Plasencia Reserva Organica Cortes - NicaraguaSize: cepo 56 x 146 mm (5,7”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9,9 € (EU) | USD: - $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium strength. Well balanced, it has a remarkable aromatic intensity. Creamy andsatisfying, its bouquet is wide and deep.The smoke exhibits rich notes of humus and earth, followed by spi- 88/100ces, roasted aromas and wood. The base, in some puff, appearsto be slightly sweet.Alec Bradley Black Market Perfecto - HondurasSize: cepo 54 x 155 mm (6,1”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,5 € (EU) | USD: 8,3 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Sumatra | Filler: Honduras & PanamaMedium strength. The evolution is not too wide but the aromas alternates continuously.The smoke has a good harmony to it and it’s creamy and balanced.It develops earth, wood, spices, almond and roasted notes, followed 87/100by leather and peppermint, which show up in the second half. Thebase is slightly sweet.Casa Magna Colorado Diademas - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 171 mm (6,7”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 6,2 € (EU) | USD: 8,2 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaSlightly over the medium strength. The aromatic intensity is remarkable. The smoke iseasy, the aromas are few but they are well defined.It delivers leather, roasted noted (coffee) and tobacco. For the 87/100whole smoke these are the aromas developed and, consideringthe cigar size, in some puff, the lack of other aromas is felt.Royal Danish Regal Twister - Costa RicaSize: cepo 58 x 184 mm (7,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 31 € (EU) | USD: - $Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut | Binder: Peru | Filler: Panama & GiamaicaLight strength. Despite by size, the cigar is absolutely not aggressive or unbalanced. Thesmoke is refined and mild bodied. The evolution is not wide and the huge size makes itsomething which is difficult to not notice.Refined wood, tree nuts (hazelnuts) and light spices, followed by 84/100some aromatic herbs.CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 50
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Blind TastingRobusto Extra At the beginning they were mainly Toros, but now when someone talks about “Double Robusto” or “Robusto Extra” many are the cigars belonging to this format, and not just the classic 52 x 6” (152 mm). To this cigar category, we refer to products longer than a Robusto and with a length close to the Toros (usually 1cm-0.4” longer of shorter) and with at least a 50 ring gauge, no smaller cepo is allowed. This format is well appreciated by the aficionados and it is second just to the Robustos. The secret is their capability to satisfy the smoker, with an 85 minutes lasting smoke, which is perfect when there is a decent amount of time to dedicate to our passion. The second reason is their size: the generous ring gauge (nowadays smoking an over 50 ring gauge is almost a must) and the length, make them noticeable but at the same time they are usually not too fat to make the old aficionados complain that the cigar is way too big and won’t even fit in their mouth. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 52
blind tastingLa Sobremesa El Americano - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - - € (EU) | USD: 10 $Wrapper: Habano Ecuador | Binder: Mexico | Filler: Nicaragua & USAMedium strength. It develops a refined and elegant smoke, with a masterful balance.Incredibly creamy and with an aromatic palette easily recognizable and complex.Rich cocoa and spices (white pepper and piquant notes). Earth 94/100and peppermint come up during the smoke, that delivers balsamicherbs in the finale.La Flor Dominicana La Nox - Dominican R.Size: cepo 50 x 165 mm (6,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 13 € (EU) | USD: 11 $Wrapper: Brazil | Binder: San Andres (Mexico) | Filler: Dominican R.Medium to full strength. Every puff is an aroma explosion, that wraps the palate, makingthe smoke very satisfying. Huge balance and remarkable complexity. Super creamy.The aromatic palette is made of rich cocoa notes, followed by 93/100hazelnut and citrus at the beginning, leather and earth in themiddle, coffee and wood in the finale.Padron Serie 1964 Imperial Natural - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 17 € (EU) | USD: 16 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaFull strength. Great balance and intensity. Satisfying smoke, which exhibits a wide andcomplex aromatic bouquet. Long persistence. Very creamy.The first third delivers earth and black pepper notes, which get 92/100developed on a slightly sweet base. The middle third alternatesalmond and earth, while the finale delivers wood.Aging Room M365II Mezzo - Dominican R.Size: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 9,5 $Wrapper: Habano (Dominican R.) | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.Medium to full strength. Great complexity and body. Once turned the middle point, thecigar evolves a lot, changing the aromatic profile, that becomes greatly wider. Satisfying.The rich cocoa scents before lighting up the cigar are the prelude 91/100to a smoke settle down cocoa beans and vanilla. Honey, fine spices,cinnamon and earth, fulfill the aromatic bouquet.53 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
Camacho Barrel Aged - Dominican R.Size: cepo 50 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 13 € (EU) | USD: 12 $Wrapper: Broadleaf USA | Binder: Broadleaf USA | Filler: USAMedium strength. Great balance and body, harmonious and with a remarkable comple-xity to it. The evolution is not too wide, but the intensity overwhelms this aspect.The aromatic palette intertwines aged wood, earthy and roasted 91/100(coffee) notes, followed by spice in the aftertaste. The base isslightly salty and the smoke creamy.Casa Turrent Gran Robusto Maduro - MexicoSize: cepo 52 x 159 mm (6,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7,5 € (EU) | USD: 6 $Wrapper: San Andres (Mexico) | Binder: Mexico & Nicaragua | Filler: Mexico & NicaraguaSlightly over the medium strength. It develops a remarkable intensity and the aromas arewell defined and perceivable. The cigar is very satisfying.The cocoa beans scents coming off the cigar when is still unlighted 91/100are the same delivered during the smoke, followed by tree nuts,spices and bred notes. The finale develops rich spices.Herrera Esteli Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 52 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - - € (EU) | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Habano (Ecuador) | Binder: Honduras | Filler: NicaraguaMedium strength. The smoke is incredibly creamy, dense and plentiful. Well balancedand with a long persistence, it exhibits a refined and complex smoke.The base is both salty and sweet, giving off to a nice profile. Roasted 91/100aromas are perceivable for the whole smoke, followed by vanilla,wood, cocoa and tree nuts.Liga Privada No.9 Parejo Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 16 € (EU) | USD: 13,5 $Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf | Binder: Brazil | Filler: Honduras & NicaraguaMedium to high strength. Great intensity, very spicy and with a long persistence. Thesmoke is copious. Creamy and satisfying.Id delivers piquant spices, black pepper, cocoa and earth, follo- 91/100wed by roasted coffee notes. In some puff are perceivable vegetalpeaks, that fulfill the aromatic profile.CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 54
blind tastingMy Father Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 8,5 € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full strength. Well balanced and harmonious smoke. The evolution is well per-ceivable and defined. It exhibits an interesting sweet-sour profile. Creamy and satisfying.It brings to the palate wood, pan brioches and white pepper. Going 91/100on, vanilla, herbs and roasted notes of coffee come to the palate,completing the aromatic profile.Mombacho Liga Maestro Novillo - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - 8,5 (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full strength. The smoke is balanced and with a nice aromatic intensity to it.The persistence is exceptional and the evolution perceivable. Very satisfying.The aromatic palette is made of cocoa and black pepper, well pre- 91/100sent for the whole smoke and followed by roasted note of coffee,earth and fine wood. Piquant notes are perceivable in the aftertaste.Montecristo Open Eagle - CubaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 16,1 € (IT) - 14,9 € (EU) | USD: - $Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaThe strength is slightly lower the medium. The balance is exceptional, the smoke refinedand elegant. The aromatic palette is wide and the evolution perceivable. Creamy.The base is sweet and the cigar delivers vegetal notes, fine wood, 91/100honey and walnut. Cocoa, spices and peppermint come to thepalate in the second half, completing the aromatic profile.Ashton Estate Sun Grown Diplomat - Dominican R.Size: cepo 52 x 159 mm (6,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 20 € (EU) | USD: 19 $Wrapper: Dominican R. | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.Medium to full strength. Really satisfying, with a remarkable intensity. Balanced and cre-amy, the cigar has an incredibly long persistence.The start is made of wood, hazelnut, herbs and rich notes of black 90/100pepper. Going on, the spices get even richer and the last part isrefreshed by peppermint notes.55 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
Cohiba Maduro 5 Genios - CubaSize: cepo 52 x 140 mm (5,5”) - EUR: 25,8 € (IT) - 26 € (EU) | USD: - $Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaMedium to full strength. Classy smoke, with an amazing harmony. Intensity and persi-stence are remarkable. Creamy and refined.The aromatic bouquet is made of cocoa and piquant spices, follo- 90/100wed by wood in the first half. Earthy notes, honey and walnut getadded during the second part.Davidoff Escurio Gran Toro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 58 x 140 mm (5,5”) - EUR: 19 € (IT) - 18 € (EU) | USD: 18 $Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Brazil | Filler: Dominican R.Slightly over the medium strength. The balance is great and the use of Brazilian tobaccosgives to this cigar its own character. Refined, satisfying and complex.It develops notes of earth and green olives, followed by vanilla. In 90/100the middle third it turns into green pepper and undergrowth, whilethe last part is made of spices and aged wood.El Gueguense Toro Huaco - NicaraguaSize: cepo 56 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - - € (EU) | USD: 10 $Wrapper: Corojo 99 Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full strength. The persistence is incredibly long and the intensity great, allwithout making the smoke unbalanced. Complex and satisfying.The exclusive use of Nicaraguan tobacco is perceivable in the aro- 90/100matic palette, which is made of rich spices, black pepper, wood,cocoa honey and earth. A Puro under every aspect.Joya de Nicaragua Cuatro Cinco Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 50 x 159 mm (6,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 13,5 € (EU) | USD: 11 $Wrapper: Habano Nicaragua | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: NicaraguaMedium strength. The balance is great and the smoke is well refined a with a nice com-plexity. The cigar mechanic is perfect.It settle down fine wood, earth, spices and piquant peaks, followed 90/100by marzipan, which stays for the whole smoke. The finale brings tothe palate notes of peppermint.CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 56
blind tastingFreya Thor - Dominican R.Size: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 16 € (EU) | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Criollo ’98 Dominican R. | Binder: San Adnres (Mexico) | Filler: Dominican R.& NicaraguaMedium strength. Balanced and harmonious cigar, which develop a decent persistenceand a good complexity. The evolution is not too wide.Aromatic palette: green pepper, cumin, wet earth and wood, toge- 89/100ther with ANICE and rich balsamic notes.Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo de San Juan - CubaSize: cepo 52 x 162 mm (6,4”) - EUR: 14,8 € (IT) - 14,5 € (EU) | USD: - $Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaMedium strength. Well balanced and creamy, it’s a cigar enjoyable in every moment ofthe day. Elegant and refined, with a wide aromatic palette.It delivers roasted notes (coffee) and tree nuts, well perceivable for 89/100the whole smoke, followed by fine wood and green pepper at firstand pan brioches and spices in the final third.H. Upmann Connoisseur A - CubaSize: cepo 52 x 140 mm (5,5”) - EUR: 10,8 € (IT) - 12,5 € (EU) | USD: - $Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: CubaMedium strength. Easy smoke, with a limited evolution but very balanced and with a goodintensity. The persistence is decent.The aromatic palette is made of roasted note of coffee and cap- 89/100puccino, tree nuts and earth. The second half brings to the palategreen wood and sugary notes.La Aurora Family R. - G. Leon Gran Toro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 58 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 10 € (EU) | USD: 9,5 $Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Dominican R. & Cameroon | Filler: R. Dom., Nica. & PeruMedium strength. Elegant and refined, it develops a balanced smoke. Very creamy andperfect to be enjoyed in the morning or far from a meal.Roasted coffe and tree nuts are the main aromas, accompanied by 89/100fine wood and green pepper at first, pan brioches and spices later.57 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
RoMa Craft Aquitaine Cranium - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,5 € (EU) | USD: 8,3 $Wrapper: Ecuador Habano Ligero | Binder: Cameroon | Filler: NicaraguaFull strength. Great aromatic intensity and body. The cigar has an incredible persistency.The evolution, however, is very limited. Very satisfying.Aged wood, walnut and roasted note of coffee are perceivable for 89/100the whole smoke, accompanied by rich spices (black pepper) in theaftertaste.Padron 4000 - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 165 mm (6,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7 € (EU) | USD: 8 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full strength. The persistence is remarkable and the intensity is huge: theresult is an incredibly satisfying smoke. It only misses a bit of evolution.The aromatic bouquet is made of wood, black pepper, roasted cof- 89/100fee, earth and leather, which alternates for the whole smoke. Thebase is slightly sweet.Villiger Celebration - Dominican R.Size: cepo 50 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 16 € (EU) | USD: 16 $Wrapper: N/A | Binder: N/A | Filler: N/AMedium strength. The smoke is well balanced and harmonious, with a nice complexityand evolution to it. The leaves used in the blend of this cigar are a secret.At first it develops wood aromas, vanilla and spices, folloer by vege- 89/100tal notes and peppermint in the middle third. The last part is spicyand brings to the palate citrus aromas.AVO Syncro Nicaragua Toro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 11 € (EU) | USD: 10 $Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Nicaragua, Dominican R. & PeruLight to medium strength. Great balance. The aromatic bouquet is very harmonious. Thepersistence is and the intensity are limited. A “good giant”.It delivers refined earth, undergrowth, roasted notes of coffee in 88/100the first third, while middle third turns into hazelnut, vegetal andbalsamic notes. The base is sweet (honey).CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 58
blind tastingLa Galera El Lector - Dominican R.Size: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7 € (EU) | USD: 5,5 $Wrapper: Connecticut (Ecuador) | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.Medium to full strength. Balance and harmony are remarkable. The balance never comeless and the cigar mechanic is perfect.It brings to the palate very rich spices and white pepper, which will 88/100be present for the whole smoke. Around the spices, slowly pick upa woody and earthy aroma.Laranjia Reserva Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - - € (EU) | USD: 11 $Wrapper: Brazil | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full strength. Very spicy and with a balance on the razor edge in some puff.The intensity is remarkable but the evolution not too wide.The aromatic palette is made of earh and rich black pepper, 88/100alternating in continuous till the end. In some puff are perceivablepiquant peaks and cedar wood.Lempira Minister Toro - HondurasSize: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7 € (EU) | USD: 6 $Wrapper: Mata Fina (Brazil) | Binder: Honduras | Filler: HondurasMedium strength. Well balance, it develops a nice and wide aromatic palette but theevolution is not too wide. Harmonious and elegant.Vegetal and roasted notes alternates, followed by spices, cocoa 88/100and white pepper. The base stays sweet for the whole smoke.Señorial Toro Maduro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 15 € (EU) | USD: 9,5 $Wrapper: Habano Ecuador | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Dominican R.Medium strength. The aromatic bouquet of this cigar is very elegant and refined, otherthan balanced and complex. However, it lacks in evolution.It delivers earthy notes, wood and walnut, followed by peppermint. 88/100In the second hald, mineral note and incense come to the palateaswell.59 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
Tabacalera Perique Toro - PhilippinesSize: cepo 52 x 159 mm (6,2”) - EUR: 8,5 € (IT) - 7,5 € (EU) | USD: 7,5 $Wrapper: Sumatra | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaSlightly over the medium strength. The aromatic intensity is very good and the smoke iswell structured. The smoke is a bit on the dry side.Wood, cocoa notes come to the palate since the beginning and 88/100alternate for the whole smoke, with rich black pepper and spicedin the aftertaste. In the finale are perceivable balsamic herbs.Camacho Ecuador Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 8,5 € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium strength. Well balanced smoke, with a decent evolution but with an aromaticintensity very limited.The aromas delivered are cocoa and hazelnut at first, wood in the 87/100middle third and honey, mineral and balsamic herbs in the lastthird.EP Carrillo New Wave Reserva Toro - Dominican R.Size: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,5 € (EU) | USD: 7 $Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf | Filler: Nicaragua & Dominican R.Medium to full strength. Balanced smoke, creamy and with a decent persistence. Thelast third is the less performing one, with the intensity falling down.In the first two thirds the aromatic palette is made of cappuccino, 87/100piquant spices, vegetal notes and black pepper, with some balsa-mic herbs in the aftertaste. The last third involves on roasted notes.Illusione MJ12 Maduro Toro - NicaraguaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: 8,5 € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 9 $Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium to full strength, it exhibits an intense and balanced smoke. The harmony is goodbut the evolution is not too wide and in the second half a change of gear is missing.The aromatic palette is made of leather, cocoa and black pepper, 87/100which get developed on a slightly sweet base. In the middle thirdcoffee notes come to the palate aswell.CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 60
blind tastingParadiso (S. Cristobal) Revelation Legend - NicaraguaSize: cepo 52 x 159 mm (6,2”) - EUR: 8,7 € (IT) - 7,5 € (EU) | USD: 7,5 $Wrapper: Sumatra | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: NicaraguaMedium strength. Decent complexity and great balance. The smoke is dense and cre-amy. The evolution is limited but the aromatic palette is wide and the aromas defined.It delivers cocoa and vegetal notes, followed by piquant spices. 87/100Going on, wood and spices come to the palate aswell, togetherwith a rich leather aroma.Royal Danish Fat Dane - Costa RicaSize: cepo 60 x 178 mm (7”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 12 € (EU) | USD: - $Wrapper: Costa Rica | Binder: Costa Rica | Filler: Costa RicaLight to medium strength. Creamy and silky, is has a great balance to it. Despite this,the big size, paired with a very limited evolution and intensity, make it a little bit boring.It develops oak wood, herbs, citrus and spices. The second half get 86/100refreshed by balsamic and tea notes, but noting more is added tothe aromatic bouquet.Te Amo Nicaragua Toro - MexicoSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 6 € (EU) | USD: 5 $Wrapper: Criollo ‘98 | Binder: San Andres (Mexico) | Filler: NicaraguaSlightly over the medium strength. The smoke has a nice balance and a decent persi-stence. The brazier needs continuous correction to not compromise the smoke.Wet earth, wood, spiced and mineral notes come to the palate 85/100since the first puff and alternated with each other during the wholesmoke. The base is a bit salty.Vegas de Santiago Chaman Toro - Costa RicaSize: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 6,5 € (EU) | USD: 5 $Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Costa Rica | Filler: Costa Rica & NicaraguaLight to medium strength. The intensity, the aromatic bouquet and the evolution arelimited. Good for a smoke that doesn’t need too many attentions.The aromatic palette is made of spices and leather, followed by 83/100tree nuts and cedar wood. Very light and with a persistence supershort, to not say no persistence at all.61 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
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slow attitudeKentuckyhis majesty the wrapperby Giuseppe MitoloIn the past years, there have always been many In the making of this article, we wanted to have thedissertations over the wrapper leaf impact on opinion and thoughts of Domenico Napoletano, athe cigar aromatic profile. Many producers even great expert on Kentucky tobacco.pushed themselves to use different wrappers tocreate a bicolor effect (the barber pole cigars), or For those that don’t know, Domenicoused the “candela” shade wrapper to pay homage Napoletano is in the world of tobacco sincewith smoky swirls to the 17th of march, Saint 1990, when he started his career in thePatricks Day. Italian state monopoly, where he accumu- lated a long experience about cigars andIn this article we don’t intend to venture on the a complete knowledge of the internationaleffects of the wrapper leaf in the cigar recipe tobacco market. From 2000 on, with theprospective, but rather how important these restructuring and the cession of the produc-leaves are in cigars that are made exclusively tion activity of the monopoly, he founded andwith Kentucky tobacco. It is important to clarify directed the “Product Development” office atsomething before we start. The external leaf of ETI (Italian tobacco agency) and BAT (Britishthis cigars can be simply called “fascia”, escaping a American Tobacco). After a short ventureclassification and a typical Spanish nomenclature. into the manufacture Sigaro Toscano, he CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 64
slow attitude created, as master blender, the Antico Sigaro cigar? It seems to be obvious, but the integrity is an Nostrano del Brenta. Nowadays, he collabo- essential condition, that has to be kept for all the rates with the new society Moderno Opificio phases (growth, harvest, treatment, fermentation, maturation) until it reaches the manufacturer. A del Sigaro Italiano. punctured or torn leaf will rejected immediately.Turning to the examination of the tobacco utilized Another evaluation parameter is the “paginaturato wrap the Italian cigar, the biggest difference della foglia” (leaf pagination). This term includes infrom the Caribbean tobacco is the cultivation tech- a single word many characteristics, such as thenic. While in the Caribbeans the wrapper leaves size, the structure of the leaf and also the veinsare usually cultivated covered and protected from dimension.the direct sun irradiation (tabaco tapado), the Other than this, what make a leaf valuable enoughwrapper for the Italian cigars are always grown to be used to dress up a cigar, are the colors (aunder the sun. This doesn’t mean lesser atten- rich and brilliant brown), the elastic texture andtion from the farmer, that from the seed choice veins (small veins leaves are preferred to the big(there are more suitable tobacco variety for this veins ones). The finest Kentucky wrapper leaf inpurpose), has to know if those plants will grow the world, which have all these characteristics, iswrapper leaves (fascia) or filler leaves. In the first the North American one. The ample “paginatura”,case, in fact, every agricultural phase will be cor- the right shade (called in Italian “tonaca by frate”,rectly followed, with the next phases of irrigation, which means “friar cassock”), its texture, its elasti-fertilization and shearing performed to maximize city and the small veins, make the North Americanthe result for the finale purpose. Kentucky wrapper the most sought after (and also the most expensive) for the making of “high rega-But what are the physical characteristics lia” cigars.matching up the perfect leaf to dress an Italian65 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
However, the attention which flows into the plantgrowing are not sufficient enough to make everyleaf a potential wrapper for a cigar: since everycorona leaf has different characteristics, it beco-mes appropriate to choose those beneath thesubapical or median, the most balanced from achemical point of view, for the final use.The transformation phase turns then to thecuring (fire cured) and fermenting of the Kentuckytobacco. The curing doesn’t differ from the onethat would be followed for the leaves destined tobe filler, it is exactly the same, but during the fer-mentation phase is paid a lot more attention.To comprehend the reason for this choices, a fur-ther clarifying is necessary. Napoletano explainedus how the fermentation of the Kentucky leaf pro-duces a structural impairment of the same, thatwould probably broken the leaf during the rollingphase, nullifying all the previous performed work.To obviate this inconvenience, the higher qua-lity cigars are rolled and rested in a room withcontrolled humidity and temperature, where thewrapper, more humid then the filler, fermentstogether with the filler. In the case of the lowerquality cigars, there is no passage in the matu-ration chamber, and it is preferred to perform alighter and gentle fermentation, such to not attackin a violent way the leaf structure of the wrapper.Lastly, also in the Italian cigar the wrapper isresponsible for a significant aromatic contribu-tion. First of all, it is a leaf that combusts verywell, reason why a more cadenced puff let thearomatic substances being perceived quicker bythe smoker. Considering also the aromatic pro-file, the North American Kentucky is better thanthe Italian one, conferring more elegance andstrength to the final product.This quick journey into a small part of the Kentuckyworld manages to reveal how, also for the produc-tion of cigars that some smoker still consider a“B series”, the agronomy, the paid attention, thecure and the passion of the sector operatorsare not less consistent than the work made withother tobaccos, especially from the overseas andCaribbean producers. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13 66
vintageRamon Allones 898Dunhill Selecciónby Luca Cominelli The vintage cigar market is no longer surprising, not because the prices are not growing anymore or there is no interest left, but because is a con- stant rise. Among the most wanted brand and lines there are the Dunhill and the Dunhill Selección Suprema. These cigars were made before the Dunhill brand born and were sold in the Dunhill shops in Toronto, New York and London.67 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
cuba Ramon Allones 43 898 Dunhill Selección Size: cepo 43 x 170 mm (6,7”) Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba EUR: 230 € (250 $) per cigar Year: 1980 The cigars are dressed up with a colorado claro shade wrapper, silky and oily to the touch. - pre lighting - Before lighting it up, it develops cocoa and cedar wood scents. - first third - The opening delivers tree nuts and after the first puffs, fine wood, aromatic herbs, spices and rich black pepper, come to the palate. The strength is slightly over the medium (3,5/5). - second third - The cedar wood is still well present, now accompanied by earth and vanilla notes. The base gest slightly sweet. The strength is now medium to full (4/5). - third third - The smoke turns completely: walnut and aromatic herbs, together with rich balsamic notes get develops. The strength goes back to medium (3,5/5). - conclusions - The smoke is interesting due to many reasons. First of all these 898 have nothing to do with the latest produced Ramon Allones, com- mercialized between the 70s and 2002. The 898 Dunhill Selección exhibits a much more harmonic smoke, without losing in complexity. Under the aromatic profile, the cigar is rich, creamy and refined. The evolution is perceivable and the strength is under control from the first to the last puff, giving off a nice balance to this Ramon Allones belonging to other times. overall pairings evaluation Alcoholic: Champagne 93 Analcoholic: White tea CigarsLoverMagazine | No.12 68
pillszenithel primero chronomaster 1969 cohiba editionby Roberto CanziZenith, a prestigious Swiss brand and creator of Cohiba Edition is certified by the COSC (Controleprecision watches, celebrates 50 year of the most Officiel Suisse Des Chronometre) subjected tofamous and desired Cuban brand in the world of multiple days of testing, in different positions andcigars, Cohiba, by presenting a limited series of temperatures.the cronografo El Primero. The strap is made of crocodile leather, the backThe exclusive watch “El Primero Chronometer cover, also in transparent sapphire glass, shows1969 Cohiba Edition“ encloses in a sapphire glass the entire rotation mechanism.an Habana brown backdrop quadrant and an addi- The watch is placed in a wooden coffin, also thistional circular counters designed for stop and one characterized by the colors of the most luxu-clock watch; some of the of the moving mecha- rious Habanos brand, that visually resembles thenism parts are visible the watch is adorned by the box used for the cigars.classic colors (black and yellow) and images of theflagship Cuban brand. The El Primero Chronometer 1969 Cohiba Edition is available in two versions: there will be 50 exclu-Build for the more refined connoisseurs, the preci- sive chronographs made with a rose gold casesion chronometer El Primero Chonomaster 1969 and 500 made with a steel case.69 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.13
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infoVocabulary meaning of the terminologies used Anilla: paper band on the cigar, which is used to identify the brand. Calibre (cepo or ring gauge): diameter of the cigar. Capa (wrapper): the leaves used to wrap the Tripa and the Capote. Capote (binder): the leaves used to wrap the Tripa. Catadores: from the factory assigned employees, which try the cigars on a daily bases, to verify the quality. Cepo: ring gauge. Claro: tonality of the light brown color of the wrapper. Colorado: tonality of the chestnut brown color of the wrapper. Colorado claro: tonality of the light brown color of the wrapper. Colorado maduro: tonality of the dark brown color of the wrapper. Figurado: a cigar which presents a pointed end. Fortaleza: the sensation of the strength, which the smoke provokes in the throat of the smoker with every puff. Galera: a place where the cigars are prepared. I.S.: International Shape. Largo: length of the cigar. Liga: the mixture of the leaves used, which characterizes the cigar. Ligero: leaves that are harvested in the higher part of the tobacco plants and that give the strength to the cigar. Maduro: tonality of the mahogany-dark brown color of the wrapper. Medio tempo: leaves that are harvested in the top part of the tobacco plants. Puro: a cigar, which is exclusively prepared with leaves from the resulting country. Seco: leaves that are harvested in the interim part of the tobacco plants and give aroma to the cigar. SLD: short for Slide Lid Box. Tercio: ball of untreated tobacco. Thirds (first, second and third): parts in which the cigar gets divided. Torcedore: employee who rolls the cigars. Tripa (filler): leaves which compose the filling of the cigar. Tripa corta: a filling which is composed of the cuts, pieces and damaged leaves. Tripa larga: a filling with whole leaves. Vitola: module or format of the cigar with an established diameter and length. Vitola de galera: unique name which is attributed to distinguish the different formats, inde- pendent of the name which is will be given to the cigar (Marevas, Prominentes, etc…). Vitola de salida: name attributed to the commercial end and changes from each brand (Siglo VI, Serie D no. 4, etc...). Volado: leaves which are harvested at the bottom part of the tobacco plant. Fundamental for the com- bustion of the cigar.71 CigarsLoverMagazine | No.10
Sectionswhat you can find on cigarslover magazineDRINKS PAIRINGSThe better beverages reviewed and explained. The The best alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks whichnew products and the old fascinated ones, with a perfectly match with cigars. When pairing beco-hint of history. mes a source of absolute pleasure.EVENTS PILLSThe main international events. A brief article that goes straight to the heart ofFairs, meetings and everything having the cigar as the matter. A topic to be read in one breath, athe main character. small pill.FAMOUS SMOKERS SLOW ATTITUDEBiographies and curiosity about famous people of Technical ar ticles for a better understanding ofpresent and past days, that all have in common the product cigar secrets and insights of use forjust one this: a huge passion for cigars. both beginners and aficionados.INTERVIEW TOBACCO HISTORYStories of passions narrated directly by the pro- Stories from the tobacco world: the big brands,tagonists: interviews with insiders, tobacconists, the crops, the manufacturers of the past, and theimporters, collectors, and so on and so forth. city grew on the tobacco business.LINE UP TOOLSInsights, reviews and evaluations about all the Accessories are an essential element for thecigars that belong to the same line, plus details modern smoker: cutters, humidors, lighters, cigarabout its making. holders, furnishing accessories.MADE IN ITALY VINTAGEReviews, discussions and insights regarding the The world of collecting: cigars aged for decades,cigars made in Italy. The tradition of Tuscani, the the great classics of the past and rarest cubans.novelty of Nostrano del Brenta and more! The charm and the quality of the impossible. CigarsLoverMagazine | No.10 72
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