DBall's Newb Blind Taste Test Thread #2

[DBall]

2 of our newer members are going to review these 10 cigars:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2.jpg

If anyone has any ideas of what these might be, please don't share... I want this to be as fun and unbiased as possible.

They will review them at least 1 per week and PM their reviews to me. Once I get em, I'll post them in the thread and post the results.

This is gonna rock!

Cigars are going out tomorrow... :banger

[LooseCard]

Good deal Dan.

That's awesome of you to bomb a Newb or two, to broaden their experience.

[akumushi]

Looking forward to it!

[Emjaysmash]

Cant wait for the reviews!

[Doctorossi]

Wahoo! Back in bidness, baybee! :ss

If anyone has any ideas of what these might be, please don't share...

Can I share my unmitigated glee? :r

[Riff Raff]

Those are some good looking sticks! I can't wait for this!

[DBall]

Nick - Delivery Confirmation™ Label Number: 9405503699300123039078

Bill - Delivery Confirmation™ Label Number: 9405503699300123039092


:banger

Let the games begin!

[LockOut]

I love these

[Scottw]

I love these threads, can't wait to see what them sticks are. Especially coming from Dan.

[DougBushBC]

Once again, great thread Dan!

[Emjaysmash]

Once again, great thread Dan!

Haha! Doug's sold and it hasn't even started yet!

[E.J.]

YES! Look forward to another round.....

Dan, BIG THANKS for doing this(again).......

[DBall]

They are all dog rockets... cremosa's, fighting c0cks, etc. Poor bastards. :D

[DBall]

Can I share my unmitigated glee? :r

Yes... and I'm gonna share some glee with you if you show up this saturday. You've been warned. :D :D :D

[Riff Raff]

They are all dog rockets... cremosa's, fighting c0cks, etc. Poor bastards. :D

I will just make sure that I drink plenty of single malt everytime I smoke one! It sure as hell couldn't hurt right? :r

[Goldie]

I really enjoyed reading the first one Dan. Definitely an awesome idea, and kind gesture for a few of the newbs.

[irklak]

Fantastic idea! Looking forward to see the results.

[DBall]

Fantastic idea! Looking forward to see the results.

in the interim, feel free to read the first installment:

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=21549

[Doctorossi]

in the interim, feel free to read the first installment

Don't just feel free; feel compelled! :ss

[TheStatsGuy]

Don't just feel free; feel compelled! :ss

You had better be staying longer than last time for the Albany herf! and you know what I'm talkin bout!

The first installment was great and I'm looking forward to the second season of this must see TV.

Hope to finally meet you on Saturday Dan, we missed you last time! :ss

[Mark]

Lookin good Dan! I have a good idea as to what at least two of them are... can't wait to read the reviews :tu

[NeuRon]

i have a good idea what all of them are... hrmmmmm lol

[Doctorossi]

You had better be staying longer than last time for the Albany herf! and you know what I'm talkin bout!

Yes, sir! I'm arriving at noon and you're gonna have to pry me out of there with a garden spade. :ss

[Riff Raff]

Dan, mine arrived safe and sound and are now resting in my humidor. I would like to give them some time to settle down before we start.

When did you have in mind for the first review?

[Montano]

Mine arrived today. Resting, and awaiting instructions to begin :D

[Smokin Gator]

I loved the first installment and can't wait for this one!! Thanks for doing it again Dan.

[DBall]

Well... you can wait until next week if you feel you need to... let's say the first one is due by next Sunday, maybe?

[Montano]

Well... you can wait until next week if you feel you need to... let's say the first one is due by next Sunday, maybe?

Superbowl Sunday ? I better do mine by Friday, because Superbowl weekend starts Friday afternoon ;)

[Mr.Erskine]

Looks like fun

[Riff Raff]

Superbowl Sunday ? I better do mine by Friday, because Superbowl weekend starts Friday afternoon ;)

Hehe. I know what you mean Nick.

Dan, I will have mine done by Saturday. That way you can post them on Sunday!:)

[Deputy]

These taste tests are fun! Especially for noobs like me that still dont have a pallate yet :)

[Montano]

I got mine done early. Review submitted :)

[Riff Raff]

I got mine done early. Review submitted :)

Holy Cow! You are making me look bad Nick! I will get mine done today or tomorrow!

[DBall]

Holy Cow! You are making me look bad Nick! I will get mine done today or tomorrow!

Damn... slacker. :p

Hahaha

[yourchoice]

Alright! I look forward to seeing how this pans out. WTG Dan.

[Zanaspus]

Dan, I just wanted to convey to you that even with all the good information, fellowship, and brotherhood I've encountered on my short time on this board, your newb tastings have brought me more entertainment than anything else I've encountered here, and that's no mean feat. Thumbs up brother. :tu

[Salvelinus]

Thanks for doing this again Dan. Really enjoyed the first installment.

[DBall]

Thank you guys for all the kind words... I really love doing these things... :)

[Riff Raff]

Review is in!

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #1
**************

This cigar has the feel of a slight box press. Pre-light draw was very tight and did not give any flavor.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/blind1.jpg

The first 3rd did not produce any discernible flavors. I had to stay on top of it to keep it lit. I can only imagine that this is what it would be like to try and suck a golf ball through a garden hose.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/blind2.jpg

Heading into the 2nd third, I knew I would need some help if I was going to finish this smoke. I headed inside to grab a bottle of bourbon and my super secret cigar poker. I stabbed this thing 3 times, but it still had a tight draw.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/blind3.jpg

Continuing on, it was much of the same. No flavor to speak of, and my cheeks were getting a bit sore. A refill on the bourbon seemed to help a little.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/blind4.jpg

Heading down the home stretch, I can honestly say I couldn't wait for this to end. The only thing I can compare it to, would be smoking an old pizza box. It got a bit harsh towards the end, and reminded me of smoking a cigarette, which I haven't done in 20 years.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/blind5.jpg

On a 1 to 10 scale, I would have to give this baby a -1.

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #1
*************

Okay, here we go. First off, I want to apologize for the picture quality! These were taken from my phone while driving home from work. It was an overcast day. On to the good stuff!

On my hour commute home, I had to play catchup to Nick's lead. First cigar is about a 5 X 42 from my calibrated eyeball. Nice wrapper. No visible veins but you can see a few under the wrapper. No biggie so far.
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00023Medium.jpg
I cut the triple cap and tested the draw. Very firm draw. Too firm for my liking. The kind where your cheeks cave in. Pre-light draw gives me notes of hay. Okay, here we go:

The first puff is pepper. Not much smoke due to the firm draw. I am hoping that this will loosen up a bit as I smoke it. There is an underlying hint of cedar as well.

The first third gave me more pepper and cedar with earthy undertones. Not a bad smoke so far except for the draw. Nice even burn.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00025Medium.jpg

Second third: More cedar and hints of oak. Lots of sweet tobacco. Still too firm on the draw. Still not a lot of smoke. On the retrohale I noticed something odd. Flavors of toasted coconut. I know it sounds weird. But none the less it was there just for a split second.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00026Medium.jpg

Last Third: The wrapper split right around the band area. The cigar finally loosened up a bit. Which is a good thing because I was getting a little frustrated. Lots of sweet tobacco and cedar with a bit of spice.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00027Medium.jpg

Here is the split.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00028Medium.jpg

Over all impression: Not a bad smoke but it had some draw issues and it split pretty significantly. I kept it in my humi for a week at 61 to 62% RH. If the draw were better, I would buy this cigar. I would probably dry box it for a day or two if I had the chance to smoke one again. I give it an 8.0 due to the draw issues and the splits.

So there it is.

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-01.jpg

2008 El Rey Del Mundo Lunch Club

Montano score: -1
Riff Raff score: 8

Damn... what a difference in opinion, eh? -1 to 8... wow... maybe Mr. Riff Raff here is a bit more forgiving!

I like these with age (about 7-10 years or so)... the new ones haven't really impressed me as I thought they would (or as much as other recent productions offerings from this marca... like the GdE, for instance), but enough that I probably wouldn't give it a negative score.

I hope the rest are better for ya... think of it this way, Nick, it can only get better... right? :)

[E.J.]

Classic start.... I actually laughed out loud.....

Good stuff.....

[MedicCook]

Nice start to the reviews. :tu

[Riff Raff]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-01.jpg

2008 El Rey Del Mundo Lunch Club

Montano score: -1
Riff Raff score: 8

Damn... what a difference in opinion, eh? -1 to 8... wow... maybe Mr. Riff Raff here is a bit more forgiving!



I do tend to be forgiving. But there were some good flavors in mine. Maybe they are just inconsistant? This is gonna be fun! Thanks again Dan for the opportunity!

[Montano]

Very very interesting ;)

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Maybe the next cigar will be better for you Nick:tu

[Bax]

Great revews so far! :D

[Riff Raff]

#2 is in!

[Montano]

#2 is in!

Now I'm lagging :)

I'll do it this afternoon since the sun is shining today ;)

[yourchoice]

Interesting first result.

Question for Nick and Bill, do either of you snork/retrohale/nasal exhale? I'm curious as I'm reading the comparative reviews. Thanks!

[weak_link]

Gogogogogogogo!!!!!!!!!!

[Montano]

Interesting first result.

Question for Nick and Bill, do either of you snork/retrohale/nasal exhale? I'm curious as I'm reading the comparative reviews. Thanks!

I do a nasal exhale on occasion.

[JJG]

that's disappointing, it seems like both reviews were negatively influenced by the too tight draw. I had no draw issues when I smoked one of these last weekend. guess I should consider myself lucky!

[Smokin Gator]

Nice start guys. One of the great things about these reviews are the similarities and differences of opinion. We certainly saw those in the first review.

[DBall]

Montano cigar #2
**************

This is an interesting looking lancero. There are a few veins running through a rough looking wrapper. Pre-light draw was smooth.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk1.jpg

The initial draw brought a nice amount of creamy smoke. The wrapper has an odd burn pattern to it, as if it lifts up from the filler. The creamy smoke continues to fill my palate.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk2.jpg

I noticed something dripping off the cap, so I took a look and saw a lot of tar. I touched my finger to it and it left a nice mark. The creamy smoke was now giving off a nice almond flavor. I'm taking my time with this one, and so far so good.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk3.jpg

The burn remained even throughout, and the nice amount of smoke continued, even with the tar buildup. I just wiped off the end every few draws.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk4.jpg

The last 3rd of this one gave me a light butter flavor. It mixed nicely with the creamy almond I was getting before. This cigar smoked much better than the first.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk5.jpg

All in all this wasn't a bad smoke. I would consider it a very mild cigar, with decent flavors. I give it a 6 out of 10.

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #2
**************

Okay so when I saw this little number, I didn't know if it was a cigar or one of those crunchy bread sticks you get at some Italian food restaurants. This is one delicate cigar. I estimate the size with by calibrated eyeball to be about a 6.5 inch X 24 ? Hmm...
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2631Small.jpg
Nice construction. Maybe a bit veiny but no big deal. I clipped the cap with my Palio and tested the draw. Oh hell. Here we go again. A tight draw, but not as tight as last weeks. A little bit of hay could be tasted on the pre-light.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2633Small.jpg

First Third: A nice dark gray ash. A bit earthy with a hint of spice. The ash holds for about an inch before falling. The ash was doing a weird elephant trunk deal where it would curl up.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2635Small.jpg

Second Third: The retro-hale added a bit of a toasty element of the cigar. The earthiness held and some sweet tobacco flavors were coming through. The volume of smoke was lacking, but I counted that to the tight draw.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2636Small.jpg

Last Third: It went out. I mean there was no hint of it dying. It just went out! Bam! After relight and purge the sweet tobacco flavor was more prominent and some spice started to kick in. The volume of smoke increased exponentially! Hurray! The draw loosened up! Now we are getting somewhere!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2638Small.jpg

Overall impression: Not a bad smoke. It had some draw issues until the last third. It had a pretty even burn and a nice clean finish.

Would I buy this again? Probably not. A big fat ole Ralph Cramden looking guy like myself smoking a bread stick just doesn't look right!

I give this one an 8.5

If I were to guess, I would say a habano.

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-02.jpg

2002 La Gloria Cubana MdO #3

Montano score: 6
Riff Raff score: 8.5

Damn Nick, you're insatiable... :D

Honestly, I love these things. Most of them have a pretty good draw...

[Riff Raff]

Interesting first result.

Question for Nick and Bill, do either of you snork/retrohale/nasal exhale? I'm curious as I'm reading the comparative reviews. Thanks!

I do. I do it with every cigar I smoke. Some are more painful than others, but I do indeed. There are lots of flavors missed if you don't. The Admiral schooled me into "snorking"!

[DBall]

So what do you guys think now that you know? Have you ever smoked an LGC before? Is this the oldest habano you've had? Discussions, people... sheesh :p

[Riff Raff]

My exposure to habanos is extremely limited. I have never had a Cuban LGC. I thought there were some great flavors there, but like I said in my review I would have enjoyed it a lot more if the draw were better.

Any more in the bunch that I should consider dry-boxing before smoking? :)

[NeuRon]

My exposure to habanos is extremely limited. I thought there were some great flavors there, but like I said in my review I would have enjoyed it a lot more if the draw were better.

I think you guys need to realize that cubans tend to generally have tighter draws then non cubans.. If your used to non cubans, you might think its a tight draw, but it isnt.. Im VERY familiar with these, and unless you just got a dud; they are naturally a little tighter due to the thinner format as well

[RightAJ]

I think you guys need to realize that cubans tend to generally have tighter draws then non cubans.. If your used to non cubans, you might think its a tight draw, but it isnt.. Im VERY familiar with these, and unless you just got a dud; they are naturally a little tighter due to the thinner format as well

When I started smoking CCs I thought the same thing, but realized that they're just a different animal all together. I no appreciate a more firm draw... though plugged is plugged :td

aj

[Riff Raff]

When I started smoking CCs I thought the same thing, but realized that they're just a different animal all together. I no appreciate a more firm draw... though plugged is plugged :td

aj

Ahh the joys of being a CC newb! :) I guess I am going to have to correct that then won't I?

[NeuRon]

Ahh the joys of being a CC newb! :) I guess I am going to have to correct that then won't I?

just smoke more habanos.. that should fix that problem

[Montano]

I think in total, this makes 4 CC's for me. So if that's not n00b, I don't know what is. I am not a huge fan of lanceros either, but I'm learning to like them. I too think I look silly @ 6'2" and 220 pounds, sucking on a pencil. But lanceros have been good on the flavor end of things.

[DBall]

Ahh the joys of being a CC newb!


I think in total, this makes 4 CC's for me.



just smoke more habanos.. that should fix that problem

I love this thread... ;) :D :r

[NeuRon]

I am not a huge fan of lanceros either, but I'm learning to like them. I too think I look silly @ 6'2" and 220 pounds, sucking on a pencil. But lanceros have been good on the flavor end of things.

Its not a Lancero, its a Slim Panatella

And second of all, i think your not understanding the true reason of smoking

Who the hell cares what you look like when your smoking. You smoke to look cool?

Smoke to enjoy the finer things in life, and the camaraderie of the Brotherhood.

Im 6 foot 300+, and i doubt anybody is going to tell me i look silly smoking these.. But even if they do, they probably aren't smoking anything worth mentioning if they are concerned with my looks

[JJG]

:tpd:

I've never thought of cigar smoking as cool looking in the first place. I'm sure a lot of people see a guy smoking a cigar and automatically think "he must be an a-hole". but since there aren't many places I can smoke in public here anyway, I don't usually take it into consideration.

Montano has a point though. As a skinny person, I feel a little silly smoking a big huge cigar, even if I'm by myself. 52+ cigars just don't fit my face. but how could you not feel like a badass smoking a LGC #3? They're just so old school and smooth looking.

[Riff Raff]

:tpd:

Montano has a point though. As a skinny person, I feel a little silly smoking a big huge cigar, even if I'm by myself. 52+ cigars just don't fit my face. but how could you not feel like a badass smoking a LGC #3? They're just so old school and smooth looking.


I can't speak for Nick, but as for myself, it isn't about what other people think! If that were the case I would get a haircut, stop wearing my earring and drop 100 lbs! :su

The "slim panatella" is just too damn delicate of a cigar for me. I feel like I might break the damn thing while I am smoking it.

[MTBAlex]

Wow. awesome test. i already read the first installment and now waiting on te second.

[JJG]

I love these threads too. can't wait to see what's next.

[Montano]

Its not a Lancero, its a Slim Panatella

And second of all, i think your not understanding the true reason of smoking

Who the hell cares what you look like when your smoking. You smoke to look cool?

Smoke to enjoy the finer things in life, and the camaraderie of the Brotherhood.

Im 6 foot 300+, and i doubt anybody is going to tell me i look silly smoking these.. But even if they do, they probably aren't smoking anything worth mentioning if they are concerned with my looks

Lancero... Slim Panatela.... I imagine that's why this is the Newb BTT, and not the All Knowing BTT :)

I smoke for many reasons, which should concern no one but myself. However, the way a cigar fits in my hand and mouth are all part of the total smoking experience. At this point I just don't care for the pencil feeling when I'm smoking.

[NeuRon]

I smoke for many reasons, which should concern no one but myself..

well not for nothing, but this is a forum, where people post their opinions thousands and thousands of times a day.. I can assure you that im not concerned, just a tad baffled..

Holding a small cigar is understandedly hard (i have gorilla mitts for hands), and thats a valid excuse (i guess i just got used to it), but you DID mention you didnt like the fact that you looked stupid.. And as stated earlier, thats still the worst excuse ive ever heard to stop smoking a cigar, lol

[DBall]

(i have gorilla mitts for hands)

The above statement is confirmed true. :D

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #3
**************

This cigar has a couple noticeable veins running through it. The wrapper is a bit wrinkled. I clipped it with my v-cutter, and pre-light draw was nice and smooth.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig31.jpg

It starts off with a nice meaty tobacco flavor. I'm getting large volumes of smoke from a smooth, easy draw. The burn is a bit uneven, but it corrects itself.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig32.jpg

The ash was nice and strong on this one. It held for about 2 inches. The second 3rd had me tasting a nutty almond. I was exhaling some thick white smoke.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig33.jpg

As I moved towards the finish, the almond flavor picked up a bit. I was enjoying this smoke, and taking my time with it. The nice sunshine really made things come together.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig34.jpg

I think this was a mild cigar, with some nice flavor to it. I wouldn't mind smoking another one. I give it a 7.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig35.jpg

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #3
*************

A cold and rainy day here in the Carolinas! Not very conducive to stogie smoking outside! But taking one for the team, I soldier on!
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2661Small.jpg

Calibrated eyeball says that this ugly little stick is about 6 X 44. Very rustic looking. Reminds me of how a Macanudo Ascot looks like. Bumpy, veiny but a nice colored wrapper. Snip the cap and the pre-light draw tastes of hay.

So let's toast and light this puppy up!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2663Small.jpg

First puff; metallic tasting. I have a filling in one of my molars and it is ringing. Not the type like when you bite down on some tinfoil on a filling. But close. There is a hint of cedar and licorice as well. A great draw with lots of smoke. A flaky dark gray ash as well. I would call this a mild-medium bodied smoke.

1/3rd: A dominant cedar taste. Still a bit of the metallic taste as well. The retro-hale gives off a bit of leather and cedar.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2664Small.jpg

2/3rd: The ash fell just after taking the above pic. So I took this opportunity to purge. Some hay is present as is the cedar. There were also brief tastes of roasted meat. I have never tasted that before in a cigar. I hope the torcedor didn't leave the tip of his/her finger in there or anything!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2665Small.jpg

3/3rd: Lots of cedar! There is also some sweet tobacco as well. This has moved to a medium bodied smoke. It is starting to get a bit hot and some bitterness is creeping in. Some pepper as well.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2667Small.jpg

Overall impression: Not a bad smoke. It ain't pretty, but it smokes okay. Cedar was definitely the predominant flavor throughout the whole smoke. It had a lingering finish that was nice. I rate this at an 8.6. I might buy this smoke. Kind of on the fence on this one.

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-03.jpg

1998 Fonseca Cosaco

Montano score: 7
Riff Raff score: 8.6

It was hard for me to even put these into this BTT, considering I don't have many left and how much I absolutely adore them... great morning sticks with a light coffee.

So is this the oldest habano you've smoked to date? What do you think now that it's identity is revealed?

We're moving right along here, it seems!

[MTBAlex]

wow 1998 cigs.

great reviews!

[issues]

Great thread!

I really enjoyed the first one so this one is a real treat...

'98s Dan?!?!?

:O

Your generosity is incredible!

[Riff Raff]

Wow! A twelve year old habano? I am impressed Dan! Being a newb to CCs it could be my unrefined palate that hinders my true appreciation of the finer stogies. It was a good smoke, but honestly I wouldn't say it wowed me. Three CCs in a row! Holy cow! You are pulling out all the stops here! Each new smoke in this blind taste test is the highlight of my week!

[Montano]

Without a doubt the oldest CC I've had :)

Perhaps the age is why it appeared old and wrinkled :D

It was a decent smoke, just nothing to write home about. I would smoke it again.

[RevSmoke]

Montano - good choice for a bourbon, Buffalo Trace is enjoyable.

[cigarz]

Great thread guys, keep up the good work. This is the first thread I hit when I log on to the site.

Thanks again!

[Nimbus]

Bill's first review; driving, smoking and taking pics at the same time scared the daylights out of me. :eek:

Very generous selection of cigars Dan. :tu

[E.J.]

LOVE THESE THREADS!!!!!

Dan, I tip my hat to you.... FINE JOB!

[Montano]

I'm ready to smoke #5, but I don't see the reviews for #4 yet :)

[MTBAlex]

when is the next review?? *waiting*

[DBall]

I'm ready to smoke #5, but I don't see the reviews for #4 yet :)


That's because your counterpart is slackin'...

[Riff Raff]

? Wow. I thought we were doing one a week. My Bad. I have smoked # 4 and written the review. It will be up tonight. Promise, cross my heart and all that junk.

[DBall]

? Wow. I thought we were doing one a week. My Bad. I have smoked # 4 and written the review. It will be up tonight. Promise, cross my heart and all that junk.


I'm only pickin' on ya. 1/week is what I was aiming for... more is ok, but one a week will make it stretch out a bit more :D

[Riff Raff]

Okay, okay. #4 is up! Quit your bellyaching!:ss

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #4
**************

This cigar has some nice color to it. The wrapper has some rough edges on the cuts, seems to be from the veins. Pre-light draw was tight, and gave a basic tobacco flavor. The foot was also missing a small portion of the wrapper.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk41.jpg

Initial flavor was not much of anything. Light amounts of smoke coming from the tight draw. I stabbed it with my poker, and that helped a bit. The first 3rd burned very uneven, but started to fix itself as the cigar progressed.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk42.jpg

Not much changed as it moved to the second 3rd. Just a basic tobacco flavor, with minimal amounts of smoke. The burn was now even, and slow.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk43.jpg

The cigar finished up much the same way it started, not a whole lot of flavor. If I had to guess, which of course I am, I would say this is the first NC cigar of the bunch. It wasn't a bad smoke, but I would not seek out more of them.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/unk44.jpg

This was a mild smoke, and I would give it a 5.

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #4
**************

Okay. Almost halfway through this and here we have a real beauty of a cigar. Check this gem out:

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2701Small.jpg

A gorgeous corojo wrapper that is nice and velvety! It has that nice redish brown and the pre-light draw is perfect with tastes of sweet tobacco and hay.

First light: Oh My! Nice tastes of coffee and chocolate with some sweet spice thrown in. I think I am in for a treat!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2702Small.jpg

1/3rd: Spice with some pepper. The burn is a bit uneven but nothing to complain about. There is a nice lingering finish. The retro-hale gives some nice woody and toasted coconut flavors. TONS of smoke from this perfect draw. The ash held for about 1.5 inches.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2703Small.jpg

2/3rd: The flavor has changed to a nice woody flavor. If I had to pin it down, I would (no pun intended) say deciduous, not evergreen. Oak. There is still some pepper and spice there as well. Retro-hale still has a toasty flavor. Very nice. The aroma this stogie gives off smells of chocolate a bit.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2704Small.jpg

3/3rd: Still a dominate oak flavor with some earthy overtones. The retro-hale gave off more of those toasted coconut flavors.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2705Small.jpg

I nubbed this little beauty and got plenty of cedar mixed in with the earthiness.

Overall: This was a damn fine cigar. Definitely medium-full bodied and LOTS of flavorful smoke. The draw was consistently perfect throughout. Would I buy this cigar? You're damn right I will. I loved this stick! Best one of the lot so far. I give it a 9.4!

That is all!

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-04.jpg

2007 Romeo y Julieta Corona

Montano score: 5
Riff Raff score: 9.4

Now I just think that Nick does not like habanos...

[issues]

What they smoked:

2007 Romeo y Julieta Corona

Montano score: 5
Riff Raff score: 9.4

Now I just think that Nick does not like habanos...

I would agree.

From Bill's review it sounds like an amazing smoke...

I wonder if Nick's was a little over-humidified.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/issues1975/emocons/dunno.gif

[weak_link]

I don't think I need to worry about Nick buying up all the cc's. :r

[MTBAlex]

lol. that is such a contrasting review. still excellent read.

[Riff Raff]

This stick definitely had that WOW factor for me! The RH in my humi is right about 62%. So the habanos really seem to like it I guess! I am starting to get what smoking CC's is all about! Me Like!!!!:dr

[Montano]

Now I just think that Nick does not like habanos...

Perhaps that's a good thing, since I probably couldn't afford them :D

[DBall]

Perhaps that's a good thing, since I probably couldn't afford them :D


Shizz.. they are typically cheaper than NCs. That one was $4.52... :tu

[NeuRon]

Shizz.. they are typically cheaper than NCs.


True Statement...

but by all means, continue to hate the habanos.. :)

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

True Statement...

but by all means, continue to hate the habanos.. :)


More for us:D

[Riff Raff]

Numero cinco is up!

[Ferrari5180]

It fascinates me how the both of you have completely different experiences and tastes. Keep up the good work and the interesting posts.

[Montano]

Numero cinco is up!

I just need to upload the pics and I'll be done also. Hopefully this afternoon...

[Riff Raff]

:hm

[DBall]

Yup... they are both in my inbox. Gotta run to the doctors office and I'll put em up after that.

[ir13]

Yup... they are both in my inbox. Gotta run to the doctors office and I'll put em up after that.

:tt :D

[Riff Raff]

Works for me. Good luck at the Dr.'s Office!

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #5
**************

This was a light colored cigar with a somewhat veiny wrapper. Per-light draw was a touch on the tight side. I got notes of meaty tobacco.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig51.jpg

The first draw fills my mouth with a very nice caramel flavor. I'm instantly reminded of the See's Caramel Chews that I love so much. I think this one is gonna be good !

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig52.jpg

The draw remains a bit tight, so I used my poker to try and get things going. As I moved to the 2nd third of this cigar, the very nice chewy caramel flavor remains. I'm not getting a ton of smoke, but what I do get is very flavorful.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig53.jpg

The burn was nice and even, and quite slow. I was taking my time with this one and really enjoying each draw. As I moved towards the final 3rd, the caramel flavor started to give way to a nice vanilla note.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig54.jpg

This was a very enjoyable smoke. The flavor profile was one that I could go for time after time. I consider it a mild smoke with lots of flavor.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig55.jpg

I give this baby an 8.5

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #5
*************

Okay, the halfway point. Here we go:

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2711Small.jpg

Not exactly a gorgeous stick, but not horrible either. A bit rustic with a natural wrapper that is a bit toothy nearer the foot. My calibrated eyeball estimates it to be about a 6" X 42. There are some nicks in the wrapper and there is a small wrinkle from when it was wrapped.

Pre-light: Nice firm draw that tastes of hay.

First light: Some hay flavors and a slight hint of toast. There is a nice dark gray ash and lots of smoke.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2712Small.jpg



1/3rd: A bit of an uneven burn but no big deal. Not much flavor to this puppy. Maybe a hint of pepper. On the retro-hale there is a bit of cedar present also in the background there is a very light fragrance of chlorine. Yeah, like a pool in the spring. Just a hint though. Strange.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2713Small.jpg

2/3rd: Some sweet tobacco flavors and a bit of pepper. Still not much flavor. On the retro-hale still cedar with a bit of an oily flavor. Pretty uneventful so far.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2714Small.jpg

3/3rd: Still some sweet tobacco and little else. Maybe some grassy notes coming through with some oil on the finish. The burn started to freak out a bit at the end.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2715Small.jpg

Overall impression: Meh! Yeah, just meh. There really is nothing much to this mild cigar. It wasn't a bad smoke. Just boring. I give it an 8.2

There you have it!

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-05.jpg

2001 Juan Lopez Corona

Montano score: 8.5
Riff Raff score: 8.2

I'm glad there's nearly consensus on at least one cigar finally. The first one of these I was gifted blew my mind, grabbed a handful of boxes and got the same 'meh' impression Riff Raff did with some of them.

Sometimes, though, they shine.

[Savor the Stick]

Interesting how the flavor profile is different for both the testers. I think this is a good thing because it does probably encompass what a larger test group would find.

Nice reviews guys. and thanks to Dan for the cigars.:tu

[Riff Raff]

[B]What they smoked:

The first one of these I was gifted blew my mind, grabbed a handful of boxes and got the same 'meh' impression Riff Raff did with some of them.

Sometimes, though, they shine.

Well I am just glad it wasn't my taste buds on the fritz!:ss

[yourchoice]

I'm just jealous of Nick's green grass!

Nice reviews guys, keep 'em comin'! ;)

[Col. Kurtz]

ERDM
LGC
Fonseca
RyJ
JL

......

You saving the Gorilla finger for #10 Dan? :tf

:r

[Barteur]

I'm just jealous of Nick's green grass!

Nice reviews guys, keep 'em comin'! ;)

X2 was thinking the same, looking at the pictures. Keep on doing the good work folks.

[MTBAlex]

I love the pictures of these reviews. It makes reading the review so so much better. Dball you are very generous with the cigs. All the cigs seem all seem to be aged and rare (at least from this noob's perspective).

[DBall]

I love the pictures of these reviews. It makes reading the review so so much better. Dball you are very generous with the cigs. All the cigs seem all seem to be aged and rare (at least from this noob's perspective).

Well... there's probably gonna be another one after this as these seem to be fun and engaging threads. Why don't you practice some reviews and perhaps you'll be the next guy having to suffer through dog rockets like these... :tu

[MTBAlex]

Well... there's probably gonna be another one after this as these seem to be fun and engaging threads. Why don't you practice some reviews and perhaps you'll be the next guy having to suffer through dog rockets like these... :tu

lol. Thanks Dan. But I can't taste a difference between a cigar and a tube sock. But I'll let you know once my palette improves!! So I'll just be a avid reader of your blind taste test for now. Keep up the good work.:tu

[Riff Raff]

# 6 is in the books! :)

[Montano]

# 6 is in the books! :)

Moving rather quickly ;)

I'll wait a day or two before I light up #6.

[whodeeni]

I wouldn't mind throwing my hat in to Join the next one Dan! Let me know bro!

Well... there's probably gonna be another one after this as these seem to be fun and engaging threads. Why don't you practice some reviews and perhaps you'll be the next guy having to suffer through dog rockets like these... :tu

[Riff Raff]

Bumpage! Any idea when they will be posted?

[Montano]

Bumpage! Any idea when they will be posted?

Sent mine in a couple days ago.......

[DBall]

Bumpage! Any idea when they will be posted?

In mere moments... ;)

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #6
**************

This cigar is a bit veiny, with a few soft spots throughout. The wrapper is a bit rough. Pre-light draw was of a basic tobacco flavor. The cap was not in the best of shape.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig61.jpg

Initial impression was a light creamy flavor, and general tobacco taste. The burn was a bit wild, going in lots of different directions.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig62.jpg

The first 3rd was about all I got to smoke, as with every draw, the soft spots would cave in a bit, and after while the wrapper started to crack from the constant shifting.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig63.jpg

I tried to continue on with the smoke, but it soon became impossible to get a decent draw. The wrapper was just crumbling every time I took a draw.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig64.jpg

Between the soft cap, and soft spots throughout the cigar, I really didn't get to do a lot of tasting. The few puffs I did manage were OK. I'm thinking I just got a bad one and perhaps this is a decent cigar.

http://nickmontano.net/pics/cig65.jpg

I'll have to give it a 6.

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #6
*************

You are number 6!

I am not a NUMBER!!!

Okay, working on the back 5 now! Number 6 is a rustic number. No cap to speak of. Just an overlay of the wrapper. Never seen a stick like that before. But then again-----> NEWB!

My calibrated eyeball says it is 6.5" X 42. It is a bit veiny and rough looking. A big green spot by the head and a little rough around the foot.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2716Small.jpg

Pre-light: Draw is medium to firm. Tastes a bit like hay.

First light: Grassy taste. A little bit of spice. A bit underwhelming. Nice dark gray ash though.

1/3rd: There is an underlying hint of toffee but only briefly. Just a bit toasty. Not much flavor to speak of really. Retro-hale tasted of grass. The ash held for about two inches.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2718Small.jpg

2/3rd: Some spice is creeping in here! There is some cinnamon and nutmeg too. This is turning out quite nice! Lots of smoke.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2719Small.jpg

3/3rd: Spice! Nice and toasty with some sweet tobacco flavors coming through. As it smoked down it got a bit soft and squishy. Some nice cedar flavors at the nub.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2720Small.jpg

Overall: A diamond in the rough. This was quite a surprising smoke. It started out weak but finished up nicely. The burn was pretty much even throughout, not razor sharp but okay. I would say this mild to medium smoke was about an 8.7. I would buy this again. It was a quick smoke too. It lasted only about 40 minutes or so.

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-06.jpg

1999 La Flor De Cano Selectos

Montano score: 6
Riff Raff score: 8.7

Cheap and fantastic golf cigar... these things can be hit and miss, but I really seem to be pleased with them for the most part.

[cigarz]

Another nice job guys. Wow, I have never seen a cigar unravel like the one you smoked Nick.

[RevSmoke]

These guys were told to dry box to help draw issues. Were they ever told when to take them out of the dry box and put back into a humidfied environment. Montano's review and pics look like a cigar that has been sitting out and over-dried.

Just my $0.02.

Peace of the Lord be with you.

[DBall]

Wetting the cigar (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=26872) if the wrapper feels brittle can't hurt anything... I do it all the time. :tu

[akumushi]

These guys were told to dry box to help draw issues. Were they ever told when to take them out of the dry box and put back into a humidfied environment. Montano's review and pics look like a cigar that has been sitting out and over-dried.

Just my $0.02.

Peace of the Lord be with you.

Funny, as I was reading his review I was thinking to myself that he should read this thread (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=26872&highlight=wetting).:2

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

The LFDC's are great to pair with coffee in the morning. Cheap too.

[Ferrari5180]

Wow, you guys always have experiences that are on the opposite sides of the dimensions. Neat. Sometimes I get issues with cigars where I just want to throw it away, but I just can't. Maybe as I start to smoke more I will end up tossing more often.

[Riff Raff]

Wow, you guys always have experiences that are on the opposite sides of the dimensions. Neat. Sometimes I get issues with cigars where I just want to throw it away, but I just can't. Maybe as I start to smoke more I will end up tossing more often.

I know what you mean! There have been cigars that had major splits in them and I just refused to let the cigar get the better of me. I haven't tossed one out yet before its time. I haven't nubbed quite a few though.

I did dry box mine. It was at about 58% RH when I smoked it.

[DBall]

I did dry box mine. It was at about 58% RH when I smoked it.

63ish is where I'd prefer mine to be... give or take a few.

[Montano]

Wetting the cigar (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=26872) if the wrapper feels brittle can't hurt anything... I do it all the time. :tu

I just might have to give that a try :)

[Riff Raff]

Okay. Seven is a done deal.

How ya doing, Nick?

[Montano]

Okay. Seven is a done deal.

How ya doing, Nick?

Sent it in yesterday I believe :)

[Riff Raff]

Dan?

[DBall]

Oh hell... I do have both of them. I'll put it up in a few...

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #7
**************

This is a very nice looking cigar. The construction is quite good, with no soft spots to speak of. Pre-light draw was nice and easy.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig71.jpg

My first draw brings a nice flavor that I'm not quite sure of. After a few more draws, it comes to me. It's a very nice dried apricot flavor. I happen to like dried apricots. The draw continues to be nice and easy, with ample amounts of smoke.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig72.jpg

As I move to the second 3rd of this one, the apricot intensifies just a bit. The smoke is very creamy and coats the inside of my mouth with the nice flavor of this cigar. I'm really enjoying this one.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig73.jpg

As you can tell, I kinda got lost in the joy of smoking this thing, and forgot about taking pictures ! As I moved into the final 3rd, the apricot tapered off just a bit, and some meaty tobacco flavor started to come through. It was really nice to sit out back on a sunny day and enjoy this cigar. I really did not want it to end.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig74.jpg

This one gets a 9 !

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #7
*************

None of that lovely Lynchburg juice, but I will just have to soldier on without it. <sigh>

Sorry about the opening pic. It sucks I know but the cigar is pretty! The trusty ole (or is it the crusty ole) calibrated eyeball says it is a 7" X 32 lancero. A nice looking cigar. A couple of small little holes in the wrapper but they shouldn't pose a problem. I did dry box it for about a day.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2721Small.jpg

So I clipped the cap and gave it a pull. A firm draw. Pretty firm. Almost too firm but definitely smokeable. The prelight draw tasted of fresh hay.

First light: A bit grassy but very toasty. I love a toasty cigar.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2722Small.jpg

1/3rd: Toasty. Very toasty and I am liking it! There are small hints of pepper in there too. The ash is dark gray and held for about an inch and a half.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2723Small.jpg

2/3rd: Still lots of toast. Some sweet tobacco flavors are creeping in too. This smoke is rounding out nicely. A decent amount of smoke.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2724Small.jpg

3/3rd: Still toasty. The retro-hale was a bit floral which kind of gives me a suspicion to this puppy's origin. More sweet tobacco flavors and the amount of smoke picked up in volume as well. There is a nice woody finish.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2725Small.jpg

Overall: A decent smoke. It started out toasty and ended toasty. I can't find fault in that! Not a complex smoke but there were some really good flavors represented. I would buy this smoke if the price were right. It was mild bodied and tasty. I give it an 8.8. Oh, and I would say that it is a CC. Just a hunch. That and everyone so far has been a CC. I think I see a pattern emerging!

Oh yeah, he is a quick one isn't he?

It is starting to get down to the wire now!!

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-07.jpg

2008 Quay d'Orsay Panetela

Montano score: 9
Riff Raff score: 8.8

Wow... Nick found a habano he likes... glory upon glory!

I absolutely LOVE these cigars... LOVELOVELOVELOVELOVELOVE them. Glad you both dug it.

3 left. ;)

[MortonMilo]

Love the parity in the rating here

[akumushi]

Sweet. I'm expecting a box of these any day now and this review makes me think I made another wise blind-purchase.

[DBall]

Sweet. I'm expecting a box of these any day now and this review makes me think I made another wise blind-purchase.

You made a HELL of a purchase. I think I own more boxes of this than anything else at this point and will still probably get more.

[Montano]

It was a great smoke. I think I'll have to find some more of them !

[Emjaysmash]

Sounds like an awesome smoke! QdO is one marca that has always peaked my interest.

Nice reviews guys!!
Great thread Dan!

[tomc3084]

This is an awesome idea, I really enjoyed reading through this, to see how opinions compared/contrast...Would anyone else be up for doing another something like this, I know I would...I wouldn't mind donated sticks either

[DBall]

This is an awesome idea, I really enjoyed reading through this, to see how opinions compared/contrast...Would anyone else be up for doing another something like this, I know I would...

Glad to hear you enjoy it. I may do another one (as this is the second... did ya read through the first one? That was pretty fun as well)... I really enjoy doing these. If you wanna be considered for the next one, read the first post and get those things in place (like a review w/ some pics and get your trader ratings going (by hopping in the Newbie Sampler Trade), etc.). :tu

I wouldn't mind donated sticks either

Just some advice... this doesn't come across well on the internet... sounds like you are fishing for free cigars. I'm not saying that's what you are doing, just a friendly note telling you how it sounds from my side of the computer screen. Maybe you mis-typed and meant to type "I wouldn't mind donating cigars"... The biggest problem with reading thoughts someone else typed into a forum is that there's no emphasis so it sometimes becomes difficult. Those smileys go a long way to help in that regard.

[MTBAlex]

how long does this last cig smoke? less than an hour?

[DBall]

how long does this last cig smoke? less than an hour?

Nah... these are meant to be sipped. Pounding through them won't do anything good for them flavor-wise.

Good question for the guys, though...

Nick, Bill... how long did it last for you?

[RightAJ]

Nah... these are meant to be sipped. Pounding through them won't do anything good for them flavor-wise.



X2

I have learned this about lanceros recently.. they can be fantastic if you just take them slow!

aj

[Riff Raff]

Nah... these are meant to be sipped. Pounding through them won't do anything good for them flavor-wise.

Good question for the guys, though...

Nick, Bill... how long did it last for you?

I took my time. I didn't time it but I would say it lasted me well over an hour.

[tomc3084]

LOL i just read my post, I meant to say I wouldnt mind DONATING not donated my sticks to something similiar like this, sorry for the mixup-please do not think I was fishing for smokes, Its the complete opposite, I need to read what I type from now on before I press send

[tomc3084]

can I get a link to the first one you did?

[yourchoice]

can I get a link to the first one you did?

Here you go. http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=21549

[DBall]

LOL i just read my post, I meant to say I wouldnt mind DONATING not donated my sticks to something similiar like this, sorry for the mixup-please do not think I was fishing for smokes, Its the complete opposite, I need to read what I type from now on before I press send

no problem, man... thanks for the offer (and the clarification).

Here you go. http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=21549

Thanks, Joel. :)

[MTBAlex]

It seems all the cigars that I smoke take from 1-1.5 hours. Even my RyJ short churchills take 1-1.5 hours! Is that normal? If i smoke one of these, it'll take me half a day.

[Montano]

how long does this last cig smoke? less than an hour?

I would guess it was about an hour and 15 minutes. I'm not keeping track of that though.

[tomc3084]

I cannot wait for the next review!!! This is, hands down, the best thread ever, thanks for this DBall!

[Riff Raff]

Sorry for the delay. My fault. I have no excuse. Number 8 is up Dan!

[Montano]

Number 8 is in the books :)

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #8
**************

This cigar appears to have a bit of age on it. The wrapper is on the wrinkly side. Per-light draw is a bit tight, which now seems to be the norm for CC's.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig81.jpg

The first draw is very similar to the other CC's I've been smoking. I think I'm finally getting used to that particular flavor.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig82.jpg

The cigar has a smooth creamy flavor, with a light buttery note. Again, very similar to the other cigars I've been reviewing. The draw has loosened up just a touch and the smoke is very enjoyable.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig83.jpg

Moving along towards the end, the creaminess gives way to a meaty tobacco flavor. This continues for the remainder of the cigar. Although this one was very mild, it did have some nice flavor.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig84.jpg

I took this one to the nub, as I was enjoying the day and the cigar. A very relaxing smoke that would pair well with a cup of coffee.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/cig85.jpg

I give this one an 8.5

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #8
*************

Okay, so now it is getting down to the wire! Here is the eighth installment of DBall's Newbie Blind Taste Test #2, the Sequel.....Return of Some Newbs....or something like that. I got my "Danger Mouse" hat on for this one. Driving, smoking, taking pictures, and writing a review all at the same time. Yeah, I live on the hairy edge like that. I know, I know. ESPN is calling me to be in the next X-GAMES. Just another adrenaline junkie! Dude, I am SOO extreme!

Now that the pleasantries are over, lets get down to bidness (I am in the south, I am allowed to say bidness!).

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00035Small.jpg

The ole calibrated eyeball says that it is approximately (don't you just love how a calibrated eyeball can only approximate?) 5.5 X 42. There are some green spots but no soft spots. Nice construction.

Pre-light: A bit grassy. But I have found that most of DBall's jewels have that characteristic.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00036Small.jpg

By the way, that is my office. Pretty nice accommodations huh? You guys can keep your corner offices! Give me a tin roofed brick building with no windows any day!

First Light: Pepper. Lots of pepper. A firm draw. Firmer that I would like. Not much smoke either. The ash is a nice dark gray.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00037Small.jpg

1/3rd: Still lots of pepper in this smoke. Grassy elements too. There is a hint of toast as well.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00038Small.jpg

2/3rd: Still a bit grassy with some nice tobacco flavors coming through. There are some earth and leather flavors poking in there as well. On the snork there are some floral flavors.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/IMG00040Small.jpg

Safely home. I had you worried didn't I? Thanks for your concern, but you must realize, I am a professional. Don't try this at home. Or at the office. Or on your way from the office to the home. Or from the.....never mind. You get it.

3/3rd: Some wonderful sweet tobacco flavors coming through now. There are woody elements as well.

Overall: This was a decent smoke. Not great by any means, but there were some really good flavors in here. I would consider this smoke. It doesn't really stand out though. I give it an 8.5.

Have fun sports fans!

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-08.jpg

2000 Rafael Gonzalez Petite Corona

Montano score: 8.5
Riff Raff score: 8.5

Holy friggin crap! That's the first time we've had two identical scores.

Awesome, guys!

2 left........... :D

[MarioF]

Awesome review and for both of them to give it the same score is amazing, especially since they were so far apart on number 1. I love this thread!! Is Rafael Gonzalez easy to find?

[MortonMilo]

They must have cheated! Can't go from such a difference in scores to parity in a mere 8 ratings!

[Barteur]

I love this thread, great reviews guys

[MTBAlex]

question for riff raff: how the heck do you drive, hold the cigar steady after smoking almost all of it, AND take a picture at the same time?

[Riff Raff]

question for riff raff: how the heck do you drive, hold the cigar steady after smoking almost all of it, AND take a picture at the same time?

Well, its a gift. You know...like a God given talent. Also, it is called the Carolina back roads. If you stay on the pavement, you should be okay! :) Now if I could just manage how to make money at it, I might have something going on!:r

[tomc3084]

yes if you look in the right places gonzalez petits can be had at a descent price, 150 and up for 25, which if you think about it, compared to other great pc this one is expensive, the only pc more expensive is siglo 2's and by just a hair...

[macsauce13]

This thread is one of the biggest reasons I joined CA. Thanks for this!

[DBall]

This thread is one of the biggest reasons I joined CA. Thanks for this!


Awesome!!! :tu

[Riff Raff]

This thread is one of the biggest reasons I joined CA. Thanks for this!


That is so cool! I am just thankful I could be a part of it!

[Montano]

It sure has been fun so far :D

[Riff Raff]

Ooooooh! Number 9 is up! Aren't you all just aquiver with anticipation? Hmmm? :)

[Riff Raff]

Nick?


Dan?


Anybody?

[Emjaysmash]

Nick?


Dan?


Anybody?

Bueller?

http://pactlab-dev.spcomm.uiuc.edu/drupal/2009cmn280/sites/edu.drupal.2009cmn280/files/images/teacher1.jpg

[Riff Raff]

Bueller?

http://pactlab-dev.spcomm.uiuc.edu/drupal/2009cmn280/sites/edu.drupal.2009cmn280/files/images/teacher1.jpg

Hahahaha....Classic. I needed that today. Thanks Emjay!

[Emjaysmash]

Hahahaha....Classic. I needed that today. Thanks Emjay!

Anytime Bill!

[moppy]

Joined up just to say great thread, followed the original one too.

Looking forward to the next one.

[Riff Raff]

Joined up just to say great thread, followed the original one too.

Looking forward to the next one.


Me too moppy! lol

[Riff Raff]

Nothing? Really? Nick, have you submitted #9? Dan? Are you guys there? Spring fever has caught all of you, huh? You guys are all out fishing and going to ball games and junk. Well fine. I'm going fishing too!:r

[DBall]

Nothing? Really? Nick, have you submitted #9? Dan? Are you guys there? Spring fever has caught all of you, huh? You guys are all out fishing and going to ball games and junk. Well fine. I'm going fishing too!:r


I have not gotten #9 yet from Nick.

[Riff Raff]

Damn it Nick, quit having fun like going to work and taking care of the "honey do" list! You can spend time on your hobbies later. You have work to do! Now get smoking!-(P:r

[Montano]

Damn it Nick, quit having fun like going to work and taking care of the "honey do" list! You can spend time on your hobbies later. You have work to do! Now get smoking!-(P:r

Holy sh!t. #9 was done a week ago...... thought I sent it in :(

PM coming shortly, sorry fellers.

[kenstogie]

If you need somone to send out an unbanded fiver to a newbie let me know! :). Believe me I have enough.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Riff Raff]

Holy sh!t. #9 was done a week ago...... thought I sent it in :(

PM coming shortly, sorry fellers.

Hahaha. No worries Nick. I was starting to get worried. I thought you might have been lost on some forgotten golf course or something! :)

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #9
**************

Well if this hasn't been a bad week ! The pics I uploaded to my server have been wiped away. As you can tell from all my previous reviews, all the photos were lost. But I do still have my notes, so here goes.

Pre-light draw is typical for a CC :)
I only say that because I believe this to be the 9th CC in a row. The wrapper has several veins running through it.

The first third has a very creamy flavor, and I'm getting a good amount of smoke from a fairly easy draw. I think I'm going to like this cigar.

As I move to the 2nd third, the creamy smoke continues. I'm really starting to crave the flavor of the tobacco from these cigars. The burn is nice and even on this one.

The final 3rd turns into a buttery caramel smoke. I have found one of my favorite cigars ! The flavor was great from start to finish. I enjoyed the nice amount of smoke from this one too. Can't wait to find out what it is so I can do some shopping.

I give this one a 9.5

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar #9
*************

Number 9. Number 9. Number 9.


Almost done! Wow, what a road this has been! So here are the particulars. Ye olde calibrated eyeball puts this baby at 5X38. A nice construction. There are one or two soft spots, but it sports a very nice wrapper.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2731Small.jpg

Pre-light: A firm draw. Not bad though. Tastes of hay.

First light: Toasty and grassy. The ash held for about 1/5 inches and it was dark gray. Lots of smoke.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2732Small.jpg

1/3rd: Some spice and sweet tobacco. Still tastes of hay. Still a bit too firm on the draw for my liking.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2733Small.jpg

2/3rd: Still toasty but now there is a hint of spice coming through. On the snork, there is a hint of coconut. That is so cool!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2734Small.jpg

3/3rd: More sweet tobacco coming through. There is some woodiness coming through too. The draw loosened up a bit which was nice. The burn was a tad bit uneven at the end, but not big deal. It evened out.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2735Small.jpg

Overall, a good smoke. I quite enjoyed this. The sweet tobacco and woodiness on the finish was very nice. I would buy this cigar. I give it an 8.7

9 down, 1 more to go! Almost there!

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-09.jpg

2000 Punch RS12

Montano score: 9.5
Riff Raff score: 8.7

Looks like I may be successfully converting Nick to the dark side!!!!!!


Only 1 left, guys. Has this been fun for ya?

:D

[cigarz]

Again, nice job guys, it's ashame there is only one left!

[DBall]

Again, nice job guys, it's ashame there is only one left!


There may be another edition... ;)

[Emjaysmash]

Excellent thread, Dan. Can't wait for the final installment!

[Playa Habana]

Just found this thread a couple of days ago, read the first one and now I can't wait for the next one!

[Riff Raff]

Dan,

This has been a lot of fun! I can't wait for the next series. It is just as much fun reading others' reviews as it is experiencing it! I have the luxury of being on both sides of this thread!

[macsauce13]

There may be another edition... ;)


Woo hoo!!! I hope so!

Way to go guys, I love reading the reviews!

[RightAJ]

Really enjoy this thread. Great stuff!

I always wonder to myself if my palate could pick out the 'good stuff' or not...

I read a thread somewhere about someone who was a bit of a 'CC snob' and refused to smoke NCs, who was given 3 blind sticks to test his knowlege. All were cut so the cap was not visible (to ensure a truely blind test), and he successfully picked out the one CC, but did enjoy one of the NCs (a My Father I believe?) which surprised him. Pretty cool :)

aj

[Montano]

[B]What they smoked:

Only 1 left, guys. Has this been fun for ya?

:D

This has been a blast ! I'm just thrilled that I was able to be a part of it. I really hate to smoke the last one, because that means it's all over. Your generosity is just amazing !!

[DBall]

Where's that last review at, guys? :D

[itzfrank]

This is awesome! Sign me up!

[wolfandwhisky]

There may be another edition... ;)

Would definitely be in for this! :tu

[Montano]

Where's that last review at, guys? :D

I'm holding out as long as I can !!

[Riff Raff]

I'm holding out as long as I can !!

HAHAHAHAHA! I know what you mean. I don't want it to end. I will smoke my last one today (boo hoo).

[landhoney]

I'm holding out as long as I can !!

HAHAHAHAHA! I know what you mean. I don't want it to end. I will smoke my last one today (boo hoo).

Who would have thought smoking a series of free Cuban cigars would be so awesome...........:r

BTW, nice reviews guys, enjoyed reading along. :tu

[Riff Raff]

It is with sorrowful elation that I pronounce that #10 is in the stinky. It is like a good book that you never want to end!

Nick, how ya doing out there in California, my brother?

[Montano]

I guess I'll burn it this afternoon :(

Should have the last review in by this evening.

[DBall]

I guess I'll burn it this afternoon :(

Should have the last review in by this evening.


I'll be in Aruba (in JFK now waiting for the connecting flight). You'll have to pardon me if I can't tell you what it is right away. Anyway, a little suspense will do you guys good...

:D

[ir13]

I'll be in Aruba (in JFK now waiting for the connecting flight). You'll have to pardon me if I can't tell you what it is right away. Anyway, a little suspense will do you guys good...

:D

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/cmalone_03/ballin-2.gif

[Emjaysmash]

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/cmalone_03/ballin-2.gif

:r:r

[Riff Raff]

Hey Dan, while you are down there will you pick me up some.........:D

Have fun down there! Say hi to the painkillers for me! Yum!

[Montano]

No rush then :)

Maybe I'll wait another day or 2 !!

[Riff Raff]

No rush then :)

Maybe I'll wait another day or 2 !!

Prolonging the inevitable? :)

[Montano]

Prolonging the inevitable? :)

As long as I can ;)

[DBall]

As long as I can ;)

Hey Nick... you still alive, there? We gotta wrap this one up! :D

[Riff Raff]

Hey Nick... you still alive, there? We gotta wrap this one up! :D

Welcome back Dan! How was Aruba? Or do I need to ask! :)

[DBall]

Welcome back Dan! How was Aruba? Or do I need to ask! :)

It was pretty good... The wife taught Zumba pretty much every day. Also we stayed with friends there, so we weren't really on our own time. It was more like a work vacation for Shelley and I just tagged along and took photos.

[Montano]

:(

All done.

[NeuRon]

I just tagged along and took photos.

Pics or Negative Reputation and Subsequent Ban.... lol

[Riff Raff]

Pics or Negative Reputation and Subsequent Ban.... lol

Hahaha. I second that!

[DBall]

Well... that ends it... all the cigars have been smoked.

I'll probably put the last reviews up tomorrow during the day when I have some time.

It's been fun, guys!

[Riff Raff]

Well... that ends it... all the cigars have been smoked.

I'll probably put the last reviews up tomorrow during the day when I have some time.

It's been fun, guys!

It HAS been fun! It has been a blast! I can't thank you enough Dan for not only the opportunity, but the overwhelming generosity as well! A true BOTL!

[Montano]

It HAS been fun! It has been a blast! I can't thank you enough Dan for not only the opportunity, but the overwhelming generosity as well! A true BOTL!

I could not have said it better !! Thanks Dan, one helluva BOTL !!

[tomc3084]

I could not have said it better !! Thanks Dan, one helluva BOTL !!

:tpd:

[DBall]

Montano Cigar #10
***************

Let me start off by thanking Dan for allowing me to be a part of this great thread. This was incredibly fun !

Obviously Dan saved the best for last. This cigar had nice construction. Pre-light draw was typical of a CC.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/101.jpg

I'm getting some nice caramel flavors right from the start. The smoke is very creamy and thick. The burn is nice and even.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/102.jpg

The second third continues with the same caramel flavor. My lips are also getting a sweet flavor on them. This one is burning nice and slow.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/103.jpg

The final third gets a bit stronger with a mix of caramel and tobacco. The flavor is great on this one. These CC's just keep getting better and better.

http://www.nickmontano.net/pics/104.jpg

I'm giving this one a 10. Not because it was the last one, but it really was the best of the bunch !

[DBall]

Riff Raff Cigar # 10
***************

Last one! Bummer, huh? Well let's see what happened!

A nice looking chocolate brown wrapped cigar! The calibrated eyeball says it is a 6.5 X 44. There are no soft spots, no blemishes. A very nice looking cigar!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2770Small.jpg

Prelight - Nice draw, a little tug on it which is nice. Some grassy flavors. So on we go:

First light - Grassy with a hint of chocolate. Oh and what is this? SPICE! Oh hell yeah! Very nice! The ash is dark gray and firm. Lots of smoke too!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2771Small.jpg

1/3rd: Lots of spice. I mean lots of it! There is some wonderful cinnamon there as well. The retrohale is toasty! This is starting off as one hell of a smoke!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2772Small.jpg

2/3rd: Still spicey! There are some toasty flavors creeping in. Damn, this certainly bodes well!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2773Small.jpg

3/3rd: Still spicey! There is still some toast flavors in there as well. Now comes the cedar. There is some pepper in there as well.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n260/astonezfan/100_2774Small.jpg

Overall: What a spice bomb! Great flavors, wonderful construction! No problems on the burn, it was razor sharp! A great flavor of cedar on the finish! Dan has certainly left the best for last. I can't find one thing I didn't like about this smoke. It lasted for about an hour and 20 minutes. I give this smoke a roaring 9.6!!!!! MORE! I wan't more of these!!!

What a way to end it! Dan, I thank you for the great opportunity and the wonderful smokes! You truly embody what being a BOTL entails!

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/BTT2-10.jpg

2007 Trinidad Ingenios

Montano score: 10
Riff Raff score: 9.6

:D

[issues]

What a way to wrap it up!

Great reviews guys; this thread has been a blast to read. :tu

[DBall]

Nearly 4 months and 20 cigars later, this thing is done.

It started out with Nick hating habanos and how he's giving them 9's and 10's... :r:r

Not only that, this is the first one that actually fully completed... if you check the first thread, Slavac disappeared before completing #10.

So... I take it you all enjoyed yourselves?

;)

Now to contemplate beginning round 3...

[Smokin Gator]

Great job guys. I have really enjoyed this one too. What a nice stick to end it with!!

[weak_link]

Nice finish! Warms my heart that they appreciated the Trini. :)

[macsauce13]

Awesome. This has been great, guys! Thanks for the great read!

[MarioF]

This was a great tread to follow along with. I learned a lot from it. It is very interesting how the CC really grows on you. I have found the same thing, from one occasionally to now almost being my go to cigar.

Dan I hope you do another it was great!!

[DBall]

Well... if anyone does want to be considered for the next one, read the first post in this thread and get working on some of the prerequisites (1 decent picture review... maybe even practice by using the format these guys do with 5 photos and have a trade or 2 under your belt).

It may be a couple weeks before I do another one, so you have time. :tu

[Emjaysmash]

Excellent job, gents!
Great job Dan for supplying and running this whole thing.

If anyone is looking to do something like this there is the Blind taste Test/ PIF Thread available! (shameless bump)

[cigarz]

Great job guys. This was always the first thread I would check when signing on. Now, what am I going to do for the next two week!

[Apoco]

This was a very fun read! It was interesting to see the review style differences between the two of them.

[Riff Raff]

Dan, this was an absolute blast. The #10 was a true pleasure to smoke. I think I will have to adjust my purchasing from now on! This cigar was definitely the best of the lot. How long had you had it in your humidor? I loved the flavor. Very complex.

[DBall]

How long had you had it in your humidor? I loved the flavor. Very complex.

a few months... I really forget when I bought them. 6 months, maybe... maybe less.

[DBall]

Where's Nick with his final weigh-in? I wanna hear the "I'm now a habanos whore" confession... hahaha


:r

[Montano]

I can't afford to be a habanos whore, but I am definitely a habanos whore wannabe ;)

I had only smoked 1 CC before this thread began, and I have now smoked 10 times as many :D

I will smoke them as often as I can, thanks for the push down THAT slope Dan......

[DBall]

I can't afford to be a habanos whore, but I am definitely a habanos whore wannabe ;)

I had only smoked 1 CC before this thread began, and I have now smoked 10 times as many :D

I will smoke them as often as I can, thanks for the push down THAT slope Dan......


(psst... habanos typically cost less than NCs) :D