Below is another review by New York City cigar aficionado Charlie Freeman. I recommended this cigar for a review after it taking a spot in my regular line up because of its quality and consistency.
True confession time: I was immediately skeptical of this cigar and of the brand name that it bears the moment I laid eyes on it. It’s simplistic, it’s intense and in it’s unashamedly up in your face, like it or not; this attitude is a far cry from the cigar culture I’m familiar with, where calmness, courtesy and respect are prioritized. However, experience has taught me that you can’t judge a stogie by its label; so let’s get down to business.
Blend Specifics
- Vitola: Toro
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut
- Binder: Corojo
- Filler: Honduran Generoso, Aleman Ligero
- Dimensions: 6’ x 50”
- Country of Origin: Honduras
Aesthetics, Construction andFeel
The bright orange label may not be the most sophisticated I’ve ever laid eyes on, but there’s something about it that attracts the eye. With the label juxtaposed against the beige wrapper, the Connecticut evokes images of peanut butter in my head. And I do love peanut butter…
The stogie itself is excellently constructed: there are few veins, and the veins that are there are difficult to notice; the wrapper has a smooth and velvety feel to it; the odor has an ever-so-slight sweetness to it, an odor reminiscent of many Dominican-made cigars. Finally, there are no soft spots or openings detected in the wrapper.
Smoke and Flavor
Right off the bat, the stogie delivers an excellent performance. From the very beginning to the very end the draw is remarkably well-balanced: not too tight, not too loose. For every deliciously chewy puff, there is a lush, voluminous cloud of smoke that carries with it a warm and woody odor. Despite its tendency to lose the ash rather quickly, the Connecticut’s burn is surprisingly consistent, remaining even throughout the entire cigar.
However, the real treat for this particular stogie is its flavor. Right away, the smoker is greeted by a natural, light, woody flavor that wets the palate. Right up to the end, the wood is consistently at the forefront of the flavor. Much to my surprise, the wood doesn’t give way to any spice at the end, making for a smooth, satisfying finish.
The Final Verdict
With a chewy, perfectly balanced draw, even burn, tantalizing woody flavor and solid start and finish, I can honestly say that this is the greatest connecticut strength cigar I have ever smoked thus far. Make no mistake, this is a lot coming from someone who has been smoking consistently for three years. This work of art is a must for smokers of all tastes and experience levels; it’s not harsh in any for beginners, and its flawless construction and flavor is guaranteed to leave even the most experienced smoker reeling.
Final Grade: A+
Tips for a Perfect Smoke Experience
- Anything with peanut butter in it is a perfect complement to this chewy mild stogie; so break out that old peanut butter cookie recipe that you haven’t had an excuse to use yet!