DBall's Newb Blind Taste Test #4

[DBall]

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

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4.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.

Cigars are going out probably Monday... :banger




Previous Newb Blind Taste Tests here:

Blind Taste Test Thread #1 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=21549)

Blind Taste Test Thread #2 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=27728)

Blind Taste Test Thread #3 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=32639)

[Brutus2600]

Yeeeeeees :tu:tu

Subscribed!

[Doctorossi]

Me likey a couple o' them! :D

[GreekGodX]

Very nice :) Good on you for doing another round, Dan.

But if you'd just concentrate some of that energy on lifting you'd get past your body weight in bench much quicker ;)

[GWN]

Way to go Dan!

[Nickerson]

Good lord is cigar #6 a baseball bat? Doesn't help that its next to #7 which is the Danny DeVito of cigars...

Looking forward to reading the reviews.

[DBall]

Very nice :) Good on you for doing another round, Dan.

But if you'd just concentrate some of that energy on lifting you'd get past your body weight in bench much quicker ;)


Hahaha... I am in there every other day, brother. I'll have that goal crushed in no time, then onto the next...

Good lord is cigar #6 a baseball bat? Doesn't help that its next to #7 which is the Danny DeVito of cigars...


The funny thing is, I'm at work and forget exactly what #7 is, although I think I have an idea.

[DBall]

Still need Samsquanch's addy... :)

[akumushi]

This should be fun!

[Samsquanch]

PM sent, sorry was at the cabin for the weekend.

[DBall]

Samsquanch (Andrew) - 9405503699300354414040

(jonumberone) Dominick - 9405503699300353369952


Leaving new york today :tu

[Brutus2600]

If Dan's mailman ships them as fast as he did last time, they should arrive tomorrow :r:r

[DBall]

If Dan's mailman ships them as fast as he did last time, they should arrive tomorrow :r:r

Hahaha... I know, right? That was crazy. James got his, like, the next day as well and he's in CA.

[jonumberone]

Got my sticks:tu

[LostAbbott]

Woot! this is going to be fun to watch! Congrats to the tasters.

[CRIMPS]

Subscribed. ;)

[Brutus2600]

awesome :tu

[Samsquanch]

:tt

[DBall]

:tt


heh... I'm in NY, he's in NJ and you're in... SEATTLE :hf :D

That said, last time around, cigars got to James in CA pretty much overnight.

[Samsquanch]

OUT FOR DELIVERY, September 29, 2010, 9:15 am, SEATTLE, WA 98122

How is it they are both delivered on the same day on opposite sides of the country...not that I'm complaining!!! :noon

[DBall]

OUT FOR DELIVERY, September 29, 2010, 9:15 am, SEATTLE, WA 98122

How is it they are both delivered on the same day on opposite sides of the country...not that I'm complaining!!! :noon


Incredible, right? Looks like you should have them tonight!

[Samsquanch]

About to head to the bar to wish bon voyage to a good friend who is retiring and moving down to Costa Rica. Looking forward to getting home and since they were hardly in transit perhaps lighting up #1 this evening, it is a beautiful one out there.

[Samsquanch]

Package arrived safe (can't say the same for my mailbox, got this package and bombed on the same evening, 17 cigars total, insane!)

[DBall]

Had review #1 from Dom in my PM box this morning. The man wastes no time at all!

[Brutus2600]

Oh dang!

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #1
******************

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02323.jpg?t=1285872373



Initial thoughts

The stick appears to be a touch over 5 inches in length. I squeeze the stick and find a very soft spot an inch above the foot. I also find two very hard spots, one about an inch above the soft spot, the other an inch from the cap. There are a few veins on the wrapper that aren’t very pronounced when I feel them. The wrapper appears to be very wrinkled and has about a dozen bluish green discolorations. I imagine this is what my grandmother’s legs would look like if they were filled with tobacco. Pre-light aroma is very musky, again reminding me of my grandmother. Pre-light draw is fine and I get a sweet grassy taste.



http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02325.jpg?t=1285872373



First third

After I light the initial taste I get is very sweet. After about a half an inch the sweetness disappears and is replaced with a woodsy taste. I’m getting a lot of smoke but I find it very thin. As I am about to move into the second third, the sweetness is back along with some cedar.



http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02326.jpg?t=1285872373



Second Third

The sweetness, cedar and woodsy flavors continue into the second third. So far the flavor has remained consistent . I keep trying to go to my nose, It’s a technique I haven’t mastered yet. I’m really looking for something more from this stick, but I am just not getting it.



http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02327.jpg?t=1285872373



Final third

I haven’t commented on it yet, but the draw and burn have been terrific. I thought I may have some burn issues because of how humid it is outside. The flavors have shifted finally. I’m getting a nutty flavor and the sweetness is entirely gone. The cedar is still there but it is faint. As I smoke a little more the sweetness comes back and is more identifiable now. It is very fruity and tart like a pear.



http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02329.jpg?t=1285872373



Final thoughts

All in all this stick wasn’t bad, but wasn’t great either. While I was smoking, I felt like I wanted more. I wonder if it’s my undeveloped palate picking up subtle flavors making me want more, or if this stick was truly lacking them. The flavors I did pick up, I felt were well defined.

Smoke time 1 hr 50m

Final score 6.5/10

[DBall]

Samsquanch Cigar #1
******************

Thanks again for the opportunity Dan, enjoying this!



Review #1



Beautiful day in Seattle so I found a nice park on Lake Washington with a view of Mt Rainier to enjoy my first cigar of this round.



http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/8bc3a7c1.jpg



It is medium brown in color with a few veins but nothing too noticeable. The wrapper seemed a little wrinkled in places, maybe this is common and I just am paying extra attention to this one. Squeeze test it seemed perfect, no serious soft spots. Triple cap clipped with my Palio. Pre-light it drew perfect with a nice mild flavor. Time to light.





http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/83669716.jpg



1/3



Lit up nice and fast with lots of dense white smoke. Mild flavor and not really able to discern any specific flavors. The draw is perfect on this baby. Ash is holding well for the first inch.



http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/796db0c5.jpg



2/3



Building in strength a bit, burn has been even up until now. Just caught a hint of hazelnut.



http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/06c975fe.jpg



3/3



Feeling the strength but it may be just because I haven't eaten in a while. A few touch ups on the burn now but nothing too serious. Other than the hazelnut, which was faint, I haven't picked up on any distinct flavor. It may just be my noob palate though. A nice mild tobacco flavor throughout.



http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/e89490ae.jpg



Final thoughts



Enjoyed this cigar, flavor was very mild and I've found that my tastes have been trending towards the medium to fuller smokes lately so I probably wouldn't pick this one up.



Total score - 6/10

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-1.jpg

2008 Por Larranaga Petit Corona

jonumberone score: 6.5

Samsquanch score: 6

I really expected higher numbers from these. However, they are mild and these two are primarily NC smokers.

That's gonna be the challenge with this and most other of these threads... trying to look past the lack of power in some of these cigars and embrace (or in some instance, hunt for) the subtlety and nuance. Not saying by any stretch that the reviews are "wrong" or anything... everyone's palate is different and everyone should smoke what they enjoy.

Also, a lot of people don't feel these are quite ready yet with so few years on them. While I think they are decent cigars, they don't blow me away yet either.

1 down, 9 to go!

:banger

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Thanks for this thread Dan, I like the reviews:tu

[DBall]

Another quick note... I've never been to Seattle but have always wanted to.. Those pics are AWESOME!

Oh, and it's easier to pinpoint flavors out the nose. All ya do is blow the majority of the smoke out your mouth than close your mouth and blow the rest out your nose. Another thing I find really helpful is the occasional purge (blowing out through the cigar). Mix those two techniques in and see if there's any difference. :)

[Samsquanch]

In the first picture just above the boat you can faintly make out Mt. Rainier. I moved here from North Carolina a couple years ago and love it!

I'll definitely try the nose trick on the next one and purging as well. The next one will be going up in smoke this weekend!

Another quick note... I've never been to Seattle but have always wanted to.. Those pics are AWESOME!

Oh, and it's easier to pinpoint flavors out the nose. All ya do is blow the majority of the smoke out your mouth than close your mouth and blow the rest out your nose. Another thing I find really helpful is the occasional purge (blowing out through the cigar). Mix those two techniques in and see if there's any difference. :)

[hscmit]

nice work guys

[Brutus2600]

Good to see the first reviews so quick! I enjoyed reading them...can't wait for the next one :tu

[DBall]

Good to see the first reviews so quick! I enjoyed reading them...can't wait for the next one :tu

I know what ya mean... I wanna see them all at once, but at the same time, the 1 per week thing makes the fun last longer.

I'll probably only post one per week anyway :)

[CRIMPS]

Great reviews... and entertaining as well ;)

[Samsquanch]

Second review inbound this evening.

[jonumberone]

Review #2 Delivered :tu

[jonumberone]

:tt
The suspense is killing me :D

[DBall]

:tt
The suspense is killing me :D

Me too... I literally haven't been home long enough to get the images (which are on my laptop) all weekend. The best thing is, my memory sucks ass and I don't even remember what I sent you till I see the pics.

[jonumberone]

Plans are for #3 tonight :banger

[kgoings]

Love these threads!

[Samsquanch]

Plans are for #3 tonight :banger

I think that's a good idea and I'll do the same, really put the pressure on Dan to get #2 posted!! :D

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #2
******************

It’s a beautiful night in NJ, so I decide to grab some coffee, head to the yard, put on the Yankee game, and Give stick #2 a try.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02395.jpg?t=1286499389

Initial thoughts
The stick appears to be over 5in in length. The wrapper is a Rich coffee brown, with a few veins. One vein is very thick and runs for about an inch and a half from the cap down. I squeeze the stick and this thing is rock solid from cap to foot with almost no give. Pre light draw is tight, and I can tell I’m going to be in for a rough one. I’m going to give this a go as is but, I’m almost positive I’ll be re-cutting this bad boy. Pre light draw isn’t giving me many flavors of note. I Draw on it again and am seriously considering postponing this for a few days to dry box. I’ve sat here for a half an hour debating what to do. I decide rules are rules time to suck it up and give it a go. I shave a little more off the top and it helps a tad, but I have a feeling by the time I’m done my eyeballs will be a little further recessed into my head.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02396.jpg?t=1286499520


First third
After about a half an inch I still haven’t gotten a mouthful of smoke. I don’t know how to unplug a cigar, but I’m going to have to learn on the fly. This stick is unsmokable as is. This stick is so tight I consider pulling out my power drill and boring a hole in it. I opt instead for a corn on the cob holder and pry out some of the leaf. This works to an extent as I can now get a mouthful of smoke, but it’s still tight as hell. Now that I’m getting some smoke I can start to hunt for flavors. I’m getting a chocolate taste, not a sweet chocolate but more like a bakers chocolate. I’ve been working on going to my nose all week, but I just can’t get enough smoke to make it happen.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02397.jpg?t=1286499572

Second third
The stick is starting to get a little bitter. I suspect this is my fault as I feel I’m constantly pulling on it trying to get smoke out of it. I also am switching to water. Normally I can pick out flavors over coffee, but with the minimal smoke I’m getting it is the front most flavor on my palate. I’m starting to get faint cedar notes and a little cream. As I smoke a little further the stick is becoming looser, still tight but much more bearable.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02398.jpg?t=1286499614

Last third
The Flavors have come with the switch to water and the draw opening up. I’m still getting a bitter taste but it is a good bitter like espresso. I’m hoping that’s not the coffee I had earlier but it’s been 45 min since I switched to water. I give the stick a good purge, let it sit, and go to my nose, wow that burns! Cedar and a woodsy taste are in the forefront now and the espresso is still present in the background. A little further down the chocolate is back. It was nowhere to be found since the first inch of this stick. The last third of this stick has been tremendous, and I am a little more than disappointed that the first parts were so tight. Based on the last third alone I would say these are box worthy.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02399.jpg?t=1286499654

Final thoughts
If I had to sum this stick up in as few words as possible I would call it “Catholic High school Girl”. It was tight as hell, full of potential, and somewhat divine. I believe the tight draw was due to construction problems. The burn was perfect with zero relights and only one touch up after I let it sit a min while I made a second cup of coffee. I also considered the cool temp to be a problem before I lit it; however I find when the temp is the issue the stick expands when I smoke it. This was not the case here. As soon as I find out what this is I’ll be on the hunt for more.

Final score 7.5/10 based solely on the draw problems
Smoke time 2 hrs

[DBall]

Samsquanch Cigar #2
******************

Beautiful fall evening in Seattle a couple days ago, so I decided to take this one to a local park near my apartment. I'm sure as the rainy season sets in here you'll start seeing my setup in the apartment which consists of sitting next to a fan by the window.

This box pressed stick was 5.5" and 46 RG. Light brown with a lot of veins, I did the squeeze test before leaving the apartment and promptly grabbed my new draw tool from Boom and headed for the park.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/68a68f6d.jpg

After cutting with my Palio and taking a quick draw, what I suspected was confirmed. This baby was tight! Used the draw tool, put the flame to the foot, and started working my lungs.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/60587ae5.jpg

1/3

In between pulls I managed to pick up some cocoa and a nutty flavor. This was a nice tasting, mild stick.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/7e7a29de.jpg

2/3

Extremely light smoke, I'm guessing this is due to the extremely tight draw. The ash is really tight and holds on for over an inch before I knocked it off to keep from dropping in my lap. As well the burn is very even. Really though, I'm just looking for nice things to say about this one, as my lungs are already strained from pulling on this thing.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/0ecbafaa.jpg

3/3

The wrapper just split however it did not affect the draw (unfortunately). Near the end of this one it did loosen up a bit and I caught some chocolate flavor.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/db9f5d77.jpg

Final Thoughts

It's a shame because if it wasn't for the super tight draw, I would have really enjoyed this stick. Nice mild yet complex flavor, interested in how it was for Dom and what Dan's thoughts are on this stick as well. I did try putting some smoke through my nose and it helped pull some more flavors out.

Mostly due to the draw issues, I'm going to give this one a 5/10.

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-2.jpg

1999 Saint Luis Rey Serie A

jonumberone score: 7.5

Samsquanch score: 5

I've never had draw problems on these... out of this box or any of the others I've smoked.

The first few BTTs, the newbs had the same problem... turns out the cigars were in an incredibly humid environment (65%+). I asked that they dry box the cigars before smoking them to prevent them from having such issues...

What RH are you guys keeping these at?

[jonumberone]

My RH was rock solid at 65% all summer long,
now that the temps have dropped my RH has been at 63% for about a month.
I expect it to stay here for the rest of the winter months.
In the basement, where I keep my humi, the temp is around 62 now.
Thats about where it is during winter when the heat is on.

I loved the flavor of this stick, and despite the draw problems, considered it a real treat to smoke.
Many thanks to Dan for an awesome stick :banger

After I smoked this I gave all the other sticks a little squeeze.
There was one more I would consider firmer than most.
I made a note of the # on the bag and will surely dry box that one.

[Brutus2600]

Nice reviews guys!

Dom, I lol'd at your stick summary :r:r

[DBall]

After I smoked this I gave all the other sticks a little squeeze.
There was one more I would consider firmer than most.
I made a note of the # on the bag and will surely dry box that one.

There was a thread elsewhere, not sure where, but the determination was made that 'firmness' didn't necessarily equate to tight draws. I've had many cigars that were squishy that were plugged like mad and those that felt like batons and drew perfect.

Feeling for a hard spot or a lump somewhere on the cigar (typically under the band) is usually a good way to find out.

[Doctorossi]

I've had many cigars that were squishy that were plugged like mad and those that felt like batons and drew perfect.

:tpd:

[Samsquanch]

My humi has been holding steady at 64%, I'll go ahead and dry box #3 for a couple days before smoking. However I didn't have any draw issues with #1.

[Samsquanch]

I've smoked one of these before and had a totally different experience. No draw issues however check this out...http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=34936. After seeing that hole appear all I could think was beetle and I believe it influenced my opinion of the cigar. After this BTT however, I would purchase these again, especially since Dan has never had draw issues.

[Nathan King]

Interesting thread. I look forward to the reviews and responses. :tu

[jonumberone]

There was a thread elsewhere, not sure where, but the determination was made that 'firmness' didn't necessarily equate to tight draws. I've had many cigars that were squishy that were plugged like mad and those that felt like batons and drew perfect.

Feeling for a hard spot or a lump somewhere on the cigar (typically under the band) is usually a good way to find out.

Will keep that in mind, thanks Dan

[DBall]

:sleep: Where we at, guys? :D

[Beklage]

Subbed :)

[GTCanuk]

:sleep: Where we at, guys? :D

Need some reading material :tf

[Samsquanch]

I know, sorry - I'll get a couple done this week.

[Samsquanch]

Ok, #3 is submitted. :tu

[hammondc]

Yaaaaaawwwwwnnnnnn.......

[CRIMPS]

Completely off topic... I just read your signature Samsquanch. FUNNY!!!

I looked for a clip, but couldn't fine one. Here is an excerpt, though. Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia is genious...

Charlie: All right, you're getting hung up on "can't", and I'm not saying that you can't. I'm saying that it is illegal.
Dennis: No, but it's not illegal.
Charlie: Says the guy who knows nothing about the law!
Dennis: I can absolutely keep a hummingbird as a pet, bro. It's no different than having a parrot or a parakeet. It's a bird, bro.
Charlie: You really can't, and I'm not saying I agree with it. It's just that bird law in this country—it's not governed by reason.
Dennis: There's no such thing as "bird law".
Charlie: Yes, there is.
Dennis: You know what? I'm going to get a hummingbird and I'll show you.
Charlie: Hummingbirds...hummingbirds are illegal tender!
Dennis: I'm going to get one.
Charlie: You cannot.
Dennis: To spite you, I'm going to get one.
Mac: Where are we with gulls?
Charlie: You can keep a gull as a pet, but you don't want to live with a seabird, okay, 'cause the noise level alone on those things...have you ever heard a gull up close? It's going to blast your eardrums out, dude.

[Goldie]

I just watched that episode on Monday. I love that show.

[DBall]

jonumber1 Cigar #3
****************

Stuck at work, what better way to pass the time than smoke #3!

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02415.jpg?t=1287230344


Initial thoughts
I guess by some peoples standards the looks of this stick would be considered flawed, but I really like it.
There are a few tiny flakes missing from the foot, little acne like bumps covering the stick, and a blotch of glue from where the band was removed.
There even is a blemish near the cap that looks like it was caused when a fingernail pried it from its resting place. Just looking at it seems to tell a story.
I can see in my head it being rolled, banded, and ripped from its home, only to be met with a fiery death. This stick has character to it.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02420.jpg?t=1287230344

First Third
The draw is perfect on this one, so I light it up. Initially I get a strong tobacco and mild caramel taste. A half inch in I get a creamy cedar taste.
The smoke is thick and creamy. I go to my nose and it burns. I am however now able to get ¾ to all of the smoke out through my nose.
A feat I thought near impossible a few weeks ago.


http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02423.jpg?t=1287230344

Second Third
As I move into the second third the ash falls. I taste a little sweetness creeping in, but it is unidentifiable right now.
The cedar has really taken over, and I can taste it long after I put the cigar down. The smoke has remained thick and creamy, much to my liking.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02425.jpg?t=1287230344

Last Third
I start the last third off with a purge; I’m hoping this switches things up a bit. I’m still getting cedar now just behind an earthy musk.
As the Cedar mellows I’m starting to get a taste of some spice. The spice disappeared almost as soon as it showed up.
Getting closer to the nub; the flavor is 75% cedar, 25% earth.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02426.jpg?t=1287230344

Final thoughts
This stick toyed with me throughout the whole smoke. I felt like different flavors were about to creep in at any moment, but it just never happened.
The faint sweetness I got in the first two thirds, and the hint of spice in the last, were overpowered by the cedar and never really developed.
I would call this cigar one dimensional. Burn and draw were perfect right down to the nub.
In the end I enjoyed this cigar, but wasn’t knocked out by it.

Final score 7/10
Smoke time: 1 hr 42 min

[DBall]

Samsquanch Cigar #3
******************

Sorry for the delay on #3, things have been a little busy and I've been away from the board for a while. The next reviews will be completed in a more timely manner.

On to the review, I have nothing but good things to say about #3. A great looking box pressed stick, about 5 inches and a 46 RG.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/a36a3ac5.jpg

Pre-light draw was great, already thinking this was going to be a winner.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/3721fd21.jpg

Lit her up and the first puff was beautiful. Lots of smoke, full of flavor with notes of chocolate and nuts.

In the above picture you can see my smoking situation, in a small, non-smoking city apartment I'm stuck with sitting by the window with a fan blowing outside. You can also see the accompanying treat, a Little Debbie Christmas tree, I love these things (a little too much).

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/e9ee186c.jpg

This baby stayed consistent throughout, with loads of beautiful white smoke, easy draw and tons of mild flavor. Lots of chocolate, nuts, and coffee. Man I am enjoying this one!

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/22d8c9b9.jpg

The draw was perfect throughout and the burn stayed nice and even with no touch ups needed.

Can't wait to know what this was, perhaps a ERDM? I enjoyed every puff and give it a whopping 10 out of 10. Loved it, thanks Dan!

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-3.jpg

2009 Vegas Robaina Famoso

jonumberone score: 7

Samsquanch score: 10

Damn, Sam... you really liked this, eh?

These are great cigars... I've just recently been getting into robustos and picked a box of these up after having one gifted to me in the TAW. I didn't believe how good it was.

Glad you guys enjoyed this one!

[GTCanuk]

Good review guys I enjoy this one also-(P

[CRIMPS]

Great reviews! :tu

[Brutus2600]

Nice...these threads always make me want to go shopping :r

[njstone]

These reviews are awesome! I just had my first Famoso a few weeks ago and I was about as blown away as Samsquanch ... dang good cigar! No idea who old mine was or how that effects these.

[Samsquanch]

Yeah I really enjoyed it. My next box will definitely be those, unless #4-10 change my mind!! :D

[Brutus2600]

Are we possibly going to see #4 this weekend? :D

[jonumberone]

I already submitted 4, 5, 6, and have #7 with me today :tu

[Brutus2600]

Rofl, way to pace yourself Dom ;)

:r:r

I guess you smoke a lot of cigars though, so I probably shouldn't be surprised that you're getting them done so quickly

[LasciviousXXX]

I really enjoy reading this thread and all the reviews :tu

And props for pairing a VR with a Christmas tree snack cake :lr

[DBall]

Are we possibly going to see #4 this weekend? :D

I already submitted 4, 5, 6, and have #7 with me today :tu


That'll be up to Andrew. Dom's almost done with all of them already!

[Samsquanch]

Yikes, Dom is kicking my ass, I'll get #4 in this evening and get a few done this weekend.

[DBall]

Yikes, Dom is kicking my ass, I'll get #4 in this evening and get a few done this weekend.

No need to hurry... just one a week. Dom is just a machine. :r

[lopro]

Dom, I love that ashtray setup you got. Neat and portable. Who makes it?


This thread is making me want to try some of those sticks from the other island.... I may try that Vegas.... (Unless you have another rec, Dan?)

Until then, the NC's are treating me fine.



I forgot how fun these threads are to follow. Dan, you ever think of doing a "DBall's Vet Blind Taste Test"? (And, I am by no means a vet, so there's no ulterior motive here.) It could be neat to see if the veterans reviews would really pick up much more or differ that much from the "newbs."

[docdoty]

I'm going to have to go online shopping tonight. They seem very good and I really like the robusto size.

[DBall]

I forgot how fun these threads are to follow. Dan, you ever think of doing a "DBall's Vet Blind Taste Test"? (And, I am by no means a vet, so there's no ulterior motive here.) It could be neat to see if the veterans reviews would really pick up much more or differ that much from the "newbs."

In fact, I have considered that. My only concern is that newbs know very little about habanos (meaning size/shape/etc). If I put a Partagas Charlotte in there, for instance, it'd probably be discovered as what it is before it was even lit.

Now that you got me thinking about it, I could do an abbreviated version with common sizes (Robusto/corona/etc).

That may be the 5th (and potentially final one... I think I need to pass the torch here soon :) ).

[Samsquanch]

I think it would be cool to see a newb vs. a veteran...

[DBall]

I think it would be cool to see a newb vs. a veteran...

That's a damned good idea as well!

[gijoey959]

That would be an awesome idea :tu it would be interesting to see how the newb's and vet's pallates differed

[jonumberone]

#7 delivered :tu

[Doctorossi]

That would be an awesome idea :tu it would be interesting to see how the newb's and vet's pallates differed

If you were to do something like this, Dan, I think you should probably make the variety of sticks as deep as the differences in palate might be. You may want to ask for some contributions, just to expand beyond the scope of your own humi (ie. bring on the 60rg NCs! :r). Seriously, though, this experiment begs to cover the gamut. :2

[LasciviousXXX]

That's a damned good idea as well!

I really dig this idea. It would be so much fun to watch :tu

[akumushi]

It would work best if you had CCs and NCs, and put in at least one of both in there that might easily be confused for the other, that way you'd keep the vet guessing:2

[CRIMPS]

I think it would be cool to see a newb vs. a veteran...

I really like this idea! :tu

I'm still a new smoker, no doubt. I have very little bias towards one Island/brand/style/wrapper/etc. and I have always wondered how deep the bias runs.

[LasciviousXXX]

Deep! :cool:

[CRIMPS]

I really like this idea! :tu

I'm still a new smoker, no doubt. I have very little bias towards one Island/brand/style/wrapper/etc. and I have always wondered how deep the bias runs.

Umm, I just reread my last post. There are obviously more reasons why I would find this more interesting. I dint mean to sound like a snob.

[jonumberone]

Any updates yet?

[Brutus2600]

Umm, I just reread my last post. There are obviously more reasons why I would find this more interesting. I dint mean to sound like a snob.

lol, I didn't read it that way :sh

Any updates yet?

:tpd:

[landhoney]

More off-topic banter, but anyone remeber the Fredster/Moki Blind review back in the CS days? I had just joined, or right after, wow what a thread, very heated but interesting on many levels.

[HK3-]

More off-topic banter, but anyone remeber the Fredster/Moki Blind review back in the CS days? I had just joined, or right after, wow what a thread, very heated but interesting on many levels.

Yeah, I remember that one. That was awesome! :banger

[DBall]

It would work best if you had CCs and NCs, and put in at least one of both in there that might easily be confused for the other, that way you'd keep the vet guessing:2

More off-topic banter, but anyone remeber the Fredster/Moki Blind review back in the CS days? I had just joined, or right after, wow what a thread, very heated but interesting on many levels.

Saw that before... it was a bad thing. The Fredster-Moki thing from CS days was a disaster


I mean, it was fun to read and all, but so many panties got bunched up.

No, if I do the vet/newb thing, it'll likely be all CCs (just basic/common vitolas) and not even for them to guess the cigar, just to share their thoughts on flavors in comparison to a newer member.

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #4
******************

Beautiful day at work. Time for #4

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/1.jpg?t=1288110701

This stick appears to be 5inches in length. It’s a nice coffee brown with a few veins, and a number of wrinkles.
As soon as I cut the wrapper splits at the cap. I dry boxed this for about a 5 days and wonder if it was too long.
The pre light draw is fine and I get grassy hay like taste.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/2.jpg?t=1288110839

First Third
After I light up I get a graham cracker taste. I smoke down about a half inch and go to my nose.
The burn in my nose is mild and I get an earthy musk.
The next draw after my nose, I get a coffee and cocoa taste.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/3.jpg?t=1288110887

Second Third
The second third has given me a little cedar and a lot more burn in the nose.
The coffee and cocoa are gone and I get a woodsy taste.
It sort of reminds me of burning oak leaves.
I don’t know if it’s the nicotine but I’m starting to get a slight headache.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/4.jpg?t=1288406410

Final Third
I start with a purge and immediately go to my nose.
My first taste is of strong hay. It is far clearer than the hay I got in the pre light draw and not as sweet.
The further I smoke I get more and more of woodsy flavors.
I actually think I just got burning pine needles.
This last third has also seen the burn go awry with numerous relights and touch ups.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/5.jpg?t=1288110938

Final Thoughts
In the end this stick didn’t do much for me. I seem to be getting a lot of cedar in these sticks and I don’t think it’s something that fits into my flavor profile.
I also don’t seem to be getting the richness and body I prefer from them.
This is where I feel this last smoke was lacking the most.
The grassy hay like flavors was something new to me and I think it was the best part of this smoke.

Final score 6/10
Smoke time 1hr 28min

[DBall]

Samsquanch Cigar #4
******************

Another beautiful fall day in Seattle, smoked #4 outside on the stoop talking with a good friend who had just returned from a month in Costa Rica with a glass of Basil Hayden (and a bottle of water to clear the palette). Needless to say, it was a nice evening.

Numero 4 was a box pressed, 48 ring gauge and 5.5 inches long. She looked nice from afar but I noticed several blotches up close.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/828df94b.jpg

I lit her up and was instantly hit with a sweet taste and a strong nutty flavor. I was enjoying the first few puffs but then disaster hit. The wrapper was coming apart near the head. It seemed weird to me that there was no binder leaf underneath the wrapper? I thought cigars were rolled first with a binder leaf than an outer wrapper?

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/809819fe.jpg

No binder leaf underneath meant that lots of air was getting in that way, which in turn meant not a lot of smoke. I worked at trying to keep the wrapper closed and getting more smoke but unfortunately this soured what may have been a decent smoke.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/b32b618d.jpg

I did enjoy the beginning of the smoke but near the end it did seem to pick up a bit of harshness, maybe because I was puffing so hard trying to get a decent amount of smoke into my mouth? I am going to have to pick up another one of these once I know what it was because I did enjoy the first third until the wrapper came loose.

Overall 5/10 due to construction problems (possibly user error) and harshness near the end. For the first third I would rate a much higher 7 or 8/10.

Thanks again Dan for a fun time!!

[wayner123]

More off-topic banter, but anyone remeber the Fredster/Moki Blind review back in the CS days? I had just joined, or right after, wow what a thread, very heated but interesting on many levels.

Yes, I remember that and I still am looking for some Cabaiguan WD 120's.

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-4.jpg

1999 Punch Corona

jonumberone score: 6

Samsquanch score: 5

Wow... I've never had a punch corona with those problems... out of this box or any other. I absolutely love these things and would stomp a baby to get my hands on more of these boxes (or better yet, the 98's) at the price they were going for in late 08.

[CRIMPS]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-4.jpg

1999 Punch Corona

jonumberone score: 6

Samsquanch score: 5

Wow... I've never had a punch corona with those problems... out of this box or any other. I absolutely love these things and would stomp a baby to get my hands on more of these boxes (or better yet, the 98's) at the price they were going for in late 08.

Great reviews! Those do look good.

Im pretty sure stomping babies is outlawed in at least 32 states, though. Be Careful ;)

[landhoney]

BTW, love these threads Dan, thanks for all the fun.

Saw that before... it was a bad thing. The Fredster-Moki thing from CS days was a disaster
I mean, it was fun to read and all, but so many panties got bunched up.
No, if I do the vet/newb thing, it'll likely be all CCs (just basic/common vitolas) and not even for them to guess the cigar, just to share their thoughts on flavors in comparison to a newer member.

Reading the thread again over on pvff right now (I hate to login in there, and don't post, but old threads like this I have to much nostalgia for to not look back at occasionally).

I think there's little chance a similar blind review here would devolve like it did there. :2

Lastly, I am smoking a Taboada tonight :r Got a hankerin' reading the thread again.

[rizzle]

More off-topic banter, but anyone remeber the Fredster/Moki Blind review back in the CS days? I had just joined, or right after, wow what a thread, very heated but interesting on many levels.

Man, Seth. That was a little before I joined over there as well so I went looking and found it. Agreed...wow.

[Samsquanch]

I'm definitely willing to give the Punch another shot, considering the first third before I had the wrapper malfunction.

#5 is headed your way in a few minutes Dan!

[Samsquanch]

Now my interest is piqued for the Fredster/Moki review thread, anyone mind sending me the link to it? I've been searching over there for it but have been unable to find. Thanks!

[jonumberone]

Any updates? :tt :D

[CRIMPS]

+1

[DBall]

Any updates? :tt :D

Yes... the update is that I am a slacker... :r

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #5
******************

Awesome day for a smoke! #5 is first on today’s death by fire list

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02431.jpg?t=1288407298

Initial Thoughts
The stick appears under 5 inches and is a much smaller ring gauge than I’m accustomed to smoking.
The wrapper is a rich brown and I think the darkest yet. I squeeze and find a hard spot about an inch before the cap.
I cut the cap without issue and find the draw to be perfect. I didn’t dry box this one.
Pre-light flavors are creamy and full of cocoa.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02432.jpg?t=1288407298

First Third
The first few puffs are far fuller and stronger than I have come to expect from the sticks Dan sent. I get a blast of chocolaty goodness and a lot of thick rich smoke.
Not even an inch in and this stick has me at half mast. I’m also wondering if this is a NC.
I get a lot of burn when I go to my nose, something I thought I was past.
At about the inch mark I get some bite, not peppery but a twang is the best I can do to describe it. As I smoke more the twang resembles licorice.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02433.jpg?t=1288407298

Second Third
The chocolate has continued and the twang has increased with every puff. This stick is a powerhouse and I can feel the tip of my tongue going numb.
A purge does little to derail this freight train and an attempt at my nose has me in tears.
A little sweetness creeps in and this stick is starting to remind me of a 601 Blue.
It is starting to get a bit bitter on me, and the roof of my mouth has gone numb as well.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02434.jpg?t=1288407298

Final Third
I purge again and the last part starts off a bit nutty with coffee undertones. The bitterness has subsided a bit but it is still there.
Going to my nose is not an option any longer, it’s quite unbearable.
The flavor switches from chocolate to coffee and, the flavor keeps getting stronger and stronger.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02436.jpg?t=1288407298

Final Thoughts
Smoking this stick was like being set up on a blind date with a dominatrix.
The night starts out, and you think you got a chance of getting lucky, but in the end you wind up abused, whipped, and wearing a diaper.
Going to my nose literally had tears running down my cheeks, and the tip of my tongue is still numb.
I’m going to go out on a limb and say this has to be a NC. No CC I have smoked has ever been this strong.
If it is a CC, it has totally changed my conception of them. Of the CC’s I have smoked, I always equated them to elevator music, this smoke was heavy metal.
I found it aggressive, and was very punchy in how the flavor was delivered; every puff was like a haymaker.

Final Score 8 / 10
Smoke time 1hr 13min

[DBall]

Samsquanch Cigar #5
******************

What a day and what a cigar! #5 was a great little smoke that I'll surely pick up some more of.

5" x 35rg this guy was small but packed a punch. A few veins and an overall nice looking cigar.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/13b3db35.jpg

On the prelight I got some spice but also a nice honey flavor.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/1d80081a.jpg

Smoked great right off the bat, the draw was a little tight but nothing that impeded pulling lots of nice white smoke. Grabbing some hints of cinnamon and cloves now.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/7e4db0f3.jpg

The burn got off a little and I had to touch up a couple times, nothing that bothered me though. The ash held on nicely as well. The dense smoke is very creamy with vanilla notes as I worked my down to the final third.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/65cf0625.jpg

As I mentioned earlier, this will be on my purchase list in the near future. Great little guy when in the mood for a quick smoke.

Overall 8/10 smoke rings.

(If anyone was wondering, the pictures were taken with the Hipstamatic camera app for the iPhone. I highly recommend you pick up this app, it's awesome!)

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-5.jpg

2008 Partagas Princess

jonumberone score: 8

Samsquanch score: 8

Solid reviews for this little guy. That's the thing with guys that start this journey out as predominantly NC smokers... they typically like the stronger, fresher habanos than the aged ones (at first).

These are, alas, discontinued... :td

That said, if you like these, you'll probably dig party shorts. Those are, for the time, still for sale (until HSA gets rid of every cigar that is 58rg and below, those bastards...)

[Brutus2600]

Man...I swear, HSA is discontinuing too many awesome smokes.

Those look delicious! :D

[jonumberone]

I am completely floored that this was a CC.
I am also devastated that these are discontinued.

I think this stick would have gotten a higher score had I not gone to my nose.
It was one of the most painful moments in my life and made my eyes bloodshot.

Are there any other sticks out there that compare to these that aren't discontinued?
Dan mentioned Party Shorts, any others?

Thanks for an awesome smoke Dan!

[DBall]

I am completely floored that this was a CC.
I am also devastated that these are discontinued.

I think this stick would have gotten a higher score had I not gone to my nose.
It was one of the most painful moments in my life and made my eyes bloodshot.

Are there any other sticks out there that compare to these that aren't discontinued?
Dan mentioned Party Shorts, any others?

Thanks for an awesome smoke Dan!

When fresh, Partagas, as a marca, is on the stronger side of the spectrum... as is Bolivar.

[akumushi]

Partagas Petit Coronas Especiales are very reasonably priced and full flavored.

[DBall]

Just realized I had #5 in my inbox and didn't post it yet! Doh.

I'll get it done later today :D

[jonumberone]

Dan #5 is posted :tu

Waiting on #6 :D

[Doctorossi]

:bs

:tt












;s

[DBall]

Dan #5 is posted :tu

Waiting on #6 :D


Ahhh... in that case, we're waiting on Mr Samsquanch.......

[DBall]

Bump. Been nearly a month since the last review.

[Brutus2600]

Aw, I want to see the next cigars :( Lol

[jonumberone]

Ahhh... in that case, we're waiting on Mr Samsquanch.......


Will we get an update this weekend? :tt

[Samsquanch]

I sent in #6 earlier this week.

[jonumberone]

I sent in #6 earlier this week.

:tu
Sweet!!!

[CRIMPS]

Looking forward to the next one.

[DBall]

jonomberone Cigar #6
******************

It’s an absolute miserable day for me at work. I had to take an emergency order to load the biggest pain in the ass ship on the pier.
Going to try and make it better by smoking #6.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02437.jpg?t=1288407298

Initial thoughts
This stick is a monster compared to the rest of Dan’s selection. I would call it a Lancero though it appears to be a little fatter. I really need to get one of those ring gauge guides.
The wrapper is a nice medium brown with more than a few veins. I squeeze the stick and find nothing out of the ordinary.
As I go to cut I notice that this stick may have had a pig tail that Dan sneakily removed.
Pre light draw is tighter than I would like, but doesn’t seem like it will be an issue, and the flavor is smooth and sweet.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02439.jpg?t=1288407298

First Third
The smoke starts out sweet with caramel. After I lit up, I feel like the draw closed up a bit, so I’m not getting as much smoke as I would like.
I go to my nose and get zero burn. This cigar is smooth as hell.
This is the first cigar that going to my nose has made a real difference. After I do I get a ton of nutty flavor, like roasted hazelnut.
As I get closer to the second third a hint of cedar creeps in.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02442.jpg?t=1288407298

Second third
As I move in to the second parts the sweetness takes a front most spot on my palate. In the background I get nuts and wood.
A little further in and I get a touch of pepper. The sweetness has died out as the pepper increased.
Right now it is all nuts and wood with a nice bite to it.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02443.jpg?t=1288407298

Final third
The first puff of the last third was bitter and had a tar like quality.
I have been purging softly the whole while but I think it’s time to empty my lungs with one.
After, I get a mouthful of sweet delicious smoke, however my nose is no longer an option as the burn remains there for some time afterwards.
Tons of sweet tobacco flavored smoke is filling my mouth with every puff.
The smoke has gotten thicker and creamier with every pull and the draw has loosened up.
There are a lot of nutty flavors now and cedar in the back.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02446.jpg?t=1288407871

Final Thoughts
WOW! This smoke seem to hit all the right notes at all the right times. It was really hard for me to pick out distinct flavors because the ones coming through meshed so nicely.
The mixture of flavors in every puff worked so well together, you would think it was planned that way.
The burn was perfect with no touch ups but I had two relights.
The one tar sensation was cleared by a mighty purge and it was smooth sailing the rest of the way.
This was one of the best composed cigars I’ve had in my short time smoking, as well as one of the smoothest.
The draw was tight but not plugged and the tar hit me like a ton of bricks.
Had it not been for these two issues, I might have given it a 10.

Final Score 9/10
Smoke time 2hr 47min

[DBall]

Samsquanch Cigar #6
******************


Enjoyed watching the Apple Cup (University of Washington vs Washington State University) football game while smoking #6. Long and slim 7" 40 rg beauty.

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/0350ac1e.jpg

Not many veins, a nice light brown color, and a tight draw pre-light. Enjoyed (a bit too much) some Lagavulin single malt - so sorry if this one isn't as detailed.

Don't I look distinguished smoking this one?

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/45dc05d3.jpg

Enjoyed this one all the way through, hints of caramel, hazelnut. If customs wasn't seizing shipments left and right I'd order some of these right up...

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f86/andpeo23/814a2586.jpg


I'll put this one at an 8/10. It was a bit long however, I wonder if these are made in a smaller size?

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-6.jpg

2001 Montecristo Especiale #1

jonumberone score: 9

Samsquanch score: 8

Tasty, eh? Not sure how much luck you'll have finding them anymore and, yes, they do make a smaller size (Especiale #2) which I think I may have only had one of ever and it was a long time ago... so I can't tell ya if they are as good.

4 left!!!

[DennisP]

The '09 Especiale #2s are smoking great, about 1.5" shorter I think.

[Doctorossi]

Monte Esp. is probably top 5 territory for me.

[hscmit]

great reviews, and again unbelievable sticks for this

[jonumberone]

I am very happy to find out what this was.
I absolutely loved this stick and just realized I have one at home in my humi.

Thanks again to Dan for an awesome stick :tu

[issues]

They don't get much better than a Monte Esp #1, that's for sure. :tu

[Brutus2600]

Nice review guys :tu Had my mouth waterin', haha

[CRIMPS]

Updates? I miss this...

[zappaFREAK]

Tremendous thread!!
Great reviews.
Love the mystery.

[DBall]

Updates? I miss this...

Me too...

[Brutus2600]

Saddest updates ever! lol.

[jonumberone]

I delivered #7 on 11/05/10.
I guess were waiting on Andrew :sh

[DBall]

I delivered #7 on 11/05/10.
I guess were waiting on Andrew :sh

You are correct, Dom.

[jesseboston81]

Just discovered and read through this thread, and I must say that it is absolutely amazing! This is a great idea, and the reviews are very well-written and presented with great photographs. I especially want to thank those who have discussed nasal exhaling, as this is something I've been hoping to try; however, with only NCs in my humidor (and mostly spicy, Nicaraguan ones at that) I'm a little reluctant to try!

Anyway, I digress. Great thread and great reviews--salud!

[DBall]

Just discovered and read through this thread


Did ya check out the old ones?

Previous Newb Blind Taste Tests here:

Blind Taste Test Thread #1 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=21549)

Blind Taste Test Thread #2 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=27728)

Blind Taste Test Thread #3 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=32639)

[Superbad]

Smoking this stick was like being set up on a blind date with a dominatrix.
The night starts out, and you think you got a chance of getting lucky, but in the end you wind up abused, whipped, and wearing a diaper.

Dom, you have such a great way with words!

[jonumberone]

Dom, you have such a great way with words!

Funny you should say that, I usually don't speak, I'm a bit of a grunter ;)
:r:r

[jonumberone]

Going to smoke #8 today!

[jonumberone]

#8 Delivered :banger

[DBall]

Due to work, weather and life in general, Andrew needs to bow out.

The final four will be reviewed by Crimps once they are delivered. There will be a brief lull while they are shipped and while they acclimate upon arrival, but we'll be back in no time.

Thanks for stepping up, Zach and I look forward to the reviews!!! :banger

[CRIMPS]

Work, Weather, and Life happen :( We can all empathize.

It is my pleasure and I look forward to sharing! ;)

[jonumberone]

Due to work, weather and life in general, Andrew needs to bow out.

BOOOOOOOO :td




The final four will be reviewed by Crimps once they are delivered.

WooHoo! :tu

Back on track!! :noon:noon

[Samsquanch]

It's tough being a cigar smoker in Seattle in the winter, especially living in an apartment. Thanks to Dan for being cool with me passing the torch and my apologies to everyone for holding back this great thread.

[Brutus2600]

Glad to see it will be finished though, thank you for your first 6 reviews Andrew and thank you for resolving this with Dan so it can be finished :tu

[Samsquanch]

D/c - 9405 5036 9930 0475 1856 69

[CRIMPS]

Package received. #6 will be burned tonight.

[WNY]

Love this thread!

[CRIMPS]

Numbers 7 and 8 delivered. :banger

[Whipper Snapper]

Hey Dan, I'm a noob!

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #7
******************

Time for #7

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02541.jpg?t=1288988657

Initial Thoughts
This stick is the baby of the lot that Dan sent. It is about 4 inches long. It has a nice brown wrapper with almost no veins.
Pre-light draw is perfect and I get nice sweet tobacco taste. I considered breaking this into 2 halves instead of thirds since it’s so small, but I decide to stick to thirds.
These are Dan’s sticks and I don’t want to change the format

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02542.jpg?t=1288988657

First Third
The initial taste is sweet. I go to my nose and get zero burn. It makes the cigar seem fuller in flavor.
About a half inch in I get a caramel note. This stick has a little bite to it and I can feel a pinch on the back of my tongue.
Very nice coffee flavors coming out. Digging this so far!

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02543.jpg?t=1288988657

Second Third
It feels like I just fired this bad boy up. The ash is getting these white dots all over it. It seems a little weird. It reminds me of bad acne.
The flavor is full force coffee right now and the smoke is rich and creamy. The burn has gotten a little out of whack but nothing to serious.
I don’t understand what happened but the wrapper literally exploded when I touched it up. It was like someone put a load in it.
It was smooth sailing up to this point and now the stick is extremely bitter

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02544.jpg?t=1288988657

Final Third
The whole experience is taking a turn here. The smoke is completely flat with only bitterness now.
The wrapper is not burning with the rest of the stick and is coming off in chunks.
I wonder if that’s the issue with the flavor. The stick keeps expanding and the wrapper keeps tearing with every pull.
The burn is completely awry now and I think this stick has run its course.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02545.jpg?t=1288988657

Final Thoughts
I think I will call this stick “Vanilla Ice” because much like his career, it was over before it started and crashed right into the ground.
I never had a cigar blow up like that in the middle. If that happens to me it’s always from the start. Up to that point I was really enjoying the stick.
The creamy coffee flavors and size made me think this would be awesome on the ride in to work.
I would love to try another that doesn’t blow up on me.

Final Score 5.5/10
Smoke time 49min

[DBall]

CRIMPS Cigar #7
*************

Cigar Review #7

I received The package in the mail on Friday night, but needed to wait until the following night before I reached for the lighter. I was sitting in a real estate conference for 10 hours today, trying to further my career. I couldn't help but think about the cigar I had all but drooled on the night before. Thanks to this thread, my dream of a real estate empire will probably never come to fruition.

Pre-light. Cigar # 7 looks to be a 4” x 42rg sized stick. The wrapper has some veins, but more noticeable are the light tan and brown splotches. Putting the stick up to my eye, I notice just a little crystallization. The smell is splendid: light, sweet tobacco with just a hint of... frosted flakes. I taste nuts and black pepper. The pepper and spice is not dominant, more mild than anything. Just a little
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-22210351.jpg

First third. Wow, creamy coffee flavor has made its grand entrance. Fantastic! Just a hint of spice still, at the back of the tongue. The draw is still a little tight, but manageable. About an inch in and the ash is still holding strong. I don't think there is as much as a flake in the ashtray.
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-22221829.jpg

Second third. I don't know if its because the wrapper slightly split at the cap when I cut it (a product of a crappy cutter methinks) or due to the tightness of the draw, but the smoke seems to have thinned and blued. The flavor profile hasn't really changed much. I am still really enjoying the coffee.
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-22223050.jpg

Last third. The spice has diminished to barely noticeable now. I notice just a little nicotine high, but just a little. Nothing overpowering. I wait for the ash to fall again to purge the cigar as I keep thinking smoke is thin. This seems to help. The wrapper is starting to split almost all the way to the cap, but holding together by a single vein.
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-22225523.jpg

Final Thoughts. A full flavored, medium bodied stick. The flavors were rather consistent and enjoyable throughout. I had a few problems with the wrapper cracking, but never did it unravel. I really enjoyed this stick and would definitely smoke this again if given the opportunity. Total smoke time was around an hour.

Rating: 8/10

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-7.jpg

2008 Diplomatico #5

jonumberone score: 5.5

CRIMPS score: 8

First off, let me take a moment to, again, thank CRIMPS for stepping up and helping us get through this... much appreciated!

As for these, I dig em... looks like Dom doesn't. :)

[jonumberone]

!

As for these, I dig em... looks like Dom doesn't. :)

I remember this stick well, and I remember loving it to start off.
The stick really exploded on me and I just remember ashes and wrapper chunks falling everywhere.
I am sure I have another of these ;)
and am really interested in seeing if the flavor lasts the whole way through.
I may review the other one just for fun :D

Thanks again to Dan :banger

[Brutus2600]

Excellent reviews guys! Looking forward to seeing the rest of these finished and posted up :tu

[rizzle]

It lives! :tu

[bishjd123]

Great reviews. Glad to see this back up and running.

[MarioF]

I'm so glad this is back on track, I really enjoy reading these reviews.

[jonumberone]

#9 is on fire as we speak :tu

[Bageland2000]

This is a great thread guys, thanks for posting all these reviews

[jonumberone]

#10 after breakfast :banger

[DBall]

#10 after breakfast :banger

#10? You never sent number 9! :D

Which reminds me, I need to put up #8... life's been busy, but a very good kind of busy.

[jonumberone]

It's all done just need to upload the pics. :tu

you should have both within the hour :banger

[CRIMPS]

#9 will be put to the flame either tonight or tomorrow night. Looking forward to seeing #8 :tu

[CRIMPS]

#9 sent. :tu

[jdawg]

I just found and read through this thread. Really great stuff! :tu

Great reviews guys, been a joy to read. Look forward to the rest of them.

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #8
******************

With all this snow on its way, and trucks backed up onto the street, I’ve resigned myself to being stuck at work for a very long time tonight.
Going to try and make it easier by smoking #8.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02620.jpg?t=1294844724

Initial Thoughts.

I pull out my handy ring gauge guide sent to me by Triple F, and find the stick is 5 X 42.
The wrapper is a silky coffee brown with few veins.
I squeeze from cap to foot and find a rock solid spot about where the band would be.
This doesn’t seem to affect the draw at all.
The pre-light draw is sweet, with a hint of anise that leaves a tickle on the tip of my tongue.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02621.jpg?t=1294844724

First Third

I light up and find the first few puffs to be very muddy and musky. I attempt to go to my nose and am shocked at how much burn I get right off the bat.
About an inch in and I’m still finding the flavors to be muddled.
There is nothing distinct and nothing too stellar yet.
This stick is burning really fast as well, not 20 min in and I’m about to move into the second third.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02625.jpg?t=1294844724

Second Third

I start of this part with a purge, trying to move this stick into some sort of direction other than the path it’s on.
I let it sit for a few minutes and I am getting a bit of earth and leather.
A bit into it and my friend cedar rears its head.
As soon as those flavors started to pop out a bit, they recessed back into this mish mash of blah.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02626.jpg?t=1294844724

Last Third

There really isn’t much new here to report except that the flavors seem a bit more toasted in this final third.
Going to my nose is unbearable and I can't find a reason to continue down to the nub.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02630.jpg?t=1294844724

Final thoughts

I'm going to call this stick "$7.99 Buffet".
It was a bit like heaping mounds of cheap food onto a plate, none of it any good, and coming back to the table with a pile of food and flavors.
I would have to say that these are not ready yet, but unlike the PLPC Dan sent in review #1 I have no interest in seeing where these go from here.
This stick was just Blah!

Final Score
4.5/10
Smoke time 1hr 3min

[DBall]

CRIMPS Cigar #8
**************

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-25224651.jpg
Cigar #8 looks to be about a 5” stick with a 42 or 45 ring gauge.

Pre-light. The wrapper has some noticeable, raised veins. The foot starts dark brown and as you move towards the cap, lightens up to a nice peanut butter tan. I also notice just a little oily sheen... just a little. The smell is a stronger nutty smell. Cutting the cap, the wrapper seems very thin, taking very little force to cut. I take a draw and taste nothing more than some straw.
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-25225500.jpg

First third. As I toast the foot, I waft a little smoke and can smell a creamy, toast smell. I like it. The first puff is incredibly smooth... cuban cigar smooth. I taste some hazelnut coffee. I love it. I take a few more pulls to fully light the foot. I suddenly hear the wrapper crack. Sure enough, about an inch of the wrapper shows a crack. As I pull on the cigar, the crack continues to grow. I can still pull on it without completely loosing the suction, so I ignore this. This isn't going to stop my experience tonight.
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-25230721.jpg

Second third. The wrapper looks like it was wrapped around a bottle rocket that exploded. As the cigar warms up, it starts to expand it would seem. You would think I was smoking an ice cream cone. Cookies and creme, maybe.

The flavor profile is gaining some complexity, tasting a slightly burnt toast and coffee. I taste it on the back of the tongue. Still smooth and creamy. I am really enjoying this.
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-25231808.jpg

Last third. I go to the nose and this really confirms the burnt hazelnut smell. Just a little zing, but worth it. The cigar continues to burn straight. The flavors continue, but the burnt hazelnut has picked up. In fact, the burnt flavor has overpowered any coffee or nut taste at this point, which I don't mind. Very little spice. If anything, pulling on the cigar 3 or 4 times leaves the tongue almost numb for a minute.
http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/Cigars/2011-01-25235940.jpg

Final Thoughts. A full flavored, medium bodied stick. The flavors changed from a very creamy hazelnut to a burnt straw. The wrapper blowing up was interesting. Honestly, though, this didn't really affect the smoking experience, which I was worried about. I fell in love at the beginning, but the love affair faded at the end (she had kids).

I give this cigar a 7. I would definitely smoke these again.

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-8.jpg

2010 Romeo y Julieta Coronitas en Cedro

jonumberone score: 4.5

CRIMPS score: 7

I had high hopes for these when I bought them... I really like RyJ's. These don't do it for me.

[landhoney]

I had high hopes for these when I bought them... I really like RyJ's. These don't do it for me.

Give 'em 10 years, then see how you feel and report back. :tu
If you don't like them then, you know what to do. :D:tu:r

[Superbad]

10 years is a long time to wait to see if they come around.

[landhoney]

10 years is a long time to wait to see if they come around.

This made me laugh, in a good way not a 'laugh at you' kind of way Bobby. So true in one sense, and yet in another reality not so true.

In one sense, do we really need all these cigars? Outsiders would not understand, "Why do you have so many cigars???" But in our reality it makes some kind of sense.

I personally see aging in a similar way. Does it make sense to sit a box of cigars aside for ten years waiting for them to come around? Well to me it does. :D But seriously the 10 years was slight hyperbole. I will say though that I've yet to have a 10+ year old RyJ disappoint, whereas fresh they do so regularly. :2

:r That's one reason they call this place the asylum.

TL/DR or 'Nutshell' version: RyJ's often need some down time, don't always judge them fresh, down the road they will rarely disappoint if you like RyJ's at all.

[DBall]

I'm spoiled because I got a box of 07 RyJ Coronas that were INCREDIBLE... I thought all fresh RyJ's would be like that. Pretty sad when I smoked these.

Oh well, there's only about 1 or 2 left in that box... it won't last 10 years... :)

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #9
******************

It’s frigid out with freezing rain, I couldn’t think of a better time to light #9

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02651.jpg?t=1296772223

Initial Thoughts
Stick 9 has a nice light brown color to it. I don’t have my ring gauge guide so best guess is 5.5 X 46.
The wrapper has a little tooth to it and some well defined veins.
I squeeze and find a hard spot right at the foot.
Pre- light draw is perfect and the flavor is very grassy.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02652.jpg?t=1296772223

First Third
Right from the word go I get a very distinct and defined flavor, however I can’t put my finger on what it is yet.
An attempt at my nose produces some burn and doesn’t do much to help me describe what I taste.
I am finding it to be woodsy; I am also getting a tart like flavor that brings apple to mind.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02653.jpg?t=1296772223

Second Third
As I smoke more some cocoa notes are starting to come through. The woodsy flavor has mellowed but the tartness persists.
I am noticing that the ash isn’t holding well. It keeps falling off every ¼ inch or so.
The cocoa is gone and it is replaced by some cedar.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02654.jpg?t=1296772223

Final Third
At the start of the last part I go to my nose and feel a lot of burn.
Immediately after, I start to get some cinnamon.
The odd tartness is still present. Is this the Cuban twang I’ve heard about?
The wood and cedar flavors are meshing nicely and the cinnamon adds a nice touch of spice.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02655.jpg?t=1296772223

Final thoughts
I think I will call this one “apple pie covered in chocolate, baked on a cedar plank in the woods”.
For me this smoke had an odd combination of flavors that somehow worked well. The stick seemed to be all over the place, yet right where it belonged.
Burn and draw were flawless, and I had 4 relights all in the final third, that kind of soured the experience.
I wanted to nub it, but keeping it lit was becoming a hassle.

Final score 8/10
Smoke time 1hr 46min

[DBall]

CRIMPS Cigar #9
**************

Prelight
Looks to be a 6” x ~50rg stick. The initial smell is a very light hay. I cut the cap and the pull is a little tight, but definitely workable. The wrapper has some raised veins with a relatively smooth wrapper, just a little tooth. The construction looks tight.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-04130010.jpg

First 3rd
I taste a dark chocolate, which fades quickly after I expel the smoke. There is a little spice at the tip of the tongue, but this fades quickly as well. The aftertaste remains very earthy. The flavors spike, but this all seems like it fades quickly. Lots of smoke, initial smoke is slightly yellowed, but transitions quickly to a blueish smoke. The wrapper starts to split again. Nothing serious.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-04130118.jpg

Second 3rd
It seems like this cigar has calmed some. I still have some dark chocolate and earth, but the flavors don't fade as fast. I take two long pulls to stoke the stick back to life. I get a lot of creamy oil on my tongue (that's what she said). There is very little sweetness to this cigar. Instead, I taste a lot of tanginess. I don't mind this.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-04140456.jpg

Last 3rd
I am drinking iced tea, with some lemon, to clear my palate some. My next few puffs I notice an increase in wood flavor and my brow reports some chili powder spice. The aftertaste still has some dark chocolate. Again, no sweetness exists that I can pick up. The burn is still consistent and the draw is still tight and hasn't loosened any since I started the cigar.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-04145352.jpg

Overall thoughts
This cigar produced a lot of oil. I could taste the oils long after I finished the cigar, including the chili powder. Unique. I have smoked a number of “spicy” cigars. To me, this was completely different. I didn't taste black pepper at all.

The cigar was medium bodied and medium-full flavored. Total smoke time was 1 hour and 10 minutes. I would smoke this cigar again, but this wasn't my favorite.

Rating: 7/10

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-9.jpg

2000 Rafael Gonzalez Corona Extra

jonumberone score: 8

CRIMPS score: 7

I lit one of these up a week or 2 ago and got the great taste of light, freshly milled black pepper... not the painful peppery-ness of an NC, but a wonderful and light primary flavor. Lots of floral and sweet as the cigar went on to the final half. I passed it around and the sentiment was mirrored... without me even saying anything (as I didn't want to ruin it with the power of suggestion). Makes me wish I didn't give so many of these away and that I had many, many more left.

[DBall]

...only 1 cigar left in this the fourth, and final, Newb Blind Taste Test! :banger

[DennisP]

...only 1 cigar left in this the fourth, and final, Newb Blind Taste Test! :banger

Booooo ;)

[CRIMPS]

...only 1 cigar left in this the fourth, and final, Newb Blind Taste Test! :banger

Sad :(

I love reading these things. Participating has been a blast.

[DBall]

Fact is, one guy didn't finish the first one because he got banned for screwing people over and someone bailed out midway through this one here. That's kinda daunting. I'm pondering one more, but leaning on the 'not gonna happen' side of the fence at this point.

Maybe I'll pick it back up at some later date... hahaha... perhaps this is just a needed break. :D

[jdawg]

Fact is, one guy didn't finish the first one because he got banned for screwing people over and someone bailed out midway through this one here. That's kinda daunting. I'm pondering one more, but leaning on the 'not gonna happen' side of the fence at this point.

Maybe I'll pick it back up at some later date... hahaha... perhaps this is just a needed break. :D

That's sad to hear. Hopefully, you continue it on someday. It's been a joy to read.

[DennisP]

Fact is, one guy didn't finish the first one because he got banned for screwing people over and someone bailed out midway through this one here. That's kinda daunting. I'm pondering one more, but leaning on the 'not gonna happen' side of the fence at this point.

Maybe I'll pick it back up at some later date... hahaha... perhaps this is just a needed break. :D

Maybe a not-so-new blind taste? Get some people that are a little more established here? Personally I'm more interested in the reviews than just a newbie's opinion.

No matter what you choose, they've been great and you're very generous!

[hscmit]

Maybe a not-so-new blind taste? Get some people that are a little more established here? Personally I'm more interested in the reviews than just a newbie's opinion.

No matter what you choose, they've been great and you're very generous!

+1
I have really enjoyed reading all these reviews

thank you for the time effort and generosity you have put into making this a very good thread.

[Adriftpanda]

Dennis, just tell Dan how you really feel... Dan, Dennis wants to be the next person to do the blind tasting!! :D:D

I really enjoy reading this, and maybe I'll pick this up if you stop, Dan. But thanks for the good reads.

[DennisP]

Dennis, just tell Dan how you really feel... Dan, Dennis wants to be the next person to do the blind tasting!! :D:D

I really enjoy reading this, and maybe I'll pick this up if you stop, Dan. But thanks for the good reads.

Ha! I don't have enough time nor very good writing skills. I just like reading them.

[CRIMPS]

I really enjoy reading this, and maybe I'll pick this up if you stop, Dan. But thanks for the good reads.

That would be awesome, Huy! I would love to be able to host this, someday. Someday...

[wayner123]

Why don't you all check out the Blind Taste Test thread (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=927) on here?

There are a lot of reviews and that thread can always use more!!

[Samsquanch]

Dan, you've been awesome hosting these four taste tests. That's 80 cigars out of your own collection you've shipped, that's amazing! Thanks again for the opportunity and sorry again for being so lame with it. You're the man!

[CRIMPS]

Review of #10 inbound shortly :tu

[Brutus2600]

Looking forward to seeing #10!

[CoreyD]

What about us active newbs that havn't bailed. Its a shame to see your generosity get stompled.

[CRIMPS]

#10 delivered. Bittersweet feeling. :)

[DBall]

jonumberone Cigar #10
*******************

Last day before I leave on Vacation, time to wrap this up and polish off #10

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02656.jpg?t=1296772905

Initial Thoughts
Again I am without my ring gauge guide, but my best guess is 6X40.
The size reminds me of a #2 pencil. The stick has a smooth wrapper with few Veins.
Quick squeeze from head to foot and I don’t find anything out of the ordinary.
The stick has a mild aroma. I cut the cap and find the pre light draw to be perfect.
The flavors before I light remind me of unsweetened tea .

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02657.jpg?t=1296772905

First Third
Right off the bat I am finding this smoke to be very mild. The prominent flavor is tea.
I go to my nose and get a lot more burn than I was expecting.
The stick has a lingering aftertaste that is pinching the sides of my tongue.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02658.jpg?t=1296772905

Second Third
The flavor has gotten very nutty. The pinch in the side of my tongue has spread to the roof of my mouth and the back of my throat.
This stick is getting stronger as I go.
A bit further down and I get a woodsy taste.
I try my nose and through the burn I get graham cracker.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02661.jpg?t=1296772905

Final third
The stick is really gaining momentum with every puff. In this last third it has made a move towards bitter.
I try a purge and it helps for a puff or two.
I’m letting it rest between puffs but it does little to improve the taste.
The only discernable flavor at this point is cedar. Almost to the nub and my mouth is burning just as much as my nose.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/jonumberone/cigar/DSC02662.jpg?t=1296772905

Final thoughts
I have to say this was the most surprising of the sticks that Dan sent.
I really thought when I started that the smoke was going to leave me wanting more.
Instead it gradually increased to an ass whoopin’.
I am a little bummed about the final third not delivering in the flavor department, but I imagine this will be remedied with some time.
I also was surprised by how much I liked the size. This is a small cigar compared to what I usually smoke.
Since I started this my preference in size has been shrinking.
Burn was perfect with no relights.

Final score 7.5/10
Smoke time 1hr 10 min

[DBall]

CRIMPS Cigar #10
**************


http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-16193951.jpg

This stick looks to be about 6x38 lancero or petite corona. The cigar has just a little bit of a bend to it (possibly due to shipping?). While the kid in me wants to bend the cigar back to straight, I fight the urge as to not destroy the cigar altogether. The bend is obviously not hurting anything and adds some character I think.

Pre-light

Putting my nose to the wrapper, I get a very faint smell of hay, but not much else. The wrapper has some tooth and raised veins. The construction seems to be solid. I cut the cap with ease. I take a draw, again getting just a little hay and not much else. The draw is a little tight, but manageable.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-16194021.jpg

First Third

I put the flame to the foot. My initial taste is very grassy. A few puffs later and the cigar seems to wake up. I get some spice and a shot of chocolate. Very dry. After a few more puffs it seems the spice turns into more of a cinnamon, something i am not used to, but am enjoying. The cigar produces adequate smoke, but I expect maybe a little more smoke with how fast the cigar seems to be smoking.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-16201703.jpg

Second Third

Unfortunately, the cinnamon is already fading and has been exchanged with an earthiness. The chocolate is no longer noticeable either. For my palate, this is rather common, though. The cinnamon has transitioned back into a dull spice. I take a full puff and wait for a solid minute or so to focus on the aftertaste. Mostly, i just get earth and spice, but this fades and there is very little to report. The cigar is smoking straight and the ash seems to hold for over an inch, which I am impressed with due to the ring gauge of the cigar.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-16204538.jpg

Last Third

Not much has changed. I still taste earth and spice. I miss the cinnamon, I was really digging that. The earthiness seems to be a little overwhelming and almost sour. This just isn’t doing it for me. I think if this had been any other cigar, I would have probably let her go and either light something else up or call it a night. However, as one of the last of DBall’s Legion of Newb Blind Taste Testers, it is my duty to see this cigar burn to the end. I finish the cigar after smoking for about 50 minutes or so.

http://i1139.photobucket.com/albums/n545/CRIMPS/2011-02-17202743.jpg

Final Thoughts

I honestly expected more from this smoke, based off the initial half inch. In my VERY inexperienced opinion this cigar just didn’t seem ready yet. It seemed like there was some age on this stick, if I was judging from the dryness and lack of any oil on the tongue. So, I don’t know if this is something that a little more age would remedy. The strength was mild to maybe medium and the flavor was medium.

Of the four reviews I will have posted, I think I am curious to see an experienced smoker’s point of view.

Final Rating: 5/10

[DBall]

What they smoked:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/btt4-10.jpg

1997 La Gloria Cubana MdO #4

jonumberone score: 7.5

CRIMPS score: 5

Wow... I couldn't be more surprised... I thought this would be a much bigger hit. This is a 13+ year old habano... what's more, it's an LGC... hahaha. These 97's have always treated me well.

That said, everybody differs is what they like in a cigar... without a band, there's no expectations. That's why I love these BTTs.

I'm heading out on a cruise in about 3 hours and will be back the 26th... I'll think about doing another one while I'm gone.

Thanks for playing (and watching)!

[jesseboston81]

It's sad to see this thread end. I've enjoyed reading all of them! Thanks to Dan and the reviewers for an excellent job!

Dan, it's understandable why you wouldn't want to continue after the problems you've encountered, but I'm glad to see you're going to think about doing another BTT--just don't think about it on your cruise!!!! Enjoy the time to relax!! :D

[jonumberone]

Thanks Dan for the great opportunity :tu
It was a ton of fun for me and something I will never forget.
Generosity like yours is what makes this such a great place.
I look forward to burning a few with you in the near future!

Enjoy your trip! :banger :banger

[CRIMPS]

Thanks, Dan! This was a blast to read and I was honored to participate. :tu Your generosity can not be understated. Have fun on your trip. :)

[rizzle]

Enjoy your trip, Dan. And thanks for allowing us the opportunity to follow along on #4. :tu

[Brutus2600]

Great thread, great reviews, that final cigar had me drooling! Thanks Dan for the generosity and thanks to the reviewers for their work on this, I really enjoyed sitting back and watching this BTT :)

[Whipper Snapper]

Dan... this thread is awesome. As are the other ones.
I'd be scared to do a blind taste test.

[wayner123]

Dan... this thread is awesome. As are the other ones.
I'd be scared to do a blind taste test.

Scared?? :confused:

[Nathan King]

I've been reading since the beginning of the thread. I think I speak for everybody when I say it has been a very interesting and fun journey. Thank you for your generosity.

[jesseboston81]

I've been reading since the beginning of the thread. I think I speak for everybody when I say it has been a very interesting and fun journey. Thank you for your generosity.

Don't forget to check editions #1-3, I believe they're linked in the first post of this thread.

[Whipper Snapper]

Scared?? :confused:

Yep. Scared.
It'd be a great way to do unbiased reviews. I'd mainly be scared that I'd rate a cigar poorly that I may have loved in the past... (meaning, I rated the cigar in the past highly due to any number of reasons.)

Blind taste tests are the most unbiased things around...

[enlightenedcigar]

This is great. Keep up the good work!

[hscmit]

thanks for the thread

[DBall]

Update on the trip...

...worst vacation ever... all I got out of it was some unnamed illness, a Z-Pack (Azithromycin), a week of feeling like absolute ****, anxiety attacks (due to the unnamed illness and no promise of land for days) and the joy of sitting in a tiny cabin for the entire time. To top it all off, upon disembarkation, my wife's luggage is missing (I think that is coming back to us, though... hopefully before we leave).

[Brutus2600]

That is the worst dude...so sorry to hear it! Definitely doesn't sound enjoyable at all. Hope you're feeling better and you get your wife's luggage back quickly.

[CRIMPS]

Wow, sorry to hear that Dan :(

[jonumberone]

Wow sorry to hear, Dan!

[hscmit]

sorry dan, hope you get feeling better and the suitcases show up