Don Toirac

First of all, the size — this has to be close to the perfect cigar format. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy cigars big and small, but visually this vitola just looks spot on. (6 x 52) And speaking of visually perfect, have a look at this band. Absolutely stunning. Very regal, with a classic […]

Narcos RL

This cigar is another secret blend provided by Privada Cigar Club. The Dominican Republic is renowned for producing exceptional cigars, so I was hoping this one would live up to expectations. The draw was quite light from the start, but it still produced plenty of smoke. I’d been cooking a brisket for most of the […]

Plasencia Alma Fuerte Generacion V Salomon

I don’t know why I sat on this review for the last two years, but here we go. Tonight I pulled out this beautiful cigar to celebrate my 45th birthday. Honestly, there’s no better occasion for an amazing smoke. The timing could have been better though — the rain started rolling in and my balcony […]

field scout

From the fresh draw, there is a light sweet barnyard aroma, which translates perfectly into the flavour once lit. Knowing this cigar comes from Privada, there is a strong chance of an AJ Fernandez collaboration. On this occasion, the wrapper, binder, and filler are undisclosed—and probably for good reason. Within the first 10 minutes, I […]

Evil eye

This Costa Rican toro certainly looks the part. The wrapper has a smooth, attractive sheen and the cigar is expertly rolled. Savoury notes lead from the start — a touch herbal with hints of leather and cedar. As the cigar develops, I’m getting some cereal vibes: honey-nut flakes, a bit of nuttiness, and even a […]

The 200

This example has been aged for 6+ years — and it definitely smells like it. Most cigars mellow with age, but the scent on this one is still intense: dark, rich, and very reminiscent of pipe tobacco. The draw started a little tighter than expected, though smoke output was still solid. Early on I picked […]

Focaccia Sarda

Pretty sure this one came from the Ninja Turtle pack — and if the turtles love pizza, that’s good enough for me. This is an interesting cigar. Mild overall, but the smoke is dense and almost “chewable.” Notes of toasted bread, a touch of hay, and a muted nuttiness throughout. The flavour profile stays consistent […]

Ñandysy

This cigar started off with a strong tartness, featuring tart fruit and a noticeable white pepper flavour. While the initial tartness wasn’t particularly appealing, the flavour gradually smoothed out as the smoke progressed. The tartness subsided, and subtle fruit overtones and consistent white pepper notes took over. As I continued, floral notes began to emerge, […]

Montenegro Tamagoyaki

My first impression of this cigar was of a slight vegetal taste with a peppery note, starting with white then transitioning to black. The cigar itself is nicely box-pressed, measuring 5 x 54, and features a distinctive black foot band that reminded me of nori, much like the Tamago depicted on the top band. I […]

Madonna

If you know, you know: this is a Davidoff cigar! Mild and refined sums up this example nicely. The draw starts very light but comes together quickly. The slightly sweet barnyard aroma complements the smooth and mild smoke. The flavour profile includes a slight mustiness reminiscent of meaty mushrooms and white pepper, creating a hearty […]