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

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

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

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

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

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

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!!!

Gurkha Beast

Size: 6.5 x 58
Wrapper: Costa Rican Maduro
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Columbia
Body: Full
Strength: Medium


This is a beautiful looking monster. The wrapper is clean and uniform, with light veins surrounding this big gauge stick. This guy has been in my humidor for two months now and I could not wait any longer the light it up.

I am iffy about Gurkha's, I have had some that were okay, and some that were great. In a way they are similar to CAO with their consumers. There are CAO fans that praise and love every cigar they come out with, and the there are those that do not like CAO at all, find all the flaws and chock CAO as a brand that puts more into their marketing than the cigars. I have had CAO's that were great and then had some with ever problem possible; plugs, uneven burn, bad taste, bad construction, you name it. Gurkha's, I think, are viewed the same way. In my case, I have yet to have a bad Gurkha, but I have had some I think were okay and not worth the price. Of course on that end, Gurkha does lead the way in hefty price tags, I like to buy them in samplers and discounts.

Back to the cigar.

The Beast I used for the review had a great easy draw, with good tobacco flavors before lighting. Once touched by the flame this beauty let out an impressive amount of smoke that was creamy and rich. I was surprised when the foot of the cigar split after it was lit about half an inch up the cigar, I am not sure if it was due the the heat or the amount of tobacco was just to much and the wrapper could not hold, but it happened. It did not split any further during the smoke, so it may have even been a bit over humidified or just a fluke.

The first flavors to emerge was a creamy cocoa with some bitterness and pepper. My taste buds enjoyed this start, it was like a dark chocolate flavor mocha. Creamy and smooth.

The ash was solid and white, the contrast of this dark colored cigar with such a white ash really complemented the looks and enjoyment. The burn was a bit uneven, never needing a touch up. It did even out with some moderate rotating.

The bitterness and pepper faded out through the body of the smoke, it returned during the last one and a half inches. In my notes I wrote down that this cigar is creamy over and over, kind of similar to a coffee that has so much creamer in it that it over powers the coffee.

I really enjoyed this cigar, the flavors were tasteful and consistent through out the whole stick. It did not go harsh and gave me copious amounts of thick smoke. The price tag on this cigar is large, if yo can find them at a bargain, then it is worth giving them a try. I have added this cigar to my list of favorites. This is a highly recommended cigar.

Appearance 2- I Liked It
Construction 3- Excellent
Burn 1.5- Even, No Touch up Needed
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!!!

Sol Cubano - Maduro

Size: 6 1/2 x 52 Torpedo
Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Body: Full
Strength: Medium


"Cuban Sun" This dark beauty comes to us from the masters of cigars, Oliva's. With a very dark wrapper perfectly rolled smooth, veins barely make an appearance, and oils enhancing its looks. This cigar is firm but soft. The wrapper carries a spiciness to it and the loose draws gives off a tobacco flavor before lighting.

This cigar lit up rather easy creating a great amount of thick, creamy, and flavorful smoke. Instant cocoa and coffee flavors hiding a pepper spice you do not notice right off the back, it is hidden in the depth of it all. A nutty flavor is also enveloped by the cocoa flavor. This is truly an Oliva creation from the start.

The white ash does hold firm on this cigar, though it is a bit flaky at times. I am impressed by the straight burn I am getting from this cigar, well, to be honest I am not that impressed as this did come from the Oliva family, I expected quality and this cigar held up to its name.

Within the body of the cigar I was given large amounts of flavor that was well beyond my expectations. The finish was long and creamy. My mouth was coated with flavors of cocoa and coffee that are common with maduro cigars. I was given a touch of bitterness in the depth of the smoke, it never stood out or was harsh. With age this may go away and really make this cigar outstanding.

This cigar burns cool, oh did I mention the ash held on well? In fact I only ashed three times total! That was with heavy pick ups and put downs in the ashtray.

This cigar was perfect after my Cajun dinner and complimented my hot cocoa and Charlie Brown movie. What can I say, I am a sucker for the classics.

This is a budget cigar. No wait, this is a great cigar at a great price. The problem with labeling this as a budget cigar is it gives the connotation that this cigar only lives up to minimal expectations. I do not want to give the impression that this cigar is only worth the low price when in fact it is not. I have had cigar worth much more that cannot live up to the Sol Cubano. Take advantage of this cigar if you love maduros, you will be pleased you did. Put the flame to this one!

Joya De Nicaragua - Antano 1970

Size: 6 x 54 Belicoso
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Criollo
Filler: Nicaraguan Habana
Binder: Nicaraguan Habana
Body: Full
Strength: Full

This is a sight to hold, the JDN-Antano 1970 has to be one of the most beautiful cigars out there. As a tribute to Joya De Nicaragua's fame of the 1970s this cigar wants people to remember that this top brands was once the most famous to come out of Nicaragua, almost losing it's fame to war and the lose of the factory. With the call for stronger cigars, JDN has released this beauty. This dark Criollo wrapper cigar boast quality in the looks alone. The veins are over barring and distracting the looks of this stick, the cigar was packed firm with no soft spots. I smoked this cigar at my local cigar lounge during the Boston and Colorado World Series.

The brown wrapper produces a flavorless taste on the tongue before lighting and the contents of the cigar is spicey cocoa. When I took a pre-light draw I was given a loose draw that I expected to be too much for a full body and full strength cigar. I had a bit of a struggle to light this cigar, it took a bit of work to get a nice even burn going around the foot, once lit this stick was non stop to the end. With most cigars I come to expect the first couple of draws to produce a bit of spice and a tad of harshness. What I was greeted with was an instantly smooth cocoa flavored smoke. No harshness, no spice, just creamy and thick.

Into the body of the cigar, the Antano 1970 has a light gray ash that is a bit flaky, but holds firm to the cigar. The burn line was even through the whole smoke, never losing track of it's goal to stay straight. The smoke was interesting, with a loose draw one does not know if they would be presented with too much smoke or not enough, this particular cigar never gave me too much, but at times it was a bit thin. When the smoke was thick it was so flavorful that I wanted more, with the thin smoke it gave me a chance to relax and think about the cigar and contemplate about the flavors it was producing, giving me a chance to pick out the flavors this cigar offered.

With the thickness of the smoke changing I was able to pick up the creamy cocoa and coffee flavors this cigar gave me with touches of cinnamon in the creamy flavor profile. The smoke was never too thin that I was annoyed, it kept me interested during the whole smoke. If it was not for the thin times in the smoke I probably would have smoked this one too fast. Which one should be careful with as this cigar can easily turn on the smoker and knock them off their feet. At times I thought I may have to give in to its strength, but luckily I ate a hardy meal and took my time. I was left with a mild buzz that let me know it can take me out if it wanted too.

This is a perfect after dinner cigar. There is a lot of flavor and strength behind it. I enjoyed this cigar so much I went ahead and purchased more before leaving my local cigar lounge. I am not a huge fan of Nicaraguan puros, I am working my way through Don Pepin Garcia's cigars, but Nicaraguan puros are not stand out favorites of mine. This Antano 1970 on the other hand is in my top favorite cigars. Enjoy this one folks, you will love putting the flame to these cigars!

CAO Criollo-Conquistador

Size: 6 1/8 x 52
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Criollo
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Body: Full
Strength: Medium

This cigar from CAO comes in with a different kind of wrapper, known a criollo which some consider to be corojo. I am not sure if this is just a corojo wrapper with a new name to get the attention of smokers. As attention is what sells CAO cigars. Look at all the fancy boxes CAO comes in from Vision to Sopranos, Italia to Brazilia. They market to please the eyes, but can they stand up to taste? CAO has followers that either love or hate their cigars. For me, I am too indifferent and enjoy a good cigar no matter the price. I look for consistency and flavor, mild or full, if it is a good cigar than I will enjoy it and take notice. I have experienced plugs, bad burns, flaky ash, bad taste, and just about any other bad cigar problems in CAO. On the other hand I have had great cigars from CAO that are just right in flavors, burn, and consistency. The Criollo is not a cigar to miss out on.

From the start, the Criollo starts with a firm stick, has a nice bouncy squishy feel with no soft spots or hard spots. The aromas lingering off of the cigar before lighting were cocoa maduro like scents. After an easy clip of the cap, the cigar had a loose draw and a dry cocoa taste. I could swear I was getting ready to light up a maduro cigar.

From the very start I was hit with a spicey coffee/espresso flavors. The cigar bellowed out smoke that added a touch of creamy cedar to the taste. Starting into the body of the cigar the espresso flavors strengthened with a mild sweetness.

The burn was uneven at the start, but I was never upset with how bad this stick burned. The ash was white and held on well to the cigar.

Into the body I was given a few flavors I did not expect. The espresso stayed strong and I was hit with the taste of smoke from fireworks. I was rushed back into time and I was reminded of all the July 4th fireworks I lit off with family and friends. I remembered the taste of smoke because we were lighting off so many fireworks there was a cloud of smoke lingering in the streets like a fog. Breathing in the smoke and tasting the smoke from these fireworks. Odd I know, but I distinctly tasted that flavor in the smoke briefly during my enjoyment of this cigar.

Reaching the final third of the cigar I was presented a mild pepper spice, it was not overpowering the creamy espresso sweetness this cigar abundantly gave. The cigar produced one more new flavor before I finished, the taste of pretzels, that is right, pretzels. Maybe it is because I recently had some pretzels earlier in the week, but tasted these flavors more than once in the smoke.

This is a cigar that should not be smoked fast. I have read many reviews about burn problems, but that could be due to needing a lower humidity. I let this cigar sit in a 60% humidity humidor. If the criollo is a corojo wrapper, than that explains why a lower humidity is needed to produce a better burn. I would classify this as a coffee cigar. The flavors would compliment your favorite Cup-of-Joe and add a good start to your day. I kept thinking about what kind of coffee I would enjoy with this cigar, maybe a strong Sumatra.

Go for this cigar and enjoy, it is one worth burning.

Maria Guerrero-Belicoso

Size 6 1/8 x 52
Wrapper: African Cameroon
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan, Honduran, Peruvian
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Mild-Medium

This is an interesting cigar, the box was hidden in a corner of the humidor at my local B&M, it did not stand out next to the Montecristo's, Romeo Y Julietta's, and H. Upmann's surrounding it. What attracted me was the box, it has an old look to it with a picture on the inside lid that is the same as the picture on the band. I would consider this to be old school, unlike the boxes you may see with CAO, this is one that is far more attractive because of the beautiful work of art that graces it's lid. I will discuss more about the artwork, first I will review the cigar..

To start, back in 2005, the Belisco received a 95 rating from Cigar Aficionado, and as of today this same cigar receives a 90 rating.

This cigar is not the most attractive, in fact it is a bit rough with a couple of spots on the wrapper. The wrapper itself is a nice brown color, holding this cigar in your hand you can almost imagine a time when theaters were abundant, women in full dress and all men wore suits. This cigar may take you back 100 years to a time of horse and buggy. I was almost lost in time when I was brought back to remembering where I was, odd that the tapestry like rug on the floor was in view when I was holding this cigar. This is a firm stick, packed well so as to not be soft, but not too hard it feels like a steel pole. The wrapper has a velvet like feel to the rough veins running up and down this cigar.

With a quick clip the tip of the cigar was removed and the draw was behaving perfectly, nice tobacco taste with a velvet feel on the tongue due to the wrapper. This cigar starts off spicey and the smoke was harsh and abundant. I never judge a cigar by the first 1/2 inch, and this is definitely not one to judge quickly.

As I started out into the body of this cigar the smoke began to smooth out some, not a whole lot, but much easier to work with. The depth flavor was creamy with coffee overtones. The smoke is a bit dry, maybe a few weeks in a proper humidor instead of the one at my B&M may turn this cigar even better.

The Ash was a light gray, almost white. It held for under one inch before dropping, which to me is not a problem. The burn was not perfect, but not out of control. Proper humidity would probably have fixed this issue.

Into the body of the cigar, it became extremely woody with a touch of honey in the background. At this point I was reaching the 1/2 way point and picking up a bit of cocoa. Other than the extra wood and cocoa flavors, there was not much left going on in the flavor department. I was getting a bit frustrated as this cigar wanted to go out, I was having to draw more frequently then before. I was fearing that I would soon be working on a plug. I was ready to put this cigar to rest, for the sake of a full review, I went ahead and continued to smoke.

This is when the cigar made a dramatic turn for me. This cigar started building in strength going from mild to medium and far more complex in flavor. In fact, the flavors became stronger, bringing the coca flavors in front instead of hiding behind the other flavors. Adding this to the woody and honey surrounding the coffee flavors. The smoke became toasty causing such a great mix of flavors that I became excited to be able to enjoy such a good cigar. Yet I was bummed that the cigar was soon to end. This cigar started at a medium body and finished full bodied.

I would recommend this cigar to anyone looking for a cigar that carries such a great deal of flavors that will keep you interested before it ends. Humidor time is needed for this cigar. Had this cigar started the way it ended I would consider this a great cigar. I will be putting the other to rest and will revisit in 6 months. Aging may be a key to bringing out the best this cigar has to offer.



Now some history. The piece of art on the inside cover of the cigar box is a picture of the actress, Maria Guerrero, from Spain who traveled and performed on stages in South America, Mexico, and Cuba around 1900 (the picture on the inside lid is the same picture that graces the cigar band shown above). There is a news article about her back in 1908 when she came to visit New York and saw a couple of plays at the Hippodrome. With some searching on the internet I was able to find a biography and was able to roughly translate it. Maria was born in 1868 growing up with a love for theaters. She debuted in 1885 and by 1890 Maria was casted as the leading lady. She graced the stages with beauty, and awed her fans with her ability to perform in tragic plays. By 1897 she traveled yearly, with her employees of about 60 members, to Argentina. In 1898 she was able to mover her company to France and Italy, performing in Paris, Milan, Turin, Genoa and Rome. She was loved by her country, and embraced by countries that were able to bring her into their land and experience her talents.

This cigar is a great tribute to Maria Guerrero. It begins slow and builds a dramatic performance causing one to demand an encore.

MAXX-Alec Bradley "The Culture"

Size: 61/2 x 54
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Maduro
Binder: Costa Rican
Filler: Columbian, Nicaraguan, Mexican, Honduras
Body: Full
Strength: Full side of Medium

This cigar used for this review should have been dubbed "The Trunk", I will expound on that a bit later. The particular cigar smoked is quite a start for the Smoke Reviews blog. Let me know if the photos show up too large, they have been resized to be smaller, but on my computer they are still full size.

As you can see by the photo, this beautiful maduro cigar has a gorgeous oily wrapper. This is a rather large stick, in my XL hands, I am amazed at this 54 ring gauge piece of work. I did not have any humidor rest as I was anxious to put a flame to this one. So it was lit up 2 days after receiving it. Which happened to be around 8 pm during the fires here in San Diego. With our Suburban packed and ready, my wife and I were ready in case we had to evacuate.

The stick is very firm, it feels tightly packed and it seemed a bit dry, but then again this did not have any time in my humidor. With the cam clipped and the foot toasted, this started up quickly with smooth smoke on the dry side. The draw was extremely firm and did not produce much smoke. So the first two inches was a lot of work.

The starting flavors created a smoke containing a sweetness in its depth and was encased in cocoa and coffee flavors. A mastered maduro cigar that is a work of a master.

The burn on this entire cigar was perfect, the ash was gray and held firm, it needed to be tapped to release its hold on the cigar. As far as ash goes, I have a habit of dropping it at half an inch. For reviews I may let it remain until it drops on its own. This one held for about 1.5 inches before I dropped it.

Through the body of the cigar, the flavors were consistent with the start, the only addition was an earthy leather to accompany the cocoa and coffee. This stick smoked cool and never tainted. I would classify this cigar as full body with a medium to full strength. Great for those looking to try a full body flavor with out the punch. I always recommend eating before smoking any cigar of any strength.

Now onto MAXX by Alec Bradley "The Trunk"

After 2 inches of smoking I started to notice a small poke on the tongue that was like the tip of a toothpick. That small little poke turned out to be a vein that seemed rather thick to be used in a cigar that is supposed to be made by expert rollers.




I did not think too much of this as it was easy to remove, but the draw was still firm and I was tiring out from trying to get a descent amount of smoke from the cigar. As luck would have it, I felt another twig in the cap of the cigar, I looked and saw a thicker vein, little did I know the joy I would have working on the cigar.

As you can see this is no ordinary vein.

I continued to work on removing the twig while I smoked this cigar. This is no longer just a vein.

The stick continued to grow and the draw was opening up a bit. The flavors remained the same.

This branch was irritating to be working on, but at this point there is no turning back and I was not going to give up smoking this cigar.

This tree "Trunk" was a challenge in a few ways, it caused a bad draw, it was poking my tongue, and it took a great amount of work to remove it without destroying the cigar.

Once the "Trunk" was removed the cigar opened up and produced an incredible amount of thick flavorful smoke. It was the same flavors as it started but richer. Look at the hole now in my cigar.

This "Trunk" ran almost the entire length of the cigar, by the time I had it removed it was just over the 4 inch mark and the edge furthest in the cigar was tinged from being burned.

This cigar must have been rolled by a disgruntled employee. So Alec Bradley, you need better quality control and a happier work place. A craftsman that can make a cigar look this good does not just roll a cigar and happen to not notice a tree trunk is in there. Although entertaining, this is also a waste of my money and looks bad for Alec Bradley.

My final thoughts on the MAXX by Alec Bradley. This is a great tasting cigar and looks fabulous. I would compare the flavor profile to the Gurkha Legend Perfecto I smoke the day before. With age I will return to this review with an update, probably in 6 months. Being that I found this cigar so similar to Gurkha Legend Perfecto, I will be smoking both of them around the same time to really get a better idea if the two are as much alike as I remember. I always enjoy finding a cigar that is similar to another but at a cost that is so much less.

I recommend this cigar to both beginners and experienced.