Cigar Break

Avo has been making cigars for a long time, and the Domaine No. 30 is the series that is made especially for cigar aficionados.  It’s a bold, rich flavored cigar that is made for those people who know how to enjoy a cigar that’s as full flavored as this one.  The No. 30 is their most expensive cigar in the Domaine line, and it receives an 84 from Cigar Aficionado.  Although, the flavors it gives you may have you wondering if you should save a spot for it in your humidor.

The wrapper is a Connecticut seed grown in Ecuadorian sun.  This gives the wrapper a lighter brown color and a nice silky texture.   The sun grown Connecticut seed also gives it a robust flavor. The filler is a mixture of five different Dominican fillers, which give it a very unique and complex flavor.  The filler for the cigar includes tobacco from the man himself who inspired this cigar, Avo Uvezian.  They are definitely high quality, and the ash that you’ll get will be fairly solid.

The palate begins with very earthy notes, with flavors of hay and almost grass.  Though the wrapper has been sungrown, and there are a complex variety of fillers, the cigar doesn’t seem overly powerful, and you may find that it’s only more of a medium strength.  The flavor of this cigar does not change a lot as you smoke it.  In the body, you’ll still taste the earthy notes, with more hints of other vegetation like hay.    This cigar would be more satisfying to have an on afternoon, and not after a meal or drinking.

Overall, the Avo Domaine No. 30 received an 84 from Cigar Aficionado, which you may or may not agree it deserved.  The flavors are full, but not too full, so it may be for those who enjoy a thicker smoke, but do not want to have such strong flavors.  Also, the sourness and bitterness in the middle are flavors that you may not find as appealing.  The Domaine No. 30 is a fairly good cigar, but you may find it a bit overpriced for your tastes.

Useful links:

• Another Avo Domaine review
• Compare prices on Avo Domaine cigars here

The brand Nub has begun to release these new cigars, the 460 Cameroon.  Nub is known for their short, stout, and well-filled cigars.  The Nub/Oliva brand has been making a name for themselves for years, including their Serie ‘V’ line which received a 94 rating from Cigar Aficionado back in 2007.  With the Cameroon 460, the brains behind the cigar, Sam Leccia, sought to create a cigar that tasted like the “sweet-spot” the entire way through.  The short, stout nature of these cigars makes them similar in length and intensity to a Short Story, but you’ll be able to keep this burning and nub it out after an hour or more.

The African Cameroon wrapper gives it a rich, strong taste, and is a medium brown color.  Both the binder and filler are blends of Nicaraguan tobacco.  The Nub Cameroon 460 has a fairly large ring gauge at 60, which is almost a full inch.  But, since it’s a shorter cigar, only 4 inches from head to foot, it’s a nice draw with only a little bit of resistance.  The cigar feels firm from head to toe, and the ash stays tight throughout.

The bouquet has notes coffee and some earthy notes.  It takes a little while to get lit, because it’s a thicker cigar, but once it’s lit it stays burning and produces a lot of smoke.  The flavor notes of the second third seem to be leathery and oily, but with little bursts of spice throughout.  The final third builds up as kind of a medium cigar, with a spicy taste and creamy smoke.  Hints of wood and earth are also fading in and out before you finish this stogie.

The Nub Cameroon 460 is a surprisingly long cigar for the size.  Everything about this cigar makes you think that it would burn hot, fast, and have a loose draw.  But, Nub has done a good job on this cigar.  They packed it tight enough, and with the right tobaccos, making it last well over an hour, and it’s never too loose or hot.  The draw is perfect, and maybe a little on the tight side, making it a great cigar to sit back and enjoy if you’re looking for something a little thicker.

Useful links:

• Oliva Serie V review
• Compare prices on Nub 460 Cameroon here

Arturo Fuente has been making cigars for over 90 years.  Though numerous factories have been burned down, they return to blend some of the best cigars time after time.  The Hemingway Short Story is not the flagship of Arturo Fuente, but it has certainly become one of their most popular.  If the distinctive perfecto shape of this cigar doesn’t intrigue you, the sweet and spicy flavors will.

One of the most recognizable features of the Hemingway Short Story is the perfecto shape.  It’s a little fat, with a 48 inch ring, but it tapers down a bit towards the end.  It’s kind of short as well, and from cap to toe it is 4 and ½ inches.  The wrapper is an African Cameroon, and the filler is a vintage Dominican tobacco.  The wrapper makes it a little darker, but it’s got a gorgeous sheen.  If cut right, this cigar has a perfect draw with lots of flavor and smoke.

The flavor starts out strong with coffee and leather notes.  However, in the body it jumps into a varied blend of flavors, from cinnamon, pepper spice, and a little bit of spearmint.  You should also taste some cedar on the palette and some ginger flavor notes near the nub.  There are a surprising amount of notes in this, but it is deliciously complex and exquisite.  It starts out sweeter, but as you smoke it, it becomes spicier and the two are a really satisfying pair.

It can be disappointing that it’s such a quick burn, meaning you may only find yourself with it for 25 minutes before you nub it.  The shortness of the stick, and the perfecto roll, do make it a rather quick cigar.  But it is a great cigar if you’re looking for something a little shorter.  And it always leaves you wanting another.

The complexity and flavors of the Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story got a well deserved 92 from Cigar Aficionado, and is one of the most sought out sticks from Arturo Fuente.  If you find yourself getting a hold of a few of these, cherish them, because as for many other people, it may become one of your favorites.

Useful links:

• More Arturo Fuente cigar reviews
• Compare prices on Fuente Short Story here

Being a cigar aficionado means having to know the best brands in the manufacturing industry that roll up some of the most delectable and aromatic cigars known to man. Keeping this in mind, there has been one name that spells out quality, superiority and flavor like never before– Tatuaje. The Tatuje brand of cigars comes from the Pepin Garcia family which has been accredited for its name over the years. The Tatuaje J21 Reserva is one such quality cigar that has managed to live up to its name of sheer superiority. The J21 got its name from a cryptic explanation where 21 is said to be the lucky number of master cigar enthusiast Pete Johnson. The J in the J21 simply stands for Johnson. The reserve ranges of cigars are reputed for their darker and thicker aroma which the Tatuje J21 implicates in themselves as well.

On a comparison to any of the other Reserva cigars, it can be noticed that the Tatuje J21 Reserva has a much thicker, darker and rougher appearance compared to its predecessors. Compared to the SW or A Uno which is made from the visio (lowest priming), the J21 Reserva has darker wrapper due to fact that it is made from the ligero or highest priming. Its over exposure to the sun has given its leaf a darker and rougher shade.

The Tatuaje J21 Reserva is an excellent smoke for those that prefer a strong black pepper and brash wood taste. It is truly the ultimate cigar for those that love a robust aroma. The J21 is a full bodied cigar that is made of delectable flavors while throwing in a bit of complexity every now and then. Made from the Corojo wrapper leaf, it has a thin membrane which means that it does not burn straight up. Instead it holds an angle in its burn. This is not uncommon particularly when it comes to lighting up corojo leaves. For any Tatuje fan that knows precisely what they will be smoking, it’s a great recommendation to make. It’s the perfect substitute for those individuals that would like to smoke a smaller format than the Tatuje Cojonu.

Useful links:

• Another Tatuaje J21 Reserva cigar review
• Compare prices on Tatuaje J21 Reservas here

The legacy of Gurkha cigars dates back to the British Raj, when India and Nepal was ruled by the British. Officers who were commissioned on the beautiful values of Nepal were extremely obsessed with the fascinating flavor of the tobacco leaves in this region and started to make cigars for themselves. Even after the British left India, the legacy of Gurkha cigars continued and the brand enjoys a very reputed position in the world of cigars today.

Gurkha Vintage Shaggy Torpedo gets its name from traditional Cuban cigars. The traditional Cuban cigars used to have an untrimmed foot that exposed the tobacco in it. This brings a different visual appeal when you unpack the cigar. The vintage feeling is very obvious and the wrapper displays the characteristics of handmade cigar. Overall, Gurkha Vintage Shaggy Torpedo feels like a firm cigar that is well built.

Gurkha Vintage Shaggy comes with a Dominican made wrapper that is aged eight years. You can get full bodied as well as medium bodied versions for this model. The six year old Dominican binder and filler, feature an amazingly smooth aroma that makes this cigar a truly memorable one. When you have your first glance, you will be completely amazed by the perfection of this cigar. The shaggy end not only looks different but also ensures a smooth lighting.

Gurkha Vintage Shaggy Torpedo is a medium flavored cigar that is originated in Honduras. You will experience the perfection of a handmade cigar while smoking these because there is no touch up needed while smoking one. Even the ash is very firm and burn evenly. The flavor features a rich aroma of spices and pepper. The aroma and taste is mild and can cater people with various preferences.

The blend is so perfect that the smoke stays smooth while providing you with the flavor of spices and pepper. When you reach the third half, the essence changes slightly and you can experience a fragrance that is more like a wood/chocolate mixture. When you are reaching the last portion, you will find that the piquancy becomes even smoother.

Gurkha Vintage Shaggy Torpedo is reasonably priced. Based on the retail outlets, the price per stick can be six to eight dollars. These cigars are designed pretty well and the overall finish is pretty amazing. It is a personal choice when it comes to the shaggy top but there is no denial that it is different.

Gurkha is considered as one of the most prestigious brands among cigars and their century old experience brings them a unique approach towards cigar making. This uniqueness is clearly visible in the aroma and materials they choose. There is no doubt that Vintage Shaggy Torpedo features some of the finest Dominican tobacco that is aged professionally to reach perfection. If you like the old classic style cigars that looks and taste like a real vintage one, then Gurkha Vintage Shaggy Torpedo cigars is something that you should experience once in your lifetime.

Useful links:

• More Gurkha cigar reviews
• Compare prices on Gurkha Shaggy Torpedo here

Now in the hands of the third generation of the family Perdomo still make cigars the only way they know how the Cuban way. The Perdomo Lot 23 Toro is very special to the Perdomo family. Grown on an untouched plot of land in Estili, Nicaragua specifically selected by the late Nicholas Perdomo Sr.

The Perdomo Lot 23 Toro I sampled looked great from cap to foot and I took my time to savour the soft and pleasing aroma before lighting. The robust Nicaraguan tobaccos at its heart are full bodied and complemented perfectly by the Connecticut wrapper leaf that adds a superb creaminess to the overall rich flavour. As my sampling progressed some really nice cocoa flavours came through with a subtle nutty undertone. Another thing to point out is how consistent a burn this cigar has. A beautifully smooth draw all the way the Perdomo Lot 23 Toro is so far behaving like a cigar four or five times its price. Considering that the Tobacco at its heart has been fermented for a year then bale aged for three more before rolling I would still have been pleased with this lovely cigar if in fact it had cost far more.

With the Perdomo Lot 23 Toro I got a lot more cigar for the money than I had expected. No unpleasant bitterness and an even temperature all the way. With its good looks and complex flavour I think I will find it hard to beat especially in this price range. During my sampling it felt as though we both, that’s the cigar, and me relaxed into each other. I was not expecting to be able to get an as enjoyable experience from a non-Cuban cigar and I have been pleasantly surprised. I think I have found a friend in this delightful rich flavoured smoke and for the value it offers it may be a while before I smoke anything else.

Useful links:

• More Perdomo cigar reviews
• Compare prices on Perdomo Lot 23 here

Alec Bradley has not been around as many years as the bigger brands. However, their Tempus Quadrum rose quickly to the top, getting rated a 94 and being named of the top 25 Cigars of the Year list by Cigars International. Alec Bradley began growing in 1996, but it was not until 2002 that the Tempus was introduced. The Tempus is their pride and joy, and is obvious in its robust body and many flavor notes. The Tempus Quadrum is aged well, and is a cigar that is definitely worth the money,

The wrapper is a Honduran Criollo ‘98 from the Trojes region near Nicaragua. It’s a darker leaf with a leathery feel. The Tempus Quadrum is a partial box-press, so it has a different feel from the other cigars of the Tempus line. Rounded edges and a flatter top and bottom give a unique look to the Quadrum compared with other cigars in the line. The Quadrum is a thicker toro grande shaped cigar, making it a little tough to cut, but started easily it does have a nice easy draw. It’s not too loose, and gives a nice amount of smoke.

The cigar starts out a little sweet. The smoke has flavors of chocolate and coffee early, and it also leaves a sweet flavor on the lips. As it progresses though, you may find yourself needing to do some touch ups, so keep your lighter handy. The flavors begin to shift to an earthy palette as you smoke it, however, so it is not all sweet. Toasted wood, nuts, and a light taste of minerals build up as the cigar burns. Towards the middle, the flavors become much more robust. The Quadrum has a long finish, with a full bodied, peppery flavor and a very subtle sweetness.

Alec Bradley earned a well deserved 94 rating from Cigar International for their Tempus Quadrum. It’s obvious from the quality of this cigar that Alec Bradley thought deliberately about what was needed when putting it together. The many flavor notes, from semi-sweet chocolate and coffee, through the earthy wood and nut of the middle, and the full-bodied peppery finish, make this a truly satisfying cigar to smoke. It doesn’t start out too strong, and eases you into the richness of the cigar’s long, flavorful finish.

Useful links:

• A review of the Alec Bradley Tempus Terra Novo
• Compare prices on Alec Bradley Tempus here

I planned to try the Ashton Virgin Sun-Grown because of the great reputation of this line of production. First of all, this cigar was blended and developed by Carlos Fuentes especially for the Ashton Company. The Fuentes use a special and exclusive blend for that cigar, the tobacco is from Dominican Republic and it is aged for about 5 years in average. The wrapper is not less exclusive; it is grown in a controlled environment in Ecuador for the best quality.

The Ashton Virgin Sun-Grown Sorcerer is seven inches long with a ring gauge of 49, it much resembles the Churchill size and it is very suitable for any special occasion you have. Before lighting the cigar, it has a touch of earthy flavor and some of my veteran smoking companion called it a leathery flavor. I recall a comment of one of my friends; he said “it reminds me of the scent of my new leather jacket”. On the lighting the cigar, it appeared to be of a good earthy flavor with a touch of mocha.

The construction of the Ashton VSG is a little bit firm but, the draw is still smooth and comfortable. The wrapper is dark and when combined with red white and gold band gives a royal look to that nice hand–made cigar. The cigar is slightly pressed to give a more comfortable grip between the fingers. During the first few puffs the burn was not regular but with further smoking it became better and the grey ash made marvelous contrast with the dark leathery wrapper.

The Ashton Virgin Sun-Grown Sorcerer is not an everyday smoke but, it is a great choice for special occasions and those calm nights after a great dinner. The VSG line in general and the Sorcerer in particular goes very well with cognac and heavy drinks. I tried one of these cigars after the lunch but it was a little bit heavy. On the weekend, I tried it after the dinner and it was the best choice I have ever made. The price tag on this nice cigar is around $ 10 and that emphasizes the impression that I have got after I smoked that cigar – it is not an everyday smoke.

All in all, I liked this cigar and I should have some in my humidor for any future special occasion.

Useful links:

• Another review of an Ashton VSG
• Compare prices on Ashton VSG Sorcerer here

The Don Pepin Garcia Blue Label Robusto looks like the Cuban classic, though merely a bit darker with a lesser number of veins.

Packed with lots of slightly salty ligero tobacco, Garcia Blue Label Robusto starts out really spicy yet; soon it results in being creamier. The robusto is complex and balanced, and it provides a gratifying, full-bodied taste. When the cigar advances, the spice dies out all together, however the buzz of warm tobacco flavor stays. Furthermore, the finish is noticeably arid and a pinch bitter.

Design was superb with an even burn. The cigar was a little smooth to touch, however it didn’t tend to result in any kind of negative effects.

On the whole, this is really a good quality smoke – like you would expect from Pepin – yet I personally prefer cigars of his other lines. Nevertheless, there is a lot to like within this one should you enjoy full-flavored cigars.

Furthermore, I believe there’s certainly extensive aging potential with this cigar, and kindly note that the samples that were smoked for this review were only aged for a few months. Possibly an extra eight to twelve months of humidor period and Garcia Blue Label Robusto would smoke far better.

Useful links:

• Another review of a Don Pepin Garcia Blue Label
• Compare prices on Don Pepin Garcia Blue Label here

Created in the 1960’s by Simon Camacho and often referred to as the best ‘Habano’ outside of Cuba by those who know and appreciate good cigars, the Camacho brand is currently owned by the Eiroas family and manufactured in the Honduras by Tabacos Rancho Jamastran.

Made with authentic Cuban Corojo and Criollo grown in the Eiroa’s own farms in Jamastran Valley of the Honduras, this medium to full-bodied brand of cigars is unsurprisingly many a cigar connoisseur’s premium choice.

One of the latest Camacho Cigars to find their way to humidors is the Camacho Triple Maduro cigar made entirely of Maduro Tobacco, including the filler, binder and wrapper, straight from Honduras’ Jamastran Valley.
Moreover, as any one who has tried one of these full flavored beauties, will tell you; these cigars are not for the beginner smoker.

And, speaking of full flavor, you will find this particular quality abound in plenty in the Camacho Triple Maduro from beginning to end. Uncharacteristically full, even for a full Maduro, you will favor the flavor of this Camacho over other double and triple Maduros due to its rich taste that is also consistently smooth to the tongue.

The cigar itself is expertly constructed with nice draw qualities. Overall, the cigar is tightly wrapped which enables it to draw evenly after being lit for the first time. The compactness of the Cigar also contributes to admirable ash quality that holds firm for about an inch and a half before falling off.

You can purchase the Camacho Triple Maduro for $12.50 per stick for the torpedo version, which has a ring guage of 54 and is about 6 inches in length or by the beautifully designed box that includes 18 such cigars for $10.50 per stick.

So, to conclude; price considered, is this cigar really worth your money?
Well, if you ask me, I would say yes; especially when you take into account that you can buy 18 for the price of about $10.50 per stick making it a great bargain for the premium quality on offer. This is a cigar, which is well worth the money and time to smoke, particularly for those who want to enjoy and experience the taste, flavor and aroma of one of the fullest bodied cigars around…

Useful links:

• More Camacho cigar reviews
• Compare prices on Camacho Triple Maduro here