2011 Top Cigars

As the year 2011 comes to an end, I wanted to take some time to post the top three scoring cigars I've reviewed this year.  I've enjoyed smoking several different ones by different manufacturers, but wanted to highlight those I felt were outstanding.  Not all were released this year, but were my first time for smoking them.

I also want to highlight a few cigars that I enjoyed smoking but didn't have enough time set aside to review. I would like to suggest to you to keep your eye on them and give them a shot if possible.  I will probably finally review these over the next few months. And these honorable mentions are (in no specific order):

Room 101 Namakubi
Drew Estate Undercrown
Savinelli Liga Especial
Tatuaje Fausto
Zino Z-Class 500R

Now for the distillation of all the goodness I've experienced over the past year into the top 3 positions are:

#3 (tie) with a score of 93 -
Toraño Exodus 1959 50 Year and Joya de Nicaragua Cabinetta Serie No. 13

#2 with a score of 94 -
Macanudo Cru Royale

and with a score of 95, the #1 cigar of 2011 is:
The Crowned Heads Four Kicks!

Congrats to the crew at Crowned Heads for an incredible first year with your introductory line, Four Kicks!

I will be bringing in the new year with a Four Kicks tonight, what about you?


I'd like to thank all of you for reading and following me on this journey of enjoying cigars and the occasional spirit.  2012 looks to be an even better year with new cigars waiting to be tried and reviewed.  See you next year!

Four Kicks

In case you're thinking that I'm late to the party when it comes to reviewing Four Kicks, well you may be correct. However, I was one of the lucky ones to get to Uptown's Smoke Shop (first of the original 66 retailers to carry Crowned Heads) on launch day and snap up several Four Kicks. With that said, I wanted to enjoy my first Four Kicks with the group at Uptown's and do a proper review later, taking notes and photos. But with the holiday schedule encroaching, all the traveling and the parties that I must or should attend for both business and personal, let alone normal business, made personal time for doing a proper review and writing a bit difficult until after Christmas.  I can't count how many times I would get home at 4am but get up again around 7-8am.  Whew~!

But finally here is my review!

So there's a really good chance that if you're reading this blog, you are already aware of Crowned Heads and their line Four Kicks. It is something that I've not only mentioned in my previous blogs, Facebook, and Twitter, but it definitely was on the lips of everyone in the cigar industry all year long. I don't believe anything was as greatly anticipated as Four Kicks and now is the time to see if it lives up to the hype.

The first thing I noticed about this Corona Gorda was the aroma. It was an intoxicating sweetness of molasses with some spice and a hint of earthiness. Best I've smelled all year. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper had small veins and had a nice light sheen to it. The cigar was well constructed with a nicely packed foot.

Lighting the cigar was a breeze. It lit well and produced ample amounts of creamy smoke. The initial notes I tasted were the same as those I smelled earlier. Plentiful, smooth, and delicious. The ash remained tight and held on for an inch and a half to two inches.

As I started entering the 2nd third, the cigar became more peppery and woodsy while the sweetness tapered off. The burn was even and smoke was always plentiful. Interestingly enough, the first couple of cigars had issues with going out at the 2nd and final third mark. I assume that since these cigars were right off the truck, they had encountered some higher humidity being shipped from the Dominican Republic and needed some time to "dry out". I say this because after having the cigar(s) in a more controlled area for several days before smoking made this stick perfect with no need to light more than once.

Entering into the last third, most of the pepper subsided and the spice once again returned. A hint of leather and molasses finished up the cigar for what ends up being one of the most flavorful cigars I've enjoyed this year.

Before I reveal my rating for this cigar, I would like to hearken back to something Jon Huber of Crowned Heads mentioned in early November. He said that the jury for Four Kicks was still out, and when he said "jury", he meant the individual and their own individual taste. With that in mind, I decided to do something a little different. I already had my taste, my experience and my rating of Four Kicks, but what about others?

I decided to suggest to a couple of people to try Four Kicks. One is an avid cigarette smoker who may have a cigar or two a year. The other was a social cigar smoker who only smokes cigars at special events, but other than that they don't smoke anything. I told them about Four Kicks and let the aromatic bouquet pull them in. The rest, as they say, is history. They both enjoyed Four Kicks very much and have since bought more, with the cigarette smoker telling me he wants to back off cigarettes and get more into cigars. If that doesn't speak volumes, then I don't know what does.

I must compliment Jon, Mike, Ernesto, and the rest of the crew involved with Crowned Heads on a job well done. Their years of experience is evident in their first outing with a cigar that has caught the attention of the industry. I commend you all. I rate Four Kicks with a 95.

Elogio Cigars

Last week I had the privilege to meet Nabil Sabbah and his beautiful wife Roseline, the couple that owns Elogio cigars.  Elogio is a true boutique cigar company creating about 40,000 cigars a year and is currently found in less than 20 B&M shops.  And as luck would have it, Carlos Robaina (the grandson of Alejandro Robaina AKA the Godfather of Cuban Tobacco) is the master blender for Elogio.

As this was my introduction to the brand, I thought I'd do something a little different.  I videoed Nabil and had him talk about what got him into cigars and why he built the brand Elogio.  I took him upstairs to Uptown's offices and away from the Elogio party downstairs so it would be much quieter.  However, the ventilation system was picked up by the mic so it isn't the best audio, but at least it's better than trying to conduct an interview amidst the party downstairs.

So enjoy the videos below and familiarize yourself with a rather small, but great cigar company! And be sure to check out their website at http://www.elogiocigars.com/

Club Macanudo

Last week, my wife and I celebrated our first anniversary of being married.  We decided to get away to NYC, a place she had never been before.  As we were making plans for where to go and what to do, a friend suggested having dinner at Club Macanudo.  He knew people there and would arrange our reservations.  How could we say no?    Dinner on the Upper East Side just off Madison Avenue in a beautiful building where we can enjoy smoking cigars is like a cigar smoker's paradise.  It was a done deal.

We arrived promptly for our 8pm reservations that Wednesday.  As we entered the club, we were greeted by the door man, then the hostess.  She immediately took us to our seats.  En route to our seats stood the manager, Habib Alam, who introduced himself to us.  He told us it was his pleasure to have us and to let him know if he could do anything for us. 

When we were seated, we were presented with menus with a bronze-like covering stamped with the club's logo.  Inside, there were a nice selection of food choices, but the cigar and spirit choices were vast and sumptuous!  It definitely took some time to wade through the options. The club was also extremely well ventilated, which is necessary when there are so many people in the club smoking.

My wife and I made our selection for pre-dinner wine, the Maso Canali Pinot Grigio to partner with the Maryland Style Crab Cakes.  After placing our initial order, we were finally able to truly look around at this beautiful club.  It was packed, every table and chair occupied, every person with at least a cigar and drink in their hands.  50 feet away a band played "tropical" music that was heavy in Merengue and Cumbia, loud enough to enjoy but not too loud to drown out table conversation.

Our wines were immediately brought to us, and shortly thereafter, our appetizer.  To our surprise, Buffalo Shrimp and Fried Calamari accompanied our Crab Cakes as a special treat.  Obviously someone had spilled the beans about it being a special occasion for my wife and I.  We tried each of the appetizers, all of which were quite delicious and cooked properly with fresh ingredients.  With such an impressive start, we knew that our meal was going to be just as impressive.

When asked what wine we wanted for our main course, I asked our server for a suggestion.  She said the Cabernet Sauvignon, Uppercut.  She brought a sample for me to taste, and I agreed.  My wife ordered the Grilled Havana Rib Eye and I ordered the Peppercorn-crusted Filet Mignon, both medium-well.  Both of our main dishes were exquisite.  The steaks are on par with Ruth's Chris' Steakhouse (the one in Atlanta is better than the Nashville location, fyi), and better than my experiences with the Palm's steaks.

Upon completion of our dinner, and after the table had been cleared, Habib brought over to us 2 Macanudo Cru Royale Robusto on a silver tray (how the club typically delivers cigars to patrons).  After he left, the waitress came up and asked if we wanted anything for dessert.  My wife and I were full, but I did order a Remy Martin XO to go with my cigar.  After about 30 minutes, Habib delivered what he said was their signature dessert, a dish called Warm Chocolate Truffles.  They were chocolate truffles that were breaded and deep fried on a bed of confectionary sugar.  He said that we just had to try them and that we wouldn't be disappointed.  Boy, was he right!  Not only that, but they paired really well with both the Remy and the Cru Royale.  And my wife was in total agreeance.

The Cru Royale cigar proved to be a great cigar. It was a firm, well made  medium bodied cigar with initial notes of spice and cedar.  As it went along, it became a bit earthy with some coffee in the 2nd third and finished up with more spice and a hint of chocolate. There was plenty of smoke and required no touch ups.  It paired very well with the truffles and the Remy that it made for an excellent smoke that I'd highly recommend.  I'd give it a 94.

After we finished our cigars, we ended up talking to Habib a little longer and thanked him and his staff for their generosity.  They were very attentive and courteous making us feel at home.  If you're ever in NYC, this is definitely a place that you HAVE to visit!

Citizenship

I realize that I haven't posted in a while, but sometimes one becomes so busy that some things get put on the back burner for the moment, only to have them brought back to the forefront when it becomes more conducive. And that is exactly what has happened.

Therefore, I am going to remedy this by discussing a recent rum and cigar tasting event held this past Tuesday at the Nashville sushi restaurant, Virago.  Having lived in California for a while, Virago is reminiscent of my time in Hollywood.  And rightfully so as the executive chef, Robbie Wilson, used to hold the same position at the Beverly Hills Japanese restaurant, Matsuhisa.  Virago spared no expense in creating a Zen-ful environment with wood brought in from Japan to flesh out the interior of sunken bars and lounges.  There is also a rooftop patio that overlooks Nashville's skyline and this is where we were. The event was by invitation-only and extended to members of the private member club, Citizen.  The rums were provided by the distributor Horizon Wine & Spirits, and the cigars were from Toraño in collaboration with UPtown's Smoke Shop.

The four rums that were featured were: Plantation Rum XO, Appleton Reserve, Atlantico Rum, and Ron Cartavio XO.  Although all 4 were good rums, the top two of the four were the Plantation and the Atlantico.   I was partial to these two because of their notes of vanilla, toffee, caramel and oak as well as their smoothness.  All 4 were delivered neat but I do believe they will all mix well with whatever your preference.  If you head to the store sometime soon, I highly recommend you picking up one of these bottles.

The cigar featured that evening was the Toraño 1959 50 Year Robusto.  The stick has a Brazilian Arapiraca Maduro wrapper, but its binder and filler are from Nicaragua.  It's a well constructed cigar that lit easily and stayed lit (and left me with an ash of around 3 inches before it finally fell when I was more than halfway through).  First notes were slightly nutty with a bit of caramel.  It was very smooth and creamy.  Into the 2nd third, it became a bit spicier but very even, not overpowering. The smoke was plentiful throughout the cigar.  Into the last third, I found a bit of cocoa/coffee mixed with pepper.  It's a mild/medium bodied cigar that I found paired really well with all of the rums that evening.  I found it to be a very relaxing cigar and give it a rating of 93.

OSA NATION

It is well known that CAO was brought into the fold of General Cigars, but since then has remained somewhat quiet. After the dust settled, Ed McKenna and Rick Rodriguez knew that they needed to continue the quality of the brand, yet grow the company and expand their portfolio. They ventured down to Honduras and Nicaragua to learn more about the products that are produced, and started the next evolution of CAO. And from this emerged OSA Sol.

The name OSA is for Olancho San Agustin, the area from which the Honduran wrapper is grown. The binder is Connecticut Broadleaf and the filler is a blend from Honduras and Nicaragua. There are three Lots produced: Lot 50, (5x50), Lot 54 (6x54) and Lot 58 (6.5x58).

In launching the new line, CAO has embarked upon a tour that started in Nashville, CAO's birthplace. The event was held at Uptown's, and the place was packed. Patrons enjoyed the new OSA line, Latin music, food and drinks. Having recently come back from traveling up North, I finally got a chance to try the OSA myself, the Lot 50 (Robusto).

This earth brown stick with small veins had a firm construction with an earthy/woodsy aroma. The cigar lit easily and maintained a nice even burn. The initial taste had a woodsy character, but the essential oil from the leaves seemingly contributed to a slight tangy taste which is a nice change from a typical cigar. (This must be the "provocative taste" in the "Olancho San Agustin tobacco" mentioned in the press release a few months back.) It had a good mild draw and moderate smoke with the ash holding on to between an inch to an inch and a half.

Entering the 2nd third of the cigar, the mild/medium flavored cigar became a bit more flavorful with a bit more pronounced wood taste and a hint of pepper and entering into the third, a dash of cocoa. The strength and flavor continue throughout the cigar with the burn and smoke remaining constant as well. I needed to relight only once, and that was no doubt to my talking to both Rick and Ed and not minding the cigar in my hand.

I was pleased with the new CAO smoke and gave OSA Sol an 88, not bad for Rick and Ed's first creation. I hope this is a sign of things to come and I definitely look forward to future releases. And after spending time with these guys, they definitely have shown a great passion for the industry and a real desire to produce products that make their audience happy. I wish you guys the best! 

CAO girls surrounding Ed and Rick at the OSA Nation Tour launch at Uptown's in Nashville.

Bacardi OAKHEART

Recently, Bacardi sent me a sample of their new spiced rum, OAKHEART. Rum is a personal favorite of mine and I've no less than 10 bottles of 6 different kinds in my cabinet. I decided to make it a true challenge and see how OAKHEART stood up to the classic and #1 leader in spiced rums, Captain Morgan Original.

I decided to perform the challenge as impartially as possible. I spread the test over several days to allow for a fresh perspective with my nose, tongue and brain instead of trying to perform the tests all in one night and missing something. I even had my wife to help to provide an added level of impartiality.

The CHALLENGE:

OAKHEART vs Cpt. Morgan Original

The first test was the blind smell test. The first that I was given smelled of vanilla, cinnamon, with a hint of nutmeg. I was sure it was Captain, but asked for it not to be revealed until after I tried the second. The second drink smelled oaky, and had a more caramel and nutmeg aroma than vanilla or cinnamon. Of course, it was the OAKHEART that was the second.

I then moved on to a blind tasting of the drink neat. This time, OAKHEART was the first drink. It was oaky in taste, but not overbearing to make you think you're drinking Jack Daniels. It definitely had a more pronounced caramel flavor quality with a hint of spice, and a nice finish with a touch of sweet fruit. And to top it off, it was smooth, almost to the point where one would ask if it was really rum you were drinking. Comparing it with my second drink, the Captain definitely had strong vanilla and cinnamon notes, but it also had the kick at the end that one anticipates when drinking liquor straight.

My initial impression was that OAKHEART is quite an impressive drink. It has layers of flavors woven together like a tapestry and yet was so smooth that I was pleasantly surprised. I definitely wasn't expecting it to be this tranquil.

The next tests were to enjoy it over ice, and then to mix it with Coca-Cola. As one would already expect, enjoying OAKHEART over ice would be a given. Even in a glass stein taken from the freezer, this drink is good. But what about mixing it with Coke? Initially, the oak may make you think you're drinking "Jack and Coke" for a second, but that quickly passes. The rum compliments the vanilla/caramel flavor already in the Coke and since so many people enjoy fruit in their cola (cherry/lime/etc), the hint of fruit from the rum gives a nice ending. Don't be too surprised if you start seeing requests for "OAK and COKE".

The final test was to mix the rum in strawberry daiquiris. The OAKHEART again was the first drink and the subtle oak flavor to the daiquiri make for a new, refreshing drink. The spice mildly gave it some of that familiar character with which we are all familiar. The Captain daiquiri had more exposed cinnamon and nutmeg flavor, but also had that slight kick on the end.

My overall impression is that Bacardi's OAKHEART is a solid drink that will do well. The company ventures back into the spiced rum category, and does so by sticking to its roots. Don Facundo Bacardi Massó, the founder and namesake for the company, wanted to "tame" rum to make it into a refined drink for upscale taverns, and did so by filtering rum through charcoal and aging it in oak barrels to further mellow the drink. OAKHEART is just that, a mellow spiced rum that is respectable neat, on the rocks, or mixed. The one thing that Captain Morgan has going for it is the vanilla and how it brings out the cinnamon. Those are my two favorite flavors. However, Captain is not the easiest going down. And why drink something that's rough going down if there's something that's easier? Maybe Bacardi will one day take the spiced rum a step further and incorporate greater vanilla and maybe call it NATIVE, or something. After all, distilled rum came from the Caribbean, and vanilla is native to Gulf Coast Mexico (the Spanish conquistador Cortés is credited with introducing vanilla to Europe and the word is derived from the Spanish "vainilla" which means little pod).

OAKHEART is a rum that has definitely found its way to my liquor cabinet. And with it's quality, and it's suggested retail price point, it should definitely find it's way to yours. It's a velvety bouquet of sweet aromas and flavors that will enhance any occasion.

Tweet-up 2011

This past weekend, my wife and I had the great pleasure of being invited to Tweet-up 2011 in Chattanooga, TN.  Tweet-up is an annual event put on by Tiki Bar Online (David Jones and Keith Hollar), Stogie Review (Jerry Cruz and Brian Hewitt), and hosted by Burns Tobacconist/Chattanooga Billiards Club (Wes Thornton and Matt Allen).  This was it's 2nd year, and let me tell you that it was not only well done, but stands to be the biggest thing outside the IPCPR in our industry given a little more time.

Some of this year's guest list included Jon Huber (Crowned Heads) , Matt Booth (Room 101), Frank Herrera (La Caridad del Cobre), Sean Williams (El Primer Mundo), and Steven Ysidron (Savinelli).  There were also everyone's favorite reps such as Zev and Dave of Drew Estate, and Allan of Oliva and a great deal of people who enjoy a good herf.  This list is not exhaustive by any means, it's just that there were so many people there.

 

(smoking  Ideology by 262 Cigars - Thanks Clint)

The event started on Friday and the day culminated with a trip to watch the Chattanooga Lookouts, the local minor league baseball team. Saturday was the big day since most people were not at work.  There was the midday gathering at Burns East, where we helped Erin Park (@boxprezprincess) celebrate her birthday and saw Jon Pelham walk away with about 60% of everything in the raffle (followed by Kristy Lyda who walked away with 30%).  Then the 2nd session was at Burns Downtown for a liquor tasting.  Finally the night wrapped up at the club, Envy, for the afterparty which was sponsored by Savinelli (Thanks Steven).  It was there that we discovered it was also Matt Booth's birthday, and the Jager commenced to pouring.  Kind of reminded me of when I hung out with LMFAO a couple of weeks ago.  Do I hear "Shots?" 

I will admit that I didn't take too many pictures mostly because I was enjoying myself, but I did take some.  I knew that there would be several that would pop up since Burns had a dedicated photographer running around.  I also got video of Matt from Burns giving thanks to all the cigar industry guys, which was echoed by the crowd.  I have this to say about the event, if you're passionate about cigars, then this is family.   Make plans to come next year, for it will definitely be bigger and better!

National Rum Day

So every 16th of August is National Rum Day, one of my favorite days of the year.  Although I enjoy all spirits, I am very partial to rum.  Spiced rum in particular.  And no, I don't believe that it has to do with the fact that the LeRoys hired privateers.

Bacardi, the leader in traditional rum sales, recently announced that they were once again going to produce a spiced rum, called Oakheart.  Captain Morgan currently is the leader in spiced rums, distantly followed by Sailor Jerry.  Surpassing ol' Jerry shouldn't be too difficult with such a small market share and weak product offering.  But does Bacardi have what it takes to take the Captain head on?  Financially it does, but let's see how the product stands up to the balancing pirate.  I, for one, can't wait to give it a shot and share my review!

In other National Rum Day news, Bacardi also recently won a dispute in the U.S. Court of Appeals in the Third Circuit over the Havana Club rum marketing, trademark and brand.  If you'd like to read the particulars, click here:

http://www.bacardilimited.com/news080411.html

Crowned Heads partner with E.P. Carrillo Cigar Co.

Crowned Heads have just announced that they have partnered with  Ernesto Perez-Carrillo to create their first brand, "Four Kicks" and you can thank Kings of Leon for influencing the name.  

“Four Kicks’ is a concept that has been with me for over a year now. After an intensive 6 month search of the best cigar-makers in the business, it became clear to us that Ernesto was the choice to bring our vision to fruition,” commented Jon Huber of Crowned Heads.

With a release of late 2011, these sticks will come in four sizes (Corona Gorda, Robusto, Sublime, and Piramide) and have a suggested retail of $6.95-8.65 per cigar.  Can't wait to give these guys a try.

Joya de Nicaragua Cabinetta Serie No. 13

Recently I picked up the newest vitola in the Cabinetta Serie, the 7.5” x 38 Lancero.  This well-wrapped, slightly firm stick is capped with a dark sun grown Criollo head and has a lighter Ecuadorian shade with a Nicaraguan filler.  There was a nice even sheen and the veins were rather slight.  The aroma was that of earth and nuts.

 The cigar lit very easily and produced a very creamy, vanilla taste with just a hint of coffee.  This 1st third was very smooth and mild.  The ash held on at an inch to an inch and a half.

The 2nd third opened up a bit more into a more medium flavor with a bit less creaminess.  Spice notes became apparent and blended well with the already existing earthy/hay notes.  The smoke remained constant and plentiful throughout the entire cigar.

The final third became a bit milder with the spice notes mellowing.  There was a return of the coffee notes and an introduction of cocoa, and the two blended really well together.  The smoke was smooth and cool the entire smoke until the last inch where it finally became warm.  I only needed to relight once at the end around where the light and dark wrappers meet.

This was a very pleasing smoke that did not disappoint.  I give it a 93.

 

IPCPR 2011

Last week, the convention that everyone involved with the cigar and pipe industry looks forward to was held in Vegas.  Unfortunately for me, two other conventions were held in two different cities during the same week involving the entertainment industry (my main occupation).  So needless to say, my time was divided and many sacrifices made (3 conventions are a lot to attend). But on the flip side, I had a great time meeting people and seeing new products, watching new talent and finishing the week with a South Beach party where all you saw was tanned bodies and white outfits until sunrise. Then I saw my pillow until the following night.  Now that's a party!

But enough about me, let's talk IPCPR 2011 and the information you seek.

To start things off, IPCPR has a new CEO.  William S. Spann is filling former Executive Director Joe Rowe's vacancy after Rowe retired.  IPCPR president Gary Pesh said:

"On behalf of the Board of Directors of the IPCPR, I want to extend a hearty welcome to Bill Spann who, we are confident, will help continue moving the association forward in behalf of its retail and manufacturing members. At the same time, we wish Joe Rowe a long and happy retirement. He will be missed.”

Previously, Spann served as Commander during a 20-year career with the U.S. Navy, chief of staff of the Florida Office of Financial Regulation, and president and chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of Greater Florida.  He also served as part of Governor Jeb Bush’s executive leadership team as communications director and then chief of staff at the Florida Department of Children & Families.

As expected, IPCPR is where a great deal of products are launched.  The following are some that I've been asked about the most, so I thought I'd shed some light on them.

CAO:

OSA Sol:  
From the Olancho, San Agustin valley in Honduras comes CAO's OSA Sol.  This blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran filler is to be full of flavor without being overly peppery or soft and bland.  There will be three sizes (5x50, 6x54, and 6 1/2x58) priced from $5-7.  Look for these to hit the shelves by September.

DREW ESTATE:

My Uzi Weighs A Ton (MUWAT):  
Possibly one of the least surprising introductions since it was one of the most talked about on the web yet most elusive cigars is MUWAT.  A collaboration between Drew Estate Tobacco Company and Joya de Nicaragua, this sweet yet boldly flavorful smoke is quite the traveler with a San Andreas Negro Wrapper, Ecuardorian Connecticut Binder, Brazilian Mata Fina Filler coupled with Nicaraguan Fillers. Initially in three sizes (5x50, 6x60, 7x60 with a 4x44 named "Bait Fish" with a later release ), these will sell between $8-11.

Undercrown:
Originally created by the torcedores to smoke in Nicaragua while rolling the Liga Privada, the Undercrown is intentionally harvested 4+ weeks later resulting in a higher natural sugar content and a richer, creamier flavor.  There will be five variations (5x54, 6x52, 7x54, and 6x60 in Parejo with one 6x52 in Belicoso) between $7-10.

TORAÑO:

Vault: 
Carlos Toraño, Sr created a "Blend Book" in 1982 to record every blend concept on which the family has ever worked.  This book contains both released blends and blends with potential.  Current president Charlie Toraño and VP of Sales and Marketing, Bruce Lewis, revisited the book and happened upon an unreleased blend that caught their eye, the Liga A-008.  First recorded in 2000, Charlie and Bruce sought to improve the blend by finding the missing ingredient, which they found in the tobacco from Ometepe, Nicaragua, an island on Lake Nicaragua home to two volcanoes with rich, fertile soil.  This rich earthy and spicy stick has notes of ripe fruit and nutty creaminess.  Available in three sizes between $7-8 (5x52, 6x50, 6 1/8 x 52).

And yes, the rumors seem to be true, Dennis Rodman is releasing his WB brand cigars. 

As more announcements slowly become released product, you will see more of them here and their reviews as well. Until then!

TORAÑO TEAMS UP WITH DWAYNE WADE

Almost forgot to post this.  Thanks Gabriel Pineres for the release!


July 14, 2011— Toraño Family Cigar Co. had the honor of being asked to be the official cigar partner at “The Party with a Purpose” event hosted by Miami Heat superstar Dwayne Wade at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel &Casino to benefit the Kids2Camp fund.

Taking place on Wednesday July 13, 2011 the red carpet event was a spectacular affair where event goers mixed and mingled with NBA Champion Dwayne Wade and other athletes to include current Miami Dolphin wide receivers Devon Bess and Brian Hartline. Also in attendance was former Miami Dolphin tight end and current voice of the Miami Dolphins Joe Rose. The event which took place poolside at the Hard Rock Hotel featured cocktails and pork cooked in “La Caja China” which is a traditionally Cuban way of roasting pork. Continuing with Cuban tradition Toraño Family Cigar Co. was well represented as Master Roller Felipe Sosa and Carlos “Llaca” Toraño were in attendance as they cut and lit some of Toraño’s finest cigars for event goers.

Dwayne Wade stood on stage to thank sponsors and event guests for helping raise awareness and funds for the Kids2Camp fund which provides scholarships to disadvantaged or disabled youth as well as the opportunity to attend camps. As he was finishing his speech the “voice” of the Miami Dolphins Joe Rose announced that the Toraño Family had a special surprise for Wade as Carlos Llaca-Toraño presented Wade with a box of Limited Edition Carlos Toraño 2008 Tribute Churchill Cigars. A gracious Dwayne Wade thanked Carlos as he opened the box with excitement.

President of Toraño Family Cigar Co. Charlie Toraño was unable to attend the event but stated, “As a cigar company in Miami we are proud to take part in functions to help the less fortunate in our home city. We felt privileged to be asked to take part in such a special event”.

Esteban Carreras Habano Maduro Rothman

Although I've known about Esteban Carreras for a while, it wasn't until recently that I tried EC due to being  admonished that I should try their well-rated cigars.  So I figured I'd oblige and pick some up to review.  I grabbed a couple of the Rothman sized Habano Maduro to enjoy while I was with some friends at a local cigar lounge. 

This dark brown, oily, Nicaraguan Puro smelled very earthy with a hint of sweetness.  The veins were consistently small and it was well wrapped with a nice cap and foot.  And unfortunately, this is where all the goodness stopped.  But in all fairness, and with how poorly this thing burned and tasted, I felt this was a bum stick.  I would try another one a couple of days later in the serenity of my backyard for a second opportunity for a good review.

Like the first stick, this second Rothman looked and smelled tantalizing.  Lighting was much easier this time around and the first initial notes were of earth and leather.  The smoke was pretty smooth and plentiful.  Ending the 1st third revealed hints of coffee.

The 2nd third produced more leather while everything else faded away.  The ash would only grow to about an inch and a half before falling.  I needed to touch up a couple of times, but overall the cigar burned pretty evenly.  Going into the last third, the creaminess of the smoke had left, and unfortunately only leather and a bit of bitterness remained.

Overall, I wasn't impressed with this smoke, and less so with the first.  The appearance of the EC Habano Maduro was spot on, and it's smoking characteristics were good as well.  However, it definitely lost points in flavor and in overall impression.  I refuse to rate the first one. The 2nd one I give an 80.

The Crowned Heads of Tobacco

It is old news that former CAO employees left to start a new company after the General Cigar deal.  However, what may not be well known about the top dogs of the new company, Crowned Heads, is that this wasn't a move for fear of losing their jobs, nor because they didn't want to move to a new state.  The team saw the opportunity to start a company and produce products due to their extreme passion for cigars. 

The charismatic leader, Jon Huber, is probably the most recognizable face of Crowned Heads, although he is cautious about being given a title having escaped the shackles that accompanied his previous corporate position.  When introduced to the industry back in the mid 90s, Huber started learning everything about tobacco from the seeds to the final roll of the cigar.  As a student of the leaf, he is conscience of tradition and is wary of trends (e.g. adding coloring to produce black "Maduro" instead of allowing the natural “brownish-to-dark-brown" which happens when the leaf becomes mature).

With high standards for himself and his products, I think it's safe to say that everyone is itching to see what Crowned Heads produce. Working alongside industry veterans who are just as passionate as he is, Huber is definitely sitting pretty for his new release under his new label.  Let's just pray the release is sooner than later!

Acid One

Last Wednesday night was Cigar Night at Arrington Vineyards, the local winery just south of Nashville.  For those who don't know, Kix Brooks (of legendary country duo Brooks & Dunn) is partial owner and the man loves his wine and cigars.  And fortunately for us, it was Drew Estate's turn on this particularly beautiful Summer evening.  

I had the opportunity to hang with Zev, the Drew Estate rep for this area, and was introduced to a couple of cigars I've not tried before.  One of them was the Acid One.  Acid is a company I've been familiar with for a while and currently have a box of the Kuba Kuba, but the One was something new to me and was different than what I anticipated. 

The Acid One Cameroon wrapped Torpedo was neat, but wasn't quite as firm, nor aromatic, as I expected.    However, any doubt of it being enjoyable would soon be removed when I put the cigar in my mouth.  Zev told me that this line goes through a unique sangria infusion, which was rather evident.  Couple it with the sweet taste of molasses and you have a smoke that you don't want to put down.  Lighting the cigar was easy.  The draw was large without being too loose and the smoke was very smooth and cool.  I immediately detected caramel with a hint of spice which stayed throughout the evening.

Coming into the 2nd third, the spice bumped up a little and introduced a bit of leather into the mix.  The burn was steady, the ash surprisingly firm, and I ended up getting 2  inches before it finally caved under gravity's influence. 

Going into the home-stretch, the One maintained it's pace and characteristics like a marathon runner.  The medium-bodied cigar was just as smooth and just as sweet at the end as it was in the beginning.  I only had to relight once, and it was here at the very end.

The Acid One is a smooth, sweet, non-aromatic, flavor-infused cigar that was extremely enjoyable leaving me wanting to share it with others.  It's a treat by itself, or paired with a nice steak or wine.  This is a cigar that I definitely recommend.  I know a great deal of "traditional" cigar smokers say they won't touch an Acid, or a flavored cigar, and I know that Cigar Aficionado has a policy against reviewing "flavored" cigars, but I think they're a bit extreme.  Many dip cigars in their drink (brandy, cognac, rum, etc) to enhance the smoke with an "added" flavor.  But I digress, and will continue with my review.  I give it a score of 91.

Cigar Label Art

Have you ever thought to yourself that the labels on cigars were works of art, but wished they weren't so small to hang on your wall?  Well, now you can have one large enough to show off in your home or office.

Brad Casanova, a fellow Brother of the Leaf from Asheville, NC,  is also a wood carver.  Some of his wood carvings are of beautiful cigar labels, and he does a mighty fine job of it.  If you're looking for a way to adorn your wall with some Tobacciana, then check out Brad's work.  Although he doesn't update his blog anymore, you can view his work here: http://casanovacigarcarvings.blogspot.com/     To contact him, find him on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bradcasanova

Are you "Loyal"?

With IPCPR 2011 just around the corner, you knew that cigar companies would start releasing new information about upcoming products.  One such product is the Toraño Family Cigar Company's newest brand: "Loyal".  Here's their release:

 

(Miami, FL) June 20, 2011: Toraño Family Cigar Company is proud to announce the launch of the family’s newest brand: Loyal, which will be hitting the shelves this July. The Toraño family will unveil its newest creation at the upcoming 2011 IPCPR in Las Vegas.
"Carlos Toraño Sr. has always maintained that anyone who enjoys a cigar deserves to smoke a great Toraño blend at an affordable price. For decades, Carlos and his son, Charlie, have remained loyal to this philosophy of providing outstanding value to cigar lovers. Loyal provides value, quality, consistency, and most importantly, an abundance of flavor."

“Our new brand Loyal is dedicated to my father’s long standing commitment to provide exceptional quality cigars without breaking the bank. To him cigars were never a far reaching luxury, but one of life’s simple pleasures”, said Charlie Toraño president, Toraño Family Cigars.  Loyal will be available in a 5x56 Robusto, a 6 1/8 x52 Torpedo, a 7x47 Churchill, and a 6x60 BFC, all with an MSRP between $4.95-$5.50.

Displayed in attractive 21 count boxes, the Loyal blend features fillers from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, combined with a Nicaraguan binder and dressed in an oily Ecuadorian Sumatra seed wrapper. Loyal is a solid, medium bodied smoke, that intrigues the palate with a spicy, peppery start and then transitions to a variety of rich flavours with notes of coffee and brown sugar.

The announcement of Loyal comes on the heels of recent exciting news from the Toraño Family Cigar Co.  In the past 30 days Toraño announced distribution agreements with Graycliff and the Sam Leccia Cigar Co.  The Toraño’s see no slowing down till the IPCPR in Las Vegas as they are putting the final touches on yet another brand which will be announced in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

A leader in the cigar industry, Toraño Family Cigar Company is a four generation company currently based in Miami, FL. It enjoys a rich heritage and history in tobacco growing and manufacturing. For more information: www.torano.com. Please also follow Toraño on Face book: Toraño A family Cigar Company or on Twitter: @TORANOFAMCIGARS.

Cuestión of the day

Spirits: a natural compliment for any cigar.  But beyond that, the spirit has the ability to bond people together, to help one cast their worries aside, or to make a great tasting drink. With today being the first day of summer, I thought I'd present a popular summer spirit: tequila!

I first happened upon Cuestión Tequila a few months back here in Nashville.  A friend of mine owns a couple of Mexican restaurants and they carry Cuestión Tequila.  What first intrigued me was the bottle, which is in the shape of an upside down question mark (interogacion inicial).  Then upon closer observation, I discovered the name was "Cuestión".  I thought I'd give it a shot and see how this "premium" tequila fared.

A neat shot of  Añejo offered up an oaky, sweet smell with a smooth taste of oak, caramel and hint of citrus. The shot was by far the smoothest tequila I've ever had, probably the smoothest spirit.  I then tried the Blanco in a margarita and it not only blended well, but made for the best margarita I've ever tasted.  I wanted to know more and found out that the distribution company was a local company.  I was able to network with the president, Jason Fandrich and we got a chance to meet up at a local restaurant to hang and so I could learn more about Cuestión Tequila.

Jason is the sort of people's person who gets things done.  He's an instant friend, and very knowledgeable about this market.  After the initial introductions, he taught me about the process and smoothness of the tequila.  Most tequila is produced from immature agave plants since most companies try to hurry up and produce as many bottles as possible. As a result, they distill multiple times to try to smooth their product.   Cuestión comes from decade old Blue Weber Agave plants from Jalisco, Mexico that are only distilled once.  The end result is the smoothest tequila possible.  For the Blanco, that is pretty much the end of the story.  But for the Añejo and the Reposado, the trip isn't over.  Remember, this is Tennessee- home of Jack Daniel's.  The fire-cured American Oak whiskey barrels from Lynchburg are used to finish aging the raw spirit.  The Reposado will age 6 months in the barrels while the Añejo will stay for 18 months.  

Fandrich took all 3 flavors to San Francisco World Spirits Competition in March earlier this year.  The Blanco took home the 2011 Gold Medal, while the other two took home the Bronze Medal in their respective categories.  Cuestión even took home a Silver Medal for packaging.  4 medals with 3 products at your first showing is pretty impressive.

 Cuestión Tequila is a spirit I highly recommend.  As the company is still in it's infancy, Cuestión Tequila may be hard to come by in your area.  Visit their website to learn more and definitely ask your local spots about it.

http://www.cuestionspirits.com

Oliva Serie G Cameroon Robusto

I decided to review an Oliva cigar, a brand I've not tried before but have heard good things about.  I ended up going with a Robusto since we were having rain come through my area and I didn't want a particularly long smoke.  I was at the wine store a little earlier and the worker there had just received a shipment of Petra Santa Chardonnay he was fond of and recommended, so I bought a bottle to try while I smoked the Oliva.  The wine was alright, but would have preferred a Kendall-Jackson.  Anyway, on to the cigar.

 
First impressions of this African-Cameroon wrapped Robusto were pleasant.  Having a neat cap, and wrapped well to the foot,  this firm well-packed stick had a slight sweet aroma and taste and was slightly oily.  When lit, the Cuban-Seed Nicaraguan binder and filler burned with little trouble and the first draw came with ease.  Immediate was the sweet impression I first experienced earlier coupled with a vanilla-like creaminess and a hint of spice.

Entering into the 2nd third, I experienced leather and more spice.  The smoke was a bit lacking at times yet the cigar still smooth, even with retrohale. I could get about an inch and a half of ash before it would fall, a constant throughout the evening.  However, I did have to relight not once but twice. 

Into the final third, the leather and spice remained, but I did pick up a hint of coffee.  As I got closer to the head, the cigar became drier and I did get a bit of a burned taste.  On the positive side, the cigar never got too hot like some cigars at the very end.

My final prognosis is that this is a good cigar, which remained mild and smooth as evidenced by the creamy, vanilla and leather taste, with some hints of spice and coffee.  The downside was my having to relight the cigar twice and on a few occasions, I had to puff a few times to produce smoke and ended up with a bit of a bitter, burned taste at the end.  I do believe that the windy evening from the bad weather contributed to a less than ideal experience and contributed to what I believe could have been a better score.  Overall, the cigar was a good smoke and I give it an 82.  I'd like to try this again in the future and see what happens in a better setting.