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Cigar smokers?

S stickmanMember
Black Label Trading Co. Bishop's Blend Corona Larga: in a word, fantastic! Prominent nipple on the cap (even more so than the Tatuaje Black Label corona gorda). What stands out to me is a delicious balance of extreme opposites: bitter, black licorice and sweet chocolate, laced with barbecue spices. Also some pepper and an herbal note in the background. Copious amounts of very aromatic smoke. Unique recipe for this stick, including an Ecuadorian maduro wrapper, as well as both PA and CT broadleaf in the filler. This stick has both intensity and complexity. Bravo! $10, if you can find 'em.

I've come to the BLTC game only in the last year, and they're quickly becoming a favorite. I've previously enjoyed their Deliverance and Morphine, and I think this is even better! The bands are to cigars what Charles Smith's labels are to wines (the products are fairly similar too - dark, brooding, intense). This brand is all about small-batch sticks, so I really don't know how they survive the coming FDA BS. I can only hope that they do.
Last edited by stickman
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by mdsphoto:
Here's a link to Cigar Aficionado's top cigars of the year. Nothing really earth shattering on this list, but have not tried #1.

Thanks for the link. Yep, pretty standard list for CA... in fact, some things are very standard. [This isn't a judgement; just pointing out recognizable patterns.]

For the last three years Rocky Patel, Arturo Fuente, and Padrón have all made the top 10 (Padrón for much longer than just the last three). In fact, for the last five years, Arturo Fuente and Padrón have always occurred side-by-side on the list (save one year, with one spot in between them): 2016 = 5&6, 2015 = 4&5, 2014 = 6&7, 2013 = 4&6 (one spot between), 2012 = 4&5. Also in 2010, they were 3&4.

What does seem odd to me, however, (and what got me to look at these patterns) is that this year's #6 spot went to the Arturo Fuente Rosado Sungrown Magnum R Vitola "44" (yes, that's all one cigar! Big Grin), which is the exact same cigar that got the #5 place in 2012. I've seen them give different vitolas of the same stick a spot on the list (e.g., the Oliva Melanio, this year's #8 and 2014's #1), but this is the first time I've noticed them give the same exact stick a place in two different years. :shrug:

I haven't had the #1 stick (yet) either (it's on the docket Cool ), but I'm glad to see LFD get the #1 spot. I think they've made a plethora of first-rate smokes, they don't seem to get the credit I think they deserve, and I was disappointed (for LFD) that their La Nox didn't get any love on CA's top 25 last year. Bravo to La Flor!

Without going into any real criticisms for the list, suffice it to say, that it's not my kind of top 10 list, and I don't see it affecting my purchasing/smoking. Congrats to everybody who was included; there's no doubt that they're all good cigars.
mdsphotomdsphotoMember
quote:
Originally posted by stickman:
quote:
Originally posted by mdsphoto:
Here's a link to Cigar Aficionado's top cigars of the year. Nothing really earth shattering on this list, but have not tried #1.

Thanks for the link. Yep, pretty standard list for CA... in fact, some things are very standard. [This isn't a judgement; just pointing out recognizable patterns

For the last three years Rocky Patel, Arturo Fuente, and Padrón have all made the top 10 (Padrón for much longer than just the last three). In fact, for the last five years, Arturo Fuente and Padrón have always occurred side-by-side on the list (save one year, with one spot in between them): 2016 = 5&6, 2015 = 4&5, 2014 = 6&7, 2013 = 4&6 (one spot between), 2012 = 4&5. Also in 2010, they were 3&4.

What does seem odd to me, however, (and what got me to look at these patterns) is that this year's #6 spot went to the Arturo Fuente Rosado Sungrown Magnum R Vitola "44" (yes, that's all one cigar! Big Grin), which is the exact same cigar that got the #5 place in 2012. I've seen them give different vitolas of the same stick a spot on the list (e.g., the Oliva Melanio, this year's #8 and 2014's #1), but this is the first time I've noticed them give the same exact stick a place in two different years. :shrug:

I haven't had the #1 stick (yet) either (it's on the docket Cool ), but I'm glad to see LFD get the #1 spot. I think they've made a plethora of first-rate smokes, they don't seem to get the credit I think they deserve, and I was disappointed (for LFD) that their La Nox didn't get any love on CA's top 25 last year. Bravo to La Flor!

Without going into any real criticisms for the list, suffice it to say, that it's not my kind of top 10 list, and I don't see it affecting my purchasing/smoking. Congrats to everybody who was included; there's no doubt that they're all good cigars.


Totally agree with your assessment. I have avoided most of the LFDs just because they tend to be power bombs, but the bull is supposed to be a med stick so will give it a try.

70* here today so I'm on my deck enjoying a cigar with a longer name than the AF listed above, it's the Kentucky Fire Cured My Uzi Weighs A Ton Flying Pig.
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by mdsphoto:
..I have avoided most of the LFDs just because they tend to be power bombs, but the bull is supposed to be a med stick so will give it a try.

LFD does, indeed, make some potent sticks! I've got a fairly high tolerance though, so they don't usually bother me, but then I'm not usually reaching for their double ligero! Big Grin Wink

quote:
70* here today so I'm on my deck enjoying a cigar with a longer name than the AF listed above, it's the Kentucky Fire Cured My Uzi Weighs A Ton Flying Pig.

Haha, yep! Here's a case that justifies the acronym, KFC MUWAT Flying Pig. I can only imagine the smoky intensity of the KFC in the Flying Pig format - wow!

I'm on the other end of the spectrum today with a Flor del Valle Cristales - quite lovely, but the most recent batch has more pepper than the first batch I bought. I put the FdV Skyflower on my 'best of 2015' list, but in some ways this may actually be a better recommendation in the long run. They're certainly more obtainable, and maybe a bit more consistent between batches. My '15 batch of Skyflower is awesome and still improving; the '16 batch (with much lighter-colored wrappers) isn't as promising.
S stickmanMember
CA's Top 25 list has me thinking (obsessing, really) about my own 'best of 2016' list. I've been smoking a Sobremesa Cervantes Fino (#5 on my list last year - yeah, that was a good call... great cigar!), while I ponder this year's faves. So much gorgeous baking spice, cedar, and a 'perfumey' aroma... not unlike what I know will be my #1 for this year. 'Just gotta' figure out where everything else fits in.

Speaking of last year... with hind-sight, I'd make a few adjustments to last year's assessments. They would be:
1a. Tatuaje TAA 2015 - These were great, right out of the chute but didn't provide quite as much enjoyment over the year. Still 'top 10' quality IMHO, but it wouldn't be my #1.
1b. Illusione ~eccj~ 20th - This would be my 1a, if I had to do it again. So, so good and so consistent. This is refinement over power, which I've come to enjoy/respect more highly. Considering that I was able to get them for under $8.50 (instead of the MSRP of $12.50), it's a no-brainer.
3. La Mission du L'Atelier 1959 - The batch I originally bought was very deserving; the follow-up purchase was notably not quite as good. I had hoped to try the '1999' (Corona Gorda, another favorite vitola) this year, but I haven't been able to find them, a recurring story this year.
4. Tatuaje The Jackal - I haven't heard/seen anyone talking/writing about these, but I'll stand by my assessment. A first-rate smoke and amazingly solid construction.
5. Sobremesa - Yeah, definitely top 5 for me. I had a few Cervantes Finos with some construction issues (too stiff; stingy smoke), but the Americanos were all good, and a follow-up purchase of the CF's (what I'm smoking right now) have all been on point.
6. LFD La Nox - Oh yeah, at least top 6! Aging well and maintaining plenty of sweet, dense character. I love 'em!
7. Flor del Valle Sky Flower - I'd probably replace this with the regular FdV Cristales (a lonsdale). The Sky Flower is still more about potential, whereas the regular FdV (i.e., minus the medio tiempo leaf) is great now. At this point, I believe the medio tiempo of the Sky Flower is obscuring the finer, more subtle notes of the blend a bit, but I still expect it to 'blossom,' as it were, into something magnificent.
8. Warped Futuro - Yeah, no. There's certainly nothing wrong with this blend, but it just doesn't ring with my palate like the others on this list. Maybe the Ashton Symmetry or Avo Syncro deserved this spot.

On the other hand, (not to belabor the point, but...) I noticed that Cigar Aficionado awarded El Güegüense their #25 spot, whereas the consensus lists last year put it at #1... Roll Eyes Frankly, I think CA got it right: very good, but not #1 by any means. I was also pleased to see Casa Fernandez's Aganorsa Leaf Maduro (#11), RoMa CroMagnon (#15), and AJ Fernandez's Enclave (#20) get some love from CA - all very deserving IMHO.
mdsphotomdsphotoMember
I had to go back through all my posts here this year to come up with my top 10. I realized I either smoked a lot less this year or less new offerings.

1. JD Howard Reserve Single Action
2. RYJ Short Churchill CC
3. La Colmena 36
4. Illusione ~eccj~ 20th (Courtesy of Stickman)
5. Crowned Heads Yellow Rose
6. Cohiba Lancero CC
7. Room 101 Ichiban Stogies Exclusive Lancero
8. Jericho Hill 12 Angry Men
9. Julius Caeser Toro
10. Crux Skeeterz
M marcb7Member
quote:
Originally posted by wine+art:
Cohiba Siglo V ( 2012)



Nice cigar but isnt that ring gauge a bit small for your liking W+A? Hope all is well with you and Stick.

Nice lists above...when i have more time Ill try and come up with a few nice cigars I had over the year. I will say that if any of you have the chance to buy box codes from 2010, Id suggest tucking some away.....just my opinion Wink
S stickmanMember
Fellas! 'Great to see y'all posting!

My biggest concerns with 'the lists' (especially with compiling the consensus) is that everybody seems to have different criteria. Many reviewers seem to give equal consideration to appearance (I couldn’t care less), construction (matters to me only to the extent that it affects flavor and over-all experience), draw (I’m good with anything within certain thresholds), value (only works as a sliding scale to expectation for me), etc. Personally, I give primary consideration to flavor, which to me includes ‘complexity,’ and the over-all experience. Flaky ashes? Fine; I’ll adjust my handling of it. ‘They don’t produce it in my favorite vitola’? Whatever; I say let the stick speak in whatever format allows its voice to carry. Some also set a price limit; for me price factors in, but it’s not a disqualifier. Some sources also disqualify limited edition, store exclusive, or small batch releases, in order to make sure their list is easily obtainable. My list is not intended to be a retailers’ advocate; I’m just sharing the best sticks (*non-CC, I'll explain later) I’ve tried. 'Nuff said.

Last year also, I named a 1a and 1b, and I gave 1a to the yang; a year wiser, I give it to the yin. This pair forms the perfect antidote to your stogie rut IMHO ; if everything you’ve tried just tastes like leather, cedar, and tobacco, try either of these.
1a. Warped Maestro del Tiempo – Elegant and perfumey in the mouth (it literally reminds me of White Shoulders perfume) with a beguiling interplay of sweet baking spices (think cinnamon bread), rich nuts, and vanilla bean that are OMG beautiful - just stunning! At $9/stick, an incredible QPR, IMHO. Like the Flor del Valle series, the lonsdale stands out as the best (by far!) to me. If Flor de Valle features clarity and precision (Ravel), this is all elegant sensuality (Debussy). Downside: consistency. I’ve had a couple that were fairly pedestrian, but when these are on, they are so, so alluring! $9
1b. Black Label Trading Co. Bishops Blend – Wow-chocolate! Dense, yet complex. Sweet chocolate balanced by bitter black licorice and dark-roast coffee, some barnyard earthiness and herbal background, and intermittent barbequed brisket. If Maestro del Tiempo is Burgundy, this is a Charles Smith Syrah, and the simple, gothic bands reflect that. If you can’t find these, BLTC’s Morphine with its double-wrapper is also outstanding and interesting. Downside: they’re extremely limited. Only 150 boxes of 20 each of two different sizes were released, but it’s too good to ignore! $9.50

3. Warped Lirio Rojo – Black coffee/pepper opening, followed by the addition of a delicious cherry syrup and clove, with an intermittent vanilla-caramel note. Excellent forte – decrescendo – crescendo to the finish profile, the final third adding an intense blackstrap molasses and espresso. I’m finding from sharing them with friends that I enjoy this cigar more than anyone else I know; I’m cool with that. Downside: these need 6+ months of short-term aging to get the best results, otherwise the bitterness (so necessary to balancing this stick) over-powers the other flavors. $10
4. Quesada 40th Anniversary Corona Clasica – For their 40th anniversary, Manuel’s daughters each blended a different vitola, but they all have dark San Andrés wrappers. Manuel’s own stick used an Ecuadorian CT shade wrapper in a Corona Clasica (6 ½ x 46). Consistency is the greatest challenge for cigar producers, and this stick seems to have mastered that as well or better than any other on my list, always delivering wonderful oat, cream, leather, and caramelized-sugar deliciousness. Small Batch Cigars offers an exclusive petit belicoso of this blend. Downside: can be difficult to find. $7
5. Illusione Haut 10 – All refinement and class. Wheat, cream, dry peanut, gorgeous cedar, and very mild white pepper, with a refreshing finish that is neither mint nor eucalyptus, but has that cooling sensation in the mouth. The best word to describe this is ‘flawless.’ There is nothing out of place, and it is impeccably balanced; I only wish that the flavors were a bit more extroverted. Downside: price, $16+/stick.
6. RoMaCraft Neanderthal SGP – The perfect size (4 ½ x 52) to deliver the overwhelming intensity of the old HN (5 x 56), which can make your head swoon, but not as small as the HoxD (4 x 46), which can leave you wanting more. The Mexican San Adrés wrapper and CT Broadleaf binder give this stogie a powerful, chocolate, earthy, savory, and spicy character. Downside: Serious Cigars store exclusive, but they always seem to have them in stock. $10
7. My Father Oro de Nicaragua – All the balance and depth of the original My Father #1 (pepper, cedar, cashew, chocolate, a hint of refreshing tanginess, etc.) but with even a little more richness and ‘roundness’ – not a sharp angle to be found! Downside: These can only be found at Casa de Montecristo/TopQualityCigars in Chicago, but this is a regular production stick for them. The outstanding robusto is only $8.
8. Padrón Family Reserve No. 50 Maduro – Only comes in a Toro Extra (5 x 54). To be clear, this is not the 50th Anniversary Toro Extra with the white label. It’s amazing how firm this is to the touch, yet how easy the draw is. Like all great Padróns, it exhibits wonderful leather, oak, mild but dark chocolate, toast, and earthiness, but I find more restraint and elegance here. Padrón’s industry-best consistency and flawless construction meet with a little X-factor make this a big winner. Downside: price, $25/stick.
9. AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes – This boxed-pressed Robusto Extra (5 ½ x 52, the only size I’ve tried) wins the award for showing the most ‘standard’ flavors without being boring: wheat, leather, burnt popcorn… Perhaps the best marca from a producer, who doesn’t seem to get the credit I think he deserves (see also New World and Enclave lines). Downside: despite the fact that lots of places carry them, they seem to be hard to keep in stock. $8.50
10. La Flor Dominicana Petite La Nox – This is a new, much smaller vitola (5 X 40 petite corona) of last year’s excellent La Nox (6 ½ x 50 toro extra). A firm draw helps keep this cool, and the benefits show on the palate. Decidedly less potent than its big brother, but still a little flavor bomb with raisin, coffee, and a Stevia/maple sweetness, unique to the Brazilian maduro wrapper. Downside: can be difficult to find (even sources that carry the original La Nox don’t always have the Petite). $7

Those are my top ten stand-outs. If I were to give honorable mentions, they'd probably be Illusione Miserere 2015, BLTC Morphine, Hirochi Robaina, Tatuaje TAA 2016, Espinosa Laranja Reserva, RoMa Intemperance BA XXI, Dubarton Mi Querida, Foundation Tabernacle, Jose Blanco Señorial, Angel’s Anvil TAA 2016 (pretty much in that order).
S stickmanMember
"Why doesn't stickman have any island sticks on his top 10 list?" To me, the CC game is altogether different. Especially with the guidance of the godfather, I've found that my best experiences with CC's have come from well-established marcas with some age on them (often 8+ years), not from chasing 'the latest release.'

I only consider 'new releases' for my yearly lists; otherwise, my lists would always be topped by Siglo VI, BHK, RASS, Upmann #2 and Mag46, etc., and the problem with that is that I don't get to smoke enough different CC's often enough to give a fair view of them - not very helpful. I'm sure Marc will give us his take on his experiences this last year, which I expect to be heavy on CC's. When he does, I'll be listening, not talking. He can offer advice on vintages; my experience with different years and box codes is so limited as not to be useful.

'Just a little explanation about my tastes and my own perceived role. Yes, I love CC's; it's just completely different in assessing them, vs. non-CC's.
S stickmanMember
Considering how pricey and difficult-to-find several of the entrants on my list are, I thought I'd offer a 'best value' list as a foil. To do that, however, I'm gonna' go outside my 'new for 2016' stipulation I put on my top 10. It's the only way I know to make this list useful.

My Father Le Bijou Short Robusto - If there’s a better stick on the planet for under $7, I don’t know what it is, AF Hemingway Short Story - If there is a challenger to the Le Bijou SR, this might be it, especially the maduro, ~$6, Flor de las Antillas Robusto - under $7 and consistently a smooth, refined, flavorful experience, Illusione *R* Rothchilde - incredible amount of character for under $5!, Drew Estate Nica Rustica - excellent CT broadleaf character in the $6 range, Perla del Mar Short Robusto - savory, old-school style for under $6, Padilla La Pilar Toro - that’s a lot of cigar, high quality and rich, for under $7... pretty much in that order. 'Hope this helps.
Last edited by stickman
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by haggis:
Great report, stickman. Much appreciated. I love almost anything with the Illusione name on it. They are in my top 3, always, for NCs...

Thanks, and you-and-me both! Keep an eye out for Illusione's regular-production releases of the old Singularé lines (Phantom, Annunaki, Miserere, plus Kadosh). I've got the Kadosh settling in a cooler (I mean humidor Big Grin), and if you see the Phantom (the original 2010 release), jump on it, as I expect them to disappear quickly.
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by mdsphoto:
I had to go back through all my posts here this year to come up with my top 10. I realized I either smoked a lot less this year or less new offerings.

... or more new offerings, which simply haven't arrived in stores, due to the mad dash against the FDA deadline. I've got a long list of so-called "2016 releases," I'm still waiting on.

quote:
1. JD Howard Reserve Single Action

See? Completely off my radar. If you didn't post this, I'd still be oblivious. Thanks for the recommendation!
quote:
4. Illusione ~eccj~ 20th (Courtesy of Stickman)

:thumbs-up: 'Glad you liked it.
quote:
5. Crowned Heads Yellow Rose

I so need to try this!
quote:
7. Room 101 Ichiban Stogies Exclusive Lancero

Yeah, Room 101! Considering your love for lanceros, I could have guessed that you'd have an affinity for Stogies World Class Cigars.
quote:
10. Crux Skeeterz

I can't tell you how many times I've walked into a B&M, asked them if they carried Crux, and gotten the nutso look like I had no idea what I was talking about. Crux is apparently completely unknown to the 'industry standard' crowd. Have you tried the Crux du Connoisseur #2? I haven't yet, but it's supposed to be a mind-blowing lancero!
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by marcb7:
Nice cigar but isnt that ring gauge a bit small for your liking W+A? Hope all is well with you and Stick.

Very well, thank you. 'Great to see you here; you've been missed.
quote:
...I will say that if any of you have the chance to buy box codes from 2010, Id suggest tucking some away.....just my opinion Wink

I thought that the '08 Siglo VI couldn't be surpassed. Then I tried the '10 this past year. Eek My, oh, my! I am in love all over again!
Last edited by stickman
M marcb7Member
Nice list Stick...and I cant agree more about the Petite Robo from My Father...so consistant and always a pleasure to smoke. I smoke these frequently over the winter as its a nice 45 minute cigar in the blazing cold here in NH. The Toro is my "go to" cigar on the golf course.

I have had several very nice cigars from the island this year, my general concern is the quality is diminishing of late and question if it will get worse if the embargo is lifted, and most certainly price will go up, if you can believe that!

Box codes...08' if you can find them, 10' will most likely surpass 08' but time will tell. I bought a few 11' and 12's but honestly have been underwhelmed so buy at your own risk...I loaded up on 08' a few years ago and have a decent amount of 10's

Here is my list...take it for what its worth.

1. BHK 54 from 2010...this is as close to a perfect cigar for me.

2. BHK 52 from 2010...in a very nice spot right now, another year or two and they should be in the "sweet spot"

3&4 Montecristo #2 from 08' and 10'...this vitola are fantastic with years of age..but these are smoking very nice right now

5. Partagas Lusi 08'...So complex over the 2.5-3hrs it takes to smoke this big boy. Everytime I have one I pick up on different nuances.

6. RASS from 08'...for such a small cigar these are so delicious and under rated IMO

7. HdM Petite Robo 08'...so complex for a shorty

8. Cohiba Sig VI...05', 08, 10' different in there own ways but so smooth and very distinguishable and unique, probably the one cigar that I could identify blind each and every time.

9. Montecristo #2 1991....so mild yet flavorful...paired this with a Manhattan over the summer and the sweet cherry really complimented this rarity

10. My Father 2010 LE....I have had every year My Father has made this cigar and sadly, it has declined each and every year from the original release

I could go on and on about limited release cigars, Opus etc...and "one off's" Ive had over the past year but most of you guys have had these I am sure. For me, the cuban cigar is in a class by itself and if it has age on it, I dont care what label it has on its band, IMO, there isnt anything better.

Happy Holidays to all of you!
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by marcb7:
I have had several very nice cigars from the island this year...

An understatement for sure. Cool
quote:
... my general concern is the quality is diminishing of late...

Without a whole lot of direct experience, this is the sense I've gotten, which has certainly curtailed my purchasing. Frown
quote:
2. BHK 52 from 2010...in a very nice spot right now, another year or two and they should be in the "sweet spot"

Thanks for the forecast; I've got precious few left.
quote:
6. RASS from 08'...for such a small cigar these are so delicious and under rated IMO
7. HdM Petite Robo 08'...so complex for a shorty

I'm not sure if you're aware, but RASS was #2 last year, and HdM Epicure No.2 got #9 this year from Cigar Aficionado. I used to say that those were two of the most underrated CC's; now, I only wish that they weren't getting this attention! Big Grin I tried a well-aged HdM Petite Robo this past summer and was completely blown away!
quote:
8. Cohiba Sig VI...05', 08, 10'

My weakness with these is that they're so good without any significant aging, that letting them age 8+ years is a distinct act of discipline on my part. Big Grin Wink

Thanks as always for your insights. Your experience and perspective are unmatched by anyone else I know. I still have very fond memories of a stick that combined the best of both worlds... literally! Wink
S stickmanMember
The holiday season has provided some downtime, and I've fortunately had a few real winners.
Illusione Kadosh: this is the short robusto of the singularé line (now regular production). An initial blast of black pepper/nutmeg is followed by nicely balanced sweet/savory wheat and cream, as well as a certain flavor for which I can't quite find a descriptor, but I noticed it also in the Miserere - perhaps a feature of the singularé line in general. It tunneled slightly at the end and got a smidge harsh, but overall an excellent shorter smoke. ~$9
Tatuaje Noella Reserva: Noella, noella, the angels did say! Big Grin With all the exploration of new (to me) sticks, this was a very welcome, old stand-by. Short but full of character and flavor, sporting a fantastic cola and chocolate core with a little spice for good measure. Sadly, these are hard to find these days (and this was my last of the bunch). The Regios Reserva and 7th Reserva (both from the Classic, "Brown-label" line) have similar blend profiles, but this little guy is the favorite for me. ~$8
LFD Andalusian Bull: With all the talk, I just couldn't wait any longer! This is one hefty smoke, which demands that you have significant time and attention to pay to it. Starts off with a black pepper, woody character that's very aromatic right off the bat (typical LFD, really). It kinda' went a little hollow in the middle with some roasted peanut, but fortunately there was an elusive, intermittent floral note that kept things interesting. The end (honestly, this stick could be divided into quarters, not thirds, but I prefer to avoid the essays that are the typical online cigar review) is what really makes this stick, but you're gonna' spend nearly 2 hours just getting there! This showed the most unique mint herbal tea with cream character (English breakfast!), which I just loved! Iirc, I had read a review (can't remember where) that described this as mint ice cream, and I just rolled my eyes. Now I can see why someone would get that; this is really minty and refreshing - a relief in this long of a smoke! A very enjoyable smoke (a mini-saga, really), and I can see why CA awarded it so generously. I feel fortunate to have gotten mine before the announcement, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this fine stogie; it's really not that potent, and its clear transitions and variety justify the long time commitment necessary. I'm also fairly confident that more time to rest in my humidor will only improve this stick's performance. ~$14 (maybe more now)
mdsphotomdsphotoMember
quote:
Originally posted by stickman:
The holiday season has provided some downtime, and I've fortunately had a few real winners.
Illusione Kadosh: this is the short robusto of the singularé line (now regular production). An initial blast of black pepper/nutmeg is followed by nicely balanced sweet/savory wheat and cream, as well as a certain flavor for which I can't quite find a descriptor, but I noticed it also in the Miserere - perhaps a feature of the singularé line in general. It tunneled slightly at the end and got a smidge harsh, but overall an excellent shorter smoke. ~$9
Tatuaje Noella Reserva: Noella, noella, the angels did say! Big Grin With all the exploration of new (to me) sticks, this was a very welcome, old stand-by. Short but full of character and flavor, sporting a fantastic cola and chocolate core with a little spice for good measure. Sadly, these are hard to find these days (and this was my last of the bunch). The Regios Reserva and 7th Reserva (both from the Classic, "Brown-label" line) have similar blend profiles, but this little guy is the favorite for me. ~$8
LFD Andalusian Bull: With all the talk, I just couldn't wait any longer! This is one hefty smoke, which demands that you have significant time and attention to pay to it. Starts off with a black pepper, woody character that's very aromatic right off the bat (typical LFD, really). It kinda' went a little hollow in the middle with some roasted peanut, but fortunately there was an elusive, intermittent floral note that kept things interesting. The end (honestly, this stick could be divided into quarters, not thirds, but I prefer to avoid the essays that are the typical online cigar review) is what really makes this stick, but you're gonna' spend nearly 2 hours just getting there! This showed the most unique mint herbal tea with cream character (English breakfast!), which I just loved! Iirc, I had read a review (can't remember where) that described this as mint ice cream, and I just rolled my eyes. Now I can see why someone would get that; this is really minty and refreshing - a relief in this long of a smoke! A very enjoyable smoke (a mini-saga, really), and I can see why CA awarded it so generously. I feel fortunate to have gotten mine before the announcement, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this fine stogie; it's really not that potent, and its clear transitions and variety justify the long time commitment necessary. I'm also fairly confident that more time to rest in my humidor will only improve this stick's performance. ~$14 (maybe more now)


Thanks for the review of the LFD. With unseasonably warm temps last weekend I got in one of my last La Colemena 36's and a Buenaventura 560.
Last edited by mdsphoto
G g-manMember
Can one of you cigar smokers help me out?

So i'm not much of a smoker but do occassionally enjoy a pull or two but dont really like that after taste that lingers.

Which means that I never really finish a perfecto or a torpedo.

My problem is that i love the initial draw and flavor of the perfecto and torpedo but I feel like i'm wasting when i'm only finished half a stick and can't do anymore.

is there a smaller size that offers that nice draw and flavor but just smaller?

I tried some cigarillo's and those were just dry and terrible.
purplehazepurplehazeMember
quote:
Originally posted by g-man:
Can one of you cigar smokers help me out?

So i'm not much of a smoker but do occassionally enjoy a pull or two but dont really like that after taste that lingers.

Which means that I never really finish a perfecto or a torpedo.

My problem is that i love the initial draw and flavor of the perfecto and torpedo but I feel like i'm wasting when i'm only finished half a stick and can't do anymore.

is there a smaller size that offers that nice draw and flavor but just smaller?

I tried some cigarillo's and those were just dry and terrible.


When I still smoked cigars, I became quite fond of the Partagas Short. Had to order from overseas, as these are Cuban. Very good draw/flavor for a small stick.

PH
mdsphotomdsphotoMember
quote:
Originally posted by g-man:
Can one of you cigar smokers help me out?

So i'm not much of a smoker but do occassionally enjoy a pull or two but dont really like that after taste that lingers.

Which means that I never really finish a perfecto or a torpedo.

My problem is that i love the initial draw and flavor of the perfecto and torpedo but I feel like i'm wasting when i'm only finished half a stick and can't do anymore.

is there a smaller size that offers that nice draw and flavor but just smaller?

I tried some cigarillo's and those were just dry and terrible.


RoMa Craft is a boutique manufacturer that makes some very unique sizes for their blends. The Intemperance line is a medium bodied smoke that comes in a short robusto (4.5x46) and their short perfecto clocks in at (5x50) links below.

http://smallbatchcigar.com/rom...epackof6-p-1239.html

http://www.cigarsinternational...intemperance-ba-xxi/
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by g-man:
Can one of you cigar smokers help me out?

I do occassionally enjoy a pull or two but dont really like that after taste that lingers...

My problem is that i love the initial draw and flavor of the perfecto and torpedo... is there a smaller size that offers that nice draw and flavor but just smaller?

Given the information you provided here, the one that jumps out in my mind is the Avo Heritage Short Torpedo. It will have that familiar draw you like, but it's only 4 1/2 inches long, the flavors are smooth, subtle, and fairly 'clean,' and it's widely available. I'd also recommend the Quesada 40th Petite Belicoso, but it's only available online at smallbatchcigar.com, and its flavors are more likely to coat your palate, which seems to be something you're trying to avoid.

Let's face it: one of the main reasons that producers put a torpedo cap on a cigar is to help make large ring gauge sticks feel more manageable/elegant in the mouth, so finding small ones isn't so common. If you're willing to venture outside torpedos/perfectos, my top three recommendations would be Flor de las Antillas robusto, Herrera Estelí short corona gorda, and Ashton Classic (white label) corona (pretty much in that order). They are all winners in flavor, clean finishes, and availability.

If we strip away the qualifiers of wide availability, the one the leaps to mind is Illusione Epernay (still not crazy-difficult to find, especially in a market like NYC!). This just may be the one that really wins you over! Try the Le Petit (4.5x44), La Ferme (5.25x48), or Le Elegance (5.75x44). I actually think the Le Matin and Le Toreau are the best vitolas, but if you only smoke a few draws, you're going to leave a lot of cigar unsmoked with those!

Let me just throw out that besides the selection of stogies, what may be most important to you is: make sure you smoke them as 'cool' as possible! That means starting the cigar with a soft flame (like a Bic lighter, or even better from a cedar spill), and 'toasting' the cigar, before you gently draw air into it. Take your time starting the cigar. A sure way to make sure you get those bitter flavors and lots of nicotine is to jack your butane lighter as high as it will go, put the blue part of the flame right onto the stick (effectively charring the wrapper), and immediately, vigorously start puffing away in a billowy cloud of smoke. Besides that, make sure your palate stays hydrated. Sweet beverages (mojito, rum and Coke, black spiced rum and rootbeer <oh, yes!>) will keep your blood sugar up and palate fresh.

On the island, Cigar Inn (upper east side) and Nat Sherman Townhouse (midtown) have accounts with my beloved Warped Cigars: try a Flor del Valle or Maestro del Tiempo lonsdale, and you may just find your favorite stick! They can coat your palate a bit, but they are so elegantly beguiling!

I certainly agree with PH (great to see you here, my friend!) and mdsphoto on their recommendations of the Partagas and RoMa Intemperance (both great sticks!), but I think the above will be easier to find. 'Hope this helps!
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by mdsphoto:
Thanks for the review of the LFD. With unseasonably warm temps last weekend I got in one of my last La Colemena 36's and a Buenaventura 560.

Nice! Are you finding that the La Colmena is evolving and aging well? The last one I had of the Unico Especial had vastly improved over the previous ones. Also, I had previously mentioned that it seemed odd that the #44 would be the only LC that was still being made; well, I've since learned that there is now a La Colmena Reina (6x48 belicoso) - another pricey limited edition at $16.50. Warped snuck it in this past spring, when I wasn't paying attention.
G g-manMember
quote:
Originally posted by stickman:
quote:
Originally posted by g-man:
Can one of you cigar smokers help me out?

I do occassionally enjoy a pull or two but dont really like that after taste that lingers...

My problem is that i love the initial draw and flavor of the perfecto and torpedo... is there a smaller size that offers that nice draw and flavor but just smaller?

Given the information you provided here, the one that jumps out in my mind is the Avo Heritage Short Torpedo. It will have that familiar draw you like, but it's only 4 1/2 inches long, the flavors are smooth, subtle, and fairly 'clean,' and it's widely available. I'd also recommend the Quesada 40th Petite Belicoso, but it's only available online at smallbatchcigar.com, and its flavors are more likely to coat your palate, which seems to be something you're trying to avoid.

Let's face it: one of the main reasons that producers put a torpedo cap on a cigar is to help make large ring gauge sticks feel more manageable/elegant in the mouth, so finding small ones isn't so common. If you're willing to venture outside torpedos/perfectos, my top three recommendations would be Flor de las Antillas robusto, Herrera Estelí short corona gorda, and Ashton Classic (white label) corona (pretty much in that order). They are all winners in flavor, clean finishes, and availability.

If we strip away the qualifiers of wide availability, the one the leaps to mind is Illusione Epernay (still not crazy-difficult to find, especially in a market like NYC!). This just may be the one that really wins you over! Try the Le Petit (4.5x44), La Ferme (5.25x48), or Le Elegance (5.75x44). I actually think the Le Matin and Le Toreau are the best vitolas, but if you only smoke a few draws, you're going to leave a lot of cigar unsmoked with those!

Let me just throw out that besides the selection of stogies, what may be most important to you is: make sure you smoke them as 'cool' as possible! That means starting the cigar with a soft flame (like a Bic lighter, or even better from a cedar spill), and 'toasting' the cigar, before you gently draw air into it. Take your time starting the cigar. A sure way to make sure you get those bitter flavors and lots of nicotine is to jack your butane lighter as high as it will go, put the blue part of the flame right onto the stick (effectively charring the wrapper), and immediately, vigorously start puffing away in a billowy cloud of smoke. Besides that, make sure your palate stays hydrated. Sweet beverages (mojito, rum and Coke, black spiced rum and rootbeer <oh, yes!>) will keep your blood sugar up and palate fresh.

On the island, Cigar Inn (upper east side) and Nat Sherman Townhouse (midtown) have accounts with my beloved Warped Cigars: try a Flor del Valle or Maestro del Tiempo lonsdale, and you may just find your favorite stick! They can coat your palate a bit, but they are so elegantly beguiling!

I certainly agree with PH (great to see you here, my friend!) and mdsphoto on their recommendations of the Partagas and RoMa Intemperance (both great sticks!), but I think the above will be easier to find. 'Hope this helps!


thanks to all for the recs!

as noted, cigars/cigarettes are mostly banned indoors in NY and alot of places that are still around that let you, arent allowed to get a liqour license so, no booze.

the Davidoff store downtown acutally has a wide range of other labels like the Ashton and My Fathers too. They have a nice set up and the rather pretty lady does all of the things you mentioned, I'll check it out tomororw to see if they carry the labels you mentioned
S stickmanMember
I wondered about your intended location to smoke (wasn't sure if you smoked at home). Last time I was in NYC, I made a point to visit Paley Park to have a stogie, and I kinda' wanted to buy an extra large Coke, just to really rebel! Big Grin Wink

Teehee, part of the difficulty in recommending cigars is the wide disparity in availability, depending on your location and places you frequent. It would never occur to me to recommend a Davidoff to someone exploring stogies for the sheer price and availability factors (only one store in all Denver is an authorized Davidoff dealer, and with Davidoff you're either fully authorized, or you don't get them at all).

By all means, if the downtown Davidoff is convenient for you, give a small Davidoff a try. Honestly, I've never tried a Davidoff "Small Cigar" or "Cigarillo," but I'd imagine that they'd be fairly mild and refined. I'm also fairly certain that they carry Illusione (and perhaps the Avo Heritage Short Torpedo and Flor de las Antillas), so you might try one of the Epernays I mentioned above. Also don't be shy about asking them for a recommendation ('same way you'd use a sommelier), and they might recommend the vitola that is the best in their stock. Good luck!
Last edited by stickman
mdsphotomdsphotoMember
quote:
Originally posted by g-man:
so you guys dont recommend something like a "small cigar"

https://us.davidoffgeneva.com/...at_Cigar_SmallCigars


I like small cigars in the summer and winter, but your comments about thinner cigars moved me away from these as recommendations.

One thing many novice smokers don't understand is that smoking smaller ring gage cigars requires a much different technique than smoking 50+ sticks. You must draw slower and shallower on smaller sticks in order not to overheat them and get off flavors.

For medium bodied short/thin cigars I like these a lot.

Tatuaje Petit Reserva (4.5x32)
Crux Skeeter (4x32)
La Palina El Diario KB (4.3x40)

If you want something from the Island.
Por Larranaga Montecarlos & Petit Coronas
(6.3x33) (5.8x42)
mdsphotomdsphotoMember
quote:
Originally posted by stickman:
quote:
Originally posted by mdsphoto:
Thanks for the review of the LFD. With unseasonably warm temps last weekend I got in one of my last La Colemena 36's and a Buenaventura 560.

Nice! Are you finding that the La Colmena is evolving and aging well? The last one I had of the Unico Especial had vastly improved over the previous ones. Also, I had previously mentioned that it seemed odd that the #44 would be the only LC that was still being made; well, I've since learned that there is now a La Colmena Reina (6x48 belicoso) - another pricey limited edition at $16.50. Warped snuck it in this past spring, when I wasn't paying attention.


I have confirmed with Small Batch that the 36 is indeed out of production. I did not find that age has improved it, but it certainly didn't hurt it.
G g-manMember
quote:
Originally posted by stickman:

By all means, if the downtown Davidoff is convenient for you, give a small Davidoff a try. Honestly, I've never tried a Davidoff "Small Cigar" or "Cigarillo," but I'd imagine that they'd be fairly mild and refined. I'm also fairly certain that they carry Illusione (and perhaps the Avo Heritage Short Torpedo and Flor de las Antillas), so you might try one of the Epernays I mentioned above. Also don't be shy about asking them for a recommendation ('same way you'd use a sommelier), and they might recommend the vitola that is the best in their stock. Good luck!


yea i work in the same building, right across the street from the new freedom tower.

they have a large stock of other labels, not just davidoff,

I assume cigars/cigarettes in general in NYC will just be expensive no matter what with the near 100% tax on it that i dont bother going out of my way to look for a place to plop and smoke a cigar since i do only do it once a year or so.

will it be frowned upon if i did drink Coke with a cigar?? =)
S stickmanMember
quote:
Originally posted by g-man:
quote:
Originally posted by stickman: ...I'm also fairly certain that they carry Illusione (and perhaps the Avo Heritage Short Torpedo and Flor de las Antillas), so you might try one of the Epernays I mentioned above...

they have a large stock of other labels, not just davidoff...

Yep, I know. 'Been there. Cool
quote:
... I assume cigars/cigarettes in general in NYC will just be expensive no matter what with the near 100% tax on it that i dont bother going out of my way to look for a place to plop and smoke a cigar since i do only do it once a year or so.

'Sorry you have to deal with that. (Frikkin' Nazis Mad )
quote:
will it be frowned upon if i did drink Coke with a cigar?? =)

Just make sure it's a really BIG Coke! - rebel! Big Grin Wink

Seriously, though, please let us know what you chose and how it turned out. We'll be much less in the dark with recommendations, if you can tell us an actual stick you tried and your reaction to it.
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