Saint Luis Rey Series A
Origin: Cuba
Size: Gran Corona
Length: 5.675
Gauge: 46
Box codes: FOD JUL 03; PAS NOV 02
I think this is a very fine, underrated smoke that is an incredible value right now. I have tried a number of these from both box codes, above. All are impeccably constructed. The wrappers are beautiful with an oily sheen and small veins. The cigars come with a slight box press, but the press does not affect the draw. The draw has been perfect on every sample I have smoked. Wrappers on the '03 versions are noticeably darker than the '02. Both samples come from dress boxes.
The taste on these is very "Cubanesque", with a pronounced twang that lingers wonderfully on the palate with every puff. The flavors are rich and smooth, of medium strength and complexity. The slow, steady burn rarely needs a touch-up. Many experienced smokers may find these a bit on the mild side. I have read that versions prior to '02 were not as flavorful in blend and that '02/'03 seem to be an excellent vintage for this vitola. There are only slight differences in flavor between the two years sampled here. If I had to make a choice between the two, it would be difficult as both are quite excellent.
These are highly recommended. They are easy to find with three and four years of age. The price is superb and this vitola is the perfect example, IMHO, of why premium NC's have difficulty competing with the price of some Habanos. Both of the above codes are smoking wonderfully right now. If you like this smoke, as I do, the value makes it an excellent choice for "stocking up". SLR hit the jackpot with this blend for these years.
Origin: Cuba
Size: Gran Corona
Length: 5.675
Gauge: 46
Box codes: FOD JUL 03; PAS NOV 02
I think this is a very fine, underrated smoke that is an incredible value right now. I have tried a number of these from both box codes, above. All are impeccably constructed. The wrappers are beautiful with an oily sheen and small veins. The cigars come with a slight box press, but the press does not affect the draw. The draw has been perfect on every sample I have smoked. Wrappers on the '03 versions are noticeably darker than the '02. Both samples come from dress boxes.
The taste on these is very "Cubanesque", with a pronounced twang that lingers wonderfully on the palate with every puff. The flavors are rich and smooth, of medium strength and complexity. The slow, steady burn rarely needs a touch-up. Many experienced smokers may find these a bit on the mild side. I have read that versions prior to '02 were not as flavorful in blend and that '02/'03 seem to be an excellent vintage for this vitola. There are only slight differences in flavor between the two years sampled here. If I had to make a choice between the two, it would be difficult as both are quite excellent.
These are highly recommended. They are easy to find with three and four years of age. The price is superb and this vitola is the perfect example, IMHO, of why premium NC's have difficulty competing with the price of some Habanos. Both of the above codes are smoking wonderfully right now. If you like this smoke, as I do, the value makes it an excellent choice for "stocking up". SLR hit the jackpot with this blend for these years.
