Inka Secret Blend Blue Robusto Cigar - 1 Single

Smoked this one only one day after buying it as my curiosity was aroused. First third was unusually bitter and dry with a slight green leafy vegetable taste. I came close to putting it out right there but persevered for the sake of science. Glad I did because after that it improved and towards the end there was only good tobacco and dry wood. No spice or pepper. No chocolate or coffee. Mild and easy on the throat. Exceptionally consistent burn and held ash for 1.5” (probably would have managed 2” but I got nervous). I'm a newcomer and have only smoked around 6 different cigars to date, but I've never experienced bitterness before. For that reason I'm not sure I would want any more of these. A sweet liquor might help (I had a 7 star Metaxa midway through which was a good combination - pity I didn't have that to hand when I first lit up).

Having first tried the Bombaso Azul Blue in the Inka range (which is fantastic) I decided to venture a bit further into the range and my next stop was the Robusto. On first glance I did notice the construction didn't seem to be to the same standard as the Bombaso but it wasn't of any great concern. The cigar had an even burn and smooth draw but the flavour was harsh. About a third of the way into the cigar though I encountered some construction problems which was compounded when I attempted remove the band, the adhesive seemed to have reached the wrapper and tore the cigar further on removal. (I have had a similar but non fatal issues with the band on the Bombaso's) I only bought the one to bulk up an order and to give it a try so I have probably just been unlucky but It will be a while before I try another.

Really enjoy the Cristales and the Robusto Red so wanted to try other cigars in the Inka range. These were extremely disappointing. Started off very woody, with no enticing flavours at all...Put up with it until half way in the hope the experience would improve...it didn't...Maybe a one off...bought two, so will report after the next one...hopefully it will be better!

Really impressed, I have been smoking Cubans for 30 years and I do not know if I have become jaded or over fussy but cant help but think that quality/taste and all round smoking experience of Cuban cigars has diminished over the years. Being a bit financially straightened at the moment I asked Cgars to propose an alternative which is why I ended up buying a packet of the Inka Secret Blend - Azul Blue - Robusto Cigars. While maybe not being quite as full bodied as a Partagas or Bolivar they came pretty close to what I remembered those brands used to be like, a revelation, well bound cigars which smoked well without unravelling, no unpleasant bitterness half way down, good draw, no "fruity or chocolaty" flavours (who would want their cigars to taste of fruit and chocolate anyway?), just good old fashioned pleasant tobacco flavour. They may not offer the full Cuban experience but they come pretty damn close at a fraction of the cost.I will be repeat buying these.

Just been to the chester branch and picked a handful of cigars up and one was the Blue Robusto and Bombaso Maduro by the look of these comments I can't wait to get going on these.