It’s always a pleasure to review new product (good or bad) on the cigar market, so when I finally got my hands on some Regius cigars, I was excited. For this morning smoke, I paired with a cup of coffee. From the website:
“This cigar has a light body, aimed at those who prefer a subtle taste and aroma. It has an elegant flavour, with hints of coffee and hazelnut overtones. The cigar is named in honour of a cigar loving ‘elegance arbiter’.”
Blend Specifics
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Size: 6 x 38
Appearance & Construction
As far as appearance, this cigar is pretty much flawless. The wrapper has light oil, some small veins, and a gorgeous band – black, gold, and red. Under “Regius” is, in latin, “Arbiter Elegantiae,” which means “Arbiter of Elegance.” For you history buffs out there, you would be interested to know that the Arbiter of Elegance was actually an official position of the Roman government under the Emporer. As the title suggests, the arbiter was the final say on matters of style, aesthetics, and anything relating to beauty. For a cigar to put that on its band is making a pretty bold statement, so I looked forward to seeing if this cigar lived up to its claim.
Taste & Smoke Characteristics
This cigar erupts with some really great flavors upon lighting up. Nuts, coffee, hints of dark chocolate, and brownie on the retrohale. The texture of the smoke is smooth and creamy, but with a nicely balanced spice. This cigar is not mild bodied as the website suggests. This is a solid medium, which at times borders on full. Very enjoyable, however, is the complexity and balance of this stick: the cream and spice play off of each other nicely, and all through the smoke the notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and nuts took turns on center stage. In the second half of the cigar, a sort of floral note is introduced.
Conclusion
This cigar will keep you on your toes. It is smooth, complex, and flavorful. As skeptical as I was, this indeed an elegant cigar that I could smoke over and over, especially in the morning. Pair this with a cup of coffee, or with an equally complex red wine. Stay away from full-bodied pairs.
New York cigar smokers can purchase this cigar at the Nat Sherman Townhouse on 42nd and 5th Ave. or at Davidoff of New York.
Final Grade: A