Nub Cameroon 460

This was my second Halloween cigar out by the fire pit. I punched it with my Nub punch and was pairing it with Bud Light.

It was very enjoyable. Lots of good smoke and a great flavor. An enjoyable smoke.

From http://www.milantobacco.com:

The idea for the Nubs came from the theory that a cigar finds its “sweet spot” at the 3 ½- 4 inch point. All “nub” cigars must exist within this window. No “nub” is longer than 4 inches. Further adding to this complex theory, the ring gauges range from 56-66. The result is a range of smokes that have the same amount of tobacco as any Churchill or even Presidente. Unbelievably, they also smoke as long.

The Nub Cameroon Wrapper Cigar: Grown in Cameroon, Africa, this wrapper has a distinct flavor and character. The Cameroon wrapper is thin and toothy, yet it delivers rich notes of cedar and coffee. This Nub medium-bodied cigar is available in 358 and 464T formats.

Nub Habano

This was one of the big ring size Nubs. I smoked it on Halloween while enjoying the fire pit. I used my Nub punch and was pairing it with Bud Light.

It was an awesome cigar as usual. Lot's of great smoke. Very pleasurable.

From Cigars International:

Wrapper: Habano
Filler: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Experience: Rich tobacco influence with hints of nuts and bread. Smoky aftertaste.
Category: Medium to full in body

Nub started as a theory. Born in the Oliva factory, a cigar maker was hell-bent on proving he could capture the essence - the core - of a cigar’s flavor immediately upon lighting and throughout the duration of the smoke. Well, they nailed it.

Rather than wait for a cigar to develop and evolve, which typically occurs an inch to two inches in, the idea behind Nub was to specifically blend it to hit its sweet spot right off the bat and remain at its peak right through to the end. Each size is short and stout in stature. That’s by design - not for novelty - as blends and sizes were worked and re-worked a thousand ways from Sunday in order for Nub creator Sam Leccia and the Oliva family to capture the essence of each Nub blend. Anyone can create unusual shapes, each of the Nub blends and accompanying shapes was instead created to summon and deliver the blend’s sweet spot.

Habano - glossy, milk chocolate-brown wrapper. Rich tobacco core with a smoky aftertaste. Hints of peanuts are supported by a baked bread component. Spice through the nose. Medium to full-bodied with a rich, creamy character throughout.

Montecristo Original

Smoked this one during the afternoon. Straight cut and paired with a Bud Light on the patio. A very well made cigar with no soft spots. It had a great mellow to medium flavor. It was a little peppery and and had a bit of a bite during the last third. It was medium strength with a good buzz and plenty of smoke with an easy draw.

A very pleasurable cigar that I would like to smoke again.


From JR's packaging:

The world's best-know and best-loved brand. This mild to medium masterpiece is meticulously handmade by the former Cuban firm of Menendez y Garcia in La Romana, Doninican Republid. Slow burning and rich tasting - a cigar to be savored.

Victor Sinclair Triple Corojo

This was the last cigar I had from the Victor Sinclair sampler that I got from CigarBid.com. I smoked this one on the deck in front of my space heater. I paired it with Bud Light and straight cut it.

This cigar has a nice look to it. A dark, oily wrapper that smelled delicious. It was a tad spongy at the foot.

Upon lighting this cigar produced a lot of very enjoyable smoke. It was a full body taste and the strength was medium to high. It did have a bit of a peppery spice that hit the back of my throat but nothing that the Bud Light could not wash away. :)

I loved every puff and when done I went inside and bid on some more of them from CigarBid.com.

From Cigars International:

Whether you’re a fan of Corojo tobaccos or just looking for a flavorful, satisfying cigar, I advise securing an order of these handmades pronto. Called Triple Corojo because it’s 100% Corojo - wrapper, binder, and fillers. The result is a firecracker of a smoke booming with chewy, rich, hearty flavors. A smooth, feisty bouquet of earthy flavors and ample spice. Full-bodied.

Carrillo Edicion Inaugural 2009

This was the second cigar that I smoked while at Club La Salle. A friend bought me the "Mystery cigar" from the cigar menu. The "Mystery cigar" is a cigar of the bartender's choosing. And luckily the bartender was nice enough to pick out a very nice cigar for me. A great cigar for $5.00! They usually sell for $13.00.

He asked if I would like him to prepare it for me and I took him up on the offer. I asked him to straight cut it and he then pulled out a really huge torch and toasted the end and then passed the cigar to me. I blew on the toasted end and got the cherry burning a bit more. He then lit a piece of cedar and held it for me while I puffed and finished lighting the cigar.

It had a very nice taste but I could not place it. It was a very enjoyable cigar that lasted well over an hour. The flavor was complex and on the mild side. The strength was medium.

I enjoyed this cigar down to the nub and would definitely buy it again.

From BonitaSmokeShop.com:

New line of cigars from E. P. Carrillo in their Inaugural 2009 Series. An extremely limited amount of these Carillo cigars will be available only from December of 2009 through April of 2010.

Long awaited from Ernesto Carrillo the E P Carillo Inaugural cigars feature an exclusive Ecuadorian natural wrapper. Two to five year Nicaraguan and Dominican Pilato blending create the binder and filler. Sure to please the cigar lover who appreciates quality in a delicious medium bodied cigar. The famed maker of La Gloria Cubana, Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, along with his daughter Lissete and his son Ernie are launching his new cigar line with this very limited production. We feel this cigar from EPC Cigars, which is the only cigar maker with this rare Ecuadoran wrapper, will become an aficionado Collector's Edition.

Hoyo de Monterrey - Double Corona

I bought this cigar from JR's in D.C., it was their cigar of the week and on special for $3.00 so I picked up 2 of them.

I smoked this one on a Thursday night at Club LaSalle. I straight cut it and lit it with my butane lighter. It was very mellow at first and gave off a ton of smoke. I paired it with Goose Island beer.

This was a fantastic cigar that gave me 2 hours of smoking pleasure. I have nothing bad to say about this cigar and would buy more. It was in the low side of medium flavor for me and the strength was perfect.

From Cigar.com:

Hoyo de Monterrey is one of the oldest cigar brands in the world, making its start in Cuba before expanding production to their factory in Honduras. Today it is one of the most famous brands on the Market.

Hoyo de Monterrey is one of the most recognized names in cigars. With deep roots in Cuba, this brand has consistently been one of the best cigars to ever come off the island. In 1969, after the trade embargo, production moved to Honduras and was first harvested from a Cuban seed smuggled out of Cuba in a diplomatic pouch.

The unique multi country blend used to make Hoyo de Monterrey is medium bodied with a solid creamy flavor and great balance. The cigar is currently made under the supervision of Estello Padron at the Villizon Factory where other big names such as Punch are made today. Estello's commitment to quality and perfection ensures that each Hoyo de Monterrey is worthy of the name. Hoyo de Monterrey is and always has been a classic. Smoked by new enthusiasts and aficionados alike, it has a versatile flavor that appeals to many palates.

Pancho's Reserve Toro

I smoked this cigar on the while keeping warm on the deck with the space heater. I straight cut it and paired it with Wild Turkey. It was pretty peppery on the cold draw and very spicy and peppery after lighting.

Half way through and it started to burn unevenly and it was hard to keep it lit. It also started to get a bit bitter.

Just past halfway and it mellowed out a bit and I had a bit of a buzz kicking in. I started to think that this may turn out to be a 1/2 way decent cigar. There had been lots of smoke from beginning to end.

I put this one out with about 2 inches left. The buzz started to kick in and, after the bad experience I had with this cigar last time, I was a little leery. And it just was not a great cigar.

I don't think I'd buy or smoke one of these again.

From Holt's Cigars:

Pancho's Reserve is an old-time brand that's all about value. Handmade in the Dominican Republic, these cigars sport Mexican wrappers and a simple, medium-bodied blend of Dominican tobaccos.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Mexican
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican

Nub Cameroon 460

I was looking for a quick and casual smoke to help me unwind after work so I grabbed a Nub. My 'ole standby.

I used my Nub punch to open the end and paired it with a Coca-Cola.

It was a windy day and I smoked this while hitting some practice shots with the pitching wedge in the backyard.

Despite the wind, it burned perfectly. Perfect smoke as usual. Nothing more to say.

From http://www.milantobacco.com:

The idea for the Nubs came from the theory that a cigar finds its “sweet spot” at the 3 ½- 4 inch point. All “nub” cigars must exist within this window. No “nub” is longer than 4 inches. Further adding to this complex theory, the ring gauges range from 56-66. The result is a range of smokes that have the same amount of tobacco as any Churchill or even Presidente. Unbelievably, they also smoke as long.

The Nub Cameroon Wrapper Cigar: Grown in Cameroon, Africa, this wrapper has a distinct flavor and character. The Cameroon wrapper is thin and toothy, yet it delivers rich notes of cedar and coffee. This Nub medium-bodied cigar is available in 358 and 464T formats.

Tatuaje Cabaiguan Maduro

This cigar was given to me by some great guys that I met on Twitter and then had the pleasure of meeting in person at Shelly's back room when I was on a business trip to D.C. last week. @thisisnotevan @sboyajian @DaByrdman33 @jcruz @DCsPeoplesChamp @stogieguys #TatCrew101. If you're on Twitter they are definitely worth the follow. Thanks for the hospitality guys! You made me feel like one of the crew while there.

I smoked this cigar on my deck, which as of tonight I am calling "The Smokey Wood Cigar Lounge". There is a long story to go with this name and if you ask I will share the story with you some time.

I straight cut it and paired it with my usual, Bud Light. It was a warm October night. A perfect night with just a slight breeze.

The construction of this cigar was perfect and had a nice heavy feel, especially for the size.

From the initial lighting to the 1/2 way point this cigar had a very pleasant taste. My untrained pallet could not pick out any specific flavor notes and I would not call it a complex taste, more on the smooth side for me. An enjoyable smooth but full taste with a medium finish.

The ash was firm with a mostly whitish color with some flakes of pepper. The burn was perfect and I didn't have to correct it despite smoking it outside with a breeze. The draw was firm, but not too much so as to require a lot of work to smoke. The first 1/2 yielded a moderate amount of smoke.

During the second 1/2 the draw became more open and it started producing a ton of smoke and picked up with a more complex taste with a bit of a pepper.

Overall, this was a perfect cigar for me and left me with a nice mellow buzz.

I usually don't rate my cigars like this, but I would give this cigar 5 stars and would definitely buy it again.

Thanks #TatCrew101. I'll have to see if I can pick up some more of these.

From http://www.newhavanacigars.com:

Another Pete Johnson brand and part of the Tatuaje Family, Cabaiguan is a staple among Tatuaje fans.

Cabaiguan - pronounced kah-bei-gWAHN, is named after a city in northern Sancti Spiritus province of Cuba. It is a medium bodied cuban style cigar, but we would consider it even stronger - especially towards the finish. A Connecticut seed Shade Grown Ecuadorian wrapper gives this cigar a burst of flavor and spice before lighting and mixes with the Nicaraguan blend of filler for an extremely flavorful smoke. Pepin's son, Jaime, worked with Pete during the blending process to produce this beauty. Four vitolas (along with the Petit) provide another source of conflict between your friends over which one is their favorite. We like them all!

Cabaiguan line is "Cuban Made in Miami". Guapos are made at the My Father Cigars factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.

Bahia Blu

I smoked this one on the deck while watching UFC 121 with Deron. I paired it with Bud Light and straight cut it.


The taste was nice and mellow and it burned cool. I have been struggling with this batch of cigars and this one was no exception. The wrapper cracked and split at about 1/2 way and got worse as I got closer to the nub.


I still enjoyed the cigar but am thinking that maybe a smaller size may have less issues.


Overall the cigar had a mellow taste that I enjoyed and it had a short finish. The mild taste lasted up to about 2 inches and it got a little peppery at that point. A perfect kick. It was a perfect cigar (except for some minor issues as I got down to the nub) and I am still calling this cigar one of my favorites.

From Cigars International:


Bahia Blu is a medium-bodied handmade from Nicaragua that’s priced to move. Dressed in a fairly attractive Corojo wrapper that’s smooth and glistening - under the hood is a blend of 5 to 6-year old long Nicaraguan long-fillers grown in Esteli, Jalapa, and Leon. The end result is a somewhat rich and toasty flavor with a sweet, cedary core, and crisp, lingering aftertaste. I’ve found a bit of a consistency issue from time to time but by and large a nice, everyday, handmade value.

Nub Cameroon 460

I used my new Nub punch to open the end of the cigar and paired it with Bud Light. This was a late night cigar that I started at 11:40 PM after trivia night with friends. I smoked this on the deck and it was a nice pleasant night. Not too cold.

I like this new punch and it left this cigar with a great open draw. I did not have the best luck with the 466 box pressed, torpedo Cameroons so I was hoping for more from this size and it payed off. I love this size in the Habano and it was great in the Cameroon too.

An interesting note. This is the first time that I had picked up the "barn yard" aroma in a cigar. I had heard about some cigars having it, but this was the first time I noticed it. I picked up that smell in the pre-light puff.

The smoke was smooth and the flavor was nice.

I thoroughly enjoyed the cigar and I took 2 great Nub stand pictures.

The first 2 thirds were fantastic and the last third, and dowm to the nub, got a bit hot with a bit of a bite at the back of my throat.

I enjoyed this cigar and will move it into my favorite category along with the Nub Habano.




From http://www.milantobacco.com:

The idea for the Nubs came from the theory that a cigar finds its “sweet spot” at the 3 ½- 4 inch point. All “nub” cigars must exist within this window. No “nub” is longer than 4 inches. Further adding to this complex theory, the ring gauges range from 56-66. The result is a range of smokes that have the same amount of tobacco as any Churchill or even Presidente. Unbelievably, they also smoke as long.
The Nub Cameroon Wrapper Cigar: Grown in Cameroon, Africa, this wrapper has a distinct flavor and character. The Cameroon wrapper is thin and toothy, yet it delivers rich notes of cedar and coffee. This Nub medium-bodied cigar is available in 358 and 464T formats.

La Aroma de Cuba Marquis

I straight cut this cigar and smoked it on my deck while using the space heater to keep me warm on this cold Fall night. There was a beautiful full moon.

I tried to light this cigar with the cedar wrapper that was included but gave up and used my butane lighter.

It had a very open draw with a ton of smoke. It was a well made cigar with a dark oily rapper. It had the same enjoyable taste as the La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor I smoked the other night. Also had the same nice white ash.

I paired this with Bud Light. As the cigar progressed it had a very slight peppery taste that started hitting the back of my throat, but nothing bothersome.

I love the very decorative bands that the La Aroma de Cuba cigars come wrapped in. And this one had a nice red silk footband and came in a fancy tube.

I enjoyed this cigar and would buy again. Although I believe that this cigar is only available at special events.

From www.tampahumidor.com:

Ring guage - 48
Length - 5.7"

La Aroma de Cuba is as exciting to smoke as it is to view. The wrapper is made from carefully chosen dark Cuban seed Honduran tobacco with plenty of oils and sheen. The filler is a blend of rich Cuban seed Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos and the binder is Honduran. La Aroma de Cuba has an enticing aroma and is a medium to full strength cigar. It draws easily and offers a big, enchanting flavor delivered smoothly with lots of finesse.

The packaging is truly extraordinary. Utilizing original Cuban artwork with several modifications and enhancements, the dress box is simply gorgeous with its extensive gold embossing and rich colors.

La Aroma de Cuba was a turn of the century brand made famous in part by Winston Churchill who characterized the cigar as one of his favorites. The new La Aroma de Cuba is completely different but once smoked, its flavor and aroma will remind you of a taste from another era.

La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor

If I remember correctly, this was the 6X52 Magnifico size. I bought it from W. Curtis Draper Tobacconist in D.C. during their Foursquare/cigar tasting event. I bought this one to get a cigar free. I paid just under $9.00 for this cigar.

It had a thick, dark, oily wrapperr. Very tight cigar, well made for sure. It was a flat box pressed cigar with a very nice and elaborate double band.

After eating a delicious turkey burger at Shelly's Back Room, I straight cut this cigar and lit it up. I tried to use matches but gave up and went to butane to finish it off.

I paired it with yuengling beer and it had a very nice smooth, leathery taste to start with lot's of smoke. The draw a bit tight at first though.

The ash was nice and white. I knocked off the first ash after 3/4 in and it ashed easily.

I smoked the second 1/2 with @thisisnotevan and @sboyajian. This was a great cigar and I would put it in the medium category. I loved it and would buy it again. Although, it would have to be a special occasion due to the price.

From Cigar.com:

Handcrafted under the supervision of Don Pepin Garcia in Nicaragua, La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor is an excellent cigar, blended to create a complex experience that completely satisfies your entire palate.

La Aroma de Cuba is an old-time brand with a unique and dedicated following. The blends under this line all maintain light complexities while remaining medium-bodied to create a balanced experience between strength and flavor. Now made in Nicaragua at Don Pepin Garcia's new factory, the La Aroma de Cuba brand remains consistent from start to finish and features some of the best tobaccos money can buy.

Mi Amor is simply an excellent addition to the La Aroma line. The blend brings a full-flavored but medium-bodied maduro to the mix and creates a hearty finish. Outside, you'll find a dark Cuban-seed Mexican maduro wrapper that conceals a flavorful concoction of Nicaraguan long leaves from Nicaragua's top growing regions. As the blend burns, you'll find espresso and coffee-like flavors throughout, all masked by earthy undertones and notes of black pepper. With a smooth, creamy smoke and long-lasting finish, expect Mi Amor to increase in strength from head to foot while still producing a well-balanced finish that you'll want to experience again and again.

TTT Trinidad

This cigar came in a toro sampler pack that I bought at JR Cigars in DC, supposedly the World's largest cigar store. This was a 10 cigar Toro size sampler from the Dominican. The cigars were all 6 in with a 50 ring gauge.

I smoked this cigar at "Shelly's back room" in DC while hangin out with Paul Russell and the #tatuaje DC crew - @DaByrdman33 @thisisnotevan etc..

I straight cut it and paired with 10 yr old scotch on ice with a side of water. It started off seeming very mellow and it stayed pretty mellow which surprised me because this was a darker looking cigar. It never had any bite to it but the draw was very tight for the first two thirds. I had to fight for every draw, taking 3 pre puffs per draw. and it did not produce a lot of smoke.

I had to fix the burn on this cigar many, many times.

Last third the draw became a bit easier and it produced more smoke. I would put this cigar in the medium strength category.

I put it out with about an inch long nub.

Overall I enjoyed it but it was a lot of work to keep it going and to keep it burning right. The company was great so that added to the enjoyment of the cigar.


From JR Cigars:

TTT TRINIDAD CIGARS
Handmade DR
Wrapper: ECSU/CTBL
Binder: CTBL/ECSU
Filler: NIC/DR/PER
Full Bodied

Expertly handcrafted in the Dominican Republic's southern city of La Romana, the TTT Trinidad is a full-bodied gem of a cigar. At its core is a robust recipe of aged Nicaraguan, Dominican, and Peruvian long-filler tobaccos secured by a stout broadleaf binder and finished with either a choice Ecuadorian Sumatran sun-grown or dark Connecticut broadleaf maduro wrapper. The result is a lush, dense smoke for the seasoned cigar connoisseur. The hearty, boisterous flavors and more than ample body of the Trinidad are certain to assure your smoking satisfaction.

Nub Connecticut 354 Natural (3 3/4 x 54)

I smoked this one on the patio on a cool afternoon after work. Paired with a Bud Light.

This is the second one of these that I have smoked. I straight cut this one and gave it a test puff. The draw seemed a bit tight. After lighting I had to open it up a bit with my pocket knife.

This cigar was the 54 ring gauge and is smaller than the other Nubs I had smoked. I think it may burn a bit hotter because of this. I also get a bite at the back of the throat and thin smoke with this cigar. The draw is pretty tight even after I opened it up.

This one started to pick up after the first third. More smoke but still some spice and it does seem to bother my stomach a little bit. I put it down with about an inch to go.

The construction was impeccable, like the past Nubs that I smoked.

Not sure I'd buy this cigar again.

Info:

Wrapper: Connecticut
Size: 3.75 x 54
Manufacturer: Oliva Cigar Co.
Strength: Mild-Medium

• Wrapper: Connecticut, Ecuador, Nicaragua
• Binder: Nicaragua
• Filler: Nicaragua
• Handmade in: Esteli, Nicaragua.

NUB Connecticut Cigars were introduced in 2008. It was a creation done by Oliva Cigars sales rep Sam Leccia. It was a cigar never seen before but well constructed with an excellent taste and aroma. NUB Cigars are like other great premium cigars and last just like them (Churchill, Presidente, and others) Most of the NUB Cigar Line are offered in boxes of 24 and are available in different wrappers.

Quorum - $2.45

This is the larger Quorum and I smoked while golfing at Diamond Lake golf club with Deron and his Father-in-law. It was a nice golf cigar. A little peppery, plenty of smoke, no burn issues.

This is one of those cigars that I should always keep on hand.

From Tinderbox:

Quorum combines rich Nicaraguan tobacco fillers and binders with an Ecuadorian-Sumatran wrapper to create a satisfying smoking experience. The result is a smooth and dependable smoke at a great price. These medium to full-bodied strength cigars are expertly constructed to provide a smooth draw and an even burn.

Nub Cameroon 466 (Box Pressed Torpedo)

This was the first Nub that I had go bad on me. I straight cut this with my new Nub guillotine cutter that I won in a contest. Right away I could see that the cap was cracked and peeling. I can not tell if it was under or over humidified.

I smoked this on the patio while working on a Friday afternoon. Paired with cranberry and water.
the wrapper started peeling almost instantly. About 1/3 into it and the wrapper came completely off. If this was any other cigar I would have pitched it. But I love Nubs so much that I pinched the binder together as much as I could and I smoked it down to a nub. Not bad, even without the wrapper.

This was one of those cigars that knocked me on my butt for a bit afterwards.

From http://www.milantobacco.com:

The idea for the Nubs came from the theory that a cigar finds its “sweet spot” at the 3 ½- 4 inch point. All “nub” cigars must exist within this window. No “nub” is longer than 4 inches. Further adding to this complex theory, the ring gauges range from 56-66. The result is a range of smokes that have the same amount of tobacco as any Churchill or even Presidente. Unbelievably, they also smoke as long.

The Nub Cameroon Wrapper Cigar: Grown in Cameroon, Africa, this wrapper has a distinct flavor and character. The Cameroon wrapper is thin and toothy, yet it delivers rich notes of cedar and coffee. This Nub medium-bodied cigar is available in 358 and 464T formats.

Nub Cameroon 466 (Box Pressed Torpedo)

I smoked this cigar on Columbus Day as my second cigar of the day. I golfed 9 holes and then had lunch on my boat with a friend. I broke this cigar out as desert. I paired this with Bud Light and initially V cut this cigar but the draw was too tight so I straight cut it and it was perfect.

I loved this cigar as much as the other Nubs that I have tried, if not more. I may be way off but the Connecticutt seemed to be the strongest to me, followed by the Habano, and then followed by the Cameroon. The Cameroon may overtake the Habano and become my favorite. I'll smoke the other Nub Cameroon that is in my humidor and then make that decision.

From http://www.milantobacco.com:

The idea for the Nubs came from the theory that a cigar finds its “sweet spot” at the 3 ½- 4 inch point. All “nub” cigars must exist within this window. No “nub” is longer than 4 inches. Further adding to this complex theory, the ring gauges range from 56-66. The result is a range of smokes that have the same amount of tobacco as any Churchill or even Presidente. Unbelievably, they also smoke as long.

The Nub Cameroon Wrapper Cigar: Grown in Cameroon, Africa, this wrapper has a distinct flavor and character. The Cameroon wrapper is thin and toothy, yet it delivers rich notes of cedar and coffee. This Nub medium-bodied cigar is available in 358 and 464T formats.

Puros Indios Especial #2

This was smoked on Columbus Day while playing 9 holes on the golf course. This was an exceptionally warm October day, I think it hit 58 for the 9. I had the day off so I went golfing at the Diamond Lake golf club with a friend.

This was my first cigar enjoyed while golfing. I even bought a little divot repair tool/cigar holder. It worked perfectly. I lit this up after the second hole. It was straight cut and I had 2 warm Bud Lights to pair it with while on the course. The cigar lasted the perfect amount of time, I think I put it out after Teeing off of 8.

It had a nice peppery taste and would call the strength mild to medium but more on the mild side. Nice draw, nice amount of smoke. The perfect golf cigar.

From Cigars International:

Made by Cuban-trained cigar making legend Rolando Reyes, Sr.

Puros Indios are handmade from Honduras with Cuba-seed filler, and a rich, oily Ecuadorian wrapper. The result is a spicy, medium to full-bodied, aromatic taste. Rated ’90’ by Cigar Aficionado.

Cuban-expatriate Rolando Reyes, Sr. has been called the world’s best blender on more than one occasion. In fact, his cigars are critically acclaimed for their raw richness and complex layers of flavor. Back in-stock and better than ever!

Punch London Club

My second smoke for Binary Day, 10/10/10. I smoked this one on my deck while drinking Bud Light and listening to a podcast. The straight cut gave it a nice draw. It had a slight tobaccoy taste and a ton of smoke for this small cigar. It was mild and possibly under humidified although it burned well as always.

I really like this cigar for when I do not have a lot of time. I should always keep one or two in the humidor.

Information:
A rough appearance on a decent smoke with a smooth draw. The flavor is simple and straight forward; some grass and wood flavors were noted.

Size: 5 x 40
Cigar Shape: Petit Corona
Cigar Filler: Honduras, Nicaragua, Dom. Rep.
Cigar Binder: Honduras
Cigar Wrapper: Ecuador
Country of Manufacture: Honduras

Black Sheep

Today is 10/10/10. Pretty cool. Binary day. 

This cigar seemed very dry and this is the second Black Sheep that I had with a crack in the cap. It had a bit of a spicy taste that hit the back of my throat. I straight cut this cigar and paired it with some cheap red wine while sitting on my patio and following @BlowinSmoke on Twitter for Blowin Smoke podcast #118. The draw was nice and open. Overall the black sheep was a pretty good smoke even though it seemed a little under humidified. Definitely a full flavor cigar. I enjoyed the entire cigar. It took about an hour to smoke and I only had to correct the burn once.

From Holts:

If you're in the market for an inexpensive Maduro then Black Sheep is just the ticket. Handmade in Nicaragua, these cigars sport oily Maduro wrappers and a toasty medium-bodied blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan long-fillers. Rich notes of earth and cedar harmonize with creamy hints of apricot and leather.

Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Maduro
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan

Victor Sinclair Connecticut Yankee

Smoked this one over at my neighbors house on a Saturday night. Notre Dame had played earlier in the day and my neighbor had some friends over after the game. We sat on his patio and talked. I straight cut this and paired with Bud Light. The draw was perfect.

This cigar was awesome and I loved every puff. I would place this cigar in the high side of medium flavor and strength. It is perfect for me and I will move it into the favorites category.

From Cigars International:

A genuinely unique cigar.

Victor Sinclair’s Connecticut Yankee features a Connecticut-grown Havana-seed leaf. Genuine Connecticut-grown, Havana-seed leaf is not common, as it is neither broadleaf nor shade-grown. However, 4 years ago Victor Sinclair purchased a small, experimental cache of this rare wrapper tobacco....and the results are nothing short of delicious.

Indeed, the wrapper delivers a distinctively smooth, rich flavor. And combined with its premium blend of aged Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers, Connecticut Yankee offers a medium-bodied smoke with a unique, mature bouquet of flavor including some rich, toasty and chocolatey notes.

Victor Sinclair Vintage Select

The band on this one is a little loose and I am wondering if it is under humidified. It has a very open draw and seems a little hot. I noticed a nice mellow spice taste at first and it put out plenty of smoke.


While finishing up the second third of this smoke I felt like this was a perfect smoke for what I was looking for today. It was a nice mellow smoke with a nice flavor. The cigar was great all the way down to the bub. Perfect.

From Cigars International:

Milk-chocolatey goodness from Victor Sinclair.

Victor Sinclair Vintage offers a dark, delicious Brazilian maduro wrapper and supremely aged mix of all Cuban-seed Dominican long-leaf tobaccos. Light one up and you’ll see it’s chock full o’ soothingly rich, milky-smooth flavors but also fairly light in strength. Crisply box-pressed and meticulously constructed with a pleasant aroma and slight sweetness, VS Vintage is a bargain that’s priced well enough to be your ’everyday’ handmade.

Nub Habano

I lit this one up on a Friday night on the patio while having a fire pit. I straight cut it and paired it with Bud Light. This cigar never disappoints and I still love the full taste. This is one of the bigger ring gauge Nubs and I like this but I like the slightly smaller ring gauge better.

I took a picture of my first Nub stand from this cigar and sent it into a Twitter contest offered by @OlivaIan. I guess I won because he said that he will be sending me a Nub accessory pack. Can't wait.

The amount of smoke really picked up in the last third of this cigar and it was awesome. Took about an hour to smoke.

From Cigars International:

Wrapper: Habano
Filler: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Experience: Rich tobacco influence with hints of nuts and bread. Smoky aftertaste.
Category: Medium to full in body

Nub started as a theory. Born in the Oliva factory, a cigar maker was hell-bent on proving he could capture the essence - the core - of a cigar’s flavor immediately upon lighting and throughout the duration of the smoke. Well, they nailed it.

Rather than wait for a cigar to develop and evolve, which typically occurs an inch to two inches in, the idea behind Nub was to specifically blend it to hit its sweet spot right off the bat and remain at its peak right through to the end. Each size is short and stout in stature. That’s by design - not for novelty - as blends and sizes were worked and re-worked a thousand ways from Sunday in order for Nub creator Sam Leccia and the Oliva family to capture the essence of each Nub blend. Anyone can create unusual shapes, each of the Nub blends and accompanying shapes was instead created to summon and deliver the blend’s sweet spot.

Habano - glossy, milk chocolate-brown wrapper. Rich tobacco core with a smoky aftertaste. Hints of peanuts are supported by a baked bread component. Spice through the nose. Medium to full-bodied with a rich, creamy character throughout.

Boardwalk Churchill

I smoked this one on the patio while having a fire pit and drinking Wild Turkey on a Sunday afternoon. The cigar had no construction issues and was nice and firm. It had a beautiful, oily, dark wrapper. The draw was fine, I used a V cut this time. I really enjoyed this cigar. It had a nice mild taste and was medium strength. It was a great long lasting cigar with a perfect kick. I would love to buy a bundle of these.

From Holt's Cigars:

These cigars are handmade in Nicaragua using rich, meaty Rosado wrappers and a velvety 4-country blend of aged long-filler tobaccos. The strength is medium-bodied and the flavors are well-balanced with solid notes of earth and cedar supported by hints of black pepper and caramel. 

Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Rosado
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Nicaraguan, Honduran, Dominican, Brazilian

Victor Sinclair Primeros

This cigar was enjoyed on the patio while listening to the Notre Dame/Boston College game on the radio. It was a cold night and I lit up a small fire. Something that would last just long enough for me to smoke a cigar.

I straight cut this cigar and paired it with Bud Light. The draw was a bit on the tight side and the amount of smoke was moderate at best. It did have a nice, mellow and smooth flavor though. It had just enough of a kick.

I liked this cigar but did not love it.

From Cigars International:

An eye-catching, mild-bodied gem from the Dominican.

For these seeking a mild-bodied cigar but with ample flavor, one that is priced right and consistent time after time, Primeros answers the bell. Loaded with smooth, creamy flavors, this pleasantly mellow smoke features a golden brown Connecticut wrapper and an aged filler blend of Dominican Seco tobaccos with a sliver of Ligero. A handmade light enough for rookie palates yet enough finesse and flavor to satisfy you grizzled veterans too.

Bahia Blu

The school Fall Fest was tonight and, after putting the little one to bed, I went out to the patio for a cigar by the fire.  It was a cold night and the first Fire Pit Friday that I had to wear a sweatshirt.  I popped open a Bud Light and V cut this cigar. The draw was nice and open so I lit it up. It immediately had a ton of smoke. The taste was nice and mellow and it burned cool. I have been struggling with this batch of cigars but it seems that some time in the humidor has done them well. 

 

Overall the cigar had a mellow taste that I enjoyed and it had a short finish. The mild taste lasted up to about 2 inches and it got a little peppery at that point. A perfect kick. It was a perfect cigar (except for some minor issues as I got down to the nub) and I am still calling this cigar one of my favorites.

 

From Cigars International:

Bahia Blu is a medium-bodied handmade from Nicaragua that’s priced to move. Dressed in a fairly attractive Corojo wrapper that’s smooth and glistening - under the hood is a blend of 5 to 6-year old long Nicaraguan long-fillers grown in Esteli, Jalapa, and Leon. The end result is a somewhat rich and toasty flavor with a sweet, cedary core, and crisp, lingering aftertaste. I’ve found a bit of a consistency issue from time to time but by and large a nice, everyday, handmade value.