I scored the 6 stick line sampler from NHC on Monday and they arrived today perfect, as usual. Upon opening the packaging I was drawn to the CG, but quickly grabbed the Elitas next door. For some reason it was calling me like "Tat fan" to a shiny black jar.
While I can't necessarily say I love the way CA rates cigars, I will have to give them props for the actual formula and way of rating the stick.
Ok, here goes:
Cruzado Elitas
Appearance/construction: 13 /15 - The Criollo Nic. wrapper is rougher looking than the Illusione line, but provides a distinct pre-light flavor/smell. It has a distinct from the earth nuance that for some reason made me think of a fall rain. After cutting the cap with my Zino Scissors, the cold smoke was of rich coco and leather.
Flavor: 23 /25 - The first puff revealed the flawless construction of binder and filler, for there was the perfect amount of resistance to the draw. I detect hints of espresso/leather, but the shining light was a subtle spice that lingered on the finish. I got a light herbal/floral note about the mid way point, but it was gone as soon as it arrived. I would say the stick is right up my alley in terms of strength, but not as strong as I thought it would be. I think this could play a regular role in my rotation of Tats/DPG/Illusione.
Smoking characteristics: 24 /25
I toasted the foot lightly with some Davidoff Cedar matches I got at an event last week and was off. The burn was even, the draw was great, and the Elitas required zero touch-ups from the initial light forward. 2 ashes to the band and 1 after. The total time was around 1:25, but then again, I was writing this review as I went.
Overall Impression: 32/35
I think the stick was well rounded with nice depth and complexity. As I said before, I think this stick will be a great addition to my regular rotation. Can't wait to smoke the rest of the vitolas.
Would recommend.
Total: 92/100
Enjoy.
Dan @ NHC will have more next week...the week of 11/4
While I can't necessarily say I love the way CA rates cigars, I will have to give them props for the actual formula and way of rating the stick.
Ok, here goes:
Cruzado Elitas
Appearance/construction: 13 /15 - The Criollo Nic. wrapper is rougher looking than the Illusione line, but provides a distinct pre-light flavor/smell. It has a distinct from the earth nuance that for some reason made me think of a fall rain. After cutting the cap with my Zino Scissors, the cold smoke was of rich coco and leather.
Flavor: 23 /25 - The first puff revealed the flawless construction of binder and filler, for there was the perfect amount of resistance to the draw. I detect hints of espresso/leather, but the shining light was a subtle spice that lingered on the finish. I got a light herbal/floral note about the mid way point, but it was gone as soon as it arrived. I would say the stick is right up my alley in terms of strength, but not as strong as I thought it would be. I think this could play a regular role in my rotation of Tats/DPG/Illusione.
Smoking characteristics: 24 /25
I toasted the foot lightly with some Davidoff Cedar matches I got at an event last week and was off. The burn was even, the draw was great, and the Elitas required zero touch-ups from the initial light forward. 2 ashes to the band and 1 after. The total time was around 1:25, but then again, I was writing this review as I went.
Overall Impression: 32/35
I think the stick was well rounded with nice depth and complexity. As I said before, I think this stick will be a great addition to my regular rotation. Can't wait to smoke the rest of the vitolas.
Would recommend.
Total: 92/100
Enjoy.
Dan @ NHC will have more next week...the week of 11/4
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