LCoigavrser - No. 7 - MagazineBLIND TASTING: TOROS News Cuba 2014 Cohiba Robustos Supremos Bolivar Super Coronas Partagas Selecciòn Privada H.d.M. Le Hoyo de San Juan Por Larrañaga Picadores Davidoff Oro Blanco The 500$ cigar Ambasciator Italico The italian cigar Señorial Interview with Josè Blanco Pairing Kilchoman Makir Bay Soil! Its influence Jars Unconventional humidors!
editorialThe Team EditorialEditor: We have come to the final issue of 2014, a year that saw CigarsLover Luca Cominelli Magazine growing and achieving some important milestones, including the english language version of the magazine and the addition of many headings and insights related to all that orbits around the world of cigars.Authors: This issue is launched with a redesigned graphic to make the reading cle- arer and at the same time more enjoyable. Michel Arlia An important collaboration with a leading figure in the world of tobacco Didier Houvenaghel is born: Didier Houvenaghen will be collaborating with us starting from now. We are confident that he will give a significant contribution, making it possible to tackle issues in a more specific and detailed way, analyzing not only the theory but also the practice of a producer who lives directly our passion for the cigar. Giuseppe Mitolo The blind tasting that we launched from the last issue was much apprecia- ted, so we decided to continue on this road, moreover we increased the number of cigars tested: 20 this time! Heiko Blumentritt Since our publication is directly at cigarslover.com, we want to thank the high number of readers who have voiced out their appreciation for the Giovanni Bolzonella complete redesign of the website. We are very pleased to know that theGraphic designer: development of our project has been able to improve the organization and the content layout. The 2014 is ending, a year in which our passion has been translated into contents. For the next year we aim not just to confirm, but we want to offer an always renewed magazine, introducing innovations and imporve- ments, an aspect that has always let us distinguish. Mario Amelio A warm thanks to all of our readers.Collaborators: “The passion moves us.”Aaron Reddy, Alessandro Bonisoli,Ander Morlando, Kaarel Kluge,Mirko Fabbian, Roberto Canzi,Chris GlennTranslations:Rachelle MauleonJacopo Bettello 1 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
IndexIn this issue:Rating Cuban news 2014 Partagas: the bookHow to read our rating system ........... Reviews ..................................... 25 Interview with the author Amir...................................................... 4 Saarony ..................................... 51Soil! Its influence ................................... 5Davidoff Oro Blanco The top qualit‡ from Dominican Republic ........................................ 7 Kilchoman The pairing with Machir Bay ..... 33 Blind Tasting ...................... 35Jars Davidoff Unconventional humidors! ............. 9 Château Haut-Brion .................. 55Señorial Tatuaje Monster Las cumbres tabaco .................... 13 The Halloween success ............... 57 John F. Kennedy Under H. Upmann sign ............ 59 ANS Smoking in Wörrstadt ............... 61Taste Xikar AllumeThe main sense in the degustation ..... The new lighter line is born ................................................................ 19 ................................................... 43 VocabularyInter-tabac 2014 Ambasciator italico The meaning of the words we use .....The biggest european cigar fair .......... The italian cigar .......................... 46 ................................................... 63................................................... 21 Analcoholic pairing SectionsLa Méthode de J. Puisais The lightning science ................... 23 The Roy Rogers made for the cigars .... The arguments you can find on CsL ................................................... 49 Magazine ................................... 64 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 2
BEADSThe best WAY OF humidificationAvailable on CigarsLover.com 3 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
infoRatinghow to read scale of evaluationThe reviewed cigars are presented in a evaluation in hundredths. This is to give an accurate evalua-tion to every cigar, so they can be located inside of a large scale of value. The points that are given to thecigars are the average results that are taken both from the smoked examples and the different smokers.95-100: excellent smoke. The cigar has all the components that distinguish a remarkable smoke: intensity of the aromas, balance, complexity, finesse, evolution, quality of construction, post-smoke persistence and a constancy of the production.90-94: great smoke. The cigar shows numerous qualities of excellence, but not quite showing them to the maximum. It’s nonetheless a cigar that proposes a high level of satisfaction. 85-89: good smoke. The cigar has considerable qualities of a high level, also having some slight flaw in the parameters of the evaluation. It’s nonethe- less a recommended cigar with a high rate of satisfaction. 80-84: decent smoke. The cigar convinces in parts, shows both quality and flaws inherent to the different parameters of the evaluation. It’s nonetheless a cigar to smoke with appreciable continuity. 75-79: mediocre smoke. The cigar shows more flaws than are bearable for a satisfying smoke. The parameters of the evaluation are leaning more to a lower level and the smoke is generally not recommended. 70-74: meager smoke. The cigar proposes numerous flaws throughout the arc of the parameters of the evaluation. The merits are not eligible if not in a ludicrous way and marginally, the smoke is classified as absolutely not recommended. cigars with really good quality/price ratio. We defenitely recommend the purchase.CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 4
slow attitudeSoil!its influenceby Didier HouvenaghelIntroduction – Is the soil really soessential for the cigar production?Many aficionados discuss the rela-tion between the cigar ashes andthe soil composition. But is theashes color only connected to thequality of the soil? Or – reversely –have the ground’s minerals only an the plant. Also and to perpetuate (fallow land and cultures rotation), wise management must be given toinfluence on the quality of combu- the optimal production of black the lands.stion? Of course it is not so simple tobacco leaves, the regeneration of The production goal – The gene- tics of the planted black tobaccoand let’s try to understand a little bit impoverished soils after each crop varieties will interact with the environment – the ‘terroir’ (land,more about this. is also fundamental. climate, etc.) and the expertise – and will finally express a variety of Thus to insure the good balanced coded characteristics. The produc- tion will be measured in quantityThe agri concept – Thought their growth of the plants the soil has and quality of the harvest in fun- ction of the final objectives of theroots the plants absorb the soil to be considered a multifaceted grower. As a result, the experts will choose the plant varieties andwater and mineral elements to pro- and dynamic system: a progressive design the different necessary attentions consistently with theduce crude sap, the basic nutrient chemical, physical and biological production goal. Plantations with ligero leaves or wrapper leavesof the vegetal. As for all living complex. To maintain its long term objectives will not be handled the same way. Hence a diversified andbeings – including humans – the quality, the soil must definitely be balanced soil is essential for the production of enjoyable cigars, butquality and good diversity of avai- respected. A variety of treatments it is far from being the only factor! The soil assessment cannot be de-lable nutrients is a key factor to the must be applied to preserve the correlated from the plant variety, the other environmental factorsoptimal development of the black soil with the goal of regenerating and the grower expertise.For exam- ple a careful eye must be drawn attobacco. But the nutrient accessibi- its chemical contents, physicallity for the plant is imperative during properties and biological diversity.its complete development cycle. Before (soil analysis and prepara-Sometimes, the mineral elements tion), during (hoeing, fertilization,are present but not absorbable by and hilling) and after cultivation5 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
‘just’ give good chances to! Even if they are absolutely required, the soil qualities alone are not enough to produce enjoyable cigars. Other fundamental elements must be considered.the climate – rains, winds, tempe- drying, fermentations, and aging) Take a good soil – the first vitalrature, etc. – as it has a direct and and operations (like classification, step – and then add a good plantsignificant influence on the soil and mid-rip stripping, blending, rolling, variety, an important dose ofthe plants. packing and conservation). After know-how, and shake into a the soil has lost all influence, the good environment and a greatFrom the field to the lips of the production process remains indeed climate. After collection then addamateur – To be rolled into fine very long and simple mistakes can a part of fine drying, a piece ofcigars, the green leaves must pro- unfortunately ruin the final quality sensational classification, and agress optimally through the rest of a leave. measurement of terrific fermenta-of the demanding production tions before applying a dose of niceprocess. Before becoming cigars, Thus – Growing black tobacco on aging. Finalize with an importantthe green leaves – to preserve and excellent soils is therefore essential amount of unique blending andimprove their agricultural quali- for the production of fine tobacco great rolling topped with someties – must go through essential leaves but it will never be an insu- excellent conservation. Light upand sensitive transformations (like rance to produce great cigars. It will with emotion. This cocktail takes years’ long experience to perceive, understand, reproduce and develop! We produce with passion, taste with love! CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 6
smokes from the worldDavidoff Oro Blancothe top quality from dominican republicBy Luca CominelliThe “Oro Blanco” is the newest of the cigar and its history written for this super-premium cigar showsarrival for Davidoff, and it is the in it. The anilla presents a distin- silver signs (from the name Oromost prestigious cigar to ever be ctive trait: instead of the classic Blanco), and it is also present theproduced , by this renowned brand davidoff anilla (golden sign on a signature on Eladio Diaz, Directorestablished by Zino Davidoff. It is white background), the one used of Quality for the brand.limited edition, and all the tabaccoleaves have been handled and culti-vated in the Dominican Republic.It is now available in the DavidoffLounges, and it has called the atten-tion of the market for two reasons:its sale price and the quality of theraw material used.Starting from the price, the OroBlanco is sold for $500 each. It isavailable in a hardwood packagewith a single cigar, or in a hardwoodbox counting 10 pieces ($5,000).The quality of the packaging deser-ves a positive remark; a maximumattention to details has been usedfor the construction of this remar-kable packages. A metal insert isalso set in the wood, with the name7 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
This is the most expensive cigarever launched on the market,except for the Gurkha MajesticReserve, which is a flavored cigar,not realized with 100% of natu-ral tobacco, so it does not count.This is the first Davidoff cigarrolled with leaves coming fromone only harvest: the 2002, whichis supposed to be the most refi-ned crop of the new millenium,as reports Davidoff, itself. Thistobacco comes up straight fromprivate plantations of Davidoff.Beyond the certified superior qua-lity of this harvest, a meticulousselection has been made, in orderto use only the very best leaves,which have also been aged for 12years ! In the year 2014 they haveall been utilized for the Oro Blanco.Aesthetically the cigar is very ele-gant, the contrast between thecolor of the anilla and the one ofthe wrapper, puts the emphasison the Davidoff signature, whichimmediately bounches to the eye.The wrapper does not show anytrack of imperfections, it is oily,silky of a colorado maduro shade.It is perfectly rolled and the filler isperfectly filled, with no excess nordefect.At the nose are perceivable notesof chestnut and walnut honey, withhints of spices. The scent is extre-mely tempting.The format is the Gran Toro:54x152mm (6 inches). This dimen-sions make the cigar majestic andwell-proportioned. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 8
Jarsslow attitudeunconventional humidors!By Giuseppe MitoloIn the last few years many aficio- Leaving aside the historicalnados decided to keep cigars in the aspect, we intend to dwelljars, either glass or ceramic ones. on the conservation in a jar as a type of storage,The trend is likely fueled both by the even when not specificallylatest caribbean productions (Cuba proposed by manufacturersin particular) and by the choice of or importers.its national importers. It is easy tosee that if this type of packaging Let’s start by saying that with these simple rules. The glass is transpa-is used for the sale, especially forthe special or commemorative edi- new systems you can get a very rent, unlike the ceramic. That meanstions, probably suggests that thecigars will benefit from this type of good humidification, whether the that the light passing through it canstorage, which is an almost centuryold tradition (the first Partagas jars intention is to storage (ready for the change the color of the cigar wrap-were produced in the 20’s of the smoke) or to age (in the long-term). per and it can bring to biochemical last century). There are few smokers who use the internal environment distortions. jars as humidor “low cost”, perhaps We are not talking about the “gre- to test their cigar passion before enhouse effect”, but the principle investing money in a traditional is roughly the same: the light pene- humidor. Other smokers, however, trates in an airtight, heats the air, although possessing efficient con- raises the internal humidity and air servation systems, choose to store tightness continues to hold it inside some cigars in retold containers of the humidification system. This is glass or ceramic. why the advice, if you opted for a sealed glass jar (like those used in Hence the first que- the kitchen to store pasta or other stion: glass or ceramic? ingredients) is to shield it from Excluding propensities light. Systems can be different, from of satisfaction and the cheap silver foil, to the strips of strictly subjective cedar wood from the cigar boxes, equal tightness, properly shaped and placed inside the choice is irre- the jar. levant, as long as you keep in To choose the jar you need to take m i n d s o m e into account the preferred materials9 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
and dimensions (considerations environment (with the classic pro- scents of a cigar, in particular forprior to purchase: how many and blems that entails). The optimal the Cubans, usually packed in boxeswhat cigars you’re going to store), solution are control humidification and wooden cabinets without theyou must take care of the humidifi- systems such as the “Beads” or use of cellophane. This close con-cation system, keeping in mind that “Boveda”: they take up little space, tact means that the majority ofwe are going to act on an airtight they need little attention and they Cuban cigars, in smoke, gives offhumidor, even more of the best on are self-regulating and long-lasting marked aromas of wood. Well, ifthe market. This is why putting in (the first are almost eternal, the lat- you choose to store them in a jar,our “low cost humidor” cigars pro- ter last for a few months). after a few months the cigars willperly humidified, won’t need to add lose this characteristic aroma and,anything else. However, just wan- These devices, however, do not incredibly, they will develop newting to make an anonymous glass exclude the use of a digital hygro- flavors, sometimes even morejar or ceramic our desired casket for meter, which helps the verification delicate, which was hidden by thethe “everyday” smokes, exposes it of the moisture. It is important to woody perceptions.to the need to open and close it place it in a well seen place, in orderseveral times, which means that it to control the humidity without The predominant characteristicwill be significant swings in humi- opening the cover. That said, it still that makes peculiar the conserva-dity. Enter the classic sponge with remains something to know. tion in the jar is the reduced oxygena solution of water and propylene exchange. Notoriously, the cigar isglycol can be very risky: if you do Why choosing this way for storing/ a “live” product that continues tonot check the amount of water aging our cigars? First of all, remo- improve and refine after severaldrops that you put, you’ll have ving the cigars from their original decades, if well kept. In view ofserious risk to over-humidify the packaging changes the aromatic the long-life or of the aging, the CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 10
slow attitudedifferent interaction of the cigar the tobaccos used. Conversely, the the answer to why some cigars arewith the air can slow down or speed more the air exchange will be redu- packed in painted cabinets.up the aging process of the product ced, the longer will be the time to For this reason, it is not unusualin the long run. The more the cigar maturing/aging. that those who possess advancedlives the seasons (for example, in The principle is the same tech- preservation tools opts for storinga static humidor), the more it ages nique of wrapping the box in a full box in a jar, in order to let itfast, net of certain variables such plastic wrap (usually used by col- mature for a longer time. In theas, first of all, that the quality of lectors all over the world), or again, latter case, the use of a humidifier element becomes less necessary (be careful, not useless!), just because it is not needed to open the jar often. However, also in this case, although such systems do not require special care, the care of the smoker who intends to keep for a long time remains essential element for an excellent smoke in the future. Regarding the humidity rates we, should distinguished them depen- ding on whether one opts for storage or aging; always keep in mind the golden rule of sealing the jar. First, we advice you to follow your taste to smoke: the humidity you would keep in your humidor will go for the jar as well (relative humidity between 65% and 72%). If you want to experience a long- term aging instead (significant results not sooner than five years old, in the opinion of this writer, even decades, according to interna- tional collectors!) it would be good to keep the humidity rates relatively low, preferably not more than 65%. Paradoxically, in the process of aging in a jar, the temperature of conservation is not so important (just do not leave it in place with really high or low temperatures), but the low humidity, low oxygen supply, good sealing and control time to time are.11 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
Available on Cadenhead’s Whisky Bar - Milan CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 12
interviewSeñoriallas cumbres tabacoBy Michel ArliaThe “Señorial” is a premium cigar Corojo) planted by the cousin interview withline, produced in the Dominican of Josè, Jochi Blanco, in his ownRepublic by the well-known master farms. All these leaves are also Josè Blancoblender Josè Blanco and Emma aged for four years and have beenViktorsson. This line was released selected by Jochi. • How did you and Emmaa few months ago and currently meet?consists of five cigars. The name Josè loves blends developing com-Senorial stands for “manorial”, plex smoke and well combined Emma worked for the Swedish“noble”. For the composition of aromas. To him, the blend must be Match company (a large cigars fil-this line, the wrapper has been enjoyable and full of taste, but also ler of General Cigar) from 2005selected is the “Habano Ecuador”; well balanced. The cigar needs to to 2010. She occupied the place ofJose is a big fan of this type of leaf, be creamy and smooth. Marketing Manager to Long Fillersthat gives complexity and smooth East Europe, with the supervisionaromas. The binder leaves are from We interviewed Josè, asking him to of 10 countries. I knew his father,Esteli, Nicaragua. This helps the tell us how this project came about who has played an important rolecigar keeping a good ring of fire and how it developed, without in Swedish Match from 1987 untiland offers a touch of spices, typical omitting the technical details on the 2010, when he retired.of Nicaragua (though the mixture composition of his new cigars.gives off a spicy component alre- I was the director of sales andady) .The filler is completely madeby leaves from the the DominicanRepublic (Piloto Cubano and13 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
blender of “La Aurora” in that Emma wanted to represent the desired characteristic to add the fla-period, and there was a contract Dominican Republic because I’m vors, which is the most importantbetween the companies which we Dominican and my cigars are made thing, but it must be supportedwere working for. Part of her job in this country, which has a rich by a system of adequate strength,was to sell “La Aurora” in Eastern history of premium cigars. without that this would be exces-Europe. She often came to Santiago sively marked. I agreed with thisfor seminars or for ProCigar The image that can be seen by cigar profile, and then I started theFestival or visiting the factory with opening the box is an oil painting, blend. Emma was also a memberits customers. made by his Bulgarian stepmother. of the panel to select which blend should be chosen. She has a veryIn 2010, during the merger between The painting depicts an old way of good palate, very elegant and thisSwedish Match and STG, although Colonial area of Santo Domingo. has meant that it could give someit had been assured that her place Albert Montserrat, the Spanish important opinions. So, in a fewwould have been confirmed, she owner of Cigar Rings, created the words, I was definitely influenced.decided to quit and choose to join design in the painting. Albert andme, to carry out a new project. Emma have worked side by side on We decided together which sizes to the entire design, trying to make start with and we wanted to make a • What does Señorial it in the traditional way but at the cigar with a ring gauge smaller than means for you two? same time with a little something the “corona gorda”, but in the end extra. I think they definitely succee- we thought that these 5 sizes wereIt was Emma who decided the ded in their aim. enough to support the front line.name “Señorial”. Emma has wor-ked with a lot of passion and • Emma also took deci- From the left to the right:without limit on everything to do sions on the blend or the Corona Gorda No.5 - 46x140mmwith the marketing aspects of our size of the cigars in the Paco Robusto - 52x133mmcompany, our whole front line. We line? Toro Bravo - 54x152mmdecided that the brand should por- Le Grand - 60x152mmtray the history, culture, people and Emma is learning more and more Belicoso No.2 - 52x158mmtradition, in short all those feelings about the blend, but up to now,that relate to my story in the world has not had a direct impact onof cigars, from my great-grandfa- this. However, she always said herther to the present. She has found opinion about it, and I have takenthe term “Señorial” searching and into account some of her ideastranslating the Spanish words from about the types of leaves to bedifferent languages. “Señorial” used. To be honest she has alwaysmeans “noble”, literally “manorial” been a source of inspiration forbut this name is synonymous with me. Her idea of how the entireexperience, years in the field, cha- product line should be as it is hasracter, culture. always been clear: she wanted the cigars “Señorial” had a high qua- • Emma has created the lity both in terms of the tobaccos entire design, including used and for the construction, and the images. Is there a story this was made, since all the cigars behind all this? were made in the company of my family, Tabacalera Palma. Another CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 14
interview • What pushed you to start • How was the process that work a lot but in the end it was fun with Las Cumbres Tabaco? has seen an idea turn into and exciting. a product?It was that long ago that I wanted • What are the objectivesto create my own brand, but leaving It needed 3-4 years to delineate and the future projects forLa Aurora was not easy. I worked it, project has not come suddenly. “Señorial”?with them for a long time and for When it came the time to turn thethirty years with Leon Jimenes. In idea into a something possible, in We are working on it. Until the2011, however, I decided that the my mind was all clear. Everything second half of 2015 we’re tryingtime had come. When Alejandro was already outlined as Emma was to draft our plans for the futureMartinez Cuenca offered me the preparing the programs and I was and understand what we want toopportunity to take the role of working on the the blend. The pro- achieve.senior vice president of Joya de cess was not that easy, we had toNicaragua, I necessarily had to That said, we want Las Cumbresaccept it. I love the Nicaraguan Tabaco continue to produce hightobacco in my blend and being able quality cigars, both in the field ofto work it means to acquire greater raw materials and construction.experience. I decided that I would The “Señorial” is a cigar built forhave worked for a single contract the aficionados niche, so this meansand then I would have returned to that not everybody will like it . Thethe Dominican Republic to start future line will have their speci-my new adventure. fic profile, so we can satisfy more “tastes”. José e Emma15 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
smokes from the world Señorial Corona Gorda No.5r. dominicana Format: Corona Gorda Size: cepo 46 x 140 mm (5,5 ”) EUR: - | USD: 7 $ Box: 24 pz Year: 2014 The construction of the Corona Gorda is impeccable: the filling is gene- rous, homogenous and the cigar results compact. The Wrapper is oily and presents a colorado tonality. - pre lighting - The cold draw develops notes of barnyard and it is slightly spicy. - first third - Once lit, the first puffs reveal notes of wood, leather and spices. The first third is rich: wood, hazelnut and roasted notes of coffee are followed by fine spices (white pepper) in the background. In some puffs there are peaks of anice. The strength is medium (3/5). - second third - It continues on with the aromas of wood and hazelnut. Aromas of leather and earth come to the palate in alternate way. The spices become more present, as well as the strength (4/5). - third third - The last part sees the spices (black pepper) come upfront, followed by piquant notes. The anice gets more pronounced, while the strength stays constant. The finale is fulfilling. - conclusions - A very balanced cigars, with an ample aroma palatte and a good evolution. The persistence is remarkable. The smoke produced is ample and results “dry” to the palate. pairings 91 Alcoholic: aged rum CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 16 Analcoholic: italian coffee
Smokes from the world Señorial Paco Robustor. dominicana Format: Robusto Gordo Size: cepo 46 x 140 mm (5,5 ”) EUR: - | USD: 8 $ Box: 24 pz Year: 2014 It has an oily, silky and colorado maduro shade wrapper. The tobacco veins are really small. To the touch is well constructed and filled homogeneously. - pre lighting - Notes of barnyard. - first third - The opening brings to the palate liquorice and green pepper notes. Going on, it develops ginger and anice aromas. In the after taste the the green pepper is omnipresent and some hints of leather are perceivable. The strength is medium (3/5) and the background is sweet. - second third - It develops cedar wood notes and it gets really spicy. The strength incre- ases (3,5/5). - third third - There are leather, cedar wood and spices (green pepper). The strength now is medium high (4/5). - conclusions - The Paco Robusto is creamy and it develops an aromatic palette definitely elegant and particular. The balance is always perfect and the strength is under control from the first to the last puff. pairings 89 Alcoholic: daiquiri Analcoholic: green tea17 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
Al Pacino - Scarface, 1983CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 18
slow attitudeThe tastethe main sense in tastingBy Givanni BolzonellaEvery sense has an importance in a scientific thesis have disproved this in the ones shown in the “Tonguecigar examination: smell and taste map, also in light of the new sen- Map“. Obviously in some areasare the main senses that come in to sations discovered together with those receptors could be more orplay when we have to establish if its receptors. There should exist less dense and could inform fasterand how a cigar, a distillate, a wine specific receptors, sensitive to the the molecules which characterizeor another product is for our taste. liberated molecules of what enters certain sensations. When we think the mouth cavity, that are similar of the taste in its biggest function,The sensitive receptors for the to small cells. This cells are spread the tasting, we have to considertaste, the taste buds, are made up along the whole taste buds, not only also the phase of identification offrom 50 to 150 cell, disposed in apear shape. This cells have a life-span of 10 - 14 days, but they havea high renewal rate. The signals ofthe taste buds are reflected througha connection up to the postcentralsomatosensory cerebral cortex.Tongue and mouth cavity includesalso nerve endings, which influencea lot the perception of taste.Traditionally, when we reflect onthe perception of taste, we thinkof a notion present in us sinceprimary school: we can perceivebitterness on the rear end of thetongue, sweetness on the tip, thesalty and sourness on the sides ofit. The famous “Tongue Map“ hasbeen ulteriorly enlarged, in recenttimes, with the introduction of theso called “Umami“ (from the japa-nese “tasty“) and “grease“ beingthe most recent one. A lot of recent19 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
the aromas. What is this phase? Wecan confirm that this has impor-tance either in the personal fruitionand in the act of the transmissionof personal experiences to otherpeople.The first image that comes to themind is a sommelier in front ofa glass of vine who describes theorganoleptic characteristics, firstto the nose, then to the mouth. Totransmit its sensations or guide usin what he is perceiving, he descri-bes his sensations (tannic, sweet,bitter, sour, etc.) with aromas thathis palate recognizes.The taste of apricot in a specific should be able to identify some depending on its density, it is pos-Cartizze, or the pineapple in ano- sensations, which remind us some sible to connect more or lessther; the red fruits in a particular familiar tastes. You could ask intensively the memory to a similarred wine which identifies a certain yourself what is going on when established molecular experience,type of grapes, the similar sensa- you are smoking and it seems that which through taste and smell aretions of pepper we notice when you are chewing a piece of bread, a stored in our “Hard Drive“.we smoke certain cigars. These are coffee bean or a pepper berry. Thisgenerated because of a process of is exactly what I was writing before: Giving to this experience a con-sublimation of the information your memory has attributed to the crete name, declaring it throughstored in our memory, which are signals transmitted to the cerebral the “words” is a fact of philosophyreassumed through the connection cortex, and parts of your taste of the language or psycholingui-of the taste and/or smell and the buds, a direct experience. stic, which essentially depend oncerebral cortex. the culture everyone of us belongs Why is that? When a plant grows, to: diet, materials we use and ourSome people tend to use some iro- it inevitably absorbs the substances habits.nic and funny words to describe in the ground, like the mineral salts.their sensations; in this case the Some of them are transformed, like This becomes evident confrontingsatire become almost obligatory in other organisms. Also the process the data sheets which we commonlyand even constructive, suggesting which the leaves are going through use for a tasting guide in Europethat who guides the fruition has is an explanation. The molecules with the ones coming from smokersto use comparisons that can help developed are similar to the ones in from another countries. But even ifother people to understand what other plants and organisms which we use different word to describehe is trying to explain. we use, like food or materials for a cigar, there are some aspect that general use (leather for example). are the same for everyone, like theReturning to us and our tasting When this molecules that are pre- balance, the harmony and all theof the oral cavity, once the cap is sent inside these leaves of tobacco general aspect that are taken in con-cut and the foot is lighted up, we come in contact with our receptors, sideration while valuing a cigar. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 20
eventsInter-tabac 2014the biggest european cigar fairBy Michel ArliaThis years Inter-Tabac fair took There were local and international that this event is always interesting,place from the 19 to the 21 producers present at the fair like for the simple matter of the thingsSeptember in Dortmund, Germany. Padron, Tatuaje, Davidoff, Drew shown and the personalities that Estate, Villiger, Maya Selva, Joya de always participate at the largestThis fair is exclusively for the peo- Nicaragua, ect. Just to name a few. european tobacco and accessoriesple from the tobacco or accessories The cubans were represented by event.sector. the official Habanos importer 5th Avenue, importer for the germanComparing it to 2013 Inter-Tabac, and austrian market.the space dedicated to the fair waslarger: the stands increased from It wasn’t the event of the big news401 to 499 and the total number or surprises. Matter of fact, thereof persons who visited the fair was weren’t presented new cigars oraround 10.000. products, but it goes without saying21 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
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slow attitudeLa Méthode de J. Puisaisthe lightning scienceBy Heiko Bumentritt recommendation is to light up the jetflame lighter). One of the cigars cigar without cutting it before, and have been cut after the lightening, to blow on its foot before starting blowing through it before to make to smoke it, so that the impurities the first puff. The other cigar have arisen with the heat can be expelled. been cut and lighted up after hea- ting its foot until the brazier was Jacques Puisais is a renowned cha- even (the first puff have been taken racter who made a big effort in the without blowing through the cigar). Taste field research. Many expe- rienced smokers, in the field of The question now is: is there any food & wine, with well educated difference between the two cigars? taste buds, are committed suppor- ters of this theory, so this pushed As far as I’m concerned the answer me to have a try. is yes, especially for the first third. Jacques Puisais I have been using this method for One possible explanation is the 4-5 years, and I tried it with various “Chimneystack effect” inside theSmoking could be only a mere ple- cigars. The test for this article cigar, as claims Puisais. The ligh-asure, but sometimes it could also has been led with a Bolivar Petit ting of a cigar gives off a strongbe a scientific experience, pursuant Coronas and a Montecristo No.4. heat and the smoke emitted looksto “La Méthod de Jacques Puisais”, for a way out. With the head cut,otherwise “The Method of Jacques For this test, two cigars of the part of the smoke goes through thePuisias”. same type have been lighted up body of the cigar, releasing several at the same time (using a non impurities on the tobacco leaves. Mr. Puisais, the director of theFrench Institute of Taste, develo-ped his personal theory about thelighting of the cigar. The flameemits a relevant heat, which crea-tes a temperature’s gap between thehead and the foot of the cigar; forthis reason if you light up a cigarafter having cut – or punched – itshead, part of the smoke ends up inthe middle of the cigar. This phe-nomenon obviously leads to somenegative aspects and it influencesthe taste in a significant way. His23 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
aroma (cedar) plays the main role, followed by coffee and leather. - third third - The cedar and leather notes increase in intensity. Every puff develops also toasted aromas. The two cigars show some slight differences. While cigar1 is still really creamy and plea- sant, cigar2 is the first one to rest in the ashtray. Since we smoked both of them with the same rythim, we exclude that this happened beacuse of an overheating.The part near the foot is the most Puisais Method and cigar 2 has beenaffected one by this phenomenon, cut before lighting it up.and this could be a possible reason - first third -why the first third is the most nega-tively influenced part. Cigar 1: the opening is really creamy,A consideration on this explanation with rich notes of cocoa and deli-has to contemplate the fact that the cate aromas of coffee, with hints ofsmoke regularly passes through the chocolate and milk. The aromas arecigar during its fruition. So why the well combined.problem only comes up during the - conclusion -lighting? Probably it is because the Cigar 2: the opening is sour, notestemperature of the lighter’s flame of coffee and spices (black pepper) The cigar 1 lasted 65 minutes, withoutis much higher than the one kept are highlighted. any combustion issue. I had to putby the cigar when it is lit. This the- it down to not burn my fingers.ory finds its validation in the factthat smoking very fast involves an The cigar 2 lasted around 50 minutesoverheating and, what is important, and some correction to the braziermakes the cigar extremely bitter and were necessary, to make it burnunpleasant. evenly. The cigar ended because itThis is obviously only theory, but got bitter in the last third.it is convenient to test it with the With this article we don’t want to say that Puisais Method is the cor-practice. In order to figure it out, - second third -the only thing we can do is smoking rect and the “traditional lightning”two cigars in parallel, simulta-neously. That is exactly what we Both the cigars develop the same is not. We just want to make youdid, and the following is our report, aromatic palette, and no differen- curious about it and make you trywhere cigar 1 is the one lit with the ces have been noticed. The woody it, before to think that it won’t work. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 24
Smokes from the worldCuban news 2014 all the reviews By Luca Cominelli, Michael Arlia e Heiko Bumentritt25 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
CUBA Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo de San Juan Format: Geniales Size: cepo 54 x 150 mm (5,9 ”) EUR: 14 € | USD: - Box: 10 pz (SLB) e 25 pz (SLB) Year: 2014 The Hoyo de San Juan line is dressed up with a new band, which other than reporting the brand name, has also the name of the line on it. The wrappers of this cigars have a colorado claro shade, and they are silky to the touch. The filling is generous and homogeneous. - pre lighting - The cold draw releases inklings of fine wood. - first third - It opens up with a particular aromatic palette: fine wood, spices (white pepper) and acacia honey. In some puffs, there are some piquant peaks perceptible. The base is sweet and the smoke is very refined. The strength is slightly under the medium (2.5/5). - second third - The sweetness gets more pronounced and the cigar releases notes of caramel and panbrioches. Hints of vanilla and fine wood emerge in some puffs, while the white pepper is present in the aftertaste. Strength is medium (3/5). - third third - It develops earthy aromas. In Some puffs there is a slightly ammoniac note perceptible. The strength grows in the finale (4/5), giving place to a rewarding end. - conclusions - The Hoyo de San Juan develops a very refined aromatic palette on a sweet base. The balance and the complexity are excellent. A cigar which reflects the brand and results to be very interesting. pairings 91 Alcoholic: champane Analcoholic: white tea CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 26
Smokes from the worldCUBA Por Larrañaga Picadores Format: Hermoso No.4 Size: cepo 48 x 127 mm (5 ”) EUR: 7,6 € | USD: - Box: 25 pz (Dress Box) Year: 2014 The new Por Larrañaga band is not entirely in gold color but it’s white, red and gold. The wrapper of the Picador is oily and has a colorado maduro tonality. To the touch is slightly rustic. The filling is not very homogenous. - pre lighting - There are tastes of earth and spices (black pepper). - first third - In the first puff it develops notes of earth and cocoa. Going on, it turns to vegetal aromas, with the spices (black pepper) in the aftertaste. In some puffs there are peaks of nutmeg perceptible. The strength is medium (3/5). - second third - It goes back to cocoa notes, which where perceptible in the opening, and are supported by nutmeg and herbs. The strength stays constant (3/5). - third third - It alternates the aromas of earth and cocoa. The black pepper is percep- tible again and the smoke becomes even more masculine: the strength increases in a fast way and in some puff the cigars results spiky and not too balanced. - conclusions - The Picadores develops a rustic smoke, but aromatically very rich. The cigar is still “young” and the last part of the smoke confirms all this. They present an interesting price/quality ratio and with some months of slum- ber, they will be ready to give its best. pairings 87 Alcoholic: aged whisky Analcoholic: italian coffee27 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
CUBA Bolivar Super Coronas EL 2014 Format: Hermoso No.3 Size: cepo 48 x 140 mm (5,5 ”) EUR: 11,4 € | USD: - Box: 25 pz (SBN) Year: 2014 The wrapper is dark, oily, and a little bit rustic to the touch. - pre lighting - A good smell of honey and the Bolivaresque earthiness. - first third - It starts with a big bang: intensive notes of roasted coffee. There’s a hint of earthy aromas but at the moment they’re in the background and not coming up to intensively. In the aftertaste there are spices (white pepper). The strength is slightly over medium (3,5/5). - second third - The intensity is still rising. The earthy notes are still present, paired by some dark chocolate, leather and cedar wood. The aromas are rich and the smoke is very creamy, you can almost chew it. - third third - The leather and earth aromas carry over to the last third where a spicy note (black papper) hits the palate, there’s also a touch of polished wood. A decent bitterness joins now, but it doesn’t feel unpleasant at all. The strength is high (5/5). - conclusions - The verdict of this cigar is very positive and promising. It’s a cigar with the typical flavor profile of the Bolivar brand. It’s a great cigar with a very good aging potential. If you feel unsure about them be confident that this cigar is worth buying. pairings 91 Alcoholic: aged rum Analcoholic: columbian coffee CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 28
Smokes from the worldCUBA Cohiba Robustos Supremos Format: Magnificos Size: cepo 58 x 127 mm (5 ”) EUR: 32 € | USD: - Box: 10 pz (Varnished SLD Box) Year: 2014 The wrapper is colorado maduro and it is a little bit rough at the touch. Some cigars are not homogeneously filled. - pre lighting - The cold draw releases chestnut honey. - first third - The smoke is very creamy, with notes of pan brioches and white pepper. The background is quite sweet. In some puffs, leather notes are well per- ceivable, then it turns to cocoa, hazelnut and white pepper in aftertaste. The strenght is mild to medium (2,5/5). - second third - The main notes are honey and cedar wood, with the white pepper going alongside in every single puff. The strenght is now medium (3/5). - third third - The spicies get stronger, with some hot hints. The strenght increases, but it remains fully under control (3.5/5). In the final some bitter notes are revealed. - conclusions - The aromatic bouquet is elegant, and the strenght is always under control. The aroma is not very complex though, and in the last third the bitter notes show that this cigar is not completely ready yet. pairings 88 Alcoholic: champagne Analcoholic: white tea29 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
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Smokes from the worldCUBA Partagás Selección Privada EL 2014 Format: Geniales Size: cepo 50 x 160 mm (6,3 ”) EUR: 7,6 € | USD: - Box: 10 pz (Dress Box) Year: 2014 This cigar holds the same name as the same Partagas seleccion priva No.1 discontinued in the year 2002. On the aesthetic level, those two cigars have somme common characters, starting from the packaging. Both the cigars are bounded in a yellow band. The format is pretty similar, the EL2014 is a little bit bigger. The wrapper is very oily, in a colorado maduro shade. - pre lighting - The first sensation, smelling the cigar are kind of spicy. - first third - The first notes are very spicy (black pepper), with some hot hints. . Some notes of cedar wood and earth are perceivable too. In the last part of the third, grassy notes are added. - second third - The main notes are earth and spices, the strength doesn’t increase? - third third - Some leather-notes make their appearance. The final gives out a slightly bitter vein. The strength is now at (3.5/5). - conclusions - This cigar tends to reflect the traditional bouquet of this brand. It is gene- rally well balanced, but still the last third reveals its youth. *We tried many Selecciòn Privada and the ones described in this review are the ones with SEP14 in the box code. The AGO14 are completely different: they are not rich in flavors and the strength is mild. We recommend to buy the SEP14 ones. pairings 86* Alcoholic: aged Port wine Analcoholic: brazilian coffee31 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
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PairingsKilchomanmachir bayBy Heiko BumentrittThe combination spirit-cigar has brings the same name. It is the first filtration and without any additivealways been the most traditional one built in Islay island since 124 which would affect aroma, flavorand widely spread way to look at years. Part of the barley used for and color.the world of cigars. To make it the production is grown in the farmwork, however, you should be able and malted in the distillery. kilchoman machir bayto find the right balance, make sure tastingto avoid that one of the two pleasu- Kilchoman is one of the smallestres overwhelms the other. Flavors distilleries in Scotland, with a pro- To the nose it gives off notes ofand aromas should be mixed in a duction of 100,000 liters of alcohol fruit (citrus). On the palate areperfect way, creating a combination per year. Machir Bay is one of the perceptible notes of ripe fruit andthat can enhance the features of most beautiful beaches on Islay and vanilla. It is very smoky and peatyboth the cigar and the spirit. To do is located less than a kilometer away which is the most common aspectthat, a perfect acquaintance of both from the distillery. Hence the name of Islay whiskeys. The persistencethe cigar and the spirit is required. of this single malt whiskey. is long-lasting.You can play for similarity or con-trast, but in both cases, the balance Machir Bay is the result of assem- pairingsis the most important aspect. bling ex-bourbon and sherry casks with different aging. Every year Considering the tasting notes ofThe Kilchoman Machir Bay is the the oldest malt is added, creating this whiskey, we tried the pairingwhiskey we chose for the pairing. a “work in progress” that let the with many cigars; some of themKilchoman is a distillery which aficionados enjoy the evolution of were particularly suitable for rea-produces whisky since 2005 and the product, edition after edition. lizing a pairing that is definitelyit’s founded inside the farm which It is bottled to 46%, without cold pleasant and advisable.33 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
1. Partagas serie D No.4 (Cuba) 6. La aroma del Caribe Belicoso 8. Oliva Serie V MelanioThe cigar that gave more satisfac- (Nicaragua) Robusto (Nicaragua)tion. The spices developed by the The sweetness of this cigar goes The Machir Bay enhances the toa-D4 intertwine with the peaty notes hand in hand with the notes of sted notes of the cigar, intensifyingof the Machir Bay, resulting in honey of the whiskey. The spices all the nuances of this cigar.an assonance combination. The are refined and the matching is forwoody and vegetal notes of the assonance. 9. Romeo y Julieta Cazadoressecond third are well-accompaniedby ripe fruit from the whiskey. In 7. NUB 460 M. (Nicaragua) (Cuba)the finale, the earthy aroma and The rustic notes and the strengththe strength of the Partagas are Assonance pairing that enhances of the cigar are well balanced by thebalanced by the sweet and honeyed the sweet and honey notes of both sweetness of the whiskey, which isaromas of the Machir Bay. products, creating a riot of spices able to dampen the edges of the that are set off with each other. Cazador.2. Bolivar Belicoso Fino (Cuba)The aromatic palette of this cigarcreates a contrast pairing with theMachir Bay. Cocoa, coffee, leatherand spices from the cigar are oppo-sed by the sweet notes of vanillafrom the whiskey, while spices areintertwined.3. Camacho Triple MaduroRobusto (Honduras)If you search for a mixed bombof spices, this is the perfect match,able surprise even the strongestpalates.4. Davidoff Nicaragua ShortCorona (R. Dominicana)Assonance pairing. The aroma-tic palette of the Davidoff is wellintertwined with the Machir bayone, creating an elegant pairing.5. Drew Estate Liga PrivadaNo.9 Robusto (Nicaragua)The cocoa notes developed bythe cigar are accompanied by thesweet notes of the whiskey, whilethe spices of the Liga Privada aresustained by the whisky ones, resul-ting in a stunning persistence. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 34
blind tasting blindttoarsotsinizge:35 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
The Blind tasting sees 20 Toro size cigars, or with similar measures, coming from different countries ofproduction and compairing each other. The Blind is accomplished with removing the bands of each cigar,and re-dressing them with a simple and numbered band. This makes sure that the reviewers don’t know whatthey are smoking and makes a more objective evaluation, for each cigar.Blind tasting reviewers: Aaron Reddy (U.S.A.) Luca Cominelli (Italia) Giovanni Bolzonella (Italia) Michel Arlia (Svizzera) Alessandro Bonisoli (Italia) Roberto Canzi (Italia) Kaarel Kluge (Estonia) Giuseppe Mitolo (Italia) Jeremy Lu (Canada)Cohiba Siglo VI - CubaSize: cepo 52 x 150 mm (6”) - EUR: 25,20 € | USD: - $Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaMedium bodied. Elegant and creamy. The balance and the complexity are stunning. It isdefinitely one of the best Cuban cigars.The pre-lighting is woody. The opening gives out notes of wood and spices in afterta-ste (pink pepper). In the first third notes of mature fruit are added on 93a sweet background. The last third adds hazelnut notes. In the secondthird citrus and earthy notes are well perceivable, with hints of honey andspices. The strenght is always under control.Ashton VSG Eclipse tubos - Dominican R.Size: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 15 € | USD: 15 $Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.Medium to high bodied. This cigar shows a rich bouquet, with an high intensity and amarked evolution. Well balanced and fulfilling.In the pre lighting barnyard notes are perceivable. The opening gives off notes of hay.The first third is earthy, woody, and spicy (piquant peaks) on a sweet 91background. The second third adds almond notes. The spices are alwayspresent in the aftertaste. The last third turns to earthy notes and aromaticherbs. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 36
Smokes from the worldMy father Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 14€ | USD: 12 $Wrapper: Habano-Rosado | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full bodied. Excellent evolution and outstandig bouquet.The pre-lighting develops notes of citrus, spices and wood. The first third gives out notesof panbrioches, on a sweet background that shows some enjoyable acidulus peak, withdelicate spices (white pepper) in the aftertaste. The second third adds 91wood and aromatic herbs, with hints of vanilla. The last third turns ontoasted notes (coffee), wood and aromatic herbs.Drew Estate Nica Rustica “El Brujito” - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € | USD: 7 $Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf | Binder: Mexico (San Andres) | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full bodied, with an excellent evolution and an intense aromatic bouquet. Thepersistence is remarkable.The pre-lighting gives off cocoa and spices. The opening is woody and hearty, with hintsof black pepper. The first third gives off a high quality fresh aromatic 91herbs note. The second third is concentrated on notes of cocoa andalmonds. The background is sweet and the aftertaste is peppery. The lastthird closes with honey, wood and aromatic herbs, with a spicy aftertaste.Arturo Fuente Rosado S.M.R. V54 - Dominican R.Size: cepo 54 x 165 mm (6,5”) - EUR: 13 € | USD: 6,75 $Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.Medium bodied. The prelighting is woody and spicy.Pre-lighting: wood and spices. The first puffs are sweet with notes of mature fruit andwhite pepper. In the first third there is still white pepper, with wood and aromatic herbs.In the second third the sweetness increases, with wood and spices alter- 90nating each other. The last third gives off toasted notes and dried fruits.37 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
Quesada 40th Anniversary Toro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 50 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 12 € | USD: 10 $Wrapper: Mexico (S. Andres) | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dom. R. & NicaraguaMedium bodied. The evolution is not outstanding, but this aspects is not so important,since the aromatic bouquet is incredibly complex. Extremely well balanced with a highintensity.Pre-lighting: earth and spices. The opening develops cocoa notes and 90the first third adds woods and spices (white pepper). The background issweet. In the second third notes of nuts are added. The last third addsaromatic herbs, too.Davidoff Nicaragua Toro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 54 x 140 mm (5,5”) - EUR: 18 € | USD: 16 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full bodied (3,5/5). Creamy and well balanced, with a complex bouquet andgood evolution.Pre-lighting: leather and spices. The opening is spicy. The first third gives off notes ofcocoa, wood, hoeny and spices. The second third turns on balsamic notes 89and hints of toasted coffee. The last third adds leather and earthy notes.The base is delicately sweet.Partagas Serie E No.2 - CubaSize: cepo 54 x 140 mm (5,5”) - EUR: 12,8 € | USD: - $Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaMedium bodied, a really satysfying and creamy smoke. The evolution is not wide though.The-pre lighting develops herbs and spices. The opening is vegetal and the first third givesoff wood, earth and cofee aromas. The second thirds adds herbs and black pepper. Thethird third is creamy and brings to the palate piquant notes. The strength 89increases during the whole smoke. The finale is satisfyingCigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 38
Smokes from the worldRocky Patel Vintage 1992 - HondurasSize: cepo 50 x 165 mm (6,5”) - EUR: 14 € | USD: 12 $Wrapper: Ecuador (Sumatra) | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Dominican R. e NicaraguaMedium bodied. Complex and with a good evolution. The only imperfection is the lastthird, with a marked bitterness.The cold draw gives out floral notes and dried fruit. After a sour opening, the cigar offersan earthy and spicy first third. The second third develops mineral notes, 88still with intense spicy notes. The last part is earthy and slightly bitter.Señorial Toro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Ecuador (Habano) | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Dominican R.Medium to full bodied. The bouquet is not deep, but the notes developed are rich andcomplex. The smoke is refined, creamy and well balanced, with an excellent persistence.The cold draw gives out notes of hay. The first third is spicy (green pepper) and vegetal,with hints of aromatic herbs giving some freshness to the palate. The 88second third is very spicy, with a strong echoes of liquerice. The last thirdalternates herbs and spices.Tatuaje Regios Reserva - NicaraguaSize: cepo 50 x 140 mm (5,5”) - EUR: 13€ | USD: 6,75 $Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to high bodied. The bouquet is rustic, but it gives a satisfying smoke with a richaroma. The persistence is good too.Cold draw: some cocoa notes are well recognizable. The opening gives out notes of earthand wood. The first third is hearthy with scents of underbrush. Some 88hot notes are perceivable. The second third adds planty notes and coffee.The last third gives aromatic herbs and hot red pepper.39 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
Davidoff Puro D’Oro Eminentes - Dominican R.Size: cepo 50 x 159 mm (6,25”) - EUR: 18,5 € | USD: 16 $Wrapper: Dominican R. | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.Mild cigar, with a contained intensity, but its soul is incredibly refined and pleasing.The opening is all about wood, earth and spicy (green pepper). The first third gives outrefined notes of wood and chestnut honey, with a sweet background. The second thirdintroduces notes of liquerice. The last part is earthy. 87Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial - CubaSize: cepo 50 x 141 mm (5,5”) - EUR: 12 € | USD: - $Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaMedium to light strenght. The smoke is creamy and the bouquet is good and well-balanced.The prelighting is planty. The first third gives out notes of walnut and light spices. In thefirst part notes of cocoa are leading, with spices in the aftertaste. The second third turnsto earth and wood with hints of spiciness. The last third adds notes of 87leather and herbs.Alec Bradley Tempus Medius 6 - HondurasSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 8 € | USD: - $Wrapper: Honduras | Binder: Honduras | Filler: Honduras, NicaraguaMedium to high bodied. The aroma is rich, with a marked persistence, even if the bouquetis not that rich.The cold draw is nutty. The first third is vegetal, earthy, with light spices (green pepper).The second part reveals toasted notes, with a rich espresso aroma. The 86last third gives out notes of earth and coffee, with hints of balsamicherbs. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 40
Smokes from the worldCAO OSA LOT54 - HondurasSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 8 € | USD: 6 $Wrapper: Mexico (S. Agustin) | Binder: C. Broadleaf | Filler: Honduras, NicaraguaMedium to full bodied. The aromatic palette is not too wide, but the aromas are intenseand the smoke is satysfying. The last third is bitter.The pre lightning is floral. The first sector gives out eathy aromas and cocoa, with piquantnotes. In the second third the cocoa intertwines with the green pepper. 86The finish is bitter, with toasted notes of coffee. The spices are wellrecognizable.Lempira Puros Lempa Toro - HondurasSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € | USD: 7 $Wrapper: Connecticut | Binder: Honduras | Filler: HondurasMedium bodied, well balanced and perfectly constructed. The after smoke persistence andthe evolution are both good.The pre lightning is floral. The opening brings to the palate spicy notes. The first thirdis floral, spicy (green pepper) and woody. In the second third the spices 86disappear and the aromatic herbs start playing the main role. In the thirdsector, white pepper and leather make their appearence.Montecristo Double Edmundo - CubaSize: cepo 50 x 155 mm (6,1”) - EUR: 14,7 € | USD: -Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaMedium bodied, creamy and well balanced. The aromatic bouquet and the evolution arethough limited.The pre lighting smell is nutty. The opening is grassy. The first third is spicy with hints ofnuts. The second third turns to young wood and mature fruit. The last 86third is hearthy and toasted (coffee).41 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
Paradiso Revelation Legend - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 159 mm (6,25”) - EUR: 8,5 € | USD: - $Wrapper: Ecuador (Sumatra) | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium bodied. Good balance and evolution. This is not a demandying smoke but it isgratifying. The bitter notes in the final disadvantage the final rating.The pre lighting is leathery. The first third gives off caramel and spices in a sweetbackground. In the second third a citrus aroma pulls alongside the spices. 86Some balsamic notes are perceivable too. In the third third notes of wal-nut, coffee and leather are perceivable too. A bitter vein it is perceivable.Crowned Heads Las Calaveras 652 - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 8,5 € | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Ecuadoian Habano Oscuro | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium bodied with a limited bouquet. From the half of the smoke the intensitydecreases.Pre lighting cocoa. Opening earthy. The first third is vegetal.The background is sweetwith hints of almonds. The second third is earthy with hints of aromatic 85herbs. In the final third no variation has been perceived.Camacho Connecticut Toro - HondurasSize: cepo 50 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 9,4 € | USD: 12 $Wrapper: Ecuador (Connecticut) | Binder: Corojo | Filler: HondurasMedium bodied. Well balanced, creamy and with a long lasting persistence at the palate.It lacks in complexity and the aromatic palette is limited.Before the lightning the smell is woody. It opens with cedar and spices, black pepper. Thebase tends to be sweet. In the seconds part hints of vanilla are added. 84The final third develops wood and cellulose aromas.CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 42
toolsXiKar Allumethe new line of jetflame lighter is bornBy Luca CominelliAllume lighters are made with an all-metal body and are available in three variants: Allume, Dual and TableTopIn detail, each lighter features different portability, together with an ignition system which varies in each variant.However, which unites each and all products of the line is the all-metal body, the presence of a ring nut foradjusting the flame at the bottom of the lighter and a flap for protection / the nozzles (to open automaticallyin the ignition phase).Allume Dual TableTopThickness: 11 mm Thickness: 15 mm Thickness: 20 mmWidth: 33 mm Width: 40 mm Width: 60 mmHeight: 5.5 mm Height: 680 mm Height: 590 mmWeight: 60g Weight: 84gr Weight: 182grThey are equipped with a single Double fire Jetflame. On the side Triple flame windproof, extremelyfire Jetflame (windproof) and with there is a window to check the powerful.a window in the back to control the amount of gas remained. Standardquantity of residual gas in the tank. size.Extremely compact and with a verypowerful flame..43 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
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made in italyAmbasciator italicothe italian cigar par excellenceBy Giuseppe MitoloIn the past few months, a newproduct has been launched on themarket without huge advertisingproclamations. We are talking aboutthe Ambasciator Italiaco (literaltranslation: Italian Ambassador).This particular cigar is 100% madein Italy, as reports the producingcompany, the “Moderno Opificiodel sigaro italiano”, a companylocated in Orsago (a locality inTreviso, near Venice), born fromthe partnership with the multinatio-nal corps Grand River Enterprises,canadian leader in the tobaccoindusty.The Ambasciator italico arose of this new product. The company wrapper (this peculiar leaves gua-after serveral blending attempts, to aims at a specific aficionado’s cate- rantee a perfect flexibility, and andensure a perfect taste, and a perfect gory: the kentucky lovers, those an excellent burn) and a blend fromexpression of the italian cigar con- smokers who follow the italian tra- Veneto, Campania and Toscana,cept. The distribution in the italian dition, closely bound to this rough, very disposed areas for the plan-market started in June, 2014 tough tobacco. tation of this tobacco tipology throughout history.For a series of reasons, this cigar On the other hand, it has been desi-has been associated to the renow- gned for the modern cigar smoker, Even though at a glance it looks likened Toscanello. First of all it comes who seeks for new a new, italian- an average cheap product, the pecu-in the same shape. Then it makes taste products, with a tolerable liar production of the Ambasciatoruse of the same tobacco seed price. Italico deserves particular atten-(Kentucky). But don’t try to call tion. The tobacco leaves used areit Toscanello, cause the company As we already said, for this cigar, well-aged: from 2 to 4 years for theclaims the particular uniqueness only Kentucky tobacco has been wrapper and 1-2 years for the fil-of this cigar, setting apart from all used: Northamerican for the ler. This variability depends on theother products in the market.We had the occasion to test thosecigars and to analyze the philosophy CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7 46
made in italypeculiarity of each harvest, so it’s flavored versions Ammazzacaffè leaves a heavy and long-lasting per-very important to follow the requi- and Liquirizia too. This cigar is sistence that sometimes can last forred time for a perfect aging. bound in a bright “tunic” colored more than one day. It’s up to ourAt the moment this cigar is wrapper. In the pre-lighting, nuts readers to judge if this is a point ofmachine-made but it’s not excluded (dominant), coffee and woody strenght or a weakness.the possibility to have a hand-made notes are detected.Ambasciator Italico in the future. During the fruition the cigar tendsAfter the production phase, ano- The taste is clearly bitter, but it tends to blow out, but even though thisther 4 to 6 months aging period is to flag. The few aromas are simple, is universally considered as a lack,added to this cigar, depending on but intense and well-recognizable: we are likely to judge it in a positivethe humidity level and at discretion bark (3), earth (2), pepper (1) and way, because it is proably the signalof several tests carried out from the nuts (1). These notes accompany that no additives have been used toown company. the consumer until the end. Since ease the combustion. this cigar is a short filler, it’s quiteBehind all of these choices is worthless to seek for complexity In conclusion, this is a productDomenico Napoletano, a ten years and evolution. with his own precise character,experienced master-blender in the which stands out for its robustitalian cigar world (previously in The strenght is on a high level, simplicity and that doesn’t aim tothe “Toscano”, later on with the but it never turns to be brutal, and imitate any rival model. It points toConsorzio Tabacchicoltori del what is important, is that it never the young smokers who seeks forGrappa, author of the well known hides the flavours like in some cases new products, but to the old schoolDoge cigar). His presence clarify could happen with Kentucky cigars. too. We would like to add, that thewhy so much attention is put on the italian market is by now monopo-realization of this product. Another element of surprise is the lized from the Toscano company, short-lasting persistence. As a mat- therefore the Ambasciator ItalicoComing to the tasting notes, ter of fact, after just a few hours candidates itself for being a validwe decided to review the every persistence track vanishes. alternative, trying to capture the“Classico”, though we tried the Sometimes this particular tobacco smoker’s attention.47 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
drinksMatch with non-alcoholic the roy rogers designed for cigar By Chris Glenn49 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.7
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