Date Added: Friday 03 June, 2016
by Staff
£25.99
Reviewed by Brent Metcalfe ( November 2000)
It was a rainy, fall day when the Cubans arrived at my door. As I unwrapped the complex packaging, I was struck with that 'anticipation' feeling of wondering what cigar I was going to receive. I reached into the box and to my delight withdrew a cigar band that was noticeable to anyone who smokes cigars. I'm referring to the Montecristo band, except this one with the Habana label! The wrapping was perfect with no visible veins or scarring of any kind and had a visible oily hue. It is one of those cigars that the smell (unlit, of course) is enough to start the salivary glands going.
In my haste, I couldn't wait to try one. I did however wait until after I had a nice non-filling dinner to fully appreciate the 'afterglow' of the evening. The Montecristo #4 (5", 42 ring), lit fairly easy. I struggled with the draw though, and attempted to alter my cut just enough to give me a little more. I ran the cigar along my fingers and noted that the foot of the cigar was rolled a little tight, hence, the difficult draw. The flavor however, was just what I expected in a Cuban. Notes of spiciness that continued until I was about half-way through the cigar. The flavor intensified as I smoked it but it still didn't loosen up, to my disappointment. Perhaps #2 would be a little looser. Cigar #2 was everything I had hoped it would be . A beautiful smoke with rich spicy flavors from the shade-grown wrapper. The draw and the burn were equally consistent. Obviously this cigar roller was a true professional. I am always pleasantly surprised by the volume of smoke that a good Cuban cigar has. It is one of the things lacking in Nicaraguan or Dominican cigars, although I have had some full-bodied cigars that were worthy of a Cuban in terms of volume. The other difference of course is the flavor and complexity. One of the qualities of a Cuban that is unlike anything, anywhere in the world. More than likely, it is the soil, rich in minerals just right for tobacco growing. It is no secret that Cuban seeds grow best in Cuban soil!
Cigar #3 was a little like the first although not quite a jaw-buster. The flavor and consistency was there. I enjoyed my last Montecristo with a cup of rich dark coffee that I am sure will keep me up late tonight as there is much studying to do (I'm getting my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing!). I would have preferred a larger size cigar, like a Toro, but this Petit Corona was just enough to top off my evening. I would HIGHLY recommend the Montecristo #4. A fine cigar in terms of great flavor, volume of smoke, consistency and a perfect burn. It will go down as one of my personal favorites. Thanks for this opportunity Cgarsltd! I will not forget it, and I look forward to my next purchase from you!
