http://www.botl.org/community/forums/ Non-cuban cigar reviews and ratings en Mon, 20 May 2013 05:27:57 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.botl.org/community/forums/images/tf_ideal/misc/rss.png http://www.botl.org/community/forums/ http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66950-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Arturo-Fuente-Spanish-Lonsdale-Natural?goto=newpost Thu, 16 May 2013 19:05:46 GMT Arturo Fuente | Spanish Lonsdale Natural

Vital Stats:

Vitola: Lonsdale
Length: 6.5"
Ring Gauge: 42
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Cameroon
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: Dominican Republic
Factory: Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia DR
Blender: Carlos Fuente Jr.
Number of reviewers: 5 Nicholas (volpow61) Brian (B-daddy) Will (Dubv23) Jason (bigslowrock) Emmett (rhetorik)
Price: $5.00
Contributed by: Cannon (SF)

Initial Impressions

Appearance: 88

"Medium brown natural wrapper. Few veins and a couple of green spots by the cap. Some traces of glue scattered around the wrapper. Nice triple cap." -Brian (B-daddy)

Aroma: 91

"Prelight aroma from the foot and draw is dominated by barnyard with tobacco and hay in the background." -Jason (bigslowrock)

Construction: 89

"The cigar was well rolled. It had a firm feel and felt well packed. There were some glue spots on the wrapper showing some carelessness while constructing. The cigar did have a triple cap that was a nice touch despite being sloppily applied." -Will (Dubv23)

First Third

Flavor: 90
Strength: Medium
Body/Complexity: Medium

"Upon lighting I am getting some spice with cream and some banana flavor, which go together quite nicely." -Nicholas (volpow61)

"The smoke was thick and creamy and the flavors were rich. I got a nice array of flavor from the first third. There was a spice that was closely attributed to light black pepper. The typical tobacco flavor was sweet and was just what i smelled from the wrapper. Coming and going in the background was a faint coffee and baked bread profile." -Will (Dubv23)

Second Third

Flavor: 92
Strength: Medium
Body/Complexity: Medium-Full

"Leather and spice, and everything nice. This third took a nice turn and transitioned into predominantly leather with a spicy kick behind it. This is quite the full bodied experience, this stick is quite complex and pretty spicy. I like it. The ash has held all the way from the beginning into this third." -Emmett (rhetorik)

"The salt begins to fade from dominance to just a major flavor component. The salt flavor is paired with cedar with some bitter fruity undertones, maybe grapefruit." -Jason (bigslowrock)

Final Third

Flavor: 92
Strength: Medium
Body/Complexity: Medium-Full

"Towards the end strength picks up with some spice. I am also getting dough and cream and I have to say this part of the smoke stands out for me as being very good." -Nicholas (volpow61)

"Final third never really evolves into anything more. Wood flavors turn a bit more bitter. It's lost the creaminess I started to get in the second third. Stick gets hot and mushy pretty early. Flavors get progressively more bitter." -Brian (B-daddy)

Overall Impressions

Draw: 91

"The draw started off overly tight, but opened up a bit in the 2nd third." -Jason (bigslowrock)

"The draw was very favorable. It had a light amount of resistance which was great for the smaller RG because it reminded me to smoke slowly." -Will (Dubv23)

Burn: 88

"The burn was the only downside to this cigar. It was lopsided from the start and didn't correct until the second third." -Emmett (rhetorik)

"The burn was okay but required a few touch ups. For the majority of the smoke the burn was waving off course and at times required some fire to keep it on track." -Will (Dubv23)

Overall Experience: 92
Overall Strength: Medium
Overall Body: Medium-Full

"This is another case of why you should not judge a book by its cover. The cigar was not pretty. It showed sloppy construction and was not the most appealing to the eye. This probably would not be a cigar that would screen to me from the shelf of a B&M. Upon smoking it though I was pleasantly surprised by complex, medium body flavors that danced and delivered. The flavors meshed well but there were times where the leather or citrus edged out the others to the point were it was not one smooth ensemble but performers fighting for spotlight. A good smoke indeed and one that should not be overlooked." -Will (Dubv23)

"With the flavor profile that I experienced, I don't know if I would want it as a daily or weekly smoker, but would consider it a nice change of pace cigar. For those people who a looking for a nice salty flavor, I would highly recommend this cigar." -Will (Dubv23)

"This was a great cigar, I'm pretty stumped about it's origin because it didn't have a triple cap, and I didn't get any twang, but the flavor profile was very Cuban. This is a pretty strong stick, definitely not for the beginner, but this cigar will reward the more seasoned smoker with its spice throughout and complex changes." -Emmett (rhetorik)

Smoking Time (in minutes): 86

Total Score: 91 (Very Good)

See the original review with pictures and other reviews here at blindmanspuff.com ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews rhetorik http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66950-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Arturo-Fuente-Spanish-Lonsdale-Natural http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66827-Tatuaje-Series-P-Short-Robusto?goto=newpost Fri, 10 May 2013 05:25:47 GMT Size: 4.5" x 52
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Price: ~ $3.00 (I seem to remember them being around $2.00 a pop, but can't find them that low now)

Intro: In 2006 Pete launched a mixed filler value line of cigars featuring tobacco from the Red Label line. You either loved 'em or you they didn't do it for you. Personally I found the few I was able to get ahold of kind of flat. In 2011 he re-released the the line, but with a Sumatra wrapper on it and in a few different sizes (this Short Robusto being one of them). Not your typical short filler cigars, I believe these feature a 40/60 blend of long and medium fill tobacco. I picked up a box and split it with some fellow BOTL. Smoked a couple and while better than the original releases I'd had, still found them wanting. Buried the rest in the humidor to hand out to people. This evening I found myself with some time and a desire to fire something up, but didn't want to start anything that I might not get to finish (It's been rainy here and was a little cool on the back deck). Ended up digging out one of the remaining ones and thought "What the heck". The size is right and I'm not going to be heartbroken to lay it down. Since I've not reviewed it, let's see what she's got...



Prelight: Pulling the cigar from the plastic there's a notable earthy barnyard aroma. It's nice, but there's also a quality to it that suggests there's something missing. Maybe I'm influenced by my previous experience with these cigars, but it seems a little light. The wrapper is a sexy dark chocolate coloration, though there is a slight blemish towards the foot of the cigar. Couple of prominent veins present. Otherwise appears to be a well done cigar and feels well packed. Certainly nothing to suggest this would be a "value" cigar. This being a mixed filler, I used a punch and it sliced a clean hole in the cap. Draw was easy with a slight resistance and carried some slightly sweet woody notes with a bit of light, delayed pepper essence.



First Third: Fired up fairly easily with a few matches, but then touched up soon after with the Ronson. Good smoke output. Initially a little pepper, especially on retrohaling. Also some leather, woodiness, and a sweetness. Maybe some chocolate also. Burn was good, mostly even during this first part. Ash dropped consistently in 1/2" clumps and with healthy plops into the Stinky.



Second Third: Into the second third the cigar required a few touch ups, but nothing major. Draw is still spot on. The leather has subsided leaving a mostly woody profile with some sweetness to it and a bit of coffee on the retrohale that is masked most of the time by a peppery tingle. Still haven't ashed on the keyboard!



Last Third: Band came off cleanly and progressing into the home stretch I'm diggin' it way more than I did before. Burn has still required a few touch ups here and there, but no major burn issues. Smoke output is adequate to good. Draw is spot on. There's a mostly woody flavor with an earthy aftertaste and a little sweetness on the retrohale. Overall this has been mild to medium (towards the end) body.

Final Thoughts: Better than I remember and a solid value at the price. If you're looking for a decent yard gar or something to have on hand for casual smoking buddies these are definitely a notch above the typical cheapos. But then you might also like 'em and they're not going to break the bank as a staple in your rotation.

View from the back porch tonight...



Dan ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews danthebugman http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66827-Tatuaje-Series-P-Short-Robusto http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66804-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Padron-Londres-Maduro?goto=newpost Wed, 08 May 2013 20:20:59 GMT Padron | Londres Maduro

Vital Stats:

Vitola: Corona
Length: 5.5"
Ring Gauge: 42
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Maduro
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Factory: Piloto Cigars Inc.
Blender: Jorge Padron
Number of reviewers: 5 --- Derek (lilninjabuddy) Ron (shuckins) Ian (Sp@rky426) Jason (bigslowrock) Craig (WyldKnyght)
Price: $3.00
Age: 2 months
Contributed by: Cannon (SF)

Initial Impressions

Appearance: 86

"This cigar has a very toothy wrapper, possibly one of the toothiest I've ever smoked. Seams are visible, and gaps are visible in several places. The stick is fairly well packed, in what appears to be a very slight box press, though it is visibly lumpy under the wrapper. This particular cigar also features a very sloppy single cap. This one might be the ugliest cigar in the first round!" -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

Aroma: 89

"Leather and spicy wood aroma." -Ron (shuckins)

"What it lacks in appearance, it makes up for in the pre-light aroma. Smells of hay, wood, leather, barnyard, milk chocolate, and red pepper." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

Construction: 87

"Pretty poorly constructed, looks like it could be a seconds cigar, feels like there are stems under the wrapper, cap is uneven and small." -Craig (WyldKnyght)

First Third

Flavor: 89
Strength: Medium
Body/Complexity: Medium

"Initially hit with a harshness to start off. After the harshness fades, tobacco, leather and wood dominate. I'm also picking up undertones of toffee and chocolate" -Jason (bigslowrock)

"Peppery with woodsy tobacco on light up. After a few puffs a little coffee and light leather flavors came through, and the pepper eased off a bit." -Ron (shuckins)

Second Third

Flavor: 88
Strength: Medium-Strong
Body/Complexity: Medium

"Spice mellowed out a bit and wood and leather set in, think there's some cocoa in there somewhere." -Ian (Sp@rky426)

"Second third is much the same. Creamy chocolate and baking spices. Almost like a cinnamon chocolate cake, with leather and cedar rounding out the flavors nicely. At the halfway point, the rich chocolate transitions to a lighter cocoa, though still creamy, almost like chocolate milk. The spices have receded into the background, though the cinnamon and cloves are still noticeable. Wood is almost non existent on the draw but quite prominent on the retrohale." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

Final Third

Flavor: 90
Strength: Medium-Strong
Body/Complexity: Medium-Full

"More of the same flavor and complexity, lots of spice and harshness." -Craig (WyldKnyght)

"Feel a dose of the vitamin N setting in. This thing reminds me of a go to of mine just a little more ragged and unrefined. Spice is barely there now with all the earthiness, wood leather and cocoa on the forefront." -Ian (Sp@rky426)

Overall Impressions

Draw: 92

"Draw is a bit open for my tastes." -Jason (bigslowrock)

"Never a problem with the draw,enjoyed all the smoke it produced." -Ron (shuckins)

Burn: 91

"Not a category I was expecting to praise this stick in, but it burned razor sharp, never needed a touch up. I could let it rest for a full minute and it would not skip a beat, which usually doesn't happen with such a small ring gauge." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

Overall Experience: 88
Overall Strength: Medium-Strong
Overall Body: Medium-Full

"Perhaps it's because I went in with very low expectations, but this cigar surprised me. It wasn't a great stick, but it was very, very good. I ordinarily don't like quite so much spice (baking spices like cinnamon and cloves) in the profile, and because of that I don't know if I would purchase many of these myself, but I did thoroughly enjoy the experience and would recommend the stick without hesitation." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

"I enjoyed the cigar, but would have liked a couple of different flavor changes to keep me excited."-Ron (shuckins)

"Assuming this is a budget smoke, I could see this as a decent yard gar or daily smoker for someone that enjoys this flavor profile. I wouldn't go out of my way to smoke another one." -Jason (bigslowrock)

Smoking Time (in minutes): 55

Total Score: 89 (good)

For pictures of this review and more blind reviews visit: BlindMansPuff.com ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews rhetorik http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66804-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Padron-Londres-Maduro http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66770-Tatuaje-Reserva-Noella-2013-Petit-Corona?goto=newpost Tue, 07 May 2013 09:36:01 GMT this was a dark tasty treat that was a solid medium-full with a perfect burn and draw. espresso... this was a dark tasty treat that was a solid medium-full with a perfect burn and draw. espresso ,wood , pepper, spice through out. not any change ,just stronger as it went along. I did smoke this down to less than an inch and it was still nice,just strong espresso flavor that is right up my alley. You dun good Pete!!! Real Good!!!:cbig: ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews Psiman http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66770-Tatuaje-Reserva-Noella-2013-Petit-Corona http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66747-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Padilla-Dominus-Robusto?goto=newpost Mon, 06 May 2013 15:26:06 GMT Padilla | Dominus Robusto

Vital Stats:

Vitola: Robusto
Length: 5"
Ring Gauge: 50
Country of Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Cuban-seed Corojo 06
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Factory: Tabacalera Tropical
Blender: Ernesto Padilla
Number of reviewers: 5 Brian (B-daddy) Derek (lilninjabuddy) Craig (WyldKnyght) Robert (NavyPiper) Jason (bigslowrock)
Price: $8.00
Age: 1 year 1 month
Contributed by: Will (Dubv23)

Initial Impressions

Appearance: 92

"This was a very good looking robusto size cigar. It had a nice dark oily chocolate colored wrapper, nice, firm and spongy feel to it. Some small veins. Overall a very nice looking cigar. " -Craig (WyldKnyght)

Aroma: 91

"Barnyard, some espresso and chocolate; and a touch of hay." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

Construction: 91

"Very solid construction, very firm, no soft spots, perfect cap well rounded. A couple of veins on the underside of the wrapper." -Robert (NavyPiper)

First Third

Flavor: 91
Strength: Medium-Strong
Body/Complexity: Medium-Full

"First couple puffs are very inviting tobacco flavor with a touch of sweetness. As I get into the first third, its a mixture of nutmeg, tobacco and sweet creaminess. Pepper seems to come and go with each puff." -Jason (bigslowrock)

"Starts out with peppery spice and spicy pepper. Draw is feathery light, very airy. Initial flavors are a hint of dark bitter chocolate, wood and what can only be described as dried dark cherry. At a half inch in, pepper begins to get harsh, and burns the back of the throat. However, at an inch in things smooth out, and the spice lingers on the palate only, and is quite nice. Wood becomes dominant; dark chocolate and the dried cherry recede to the background. I'm surprised at how much difference a half inch makes. Produces nice amounts of smoke on the draw. Very reminiscent of Fuente maduros, though not as well balanced." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

Second Third

Flavor: 91
Strength: Medium-Strong
Body/Complexity: Medium-Full

"Pepper is still primary flavor, and still has the strong black coffee with the hints of dark chocolate. Part way into this third, began getting a flavor of dried fruit, maybe cherries? It was dang good! Bolder stronger strength and body in this third! Wowzers I'm diggin' it!" -Robert (NavyPiper)

"Flavors in the second third turn mostly bitter, like burnt wood/charcoal. The smoke volume drops off in this third and it no longer has a rich mouth feel. This third is entirely one dimensional and not very pleasant. Strength and body have backed-off. " -Brian (B-daddy)

Final Third

Flavor: 89
Strength: Strong
Body/Complexity: Medium

"The spice mellowed a bit, but not much, still lots of creamy smoke. The chemical flavor I tasted in the second third was gone. I had to use my light to touch up the burn as it was getting pretty bad. Once I touched it up the burn was pretty even until the end. Definitely got a big "nic" kick by the end of this cigar." -Craig (WyldKnyght)

"This third was an interesting change. Pepper was still there, but the other flavors just sorta faded out... Still good, but missed the additional flavors in the other thirds..." -Robert (NavyPiper)

Overall Impressions

Draw: 92

"Great draw no issues at all with it." -Craig (WyldKnyght)

"Draw was snug but not problematic. Not a bad amount of resistance. Did get hot pretty early though." -Brian (B-daddy)

Burn: 85

"As noted earlier, the cigar died once, and I was aware that I had to puff more frequently than should be expected to keep the cigar lit. The slight underpacking of the stick caused a bit of tunneling, though nothing too dramatic, but it did burn a bit hot and a bit harsh." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

Overall Experience: 90
Overall Strength: Strong
Overall Body: Medium-Full

"Overall, this was a decent stick, but nothing mind-blowing. If the entire cigar had been like the middle third sans relight, I would push the rating into the "very good" category. Unfortunately, the few problems that were there were enough to lower the score to just "good." -Derek (lilninjabuddy)

"If I didn't have the re-lighting issues, this would've been a 93 at least. Very enjoyable stick! The final third flavors were kind of a let down, but may have been due to keeping it going, I don't know..." -Robert (NavyPiper)

"Despite the work to keep the burn going, I enjoyed this sticks flavors and could easily see me returning to smoke it again in the future, especially in a smaller format." -Jason (bigslowrock)

Smoking Time (in minutes): 79

Total Score: 90

See the pictures to go with this review and other reviews at Blind Man's Puff:http://www.blindmanspuff.com/2013/05...-score-90.html ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews rhetorik http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66747-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Padilla-Dominus-Robusto http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66651-CAO-L-Anniversaire-Cameroon-Robusto?goto=newpost Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:24:52 GMT Image: http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d85/danthebugman/Cigars/cao-cameroon2_zps70b5a134.jpg ...

Size: 5" x 50
Wrapper: Cameroon
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Price: ~ $6.00 single pricing, ~ $4.25 box pricing

Continuing with my "back in the act" reviews I got to sit down with another cigar this evening after mowing the yard. If I keep this up I may have to buy some cigars in the near future :grin:. Any way, today we take a look at CAO's L'Anniversaire Cameroon robusto.



It appears to be a typical box pressed robusto cigar. The box press is a little more pronounced than the Ortega I reviewed the other day, but not sharply box pressed like the Oliva Serie G. Kind of a light reddish tan color, not as toothy as I'd have expected for a Cameroon wrapper. There is a semi-circular indention towards the cap. Not sure where it's from, but didn't effect the cigar any. Cut the cap and was plesantly surprised to find a superb draw (I have a habit of cutting too much from the box pressed cigars and leaves a slightly loose draw). Lit easily enough once I got out of the wind. Initial flavors are pretty light. Definitely some sweetness and a little nuttiness. Builds over the next inch or so to include some graham cracker, a definite nuttiness (reminds me of almonds), some light woody flavors, and a lingering sweetness on the finish. Pretty mild throughout and not a lot of changes in flavors once they develop. Burn was great throughout, no touchups required despite the breezy conditions. Did I like this one?



You tell me :grin:.

Dan ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews danthebugman http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66651-CAO-L-Anniversaire-Cameroon-Robusto http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66644-Herrera-Esteli?goto=newpost Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:36:48 GMT I'm smoking my 2nd one. A Lonsdale, and granted its a decent smoke, the spice is almost overwhelming and the Nic buzz to accompany. I think these will be very nice to age and will smooth out. What do you guys think? ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews Anthony_Joseph http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66644-Herrera-Esteli http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66643-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Gran-Habano-Vintage-2002-Corojo-Churchill?goto=newpost Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:17:12 GMT Gran Habano | Vintage 2002 Corojo Churchill

Vital Stats:

Vitola: Churchill
Length: 7"
Ring Gauge: 50
Country of Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Corojo
Binder: Honduras
Filler: Honduras
Factory: G.R. Tabacaleras Co.
Blender: George and Guillermo Rico
Number of reviewers: 5 Aaron (aaron72) Ian (Sp@rky426) Jason (bigslowrock) Milton (mjohnsoniii) Myles (MylesT)
Price: $3.00
Age: 2 years
Contributed by: Emmett (rhetorik)

Initial Impressions

Appearance: 91

"This is a very good-looking cigar right off the bat. There's an oily sheen to the wrapper with noticeable veins that were smooth to the touch." -Milton (mjohnsoniii)

"Triple cap, dark toothy wrapper, medium vanes with tiny pinholes in the wrapper. Not the most inviting stick, but nothing note worthy on the negative side." Jason (bigslowrock)

Aroma: 91

"A very mild, barnyard aroma...the foot has a bit of cocoa powder, but that's about it. What I get is pleasant, but I don't get a lot of it." -Myles (MylesT)

Construction: 92

"Firm at the head and foot with about an inch of soft construction right in the middle of the cigar." -Aaron (aaron72)

First Third

Flavor: 85
Strength: Mild-Medium
Body/Complexity: Light-Medium

"Pre-light draw first brings the taste of sweet tobacco, but then I got a spicy sensation on my lips and tongue. Not getting a lot of smoke from my draws. First off got the flavor of dry toast. That flavor continued with slight hints of graham cracker. Ash held on in 1 inch chunks." -Aaron (aaron72)

"Creamy smoke predominantly wood and herbal tea with a slight sweetness. A taste of some tanned hide in there as well. Ash retention great, letting go at the 2" mark." -Ian (Sp@rky426)

Second Third

Flavor: 87
Strength: Mild-Medium
Body/Complexity: Light-Medium

"The ash fell at the beginning of the second third with the smoke billowing and was very creamy. The uneven burn began to even itself out and a mixture of cloves, cayenne pepper and sweet vanilla beans coats the palate. The cigar has began to show definite signs of complexity which has become much more noticeable at this point. My favorite part thus far is the retro-hale in which all flavors compliment each other wonderfully." -Milton (mjohnsoniii)

"This is starting to pick up in the second third. Some interesting flavors of raspberry and earth are coming forward, now, along with a touch of leather. I'm starting to get some bitterness, and find myself purging more often than I usually do to keep this stick smoking pleasantly." -Myles (MylesT)

Final Third

Flavor: 86
Strength: Medium
Body/Complexity: Medium

"Getting much more smoke on the draws now. Flavor is staying the same with a slight metallic flavor on the finish. It got very harsh right at the end." -Aaron (aaron72)

"Picked up more cocoa with the wood and tea followed by a barnyard grassiness to finish it out." -Ian (Sp@rky426)

Overall Impressions
Draw: 94
Burn: 89
Overall Experience: 87


"Overall it was just ok. Flavors were nothing special and the fact that it was a Churchill just drug out the experience." -Aaron (aaron72)

"Having the main flavor of herbal tea and wood I am not a big fan of this one, the sweetness was nice and set in more so in the final third but the dryness left on the palate was not pleasurable and overall took away from the cigar.While I wouldn't give this Churchill another go I would seek out a smaller vitola for another try. If you are a fan of mildly sweet tobacco focusing on wood,cedar,tea with absolutely no spice then this cigar could be a go to for many, sadly it was not my cup of tea." -Ian (Sp@rky426)

"Hopefully, I got either the oddball sick or over-humidified cigar of the group. Too be honest, I would have never gone past the first 2" of this stick without the review hanging in the balance. I would have ditched it and grabbed something else. It just was not good at all." -Jason (bigslowrock)

"This cigar was pretty inconsistent during the first third and had me wondering if I'd really enjoy the rest but seemed to open up and produced many different flavors that complimented each other very nicely. The complexity kept me intrigued after the first third and continued that way until it was completely nubbed. I'd definitely get a few of these to keep in the humidor to be added to the rotation. It seemed like it'd be a great cigar with a bit more rest." -Milton (mjohnsoniii)

"Lots of coffee and earth, but some issues with bitterness and burn. It was rich and heavy, but not really all that complex." -Myles (MylesT)

Overall Strength: Medium
Overall Body: Medium
Smoking Time (in minutes): 108

Total Score: 88 (Good)

Read the original review, see pictures, and get more reviews at http://www.blindmanspuff.com/2013/04...02-corojo.html ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews rhetorik http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66643-Blind-Man-s-Puff-Review-Gran-Habano-Vintage-2002-Corojo-Churchill http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66634-The-First-6-of-Eddie-Ortega-s-Wild-Bunch?goto=newpost Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:58:32 GMT Since several have posted up Ortega reviews recently, thought I'd throw a couple out there. This is from my blog, but since I do it just for fun and as a hobby I'm not particularly concerned about baiting in traffic...so I'm posting the whole thing here. Just as a warning, though - it's friggin' long, because it covers 6 cigars, and I couldn't embed the pictures - so the formatting may appear "off". In fact, the forum limited the characters available, so I'll post 3 and 3. This is a "Cigar Spotlight" rather than a single-stick review....


Little over a year ago, Eddie Ortega left EOBrands and launched Ortega Cigars to a very favorable reception. I reviewed his Serie D Maduro #10 in April 2012. Subsequently, he announced the creation of a series of limited production cigars to be known as the Dirty Dozen – which would eventually be renamed the Wild Bunch. Eddie describes the project as somewhat of an homage to various people within the cigar world he has encountered that are just a little outside the box for a variety of reasons. The series is being released monthly throughout 2013 – one cigar in tribute to each of these folks. I recently had the opportunity to hang out with him at an event in Tampa, and from all appearances this project is something he is having an absolute blast doing. It is an exciting diversion for him, which he is relishing greatly. He wanted to produce a series that pays tribute to some fun people he's come to know over the years, and do it in a way that was fun for him – for those honored – and for the consumer. Each is limited to 500 boxes, with a final release in December that will include one (possibly two) from each vitola. Every cigar in the series will be a unique creation in vitola and blend; no two will be alike, and will feature some not-often-seen blend components. Additionally, quarterly samplers featuring each cigar from the included months will be available. Each vitola in the series retails for approximately $10, and will be available at Ortega’s authorized retailers. I have purchased cigars from the first three monthly releases, and Eddie was kind enough to provide additional samples as well (particularly the second quarter cigars). So, without further prattling from me, here they are:

January – Big Bad John, “The Jackhammer” (6.875X60)

Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Rosado
Binder: Undisclosed
Filler: Undisclosed

At nearly 7 inches and a 60 ring, the Big Bad John is well outside the normal size I would personally reach for. But, in the name of research I decided to give it a try. The first thing I noticed, besides its size, is how extremely oily the wrapper is. It is uniformly medium brown in color, and carries a remarkable sheen which is quite supple to the touch. Prelight, the aroma on the wrapper is faint, while that at the foot is a bit more bold – giving off an interesting sweetbread note. The cold draw is straightforward tobacco, with a bit of a hay flavor on the back end.

At first light and continuing through the first inch, the initial draws are very peppery, intermingled with a bright cedar flavor. While the pepper-spice will fade as the smoke progressed, it was always present throughout the length of the Big Bad John. Progressing into the second inch and into the midpoint, a backdrop of ever-so-slightly sweet leather pushes through and complements the spice nicely. Onward toward the end of the cigar, the strength picks up a bit, although I’d still put the BBJ firmly into the medium range. I find the interplay between the leather, black pepper, and (occasional) cedar to be fascinating. Captivating, even.

While I don’t typically find myself on the hunt for large ring cigars, I have to eat a little crow here and say I thoroughly enjoyed both Big Bad John examples I’ve now smoked. The pleasant flavors, great construction, and attention to blending overcame my normal aversion – which is merely a size preference. If I were to find myself in the mood for something in a 60 ring, I’d definitely consider the BBJ a prime candidate. I believe I’ll put a few down before they’re all gone for just such an occasion…

February – Iron Mike, “I-Beam” (4.875″X54)

Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Oscuro
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan

The Iron Mike “I-Beam” was February’s Wild Bunch offering. Each of the three I’ve had were well built, and have sported a deeply chocolate-colored and quite toothy wrapper. Before first light, the wrapper aroma is faint to me – giving just straightforward, tobacco goodness. The foot is slightly more bold with some haylike or mild barnyard notes as well. The draw is dark and earthy, retaining some of the hay detected at the foot.

In the initial puffs, the I-Beam produces a healthy dose of “Pepin” spice; fairly peppery on the rear soft palate. I get a little bit of tannic tea flavor here as well – akin to the finish from an Irish Breakfast Tea, if you’re familiar – almost metallic – but not quite. Of the first quarter’s offerings, I find the Iron Mike most “My Father-esque” in flavor. By the time I get an inch into the smoke, these “brighter” flavors have given way to some woodsy undertones – oak, perhaps, but not charred – just undried oak wood. At about the halfway point, the profile changes once again. I pick up on some fruity sweetness on occasion, braced by a foundation of earthy pepper flavors.

The Iron Mike is absolutely one of the more complex of the first six Wild Bunch releases, and one I would imagine to do well if it ever were to be released into regular production (which isn’t going to happen, per Eddie O).

March – Island Jim, “Wahoo” (6.5″X52)

Wrapper: Ecuadoran Habano Rosado
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan

I have probably smoked more of the Island Jim than any other Wild Bunch release to date. It has struck a chord with my palate that I have enjoyed considerably, so I’ve bought a number of them since their recent release. As a general rule, I tend to enjoy Ecuadoran-wrapped Nicaraguan blends, and this is no exception. A quick look over the Island Jim shows a continuing trend with Ortega’s cigars in showing impeccable construction, providing a flawless cap and wrapper application, and neither discernible voids nor overly dense areas. Prelight, the draw is deliberate but free, and has a thick, grain-reminiscent flavor.

The initial puffs provide an edgy, dry spice that gets one’s attention but is tempered by the oat and grain flavor mentioned in the prelight draw. This has receded considerably by the end of the first inch, however, and the grain has mellowed – developing a bit of a malted character at this point. Throughout the midsection of the Island Jim, I get a fair amount of the tangy sweetness I occasionally find in Nicaraguan tobacco, and an increasing tingle in the nose from some peppery spice that begins to build.

By the final portion, this spice has picked up considerably, although never overpowering in effect. I have had near perfect burn in each Island Jim so far, with even minor retouches being few and far between. After “Tony the Boss”, this is probably my favorite of the as-yet released Wild Bunch. ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews Kip http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66634-The-First-6-of-Eddie-Ortega-s-Wild-Bunch http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66623-Ortega-Serie-D-No-6?goto=newpost Sun, 28 Apr 2013 02:21:32 GMT Image: http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d85/danthebugman/Cigars/ortega-d_zps3b253c62.jpg ...

Size: 4.5" x 48
Wrapper: Ecuador Habano
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Price: $6.50 - $7.00

I'm back! Been a while since I've posted a review, but life is settling down some and I'm getting back in the swing of things. The other night I had the fortune of getting the kids to bed early and the wife was involved in some reality show. The weather was playing nice so I hit the deck with a cigar.

The Ortega Serie D is a cigar produced by Eddie Ortega (you remember him from the 601 line of cigars) at the My Father factory in Esteli. So I've pretty much been interested in trying this since hearing about it. Overall it is a nice looking cigar with a slightly reddish, chocolaty wrapper. Though there is a bit of excess glue squirting out the band on the backside. The box press is obvious, but it's not excessive as some examples can be. There is a nice woodsy spice aroma coming off the cigar when I pull it from the cello. Clipped the cap with my trusty Palio and the draw is spot on with a nice woody flavor with a hint of sweetness to it. Caramel almost. Broke out the matches and after a few attempts got it fired up, though I soon had to touch it up due to an uneven start. Had a great spice (nutmegish) and wood flavor with hints of cocoa at the beginning. Transitioning through the cigar the spice dies down some leaving a mainly woody flavor, but with some caramel-like sweetness. The burn was great after the initial issue, but that was due to my rustiness with the matches. Ash held well, falling in 1/2 - 3/4 inch clumps. In the end, pretty good cigar. The size is nice and the price isn't bad, but most importantly it's a flavor bomb.

Dan ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews danthebugman http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66623-Ortega-Serie-D-No-6 http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66533-Ortega-Serie-D-Maduro-8?goto=newpost Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:36:18 GMT Ortega Serie D Maduro #8

Vital Stats:

Vitola: Robusto
Length: 5.5"
Ring Gauge: 50
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Mexican Maduro
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Factory: My Father Cigars S.A.
Blender: Eddie Ortega
Number of reviewers: 5 ----- Myles (MylesT), Aaron (aaron72), Ian (Sp@rky426), Milton (mjohnsoniii), Jason (bigslowrock)
Price: $6.00
Age: 6 months
Contributed by: Emmett (rhetorik)

Initial Impressions

Appearance: 90

"Firmly box pressed, and pretty average looking. No major veins, no major cosmetic flaws. Not bad." -Myles (MylesT)

Aroma: 92

I detected mostly floral notes and hay with subtle hints of raisins. It was almost "sweet". The pre-light draw was very easy, almost too easy. -Milton (mjohnsoniii)

Construction: 90

"Nice and tight construction with no soft spots. The cigar appears well rolled for the slight box press design." -Aaron (aaron72)

"Near flawless, except for the wrapper issue noted. Does not appear to have been caused by mishandling. Draw is very free, no hard or soft spots." -Ian (Sp@rky426)



First Third

Flavor: 91
Strength: Medium
Body/Complexity: Medium

"Cocoa, tea, tobacco with a light pepper on the retrohale. Not overly complex, but pleasant." -Jason (bigslowrock)

"First few puffs are surprisingly creamy. I'm definitely getting the hay from the initial aroma. It has some sweetness to it, but is balanced overall. Much lighter than I had expected, but I like it. As the third progresses, I'm getting a lot of nuttiness, sweet cream, and sort of a barnyard-y character. It isn't very complex, but it is very pleasant. At the back end of this third, i'm starting to pick up some savory notes...almost a roasted meat flavor, with a bit of toasted nuts." -Myles (MylesT)

"Pre-light draw brings a taste of raisin. The draw pre-light is just slightly snug. The smoke coats the palate and has a long finish. Initially I was getting a black pepper type of sensation on my tongue. Getting some woody notes on the retrohale. The black pepper would show up on the finish after every draw, but that is starting to go away as I get to the end of the third. The burn is very straight and the salt and pepper colored ash seems solid and held on for almost the entire third." -Aaron (aaron72)


Second Third

Flavor: 90
Strength: Medium
Body/Complexity: Medium

"The ash fell at the beginning of the second third and the smoke is very prominent and creamy. The spices stand out much more and are a combination of thyme and cinnamon with a bit of toffee mixed in and provides a clean, sweet and zesty kick. So far so good." -Milton (mjohnsoniii)

"Oh, hey, there's some spice here....cinnamon, clove, cracked black pepper...not overwhelming at all. It's more in the back of the throat, while the front of the draw, and the exhale/retrohale are still on the creamy side, although with a marked decline in sweetness, which isn't a bad thing. As it goes on, the retrohale is starting to really pick up on the peppery notes, while its still creamy and nutty/meaty on the palate. Unfortunately, i'm not getting the fruit notes from the first third any longer. There's a definite ""pop"" to this stick...I can't really explain it but to say it reminds me of acidity in a wine... there's this sharp, bracing note in there that helps to balance out the richness of the stick quite well. The ash on this has held like a champ, and only dropped once" -Myles (MylesT)


Final Third

Flavor: 89
Strength: Medium-Strong
Body/Complexity: Medium

"The sweet chocolate flavor transitions in a dark bitter chocolate." -Jason (bigslowrock)

"While they aren't as prominent as during the second third, the spices are very much still present but begin to taper off and subtle hints of nuts show through. It reminds me of cinnamon-roasted almonds. I'm almost sad that its about done." -Milton (mjohnsoniii)


Overall Impressions

Draw: 92

"Draw was slightly snug which is the way I prefer it." -Aaron (aaron72)

Burn: 94

"Nice even burn all the way through, ash not very tight and couldn't hold for longer than a half inch or so." -Ian (Sp@rky426)

"Excellent burn, no relights or corrections needed. Excellent ash retention." -Jason (bigslowrock)

Overall Experience: 90
Overall Strength: Medium-Strong
Overall Body: Medium

"Reliable and enjoyable, well made, and tasty. Certainly not amazing, and I don't know about box worthy, but i wouldn't mind having a few on hand for a nice evening at the grill or lounging on the porch." -Myles (MylesT)

"Overall the cigar was average. The flavors didn't do a whole lot for me." -Aaron (aaron72)
"From its initial spiciness to the roasted nuts of the final third, this cigar had much to offer. The complexity was above-average and left me wanting more. It is definitely one that any cigar connoisseur would love to have a few of in the humidor for their regular rotation. Other than its initial appearance, this cigar was fantastic." -Milton (mjohnsoniii)

Smoking Time (in minutes): 83

Total Score: 90 (Very Good)

Click here for pictures and more reviews: http://www.blindmanspuff.com/2013/04...-score-90.html ]]> Domestic Cigar Reviews rhetorik http://www.botl.org/community/forums/showthread.php/66533-Ortega-Serie-D-Maduro-8