I rated it in November- nearly 2 months before CA gave a rating on it. The toro is the only one worth smoking, IMO, for the way it is able to develop.
I really feel that this cigar deserves its own topic. Here's my story for tonight.
The sea breeze slightly ruffles my sleeves as I gently remove the cellophane from the new Rocky Patel Decade Toro.
As I scrutinize the structure, the slightly boxed pressed Toro, 6.5 in. X 52 ring begins to fill the surrounding area with aroma, although not yet lit. The Wrapper is silky, showing great oils and very few veins, and it seems exceptionally well constructed.
I absolutely love the color coordination in the cream and gold band, as it both contrasts and compensates the darker, chocolate color of the smoke. Very appeasing and elegant.
I gently toast the foot and take my first puff to get the cigar at full steam. The first impression it gives is pure spice. The punch of pepper that engulfs the senses is almost overpowering, except that the finish as I exhale is both cedar and leather.
The first half inch keeps this exact characteristic, and I actually almost set it down. To bold for me...
But, to my great surprise, the intensity of pepper almost immediately dies off. I gaze at the glowing foot with a mixture of confusion and suspense. It may have been my palate playing tricks on me, or it may be that I have become used to the spice and have allowed the auxiliary flavors to permeate my senses. That spice is not gone, but has lessened dramatically.
As I puff more, the cigar proves that it is has indeed changed. The flavors are far more round, and an unexpected creaminess has crept to the surface.
From this point to roughly 2.5 inches from the finish, the cigar stays the same. Extremely pleasant. The smoke is full, the burn even, (even in the slight breeze), and the draw is perfect.
Then the leather and cedar hit home. A whole new cigar has emerged- and such that I actually burn my index finger trying to get the last puff or two before I must, regrettably, admit that the cigar is at an end.
I certainly did not blind taste this cigar, and I will be the first to admit that my opinion is completely subjective, but I did smoke this cigar to rate it and explain my experience to you. In my opinion, this cigar has scored a 95. Rocky Patel has created a masterpiece.
Bear
