Por Larranaga Asia Pacifico with Flying Dog Extra Pale Ale...decent pairing.
quote:Originally posted by stickman:quote:Originally posted by wine+art:quote:Originally posted by stickman:quote:Originally posted by wine+art:
Anyone watched Cigars: The Heart an Soul of Cuba yet?
Yes, of course.![]()
What did you think?
Very instructional, with lots of good information on the many processes that go into making a top-notch cigar. Suckling interviews some families who have been growing tobacco for several generations and who clearly make do with very little financially. I found that to be one of the most inspiring, yet humbling parts. The passion and joy these people have in producing something that they know is highly valued definitely comes through, IMHO. Worth a view, for sure, and to give credit where it's due, the subject is a vastly under-appreciated one, IMO. Suckling does a good job of uncovering it.
Thank you. Sounds like a Clement Greenberg review.

I will check it out.
quote:Originally posted by wine+art:
... Sounds like a Clement Greenberg review.![]()
I'm honored.

quote:Originally posted by stickman:quote:Originally posted by wine+art:
... Sounds like a Clement Greenberg review.![]()
I'm honored.![]()
Greenberg got it!

Looking forward already to tomorrow night.
We are having our bring something serious wine dinner tomorrow night, followed by our bring something serious to the cigar lounge after dinner.
We are having our bring something serious wine dinner tomorrow night, followed by our bring something serious to the cigar lounge after dinner.

quote:Originally posted by wine+art:
We are having our bring something serious wine dinner tomorrow night, followed by our bring something serious to the cigar lounge after dinner.
w+a, Did you just raise the bar again for offlines?


Well I am on the edge of my seat.....
quote:Originally posted by KSC02:quote:Originally posted by wine+art:
We are having our bring something serious wine dinner tomorrow night, followed by our bring something serious to the cigar lounge after dinner.
w+a, Did you just raise the bar again for offlines?![]()
![]()
More like-minded to our Chicago/ Montreal dinners.

Disclaimer: Totally clueless and I didn't ask the store owner (because I know he is equally clueless... only option for the time being unfortunately).
Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 similar to the one found here - Any good?
And a Padron with no labeling to suggest anything beside the brand - Anyway to find out what the heck it is?
Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 similar to the one found here - Any good?
And a Padron with no labeling to suggest anything beside the brand - Anyway to find out what the heck it is?
I recently had one of my last Oliva Serie V small diademas, available only in the vintage sampler sets. 'Small' and 'diadema' are rather contradictory terms, but Oliva makes one - 6x46, and it is outstanding IMO. I'm often displeased with over-packed Serie Vs (especially the double robusto), which results in much too firm a draw. Not here. Perfect draw IMO, and a very cool impression. Not overly peppery, but very smooth, with lots of cream, spice, and leather. If they sold boxes of these, I'd continue to buy, but to get one per box in a sampler, I'm ending up with too many stogies with which I'm not so endeared, especially that 7x52 Churchill!
quote:Originally posted by kingofcool:
Disclaimer: Totally clueless and I didn't ask the store owner (because I know he is equally clueless... only option for the time being unfortunately).
Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 similar to the one found here - Any good?
And a Padron with no labeling to suggest anything beside the brand - Anyway to find out what the heck it is?
I smoked many vintage Patels in both the 1990 and 1992 vintage some time back. Decent cigars, but pricey for what you get. Hard to tell on the Padron without size and more info. I've had Padrons that were sublime (Serie 1926 #9) and some that I wouldn't swipe my arse with.
PH
quote:Originally posted by stickman:
I recently had one of my last Oliva Serie V small diademas, available only in the vintage sampler sets. 'Small' and 'diadema' are rather contradictory terms, but Oliva makes one - 6x46, and it is outstanding IMO. I'm often displeased with over-packed Serie Vs (especially the double robusto), which results in much too firm a draw. Not here. Perfect draw IMO, and a very cool impression. Not overly peppery, but very smooth, with lots of cream, spice, and leather. If they sold boxes of these, I'd continue to buy, but to get one per box in a sampler, I'm ending up with too many stogies with which I'm not so endeared, especially that 7x52 Churchill!
I have now ordered 3 "samplers" just to get my hands on these Diademas since you recommended them some time back. Wonderful smoke. I haven't had any substantial problems with the other sticks in the assortment, but I am a lucky sumbitch!!

PH
quote:Originally posted by kingofcool:
Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 similar to the one found here - Any good?
And a Padron with no labeling to suggest anything beside the brand - Anyway to find out what the heck it is?
I had a Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 Robusto that I enjoyed. 'Not as full-bodied as the 1992 (black label), but rather smooth and understated. I don't find RP's sticks to be very complex, but they're usually well-balanced and reliable, IMO.
I don't know that the basic Padron is known by any other name, but when it comes to 'entry level' sticks from a given marque, Padron is tough to beat. Fairly hearty with some spice, but always balanced and very well constructed. I'd just say to pick a vitola you like, and give it a try. Most of my experience in the line is with the 2000 and the 3000, a robusto and robusto extra, respectively. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
quote:Originally posted by stickman:
... when it comes to 'entry level' sticks from a given marque, Padron is tough to beat... I don't think you'll be disappointed.
That is, unless it was one which was refused by PH's arse!

quote:Originally posted by PurpleHaze:
...I haven't had any substantial problems with the other sticks in the assortment, but I am a lucky sumbitch!!
PH
I suppose all of your Montecristos burn straight and true every time, no?

quote:Originally posted by stickman:quote:Originally posted by PurpleHaze:
...I haven't had any substantial problems with the other sticks in the assortment, but I am a lucky sumbitch!!
PH
I suppose all of your Montecristos burn straight and true every time, no?![]()
Damn right!!

I'm not sure what Padron I had that was so bad, but it was a week or so ago. I picked it up in my ongoing search for an under $5 drive home smoke. I've had relatively good success, as you have, with Padron's entry level sticks. This was a smaller ring, maybe a 42 or so. 6 inches or so. Dry, papery and flavorless....... Got about 2 inches into it and out it went.

PH
Alright you two....for the record..PH is a lucky sumbitch!
Rocky Patel all of his lines...average at best..good entry cigar for the novice...especially if you get the sampler packs as its cost efficient. They are very one dimensional and for the single stick cost not worth it IMO.
Padron 5 and 6000 series are very nice cigars for the price...great cigar for the golf course actually. But they can be potent so beginners beware!
Oliva makes pretty good cigars, the Serie V is by far the best in the line...but again the QPR leads me away from this line to other cigars...but they are well made and tasty cigars!
Carry on.
Rocky Patel all of his lines...average at best..good entry cigar for the novice...especially if you get the sampler packs as its cost efficient. They are very one dimensional and for the single stick cost not worth it IMO.
Padron 5 and 6000 series are very nice cigars for the price...great cigar for the golf course actually. But they can be potent so beginners beware!
Oliva makes pretty good cigars, the Serie V is by far the best in the line...but again the QPR leads me away from this line to other cigars...but they are well made and tasty cigars!
Carry on.

Speaking of "value" cigars...have any of you had the new EP Short Run? I didnt like last years version, although many raved about it, I believe it has been out now for a little bit...its about 6$ up here for the Robo. Just FYI....
I have not. It's hard to tell, marcb7 --- are you recommending for or against?
PH
PH
Last years..against...this years I have yet to try.....
quote:Originally posted by marcb7:
Last years..against...this years I have yet to try.....
I await your judgment, guru.

PH
I just need to do an online buy so I can get these exact rec's, rather than trying to remember in the store (assuming they even have them).
Olivia Serie V
Padron 2000 Robusto
Padron 3000 Robusto Extra
Padron 5000
Padron 6000
More pricey:
Padron Serie 1926 #9
Anything else?
Olivia Serie V
Padron 2000 Robusto
Padron 3000 Robusto Extra
Padron 5000
Padron 6000
More pricey:
Padron Serie 1926 #9
Anything else?
quote:Originally posted by kingofcool:
I just need to do an online buy so I can get these exact rec's, rather than trying to remember in the store (assuming they even have them).
Olivia Serie V
Padron 2000 Robusto
Padron 3000 Robusto Extra
Padron 5000
Padron 6000
More pricey:
Padron Serie 1926 #9
Anything else?
Your highness - The 1926 #9 is a very full bodied smoke. If you'd like to try a smaller sample of the same blend, give the #35 a try. Half the price +/- and it'll give you an idea of what you're getting into. It's one of the most beautifully constructed small cigars I've ever seen too.

PH
quote:Originally posted by kingofcool:
I just need to do an online buy so I can get these exact rec's, rather than trying to remember in the store (assuming they even have them).
Olivia Serie V
Padron 2000 Robusto
Padron 3000 Robusto Extra
Padron 5000
Padron 6000
More pricey:
Padron Serie 1926 #9
Anything else?
Im confused? Are you telling or asking?
Sorry. I am asking what I should get as a beginner.
quote:Originally posted by marcb7:
Alright you two....for the record..PH is a lucky sumbitch!
Rocky Patel all of his lines...average at best..good entry cigar for the novice...especially if you get the sampler packs as its cost efficient. They are very one dimensional and for the single stick cost not worth it IMO.... While okay cigars, not worth buying or seeking out imo.
Padron 5 and 6000 series are very nice cigars for the price...great cigar for the golf course actually. But they can be potent so beginners beware!... I have two favorite cigars for golf or hunting. The Padron 7000 is one of them.
To clarify, if you choose to give the Oliva V a shot, try the belicoso - the best normal production IMHO. On the other hand, I would never advocate going against the godfather's recommendation.
Seriously, I defer to his superior experience and knowledge.
If you're just getting started, a nice foil to the Padrons would be an Ashton White Label Corona - CT shade wrapper, smooth, opposite of the dark Nicaraguans you'll get from Padron, and I know the godfather would approve.
Then you can dial into your palate from your experience with those.
Also fwiw, try to stick with mid-size ring gauges to start. Some Padrons can get very small (not their best IMHO), and some Olivas can get really fat (also not their best IMHO). Preferable starting point would be about 44-50.
Finally, I'd say to give the My Father Robusto a try. Med-full, but IMO this is a good mid-ground stick, not too strong, not too mild, consistently excellent construction, and very well-blended.

If you're just getting started, a nice foil to the Padrons would be an Ashton White Label Corona - CT shade wrapper, smooth, opposite of the dark Nicaraguans you'll get from Padron, and I know the godfather would approve.

Also fwiw, try to stick with mid-size ring gauges to start. Some Padrons can get very small (not their best IMHO), and some Olivas can get really fat (also not their best IMHO). Preferable starting point would be about 44-50.
Finally, I'd say to give the My Father Robusto a try. Med-full, but IMO this is a good mid-ground stick, not too strong, not too mild, consistently excellent construction, and very well-blended.

Had a Sancho Panza Non Plus (Habano) on Sunday that was glorious.
quote:Originally posted by kingofcool:
Sorry. I am asking what I should get as a beginner.
And to add to the Godfather and stickman's very good advice, I'll give you the same advice I'd give someone starting out with wine. Try lots of stuff before you stock your "cellar". Buy singles or doubles. No boxes or quantities larger than 5 unless you've already smoked the cigar and know you like it. Find a great cigar shop and an advisor or two who can learn your tastes and steer you to other options within the store.
PH
quote:Originally posted by wine+art:
Rocky Patel all of his lines...average at best..good entry cigar for the novice...especially if you get the sampler packs as its cost efficient. They are very one dimensional and for the single stick cost not worth it IMO.... While okay cigars, not worth buying or seeking out imo.
Agree!
You guys are funny 
Lots and lots of very solid advice above...especially trying lots of different sticks. When I first started out I looked away from anything Maduro...just because I didnt think Id like them. Well my first Maduro was a Anejo and I never looked back. So try all different strengths, wrappers, and sizes.
You should have no problem finding a very well made cigar for 5-10$.
Tatuaje
My Father
Liga Privada
A. Fuente
Padron
Oliva
These are all within that price range and they have all different sizes etc...grab a handful of them before buying a box.
Last piece of advice I have for a beginner is have a soda or a chocolate bar very handy...infact drinking rootbeer/coke etc with the cigar isnt a bad idea....some of these sticks are strong and can sneak up on you. If you plan on smoking cigars back to back...chocolate is a good pallet cleanser as well. Good luck!

Lots and lots of very solid advice above...especially trying lots of different sticks. When I first started out I looked away from anything Maduro...just because I didnt think Id like them. Well my first Maduro was a Anejo and I never looked back. So try all different strengths, wrappers, and sizes.
You should have no problem finding a very well made cigar for 5-10$.
Tatuaje
My Father
Liga Privada
A. Fuente
Padron
Oliva
These are all within that price range and they have all different sizes etc...grab a handful of them before buying a box.
Last piece of advice I have for a beginner is have a soda or a chocolate bar very handy...infact drinking rootbeer/coke etc with the cigar isnt a bad idea....some of these sticks are strong and can sneak up on you. If you plan on smoking cigars back to back...chocolate is a good pallet cleanser as well. Good luck!
quote:Originally posted by marcb7:
Well I am on the edge of my seat.....
Six hours to blastoff!

very...very jealous! Is it a island smoke kind of day?
Tonight on my ride home, I'll enjoy my first Tatuaje Petite Cazadores courtesy of a fine gentleman who hooked me up.
I've been wanting to try one for some time, so fingers crossed!
PH

PH
quote:Originally posted by stickman:
To clarify, if you choose to give the Oliva V a shot, try the belicoso - the best normal production IMHO.
Last 2 boxes of the Belicoso I smoked have been tight as hell!
quote:Originally posted by marcb7:
You guys are funny
Lots and lots of very solid advice above...especially trying lots of different sticks. When I first started out I looked away from anything Maduro...just because I didnt think Id like them. Well my first Maduro was a Anejo and I never looked back. So try all different strengths, wrappers, and sizes.
You should have no problem finding a very well made cigar for 5-10$.
Tatuaje
My Father
Liga Privada
A. Fuente
Padron
Oliva
These are all within that price range and they have all different sizes etc...grab a handful of them before buying a box.
Last piece of advice I have for a beginner is have a soda or a chocolate bar very handy...infact drinking rootbeer/coke etc with the cigar isnt a bad idea....some of these sticks are strong and can sneak up on you. If you plan on smoking cigars back to back...chocolate is a good pallet cleanser as well. Good luck!
I've also been a big fan of Illusione!
quote:Originally posted by WEc:quote:Originally posted by stickman:
To clarify, if you choose to give the Oliva V a shot, try the belicoso - the best normal production IMHO.
Last 2 boxes of the Belicoso I smoked have been tight as hell!
Not atypical of this vitola but what is your humidity set at?
quote:Originally posted by marcb7:quote:Originally posted by WEc:quote:Originally posted by stickman:
To clarify, if you choose to give the Oliva V a shot, try the belicoso - the best normal production IMHO.
Last 2 boxes of the Belicoso I smoked have been tight as hell!
Not atypical of this vitola but what is your humidity set at?
I only have a cabinet humidor which stocks roughly 5-600 hundred depending on the size and storage containers but I run it 70 bottom drawer and 65 up top.(try to anyways)
I find they roll the caps way way too tight!! It is frustrating as hell because I love Oliva Vs Belicosos... I've resorted to the double robustos instead. Just puffing on the 3rd from my new box a few weeks ago right now!
It has actually been a while sine we've had +5 weather and no wind... I'm actually enjoying this much more than I thought!
WEc,
How do you cut the cap on the beli? I have found that a 45 degree cut, taking a bit more "sometimes" helps with a tight draw...also the "V" cut works pretty good on this vitola....but odds are its the rollers fault.
How do you cut the cap on the beli? I have found that a 45 degree cut, taking a bit more "sometimes" helps with a tight draw...also the "V" cut works pretty good on this vitola....but odds are its the rollers fault.
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