The other day I decided to pull out of my humidor a classic cigar, an Opus X Reserva D’ Chateau. This is from the iconic Fuente Opus X line that in my opinion changed the level of premium cigar cigars when they were released in the 90’s. I’ve been fortunate enough to smoke Opus since its inception and have always enjoyed the full spice, leather and savory notes these cigars provide. I feel the smaller vitolas such as the #4, #5 and the XXX provide more concentrated flavors indicative of the brand however the Reserva delivers nuances that the aficionado will enjoy. Make no mistake; this is not a lightweight cigar as it yields full flavors.
My thoughts on this one:
Blend specifics
Size: 7 x 48 Churchill
Wrapper: Dom. Rep.
Binder: Dom. Rep.
Filler: Dom. Rep.
Appearance & Construction
The Reserva has that lovely reddish brown Dominican wrapper the brand is known for. A few veins run across this smoke but nothing that would appear to hurt its performance. There are no soft spots and the cigar feels appropriately packed with tobacco. The foot has the smell of spice, sweet raisin and tobacco.
Taste & Smoke Characteristics
Upon lighting I was greeted with spice, leather and coffee notes. The leather lingers on the palate while a retro hale gives you a rush of spice through the nose. This cigar always awakens my senses with its startup as these are the flavors I tend to really enjoy. Midway the spice adjusts to reveal those lovely graham cracker and cinnamon notes I usually get from this cigar. The burn was uneven and the cigar required several relights however it did not detract from the flavors. As it progressed the leather was more pronounced while the spice took to the background. This cigar builds in strength at this point. By the last third the leather, earth and sweetness interplayed leaving a balanced and harmonious finish. The smoking time was about 2 hours 10 minutes.
Conclusion
As far as taste goes I’ve always enjoyed the leather, tobacco and spice Opus provides. The downside to these smokes can be the constant relights as well as the uneven burns at times. In the past few years the latest batch of Opus hasn’t given me the balance of flavors as of old, however within the past year I’ve noticed a return of said flavors. I don’t know the specifics of the past years crops although I have some unverified ideas. If you’ve never smoked an Opus X it is certainly a cigar worth your while. The smaller vitolas will really accent flavors although if you have the time smoke the Reserva D’ Chateau and treat yourself to a wonderfully balanced experience. You deserve it.