Viaje Exclusivo Robusto (Jar)
1/28/2010
(Skip the next paragraph if you want to get straight to the review)
Viaje is a fairly new boutique brand, created by Andre Farkas. The Viaje Holiday Blend 2009 created a stir when released in December, and sold out fairly quickly. The Exlusivo is not yet officially part of the Viaje line (which currently consists of the Platino, Oro and the 50/50), but was very well received when passed out at events. So much so that the Exclusivo was produced in very small batches in various vitolas for specific retailers and/or events. Andre created the Exclusivo Jar (sent to a handful of selected retailers) as 100 numbered jars, each containing 35 pigtailed robustos. Although not much is known about the exact blend on the Exclusivos, it is made in Nicaragua and covered with an
aged Criollo wrapper.
The jar retailed for approximately $295, making each stick a little more than $8.40 each.
Prelight
Chocolaty Criollo wrapper is oily, thick and chewy; with a smell of sweet earth. After snipping the beautifully executed pigtail and cutting the cap, there was a good draw and a taste of leather.
First Third
The Exclusivo lit right up, and drew well. Initial notes of cashews and earth with a very creamy texture. The short finish had a taste of mint not sweet or mouthwashy, but a subdued note of fresh mint leaves. Nicely balanced and smooth. The ash was slightly flakey, reminding me that I really should have let this cigar rest considering it had traveled from Nicaragua to LA to Ohio and then back to LA in a matter of days.
The aroma closely mimicked the flavors, and did not really stand out.
Second Third
The intensity increased and began to provide that Cuban twang PSD#4s and Boli Finos came to mind. Lots of spicy earth and nuts with a lemon zest finish Very nice.
Again, the ash was flakey, but improving.
Last Third
About half way through, this cigar opens up dramatically and gets even stronger. Lots of earth, spice and a citrus finish. Rich and strong, yet amazingly smooth. Ample amounts of smoke and a nicotine buzz are found with each draw Wow.
Closing
Very enjoyable cigar.
I am sure that I should have let this cigar rest, as evident by the subdued start and flakey ash. A re-visit is definitely in order!
1/28/2010
(Skip the next paragraph if you want to get straight to the review)
Viaje is a fairly new boutique brand, created by Andre Farkas. The Viaje Holiday Blend 2009 created a stir when released in December, and sold out fairly quickly. The Exlusivo is not yet officially part of the Viaje line (which currently consists of the Platino, Oro and the 50/50), but was very well received when passed out at events. So much so that the Exclusivo was produced in very small batches in various vitolas for specific retailers and/or events. Andre created the Exclusivo Jar (sent to a handful of selected retailers) as 100 numbered jars, each containing 35 pigtailed robustos. Although not much is known about the exact blend on the Exclusivos, it is made in Nicaragua and covered with an
aged Criollo wrapper.
The jar retailed for approximately $295, making each stick a little more than $8.40 each.
Prelight
Chocolaty Criollo wrapper is oily, thick and chewy; with a smell of sweet earth. After snipping the beautifully executed pigtail and cutting the cap, there was a good draw and a taste of leather.
First Third
The Exclusivo lit right up, and drew well. Initial notes of cashews and earth with a very creamy texture. The short finish had a taste of mint not sweet or mouthwashy, but a subdued note of fresh mint leaves. Nicely balanced and smooth. The ash was slightly flakey, reminding me that I really should have let this cigar rest considering it had traveled from Nicaragua to LA to Ohio and then back to LA in a matter of days.
The aroma closely mimicked the flavors, and did not really stand out.
Second Third
The intensity increased and began to provide that Cuban twang PSD#4s and Boli Finos came to mind. Lots of spicy earth and nuts with a lemon zest finish Very nice.
Again, the ash was flakey, but improving.
Last Third
About half way through, this cigar opens up dramatically and gets even stronger. Lots of earth, spice and a citrus finish. Rich and strong, yet amazingly smooth. Ample amounts of smoke and a nicotine buzz are found with each draw Wow.
Closing
Very enjoyable cigar.
I am sure that I should have let this cigar rest, as evident by the subdued start and flakey ash. A re-visit is definitely in order!
