered with a nice brown shaded maduro leaf. I am not sure exactly how much age was on this stick, but according to my gifter it is somewhere around 5 years old. The scent off the cigar is strong cedar from it's wooden comapion that has patiently awaited the day it came into my hands to open. The cellophane was as golden brown as the cedar that was tucked away inside. If you haven't noticed, I like a quality cigar with age on it.

I was almost not going to smoke this cigar, I was thinking of how many years I can add to it, but I figured if I did that I would never light this one up. So with the cap removed and before lighting I took in a draw of fresh air and tasted the tobacco inside. I was greeted with age and surprisingly to me, pumpkin spice.

Once lit, I was granted a good amount of smoke from this cigar giving me flavors of cocoa and that pumpkin spice again. I am sure it was the cedar that added the pumpkin spice flavor, it was really good and did not take away the flavors of the tobacco. It was very straight forward of a smoke; cedar, cocoa, and spice.

The burn was perfect. The ash was solid white holding well to the cigar. The smoke was cool and smooth, but dry. There was no complexity, no changes, no strength. This is a cigar that can be appreciated by beginners and experienced aficionados, only down side is that it became a bit monotonous. I am thinking the cigar was past its prime. Then again, I do not have another with more age on it to compare this one to.

This was a fairly short smoke at 5 inches and I was disappointed to let it go. I wanted the cigar to last longer hoping for it to change, but with it mellow and smooth, maybe past its prime, maybe not quite there yet. To bad I do not have another to compare it to.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 3- Good
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 2- Nice
Flavor 3 - Great smoke, lots of flavor, a staple in the humidor
Smoke Profile 1.5- Not quite perfect, a tad dry
Aroma 2 - Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance


=15.5 Points

Cuvee Rouge - Robusto

Size: 5x50 Robusto
Wrapper: Sun-Grown Dominican
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Medium
Humidor time: 1 Month


I went ahead and continued on my Cuvee tour with the Rouge after trying the 151 and giving my throat some time to heal. I got this cigar with my purchase of the 151, it too had one month of time in my humidor resting away. This cigar is also beautiful, the wrapper holds a red hue to it that is quite inviting. This particular stick did have a minor triangle shaped tear at the foot, but it never split and become worse. The cigar is firm, the wrapper is spicy like many others.

The cigar lit up with lots of toasty smoke. It was not pleasant, the flavor was ashy with a tinge of ammonia. The ashy ammonia was prevalent throughout the cigar as it burned down. It was unpleasant to say the least.

The ash was white, but flakey, causing concern to make sure it dropped in the ashtray instead of on me. I do ash more often then some, so it bothers me that I have to keep my eye on the ash to make sure I do not end up with a hole in my pants. The burn was nothing exciting.

During the smoke I noticed a tingling feeling, some may call it a tang, but it was different than I am used to. I picked up a good amount of cocoa, coffee flavors and cinnamon. During the smoke I tried to discern if the tingle feeling I got was the cinnamon or not, but it was a bit of work to figure it out and I never did.

During the smoke I had written in my notes several times the ammonia I would get as the cigar burned. This cigar turned out to be another disappointment for me. I am wondering if the tobacco is too young, the amount of ammonia I got during the smoke was way too much. The tobacco certainly was used too soon and should have been fermented longer, unless strong ammonia is what Cusano was hoping to accomplish with this cigar.

I am certainly going to give my other Cuvee Rouges a long time to rest before lighting up again. I cannot recommend this cigar unless you enjoy ammonia.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 3- Good
Burn 1- Okay
Ash 1- Flaky
Flavor 1- Great smoke, lots of flavor
Smoke Profile 1.5- Perfect, no harsh spots at all, smooth and nice
Aroma 1- Enjoyable fragrance, but stinks up the skin

=10.5 Points

Tatuaje Havana VI - Verocu Exclusivo Lado Occidental

(Exclusive to the Western Side)



Size: 6 ¼ x 52 No. 1
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Body: Full
Strength: Full
Humidor Time: 3 months


I have had Tatuaje cigars in the past, all of them have been an experience on a good level. When the Havana VI came landed in my local B&M, they did not last long, within one month they were gone. I was fortunate enough to snag one for myself and after three months of rest I was ready to light it up.

This is a big stick, the wrapper was spicy and the draw was tighter then I prefer, it did not get in the way. The first flavors to emerge from the start was cocoa, coffee and almonds. I need to point out how smooth the smoke texture was. Tatuaje cigars, I have notice, produce very smooth smoke. Pete Johnson really did a great job with Don Pepin Garcia blending these smoke.

As the cigar burned, the white ash grew longer, the hold was strong, never needing to worry about it falling before expected, burning a straight line the whole way. The smoke volume continued to be light, that was until I was half way into the cigar. This is when it opened up for me. I was greeted with lots of smooth creamy smoke.

The flavors intensified, the coffee became more sumatra like and the cocoa became darker. This cigar performed well, in fact it was almost as expected. The only problem that occurred was the tight draw through the first half of the cigar.

I am not a huge Tatuaje fan, I do not get excited when I see them nor do I anticipate the moment fire touches the foot of my Tatuaje cigars. The flavors were prominent and one must not like strong cigars or have bad taste buds to not like any blend that comes from Tatuaje. These are quality smokes, but to me they are overpriced. The marketing seems opposite of CAO. Tatuaje has great cigars all around, but do not put the time and money into the displays and bands that CAO does. The one thing the two companies do have in common is the hefty change needed to purchase one of their products.

This is a recommended cigar.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 2.5- Good, but tight draw through first half
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 2- Wow
Flavor 3- Great smoke, lots of flavor
Smoke Profile 2- Perfect, no harsh spots at all, smooth and nice
Aroma 2- Enjoyable fragrance, but stinks up the skin

=15.5 Points

Punch Gran Puro - Sierra

Size: 6.5 x 48 Sierra (Toro)
Wrapper: Honduras
Binder: Honduras
Filler: Honduras
Body: Medium- Full
Strength: Medium-Full
Humidor time: 3 Months

This firm cigar is covered with a veiny wrapper and has a good draw. From what I have had with Punch cigars, quality seems to be good every time. I noticed from the start that this cigar was made of quality. This cigar started off with a lot of pepper encompassing the coffee and almond flavors. These flavors were enjoyable.

The gray ash was solid dropping when I wanted it to. The burn was even and stayed so burning the duration of the smoke. Once into the body of the cigar the coffee and almonds were abundant when I picked up a bitter flavor with a sweetness in it like truffles. I think I am tasting truffles recently because we have been getting a lot of them at work from our clients. There was a lot of smoke that was chewy and smooth. The aroma was of a floral fragrant that was pleasing to those around me.

I have been told that these are powerful cigars in both strength and body. I was told that it carries an abundance of spice and pepper. I am am thinking that the reason others find these strong is due to being smoked fresh from the box. I did not rest this one for very long, three months is not a lot but if I were to have waited, I am sure these would smooth out even more. The price is right on these too, on sale one could pick these up for just under $3 a stick, otherwise they are under $5 a piece.

I can recommend these cigars to about anyone, but there is something about this cigar which keeps me from returning to them. The smell left on the skin, it is quite putrid, it smells like something the ashtray threw up. You have been warned.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 2- Good
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 2- Wow
Flavor 3- Great smoke, lots of flavor
Smoke Profile 2- Perfect, no harsh spots at all, smooth and nice
Aroma 1.5- Enjoyable fragrance, but stinks up the skin

=14.5 Points

Cuvee No. 151

Size: 5x50 Robusto
Wrapper: Costa Rican Corojo
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaraguan and Costa Rican
Body: Full
Strength: Medium
Humidor time: 1 Month

Every now and again a cigar comes along that begs to be enjoyed, it wants to be one of the best out there, but there is only one way to find out. This Cuvee 151 came into my humidor with a passion. it sat there along with my other cigars almost taunting them because of how great the corojo wrapper looks. I purchased a couple of these and had to keep away from them, so I tucked them under other cigars so I would forget about them. Unfortunately I saw one after a month of resting and figured enough time has passed to let one acclimate to my humidor, it was time to light at least one up.

Did I mention how beautiful this oily dark firm cigar looks? The Corojo is amazing. It is a cigar that must be seen in person to truly appreciate. Even if one does not care for corojo cigars, one would admit to its beauty.

The cap cut cleanly and the pre-light draw was loose giving flavors of cocoa and strong spice threatening to ravage harm to the back of the throat. I am not kidding about the spice, it was wicked. I do not remember much about the aroma as I was worried about the injury I was causing my throat, as such I am not going to give it a bad rating, if the aroma was bad I would have noted it.

The stick lit up nicely and quickly, the smoke volume was thick and tasted of strong rich cocoa. The smoke was smooth and creamy, but harsh on the back of the throat. The ash was bright white and held strong to the cigar, dropping only upon command in the ashtray. The burn was even all the way around.

I was given flavors of cocoa and nuts with that spice in the background causing harm. The complexities were okay, but with age they might be better. I am hoping the sandpaper effect I was getting on my throat will also fade with age. I am going to return to this cigar, but it will not be for a year. I was disappointed by this cigar, having a rough smoke is never fun and wanting to write up this review I went ahead and smoked the cigar down to one and a half inches, I could not nub this one even if I wanted to. I am only glad I got a robusto rather than anything larger. I would not recommend this cigar out of the box, if you have one with age, good luck. I would like to know what others think of this cigar.

This cigar gets a descent rating due to everything but the smoke profile, if I was not having such a hard time with my throat I probably would have picked up a lot more flavors. This was a huge disappointment for me.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 2- Good
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 2- Wow
Flavor 2.5- Had good flavor, but masked by pain, real bummer
Smoke Profile 0.5- Ouch, oh but smooth and creamy, ouch!!
Aroma 2- Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance

=13 Points

Savinelli Nicaraguan Reserve

Size: 6.5 x 54 Torpedo
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Body: Medium
Strength: Mild-Medium
Humidor time: 1 month

By request I bring you this Savinelli Nicaraguan Reserve. I am well aware of Savinelli pipes, they are some of the most beautiful and best smoking pipes out there and even better they are affordable, I even know that their seconds smoke just as great as their firsts. What I did not know is that they have their own line of cigars. This all Nicaraguan cigar caught my eye quickly. It holds an interesting looking wrapper, it has a reddish hue in it that was blotchy, in a good way that caused this cigar to look attractive. This cigar is firm with an easy bounce when pinched. The draw was a little firmer then I prefer but otherwise not bad. Torpedo's are not an easy cigar to construct with a loose draw.

This cigar was easy to light, it started off with strong coffee and a touch of spice. The smoke was smooth with some roughness in it and light in body. The ash on this cigar was white and held very strong, I had to tap it off a bit harder then I am used to on most cigars. The burn was a bit uneven but did not cause any problems.

Once into the body of the cigar the spice faded and a strong bitter coffee took over. It was really a robust cigar. Not complex in any way, it burned with a strong coffee all the way through. This did not take a lot of work to enjoy, it is straight forward and great for those days you want to sit back and smoke a cigar without having to think about it. The aroma was not bad, I never really thought about it while smoking this one.

The price is about right for this cigar. I do recommend this to anyone who is looking for something easy or for those looking to step up to something with a bit more body and strength than they are used to.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 2- Good
Burn 1-Uneven, No Touch up Needed
Ash 2- Wow
Flavor 2.5- Poker smoke, even flavor, not distracting, no thinking required to enjoy this one
Smoke Profile 1- Smokeable, maybe a harsh spot or two, but not distracting
Aroma 2- Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance

=11.5 Points

Perdomo Habano Maduro

Size: 6.5 x 54 Torpedo
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Body: Full
Strength: Full
Humidor time: 1 month

By request I bring you the this beautiful torpedo from Perdomo. This cigar holds a very dark maduro and spicy wrapper with an interesting waxy menthol smell that reminds me of Carmex lip balm. Odd I know. The cigar is firm with a perfect draw. The flavors before lighting was a very dark and heavy cocoa. Once lit this cigar bellowed with smoke tasting of pepper and cocoa.

The ash was gray and held well, it would fall loose when I wanted it too and the burn was wavy throughout the whole smoke. With the loose draw and wavy burn, I needed to touch up this cigar constantly and it would go out easily. the aroma was floral and dark, complementing each other nicely.

The smoke was creamy thick, very thick, and smooth from the start. Once into the body of the smoke the flavors continued to strengthen and the pepper faded away not to return. I was impressed with deep rich cocoa flavor. It was like a truffle, starts off bitter but sweet and enticing in the middle. It seemed to only get stronger. I do want to note that this is a full body cigar, the nicotine level is high. With the smooth creamy smoke, one may end up getting lost and knocked back towards then end of the smoke from the strength it hides so well.

This is really good cigar that is really flavorful. I would recommend this as an after dinner smoke. Yet I would not recommend this to those who are not patient, this was not fun to smoke as I was constantly having to touch up the burn and re-light it to keep it going.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 2-Looks great and firm, but does not stay lit and burns uneven
Burn 0- Is It Burning? How many lights does it take...
Ash 1- Holds okay but falls easily
Flavor 3.5- Great smoke, lots of flavor, a staple in the humidor, just under perfect
Smoke Profile 2- Perfect, no harsh spots at all, smooth and nice
Aroma 2- Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance

=12.5 Points

Sancho Panza Double Maduro Escudero

Size: 7.2" x 54 Escudero
Wrapper: USA/ Connecticut
Binder: USA/ Connecticut
Filler: Dominican Republic, Honduras, Nicaragua
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Mild-Medium
Humidor Time: 3 Months

Of the many maduro cigars I have seen, this has to be one of the best looking out there. The wrapper is smooth, veins complement the size of this stick nicely, and the way it is wrapped is pure perfection. This cigar is solid, not s soft spot to be found. I would think that a churchill cigar is a challenge to make, the roller who crafted this stick is a master. Every time I would look in my humidor this cigar would call out to me, I has a bad experience with Sancho Panza in the past, so I was nervous with this one, would this cigar be the one to totally turn me off to Sancho Panza?

I tasted the cap before cutting, the wrapper was a natural maduro flavor, one I cut the cap I was graced with a loose draw, the smoke was abundant and cool with a sweetness mixed in, but it did start off acrid.


Once into the body the acrid taste disappeared. The aroma of this cigar was like a barbecue, it had that burning charcoal smell to it. The ash was light gray in color and held quite strong onto the cigar and the burn was near perfect. The flavor was interesting to say the least. It was full of cocoa and mocha with robust coffee but most present was a smoked flavor. The best way I could discribe it is like Perique tobacco, those who smoke pipe tobacco or American Spirit Perique cigarettes would know this flavor.


Halfway into the cigar, the acrid taste returned and stayed for the duration of the smoke. It was not overpowering so I was able to ignore it and focus on the good flavors. I could not get over the barbecue aroma coming from this cigar, it was strong and not enjoyed when lofting towards me. This is an interesting cigar, I would consider this a summer smoke. It was not bad, but I have no desire to have another.

Appearance 2-I Liked It
Construction 3- Excellent
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 2- Wow
Flavor 2.5- Interesting
Smoke Profile 1- Smokeable, maybe a harsh spot or two, but not distracting
Aroma 1.5- Interesting

=14 Points

Gran Habano- VL - Pyramid

Size: 6 1/8x52
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Dominican republic
Filler: Costa Rica, Nicaragua
Body: Full
Strength: Medium-Full
Humidor time: 1 Month


I am not a big fan of Gran Habano, I find their cigars to be of average quality, all seem okay but just do not suit me. Yet when I saw the VL in a B&M I was visiting while on vacation I was drawn to them very quickly. I did not know that Gran Habano made a maduro cigar, these are atractive to say the least. The cedar that covers these has the name of the cigar printed in blue on it and the band sports a gorgeous blue in it. One thing about Gran Habano, their bands are really classy. After sitting in my humidor for three weeks, I was going to smoke a different cigar, but I decided to go with this one instead.

When I removed the cedar I was presented with a dark wrapper that looked better then I expected. The stick was firm with no soft spots. I have heard of inconsistencies with the VL, but mine were all well constructed. When I cut the capI I was given a loose draw, this worries me a bit because some cigars that have a loose draw end up losing their smoking abilities. The flavors I picked up before lighting was grass and cocoa. Once the flame was applied, this cigar exploded with lots and lots of thick flavorful, creamy smoke with a pepper background. I cannot explain just how amazed I was that this cigar was a Gran Habano. The smoke was so easy, it was so much that I was taken back by it, the texture was smooth and buttery with honey and nuts mixed in it. There was a lot going on with this cigar, at the start I was hoping the cigar would continue with its outpouring.

The ash on this stick was gray with some dark blotches covering it, a bit flaky but did not fly around the room, it stayed put on the cigar.The burn started out wavy, but it evened out on its own with out any work on my end. The ash held very strong, I have not know a Gran Habano to perform as this did, I was at me local B&M when I smoked this one, so I was stuck using my cell phone's camera to take a picture of the ash, look at this! Check out the burn line too, near perfect.



As I entered the body of the cigar the pepper left to not return, I was happy to know this cigar did not end with the pepper I got at the beginning. In its place caramel took over, doing a great job, the sweetness was just right. Maybe the caramel was the honey I noticed at the start. The cigar was consistent in changing flavors on me, the flavors seem to rotate between each other, never letting me know which one I was going to get next.

This was a fantastic cigar, I nubbed this one down to my fingers, I do not normally smoke a cigar down that far, but this one was deserving of my time and attention. The body on this is full, the strength started out mild but ended up in the medium-full range when I finished. I did get a bit of a buzz from this one, it was euphoric feeling. I recommend this cigar to fans of maduro smokes, better yet, this has to be the best maduro cigar I have ever smoked that was under $6. It is worth more, but I am not going to tell Gran Habano that! This cigar is going on my list of favorites.

Appearance 2- I Liked It
Construction 3- Excellent
Burn 1.5- Almost Perfect
Ash 2- Wow
Flavor 4- Fantastic, flavor is awesome from the beginning to the end with no rough spots, highly recommended
Smoke Profile 2- Perfect, no harsh spots at all, smooth and nice
Aroma 2- Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance

=16.5 Points!!!

Perdomo Lot 23 - Maduro

Size: 5.7" x 54 Belicoso
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Body: N/A
Strength: N/A


When I found this cigar I was quickly taken away by the dark oily wrapper to a field of tobacco in a little corner of Nicaragua. This is a gorgeous stick, take a close look at it and you too will be transported to another world. The cigar is solid and firm, I was impressed at how solid this stick was, I am used to most cigars having a bit of spring when the cigar is pinched, but not this one. It refused to budge. This cigar smells strongly of anise, I was surprised because though I have been told of this smell I have not experienced it myself, the next thing I knew I had an urge to drink a root beer with this cigar as I smoked it. Have you ever seen a maduro cigar this good looking?

As I approached the time to cut and light this beauty, that is when I was graced with a new cigar experience. I touched the cigar to my lips and tongue to moisten the wrapper cap before cutting, the wrapper flavors were mild and a bit sticky. Sticky? Yep, I looked at the cap and touched it with my left index finger and to my surprise, this premium quality smoke enjoyed by so many left two nice brown spots. I did not have my digital camera available so I used my phone's camera.






I did not expect to see the color on the wrapper transfered onto my finger, what is up with that!?! I was so upset to see this that I returned the cigar to its cellophane and put it back in my humidor. This cigar seems to have a "Madu-O-Matic" wrapper, I cannot comment if all these Lot 23 maduros use fake maduro wrappers, I only purchased one cigar, I guess I need to order more to find out. Well, I may order more. What a shame...

CAO Italia Gondola

Size: 6.25x54
Wrapper: Honduras
Binder: Honduras
Filler: Italy, Nicaragua, Peru
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Mild-Medium


Another CAO, they are producing so many different cigars it is hard to keep up, they spend so much on packaging, they are trying to up the market and seek out new smokers. So what does that do to quality of the cigars and even the complexity of the blends? I cannot answer that without being questioned myself, they are a brand that certainly is under scrutiny about their
marketing. Either way I am willing to try any cigar that looks good to me and this one looks good to me.

The wrapper on this vitola is dark and veiny with the scent of cocoa coming off of it. The cigar is firm with no soft spots. The wrapper was tasteless, the draw was firm, but the tobaccos inside gave a bit of cocoa before lighting. Upon ignition the smoke was chewy, which I noted was like pasta noodles that are not fully cooked. The smoke texture was smooth with a short finish, it left me wanting more. The flavors were fruity with a sweetness in the depth of the smoke and a woodiness texture overall.

The ash burn solid, it was bright white with blotches. The burn was perfect throughout the entire cigar. As I smoked into the body I picked up a grain like flavor and texture, a lot like wheat and the smoke was not as chewy as it started out as. The cigar gave me a mild cocoa taste and subtleties of honey. It was a slow smoking cigar, which I enjoy as I want my cigars to last long, have a lot of flavor, and be worth the money. There was a nice toasty finish with a touch of coffee on the end.

I was surprised with all these flavors, yet as I reached the final third, that acrid taste I find common on CAO cigars reared it's nasty head and the smoke's finish was complexity of flavors, okay so maybe that was not as bad as I thought it would be when I first noticed the acrid flavor. I was set back as I did not expect this good of a cigar.

I was a bit bummed out to read that this cigar does not have a great amount of Italian tobacco in it. When reading about this cigar it gives the impression that this cigar is loaded with Italian tobacco, almost enough to be a puro, but nope, just 1/5 of it is Italian. I guess CAO's marketing hype struck again. I was too eager and trusting, but hey, it was a great cigar and I would not pass on another one.

Appearance 1- Average
Construction 3- Excellent
Burn 2- Perfect
Ash 1.5- Holds okay but falls easily
Flavor 3- Great smoke, lots of flavor, a staple in the humidor
Smoke Profile 2- Perfect, no harsh spots at all, smooth and nice
Aroma 2- Nice and not overpowering, Aromatic, enjoyable fragrance

=14.5 Points