danthebugman
BoM Nov '10
Size: 5" x 50
Wrapper:
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Price: $1.95
Intro: I'm working on finishing some reviews that I started, but never finished or was just flat out too lazy to post. I also have next week off to be home with the wife and new baby so we'll see if I can't get a few more reviews done then too.
This cigar is one that I smoked quite a bit of when I was first getting into cigars. Mostly because it was cheap and a Maduro, but it's also not truely aweful. I haven't smoked any for a good while now, but found one buried in the bottom of a humidor when I was rearanging some cigars. Figured I might as well smoke it and see how I still felt about 'em.
Prelight: Wrapper is a nice chocolate color, but there are some larger veins present. Seams are a little loose in places, but the cap on this one is neatly done. Like most bundle cigars this one has a lumpy, rustic appearance to it. Cut the cap and the draw was a little on the loose side, but not too loose. Cold draw flavors were a muted woodiness with some chocolate notes and a faint peppery tingle. Fired it up and a way we go...
First Third: Wood, chocolate, and a little pepper. Not real distinct though. The burn was a little bit all over the place, but not real bad. Needed a few touch ups, mostly due to the couple of larger veins present. Draw was good though.
Second Third: Flavors were the same as they were in the first third, but with a slightly harsh taste on the finish. Not metallic or egg-like or off or anything like that...just a bit harsh. Burn was otherwise the same...couple of touch ups were needed, but nothing major.
Last Third: I was working on some things in the yard while smoking and finished up earlier than I'd expect so I wrapped this up before the last third. In my experience with these though the last third would be much the same as the first two.
Final Thoughts: Overall not a bad smoke, especiall when you consider the price tag. I've had worse budget cigars, but I've also had some that were better. The harshness in this cigar is something that I've had in them before and one of the reasons I stopped smoking them so much when I started breaking into better and different cigars. Doesn't always happen, but that's one of the inconsistencies of bundle cigars. Still, if you're on a budget or want something that you can smoke daily without hurting your wallet these are a serviceable option. These also come in a Connecticut wrapper if that's your thing.
Dan
