DBall's Newb (and not-so-newb) Blind Taste Test #6

[DBall]

2 of our members (one new and one not so new) are going to review these 5 cigars:

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/20161011_192240.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 tomorrow

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)

Blind Taste Test Thread #4 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=36748)

Blind Taste Test Thread #5 (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=54558)

[Remo]

:tu

[DBall]

:tu

I am so, so excited about this! Hehehe... :wo

[AdamJoshua]

So uncool. Is there a minimum words / letters rule, does "taste like tobacco" or "tastes like older tobacco" count? :lr

[DBall]

So uncool. Is there a minimum words / letters rule, does "taste like tobacco" or "tastes like older tobacco" count? :lr

Read the previous threads! :)

[AdamJoshua]

Yah yah real review. :sad

I see one of those guys was banned (?) and the other hasn't been around for years, I see the plot now! Well it's going to take more than 5 cigars to get rid of me!

In all seriousness thanks for the opportunity and of course the sticks, very generous of you!

[icehog3]

Read the previous threads! :)

There's previous threads??

Oh, fer cripes sake.... :r

[markem]

Oh, fer cripes sake.... :r

Oh man, misread this and thought of fancy pancakes. :lr

[AdamJoshua]

Suppose this means I should to go out and buy a toothbrush and some tooth polish.

[8zeros]

Day-um!
:po

[Porch Dweller]

WooHoo!!! I really enjoy reading these things.

[Ripplingh2o]

Dan (and bystanders), obviously as the newb, I'm definitely looking forward to this "experiment" & am optimistic that my newly acquired affection for premium cigars will be broadened. Do realize and hopefully understand however that with my minimal reviewing expertise my choice in descriptive narration may prove more challenging than the stick(s) themselves. My reviews, however nondescript they may be, will be concise, straightforward, and probably without whimsical amusement. With that being said, let the toasting begin. :tu -(P

[AdamJoshua]

You'll be fine, its all part of the fun. :D

[Ripplingh2o]

You'll be fine, its all part of the fun. :D

Absolutely agree. Thanks for the vote of confidence. :tu -(P

[AdamJoshua]

Absolutely agree. Thanks for the vote of confidence. :tu -(P

You don't want confidence from me, this isn't even my neighborhood, i'm from the West Side of Chicago here on vacation.

[icehog3]

You don't want confidence from me, this isn't even my neighborhood, i'm from the West Side of Chicago here on vacation.

Put down the weapon, Sir.

[Ripplingh2o]

You don't want confidence from me, this isn't even my neighborhood, i'm from the West Side of Chicago here on vacation.

Huh, then I assume, considering the location in your profile says "NoMex" means you favor the blanket exportation of illegal immigrants currently in our country? (Go DJT). -(P

[Porch Dweller]

Dan (and bystanders), obviously as the newb, I'm definitely looking forward to this "experiment" & am optimistic that my newly acquired affection for premium cigars will be broadened. Do realize and hopefully understand however that with my minimal reviewing expertise my choice in descriptive narration may prove more challenging than the stick(s) themselves. My reviews, however nondescript they may be, will be concise, straightforward, and probably without whimsical amusement. With that being said, let the toasting begin. :tu -(P

If you're unfamiliar with them, I recommend you Google "Cigar Wheel". They're great little tools to help you put in to words the tastes you're getting from your smokes. They help you take the step from "There's a woodsy kind of flavor here" to "I'm tasting some cedar and some oak."

I think I've only posted maybe three reviews here, but when I do one I always look at a few of the wheels while doing so.

[Ripplingh2o]

If you're unfamiliar with them, I recommend you Google "Cigar Wheel". They're great little tools to help you put in to words the tastes you're getting from your smokes. They help you take the step from "There's a woodsy kind of flavor here" to "I'm tasting some cedar and some oak."

I think I've only posted maybe three reviews here, but when I do one I always look at a few of the wheels while doing so.

Thanks for the suggestion (as I chew on a piece of leather sprinkled with white pepper) :D -(P

[jjirons69]

If the wheel doesn't list Madagascar Vanilla, don't use it.

I'm partial to the smell of Grandma's biscuits.

[Ripplingh2o]

If the wheel doesn't list Madagascar Vanilla, don't use it.

I'm partial to the smell of Grandma's biscuits.

Can easily relate to that. My Grandma made the best carmal rolls EVER. -(P

[jonumberone]

Dball is partial to agitated geraniums! :D

[Dave128]

I'm partial to the smell of Grandma's biscuits.

There is a whole ton of fail in this statement.

[AdamJoshua]

There is a whole ton of fail in this statement.

I was thinking a) I wouldn't want a cigar that tastes like granny's toots and 2) Even if there was one I'd never admit to being able to identify that particular component. :lr

[DBall]

These are going out tomorrow, not today... all packed up, but no ink in the home printer. I'll have to go into the office and print them out tomorrow...

[Ripplingh2o]

I was thinking a) I wouldn't want a cigar that tastes like granny's toots and 2) Even if there was one I'd never admit to being able to identify that particular component. :lr

Here I thought he was talkin' about Gram's biscuits. I really need to move into the left lane to keep up.
:eek: :=: -(P

[DBall]

Adam - 9405503699300408891810

Robb - 9405503699300408891827

:banger

[CRIMPS]

http://www.reactiongifs.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/yes_napoleon_dynamite.gif

[DBall]

Who knows... if this works out well I may keep them going. 5 cigars seems like a more reasonable commitment as 10 stalled out a few times. I've always wanted to do one with a newb and someone who's been smoking cigars and been on the boards for a while, too. Very excited to see the difference in tastes/opinions on these cigars!

[jjirons69]

+1 for grandma's biscuits!

Good job, Dan!!

[ujponds]

Haha, I was part of one of these. This will be fun to watch!

[AdamJoshua]

Adam - 9405503699300408891810

Robb - 9405503699300408891827

:banger

By way of San Juan PR? I love the post office!

http://i.imgur.com/quV4MtD.jpg

[Skywalker]

:po

[DBall]

By way of San Juan PR? I love the post office!

http://i.imgur.com/quV4MtD.jpg

What the hell...?

[AdamJoshua]

Says it will be here Monday, I'm sure it will be, my luck effects everything, not limited to me or my immediate space it seems, if my name is attached the sky is the limit. Only makes sense a package would go from NY to PR before heading west :lr :tu

[DBall]

Looks like these will both be arriving today! Let the games begin!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Porch Dweller]

:pop

[Ripplingh2o]

As your designated Newb I thought it beneficial to provide a brief overview of myself and my cigar background. Retired from a 20 year Army career in '91, and subsequently retired from a Civilian career last year. Took up cigar "therapy" as another means of relaxation a couple months back and admit it's an enjoyable "ride". So far my sticks have included mostly Connecticuts by AB, AF, Oliva, Nub, R&J, CAO, and 5-Vegas. My cigar pairings most often include water, coffee, or an occasional beer. I'm looking forward to this blind cigar "experiment" (as Dan called it) and certainly thank him for his generosity and willingness to track & compile the results. I'll provide my best opinions as honest and concisely as I can. I offer no promises of glittering generalities of flavorful notes or nuances. But I've been practicing chewing on leather, tasting hay, & crunching acorns (I was going to say nuts (but am a quick learner)) for the past week. So you'll be hearing from me ASAP or ricky-tick (an old Army term).

[stearns]

But I've been practicing chewing on leather, tasting hay, & crunching acorns (I was going to say nuts (but am a quick learner))

Smart man :tu

Looking forward to watching this play out

[AdamJoshua]

First review is in. :tu

[Ripplingh2o]

First review is in. :tu

Just sent mine also. -(P

[DBall]

Now all we are waiting on is for Adam to give me a 1-10 rating and I'll post it up. :)

You'd think the newbs would be the ones to not follow directions! Sheesh... :gary

[AdamJoshua]

You forget I now have your address. -(P

[DBall]

AdamJoshua Cigar #1
*******************

Thought what the hell might as well get the ball rolling!

Blind #1

Start Time: 3: 25pm
Ending Time: 4: 34pm

13cm x 42rg

Beverage: Water to start and coffee w/ cream and sugar.

Appearance: Dark brown chocolate with reddish highlights and minor veins, size not withstanding it reminds me of a video I caught Dennis watching at a S.H.I.T. herf.

http://i.imgur.com/Yie8eEx.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/0bz7AY6.jpg

Cut is a straight cut with the old Havana Club spring loaded cutter

Cold draw has an ever so slight hint of almond.

Location outside while listening to Tom Pettry, 72 degrees, 66% humidity its and partly cloudy.

First Third: Right off the bat in your face, again like Dennis' video of choice.

Only 4 draws in and it has mellowed a hair, the snork was a bit harsh the first could of draws and already it has smoothed out and introduced a bit of citrus, with the almond still lingering.

Note: there is something to be said for sitting on he porch, enjoying a cigar and paying attention to each nuance while Tom Petty sings how "It's Good to Be King". Every time I review a cigar I enjoy it that much more, I notice the things that generally roll off my goat palette and every time I say I should pay this attention to every cigar yet I never do. One lesson Klugs taught me was to take little sips, that one stuck and has payed off with this cigar.

http://i.imgur.com/KTexTvo.jpg

Almost to the end of the first third and the cigar has really settled in. A dirty gray ash that holds about 1/2 inch even with lite tapping and a nice sharp burn that has t needed any touching up.

Second Third: Not sure if it's me or the cigar, I went in expecting a lot of cedar and wood, expectations from the wrapper but what I'm getting from the second third is a bit of sourness and I'm going to shoot from the hip and say apricot, which is odd because I can't say I've had one in years, maybe decades but it is the dominant note so far, fear not the almond is still hiding in the shadows with a little cedar.

http://i.imgur.com/pzEq0nA.jpg

Well we are about half way through the cigar and I Think it's time to have some coffee to shake things up a bit, I'm always interested in how cigars act with different beverages and foods, for the remaining reviews I thought I would try some cherries with one, maybe milk and dark chocolate with another and so on.

Final third: The coffee has totally changed the cigar profile, the bitterness of the coffee has overshadowed any citrus and really brought out wood and leather.

I took about a five minute break from the stick, just wanted to clear my impressions as the notes were becoming overwhelming, picking it back up no relight needed and to me the cigar did mellow out, the power of suggestion is powerful indeed, that and the addition of coffee, amazing how the cigar changed.

http://i.imgur.com/0SnpA4o.jpg

Spice is starting to pick up near the end with a slight tickle on the snork, with cedar / wood and leather really shining through with a salty residue on the lips, feel free to insert a Dennis watching **** on his phone joke here, oh wait I just did. :D

The last half inch or so had full load ....phrasing....of bitter chocolate, glad I had a nubber handy, sweet, rich and creamy finish.

http://i.imgur.com/TJBXElO.jpg

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the volumes of smoke throughout and excellent draw.

There is an unmistakable profile to this cigar, someone with more experience would probably be able to name the marka right away, I'm going to go off script and say there is a 1 in 20 chance this is an RyJ although the the construction and wrapper remind me of an LFdC petite corona, can’t wait to find out what it was!

Thanks again, Dan!

Score: 7/10

[DBall]

Ripplingh20 Cigar #1
*****************

Initial observations - 46 x 5.25", slight box press, Habano or Maduro wrapper, tightly packed filler/binder, no noticeable precut aroma, flat cap. Made a clean straight cut slightly below the cap. Toasted at 6:30 pm, pairing with a bottle of water.

First 1/3 - tight draw. Mild woodsy flavor, but nothing really noticeable. Certainly not harsh or peppery.

Second 1/3 - very sharp burn (rotating), nice, long lasting ash. Still a tight draw; no notes or transitioning.

Last 1/3 - seems to be developing a slight sweetness.

Overall - Relaxing, mild stick with no harsh, spicy, or peppery nuances. Only criticism would be, even with a clean straight cut, the draw continued to be tight throughout. Smoke time: 55 minutes.

Rating - Considering I would rate all my Connecticuts at 7.0, I'll give this #1 blind cigar a 7.5.

[DBall]

What they smoked
****************

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/20161011_191120.jpg

1998 Fonseca Cosacos

AdamJoshua Rating: 7/10

Ripplingh20 Rating: 7.5/10

Unfortunately, as is the case with habanos, they occasionally suffer from tight draws. Me thinks you may need a draw tool! :) This was an 18 year old Cuban cigar... I'm fond of these when the mood hits and they certainly can be an 'in-your-face' type of cigar when they draw nicely!

[Ripplingh2o]

My only picture, trying to figure out how to send a pic along with my review to Dan.

[AdamJoshua]

Robb to me the easiest way is to upload your pics to a site like imgur.com then use the link they supplied with the image button (the little landscape picture in-between the link and quote buttons here). :tu

[DBall]

I can't tell you how excited I am for the next 4 cigars... I love watching these things play out. Here's to hoping for no more plugged cigars... :banger


Now that you know what it is... any thoughts, guys? :)

[AdamJoshua]

Well I haven't smoked that many Fonsecas, it certainly did have a specific profile to me. I think I have a couple that were gifted to me and are sitting around, might have to fire one up and see how it compares to my review, match up the flavor profile that is.

Might copy this over the review section as well. A little more new blood in there.

[Ripplingh2o]

I need to work on further developing my cigar palate and profile. Looking forward to #2 blind cigar; maybe I'll toast it up come Wednesday's MMA.
-(P

[icehog3]

Nice job on review #1, Men. :tu

[AdamJoshua]

I need to work on further developing my cigar palate and profile. Looking forward to #2 blind cigar; maybe I'll toast it up come Wednesday's MMA.
-(P

I'm lucky to have found a local group of guys to herf with every week, it helps when someone can point out subtle and sometimes not so subtle profiles to you or hand you a stick and ask you if you taste certain things. I've only been smoking 3 years, usually stick to the mild / medium sticks and usually if something doesn't hit me over the head I don't notice it, I just put a lot of filler in the reviews that's all. :lr


Thanks, Tom!

[DBall]

Robb, a few tips that may help if you feel like trying them:

* Try closing your mouth after blowing out most of the smoke and push the remaining 10-20% out of your nose. You will certainly be able to pick up more flavors that way.

* Feel free to purge (blow air through the cigar to clear out some stale smoke) every now and then. I find that helps me clarify the flavors a bit more.

* Sometimes sipping the cigar (light pulls, like you were drinking water from a straw) helps as it keeps the cigar from getting too hot too fast.

[Porch Dweller]

Well done on round one, gents!

[CigarNut]

Thank you both for the great reviews!

[AdamJoshua]

Robb, a few tips that may help if you feel like trying them:

* Try closing your mouth after blowing out most of the smoke and push the remaining 10-20% out of your nose. You will certainly be able to pick up more flavors that way.

* Feel free to purge (blow air through the cigar to clear out some stale smoke) every now and then. I find that helps me clarify the flavors a bit more.

* Sometimes sipping the cigar (light pulls, like you were drinking water from a straw) helps as it keeps the cigar from getting too hot too fast.

Also sipping helps your palate from getting overwhelmed, I find when I personally take big pulls I lose all the nuances.

[mahtofire14]

This is an awesome thread! Really cool to see the different nuances different people taste.

[Adriftpanda]

newbs, I could have told you it was a Cosacos! ;)

Nice review guys, keep it up. I love reading these.

[Gabe215]

Great read

[jjirons69]

Interesting for #1. Good job, guys. Still disappointed by no mention of hot biscuits.

[Ripplingh2o]

Cigar #2 review concluded & Pm'd to Dan. Stay tuned. -(P

[Ripplingh2o]

So I thought, without bias or review, I would post 3 pics of my Cigar #2. No clue why they appear stretched. But then a technology advanced shutterbug I am not.
-(P

[ujponds]

Nice work on round one

[AdamJoshua]

So I thought, without bias or review, I would post 3 pics of my Cigar #2. No clue why they appear stretched. But then a technology advanced shutterbug I am not.
-(P

The thumbnail preview get's crammed into a ridged box, clicking it again opens it in a window without the distortion. :tu

[DBall]

Bump for Adam...:sh

[AdamJoshua]

Hey it was one per week :lr Review is in, even before I saw this!

[DBall]

AdamJoshua Cigar #2
*******************

Start time: 1: 45
Finish: 2:50

Size: 14cm 44rg

http://i.imgur.com/EceaO4A.jpg

Drinking water and coffee

Wrapper appears to be a bit thin and with a rustic quality, defiantly not a Cohiba quality to it, that perfect look and construction, this seems to have a much more "hey it's a cigar" quality to it that brings to mind RyJs or JLPs with a few years on them.

Straight cut and there is a nice easy draw, the cigar is well filled but no tightness to the draw.

http://i.imgur.com/BBndlD4.jpg

As you can see the beetle holes were expertly repaired, just funnin, you can tell here that there are more than a few years on this stick and that it has a thinnish wrapper.

http://i.imgur.com/Bfg0Mad.jpg

Temp 78.
Humidity 35

First impressions. Very strong out the gate. Lots of pepper on the snork. Interesting the spice has mellowed within the first half dozen draws.

Really worried about the cigar vs this low humidity, keeping fingers crossed.

I'm confused 6 pulls in and the cigar has totally changed for me.

So far a lot of oak and earth, still some spice but nothing to make your eyes bleed on the retro hale.

Man I have a real love hate thing going for blind reviews.

The first third gives me a bit of nuttiness … phrasing … going with those strong earth notes.

http://i.imgur.com/vxyv9lF.jpg

This is a great example in the difference between nc and cc, while this is medium to strong, the strength comes from earth and wood rather than pepper and dirt.

2nd third. Still holding true to itself. I'd call this "every Cuban cigar". There is a familiarity with the predominant flavors, hopefully that will make some sense to someone other than me.

Ash breaks off fairly easy making me think this is a short filler stick, actually I have no real clue if that makes a difference.

Pretty one dimensional, but it's not a bad dimension, I'd call it a good honest smoke with a lot of wood and earth.

At this point I gave it a tiny touch up with the torch, not because it really needed it, more because I was being anal.

Final third lots of spice picking up

The only thing I get from snorking at this point is watery eyes and a runny nose.

Staying true to itself the finish was very earthy with a lot of wood, one thing I noticed is I never got any kind of sweetness or even fruitiness from this cigar.

Overall enjoyable, would hold it’s own with a cup of strong coffee and would be a good everyday kind of smoke in the rotation.

6.5 out of 10 smileys

[DBall]

Ripplingh20 Cigar #2
******************


Initial Observations - 42 x 5.50" Maduro or Cameroon wrapper.

Being more accustomed to Robusto size cigars, this Corona (as well as cigar #1) felt somewhat pencil-like to hold but holding isn't akin to smoking. Precut aroma lent to wisps of cocoa (or something chocolatey). Excellent firm composition (trying to feel for any hard spots (after cigar #1's plugging issue)). Nice dense construction. Made another clean straight cut just above the shoulder. Pre-light draw left a slight tingle on my lips. Pairing with a 2nd cup of black coffee out in the garage. It's a balmy 41 degrees this morning; toasting began at 9:50 am.

First 1/3 - So we have plenty of rich smoke emanating from a splendid draw. The prelight tingle has become a mild peppery taste (especially thru a retro (or I think "snork" as Adam referred to it)). Finish isn't long lasting. Seems to pair nicely with my rich black coffee. Nice white/gray ash with black burn lines throughout. Reminds me of a wasp nest I had in the backyard last summer (which I evaporated with 1 shot from a 12 gauge) but I divest... Time to tap the ash before it becomes a design on my sweatshirt.

2nd 1/3 - Draw & smoke output continue to be excellent. The peppery note (or is it a nuance?) has subsided (even via a snork). I mistakenly inhaled in prep for the last retrohale & that was a slight jolt (but not in a bad way). Seems this stick is certainly full bodied or at least moreso than my familiar Connecticuts. Burn is razor sharp (another term I've learned). Sipping, as suggested to me, reveals something but unfortunately I can't put my finger on it. Kinda reminds me of the BBQ'd ribeye I had for supper last night. Very good cigar... Looking forward to the final third.

Last 1/3 - Noticed a portion of the wrapper has released but I'll smoke past it. I'm hoping to pinpoint a taste or flavor or two soon but am sure this stick will continue with excellence. Ash, burn, draw, & smoke remain steadily consistent. Seems rolling the cigar while keeping the slow burn edge on the bottom enhances a sharp burn (I read that somewhere). Retro has become equally pleasant. Burning thru the released wrapper now, so its become slightly jagged. I hate to touch it up with my torch so chose not to. Aroma continues to be rich as is the overall flavor. The cigar seems to be burning faster now on its own & a second piece of wrapper is beginning to gently peal away.

Overall rating - This stick was very enjoyable. To me, with my minimal experience, was rich, full bodied yet relatively mild. Hopefully it will be a cigar I will be able to buy in the future & I hope it comes in a larger Robusto size. Discounting the slight canoeing as it burned thru the unravel I'll rate it an 8.5. Smoke time: 1 hour 10 minutes. Kudos again to Dan. Looking forward to cigar #3!! -(P

[DBall]

What they smoked:
****************

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/20161011_191358.jpg

Le Aurora 1495 Corona

AdamJoshua Rating: 6.5/10

Ripplingh20 Rating: 8.5/10

I love that this was described as "every cuban cigar" and, also, this is why I love blind taste tests. Adam was 100% certain this was a Cuban cigar, but this is Dominican. Luckily for Robb, these do come in Robustos, and can be had pretty cheaply from CI (under $3/stick).

This was the first premium cigar I ever had, I think (it was a long time ago), but I vividly remember going to the B&M and buying these. I recently picked up a couple boxes of these as I find myself smoking a lot just to smoke and not to really 'enjoy a good cigar'... having an indoor cigar lounge in my house is a gift and a curse!

Keep 'em coming, guys!

[stearns]

Nice curveball Dan :tu

I've always said I thought certain La Auroras have a cubanesque profile to them, glad they made their way into this tasting

[CRIMPS]

I scrolled up from the bottom of this thread and saw the pic of the cigar, first. I immediately thought that someone was going to praise on about how wonderful that "cuban twang" was. :r

[Porch Dweller]

Nice reviews, gents! And a nice change-up from DBall. :)

This is why I enjoy these blind tests.

[Ripplingh2o]

Cigar #3 is done; PM'd to Dan. Stay tuned. -(P

[AdamJoshua]

See and it had that earth and wood to it that I always pull as Cuban, it's that one constant. so **** you guys. :lv

I would still put it on course with a JLP (looks like I took that comparison out of the review) for an every day kind of cigar with coffee. That being said I will be looking for them. :tu

[icehog3]

Great reviews, Guys. I've heard those La Auroras can throw you for a curve, though I thought from the picture of the foot that it looked more like an NC roll. Easy to say after it's already been identified, but that's what I thought. So **** me, Adam. :r

[AdamJoshua]

Great reviews, Guys. I've heard those La Auroras can throw you for a curve, though I thought from the picture of the foot that it looked more like an NC roll. Easy to say after it's already been identified, but that's what I thought. So **** me, Adam. :r

Never really thought of that, I have to dig out some NCs and do some comparisons, learn something new every day.

http://media.tumblr.com/2376de131ab7644d1a1a8fd799709d4f/tumblr_inline_n1vwsxv7ty1qzem8g.jpg

[DBall]

Can't wait to see these final cigars! Robb already finished #3 and Adam is keeping us in suspense (yet sticking to the proposed schedule of 1/week, so no complaints here)...

Man, I forgot how much I enjoyed these things... :noon

[AdamJoshua]

... funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to ****ing amuse you?

[Ripplingh2o]

Can't wait to see these final cigars! Robb already finished #3 and Adam is keeping us in suspense (yet sticking to the proposed schedule of 1/week, so no complaints here)...

Man, I forgot how much I enjoyed these things... :noon

The proposed schedule as I understood, said "at least one per week". Didn't want to extend this to a 5 week episode.
:cb

[DBall]

AdamJoshua Cigar #3
*******************

Seems to be about PC sized.

Very nice milk chocolate wrapper, no veins to speak of, well packed, a little bit tight with a knot right where my fingers are pinching in the photo, doesn’t seem to be anything too major.

First Third: Lots of wood off the bat, no pun intended, it’s that wood you get when you chew on a No. 2 pencil. The last time I got something like this was a Monte Esp that was a bit tight as well, this is one of those unmistakeable notes to me, wish there was someone else here to try this, they might have another name for it or something more common as far as what type of wood, usually I can tell cedar or oak, but it’s not really either of those.

About half way through the first third and it’s a bit of a smokey oak and tea profile at this point, Is that something, well if not it is now.

Almost through the first third, very little spice to me, nice smooth snorking, nice sharp burn line with no touchups needed.

Second Third: starting out mild to medium the wood is going limp … phrasing … still a bit of wood but I’m getting more leather and a bit of sweetness, I would say honey but it’s way in the back, really faint and hard to pinpoint but it’s definitely not a sweetness like a chocolate or caramel.

Final Third: Strength is picking up a bit, almost like a licorice or anisette.

Overall a very enjoyable cigar, the tightness never came into play.

I’d go with 7 out of 10 smileys.

http://i.imgur.com/fTEIscF.jpg

[DBall]

Ripplingh2o Cigar #3
******************

Initial observations - 5.0" x 42RG medium brown wrapper, densely composed, firmly packed cigar with a woodsy aroma. Used my Xikar V-cutter. Thought I smelled a hint of cocoa so I chose to pair it with a cup of Swiss Miss. Toasted at 9:55 a.m.

First 1/3 - Right off the first draw I know this is going to be another wonderful cigar. Excellent draw with rich, creamy smoke and only the smallest hint of pepper thru the retrohale. Pairs superbly with my hot chocolate. As usual, I can't pinpoint any particular notes or nuances regardless of how I "sip" or retro but that doesn't detract from its enjoyment. As I now progress to the second 1/3, the initial gray & white ash remains solidly intact.

Second 1/3 - Watched some YouTubers last night as they reviewed various sticks touting proclamations of cedar, vanilla bean, licorice, apricot, leather, citrus, toasted almond, graham cracker, & yes, even hot biscuits. I'm encouraged to discover my cigar palate, but likened to the Herman's Hermits lyric, "second verse, same as the first". This stick continues to be rich & creamy without any harshness. Burn by the way, is razor sharp.

Last 1/3 - Finally, there seems to be a slightly noticeable transition. IDK, maybe a honey or almond note or a hint of toffee flavor .? The Mrs. just visited me in the garage and remarked, "oh, that one sure smells good."
Final thoughts - I didn't have one of those fancy nub holders like Adam has, so I used a 10 penny nail from off my workbench to keep from burning my fingers. Great smoke Dan, thank you. Mirroring the 2nd cigar, I hope this is one I can buy in the future. Overall rating - since it was a tad better than cigar #2,

I'll give it a 9.0. Smoke time: 45 minutes.

On to cigar #4 in a couple days or so.

[DBall]

What they smoked:
****************

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/20161011_191745.jpg

2015 Rafael Gonzalez Petit Corona

AdamJoshua Rating: 7/10

Ripplingh20 Rating: 9/10

This is a fresh run of the mill Cuban cigar, but it seemed to get a good reception! Luckily, these can be had for a reasonable price.

Glad to see these got favorable reviews!

So excited for the next two!

[icehog3]

Another pair of fun and interesting reviews. :tu

[DBall]

Another pair of fun and interesting reviews. :tu

Glad people are enjoying this one! I have been long considering this whole new guy/established guy format and this one isn't disappointing, I don't think. :)

I think I may do another round after this.

[Porch Dweller]

Good reviews, guys!

[AdamJoshua]

Now that's what i call a true cuban cigar! :lv

[pnoon]

Another pair of fun and interesting reviews. :tu
:tpd:
Glad people are enjoying this one! I have been long considering this whole new guy/established guy format and this one isn't disappointing, I don't think. :)

I think I may do another round after this.

:cl

[DBall]

Now that's what i call a true cuban cigar! :lv

...aaaaaaand this comment wins! :r

[stearns]

Nice reviews fellas :tu

[CigarNut]

Thanks for another set of fine reviews!

[Conch Republican]

...aaaaaaand this comment wins! :r

Nope - you comment about pairing a certain cigar with a glass of bleach - was wayyyyyyyy better LOL!

This has been fun to watch

[DBall]

Nope - you comment about pairing a certain cigar with a glass of bleach - was wayyyyyyyy better LOL!

This has been fun to watch

That was an Illusione Epernay. I will never forget the vileness of that cigar!

For those interested, here's the link. (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showpost.php?p=1013496&postcount=33)

[icehog3]

Too funny, the Epernay is one of my favorite NCs. ;s :r

[DBall]

Too funny, the Epernay is one of my favorite NCs. ;s :r

Maybe I just had an 'off' one, but man... that one was BAD.

[icehog3]

Maybe I just had an 'off' one, but man... that one was BAD.

Yeah, me saying it's one of my favorite NCs means I have probably smoked 4 in the last 3 years. :r

[Ripplingh2o]

PM'ing Cigar #4 results to Dan.
-(P

[DBall]

PM'ing Cigar #4 results to Dan.
-(P

Nice! :banger

[AdamJoshua]

Well geez at this pace 10 would have been nothing :lr

I'll puff puff write in a bit.

[DBall]

AdamJoshua Cigar #4
*******************

170 x 46

A very rustic wrapper, a little damage about half way up the stick, painted it up with a little pectin so hopefully it won't be an issue. The stick is firmly packed and the shoulder is a bit dry as you can see when I gave it a straight cut, a bit of the wrapper around the shoulder flaked away but nothing major.

First third: very mild start with lite smoke, starting this with a cup of coffee seems to have been a mistake to start. What I am getting to start is a sweetness, such lite smoke makes this a stick you have to concentrate on, don't get me wrong it's really good but for review purposes it's taking a little bit extra. Light gray ash that breaks away fairly easy, no a smoke to be enjoying while doing 90 down the 15 with the top down. For my life depended on it I'd say ...well I'd say anything but since my life doesn't depend on it I'd say I'm picking up a bit of honey, marzipan and sweet cream, not that big mouth full of creamy white....phrasing, boom nailed it, but just a hint.

Around the end of the first third their is some wood starting to ent it's way in, no spice of any kind that I can tell, a lot of tea, sweetness and a bit of wood, those are the stairs of the show.

Second Third: this cigar is right there on the razor's edge, I keep hoping it's going to pick up in strength, the favors are good just a bit muted for my goat palette, I'm hoping once it gets past the little repair the smoke will pick up, I can tell there is air drawing in there and even a little would be too much for how delicate this stick is.

End of the second third and a bit of spice is rearing it's head, the tiniest bit of white pepper really only noticeable on the snork and as a bit of a lingering note on the back of the tongue.

Final Third: smoke production is picking up and so is the spice, a bit of nose tickle on the retro-hale, of course when you have a um proud Jewish nose like I or Tucan Sam have that's not saying much, it would probably kill one of you lesser nosed people.

Half way through the final third and the pepper is really picking up.

Toasted wood toasted wood!!!! I finally picked something out that I don't have to hunt for and that would be, Bueller, Bueller?

Um, toasted wood. My best friend's sister's boyfriend's brother's girlfriend heard from this guy who knows this kid who's going with the girl who knows someone that smoked one of these and he said toasted wood at 31 Flavors last night. I guess it's pretty strong.

Thank you, Simone.

No problem what-so-ever.


This cigar really picked up at the end, I’m assuming that most of that had to do with smoking past the problem area, really needed a cigar bandaid, I think i need to go create, patent and sell those, lots of toasted wood, and light spice, the final third of this cigar really shined, if the entire cigar was like this it would have been much more enjoyable with the coffee and in general, as it was I ended up switching over to water about half way through just so the coffee didn’t overpower the stick.

I’m going to split the rating the two thirds was just very mild and lite smoke and I’d have to give it a 5 out of 10, while enjoyable I really had to work at it and none of us enjoy a cigar you have to work.

The final third I’d go with 8.5 out of 10, really strong notes, enjoyable and while strong it wasn’t overpowering, I will not there was a lot of nicotine to this stick, at least the end, time to dig out a couple chick-o-stick minis!




http://i.imgur.com/l2BpASd.jpg[/QUOTE]

[DBall]

Ripplingh2o Cigar #4
******************

Initial Observations - A 6 1/2" x 43RG, Maduro wrapper (IDK, maybe) cigar of the Lonsdale category. Seems tightly packed, with a very slight toothy texture to the wrapper. Looks like a very small, single cap. I will straight cut the head and assume most of the cap will be gone. Hope it won't cause any unraveling issues. As for precut aroma...forget it, my smeller fails (again). I read somewhere your sense of smell & taste wane in your "senior years". But alas, the Mrs. even remarked, "I smell nothing, nothing at all". Pairing with my morning coffee. Toasting now begins at 8:00 a.m.

First 1/3 - Minimal smoke output compared to the previous 3 cigars. Maybe the cigar's length has something to do with how much draw is required for a mouthful of smoke. Even though the draw isn't tight it seems I have to pull a long time to develop a full puff. Burn and ash however are excellent. I printed a Cigar Flavor Wheel to aid me in ID'ing notes and nuances. But for now, it won't provide any help. I'm afraid if I don't continue to sip this cigar that it may go out. Just a very light, wide open draw producing minimal smoke, which is confusing considering it's so densely packed. But the burn continues to be flawless.

Second 1/3 - As feared, the wrapper just below where the cap was, is showing signs of wanting to unravel. Smoke output continues to be light and lackluster. Just not much to expand upon. This is the lightest, weakest cigar I have ever smoked, void of flavor or strength.

Final 1/3 - Hoping for a positive transition of some sorts, but not overly optimistic. Smoke output has improved as I ventured into this final third. I can now take a steady draw and receive a mouthful of smoke. Other than that, nothing else to report. Halfway into this final third the wrapper seriously began to unravel to the point where I just took it off. I was surprised how tissue thin this single layer wrapper was. I continued to smoke the stick down to the nub without further issue. At least it never got hot or ammonia tasting.

Overall thoughts - This cigar basically had no cap because after a very minimal straight cut, it was gone. I found it blasé and lacked anything I look for in a premium cigar. Draw and smoke output were both whisper light for 3/4 of the cigar. Flavor, body, & strength were, to a relative degree, nonexistent. Unfortunately, I found nothing noteworthy about this cigar with the exception of a perfect burn and ash. All in all I can't say it was a bad cigar, it just didn't have any exceptional qualities.

Smoke time: 1 hour. Overall rating: 3 for a razor sharp burn and 2 for a solid ash. So that equals 5.0. On to cigar #5 (knowing it'll be significantly better).

[DBall]

What they smoked:
****************

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/20161011_191852.jpg

1996 Arturo Fuente Seleccion Privada #1 (NC)

AdamJosua Rating: 6.2/10

Ripplingh20 Rating: 5/10

Dammit Adam, you made me do math... 5/10, 5/10, 8.5/10 = 6.2/10

This cigar here is the reason that I changed from having the cigars in 5 finger bags to single bags. The scent of these cigars are very pronounced (at least when I packed them up).

I am really shocked at the difference in flavors, however, I find that many of the vintage NCs I've had share the whole lack-of-flavor thing that Robb pointed out.

I threw one of these blind into a couple different PPP's and got mixed reviews there, as well.

At least you can say you've had a 20 year old NC now... :)

[DBall]

Onto the final cigar! Any thoughts about this now that you know what it is? Any commentary from the peanut gallery? I'm not used to so little banner on these threads! :r

[AdamJoshua]

I'm surprised it was so weak, specially that particular maker, even past the the damaged spot when the smoked picked up it was pretty mellow, I don't think I've ever smoked an AF before, I wonder if it's the age that mellowed it or if they used to be a milder stick to start with and only recently they turned into flavor / pepper bombs. Edit: It's interesting that with so little smoke and pow that I got that nicotine stomach going, surprising also because I do smoke 3 or so sticks a day, that stick left me wanting though, so I just fired up an A. Martinez custom lonsdale :tu

Some moving picture fun...

http://vid1093.photobucket.com/albums/i423/adamjoshuadude/IMG_3371.mp4

[Ripplingh2o]

Onto the final cigar! Any thoughts about this now that you know what it is? Any commentary from the peanut gallery? I'm not used to so little banner on these threads! :r

From my perspective, I was surprised it was a 20 year old AF. I was guessing it was something acquired from Dollar General just to keep us honest. :r

[Porch Dweller]

Wow, I wouldn't have thought the flavors would have faded so much. Twenty years IS a long time, though.

Good reviews, men! I'm sorry to see you're up to #5 already, as I'm enjoying reading these.

[stearns]

Very interesting, I'm glad that was in there, the reviews are pretty consistent with what I've experienced smoking old AFs. Unless they started out on the strong end of the spectrum, they seem to always lose their kick a little faster than I expected, granted I don't think I've smoked any that are 20 years old but I've definitely dabbled in the 10-15 year range. I always wanted them to be something super special, but it always came out muted. I do have a few Fuentes left from the early 90's, none of the seleccion privadas but there are a few ones buried, I'll try to remember to post up a review whenever I get around to smoking them.

Looking forward to the last review :ss

[Weelok]

Great reviews. On the topic of the AF 20 year old cigar, I wonder what it was like ROTT? Wasn't 1996 during the cigar boom era and that may have had an effect on the tobacco used perhaps? I didn't start smoking cigars until 2005 so that cigar pre-dates my experiences by almost a decade!

[AdamJoshua]

Mirroring what people have said, I again was surprised by the lack of strength and just attributed most of it to my patch job, which I suppose was way better than I assumed.

The second thing is when I see people buying these aged AFs at a premium I really question them, it's not like buying an old Davi or well most vintage CCs

[DBall]

Mirroring what people have said, I again was surprised by the lack of strength and just attributed most of it to my patch job, which I suppose was way better than I assumed.

The second thing is when I see people buying these aged AFs at a premium I really question them, it's not like buying an old Davi or well most vintage CCs

Yeah, these weren't bought at a premium by any stretch of the word (probably not far off from the price of a recent box), but they are from someone I trust and am certain enough of the provenance to have put them in this test. I just thought it would be a fun box to have and throw in things like this or PPPs... :)

[AdamJoshua]

Well I definitely appreciate the chance to try one. Something you hear about but wouldn't purchase on my own, so no matter what it was a win.

[Ripplingh2o]

Couldn't wait any longer, had to fire up #5. PM'd the review to Dan.
-(P

[DBall]

...and now it is on Adam to conclude this 6th installment!

[AdamJoshua]

Visiting my dad in the hospital and meeting up with my brother in AZ so it's going to be another day but seeing as how far ahead of schedule y'all can just deal with it.

[DBall]

Visiting my dad in the hospital and meeting up with my brother in AZ so it's going to be another day but seeing as how far ahead of schedule y'all can just deal with it.

Hahaha... yeah, Robb is moving at a furious pace here but no worries from my side... you are well within the 1/week recommendation. :banger

Hope all is well with your dad, man!

[DBall]

AdamJoshua Cigar #5
******************

Fifth and final.

Ok so let's see what we have here, looks like it has quite the box press going and about 13.5 cm and a I'm guessing a 42 ring gauge if still rounded. Going to say this is a corona.

No real veins and a nice milk chocolate wrapper, more of a dry sheen rather than oily, as well as a small triple cap, which begs the question of why I wasn't looking for that before, do'h.

I get a strong "fish tank" note on the dry draw, which is snug but by no means too tight.

First Third : Staring out very muted with some cedar and wood shavings notes, with a hint of spice but not a pepper, more of a cinnamon. Nice even burn at this point. I keep expecting some sweetness from this stick, it reminds me of others and I think that's why I am having expectations which I usually don't have, there is a familiarity here. Taking little sips you get much more of the cedar, right off the bat I can tell you there is a more pronounced and friendly set of notes with tiny little sips over those long pulls. ....phrasing. With small sips I can almost pull out some caramel notes... For some reason I find this intriguing.

Half way through the first third and still a good sharp burn, I'm actually more concerned with why there is so much Metallica in my Foo Fighters inspired music stream.

I've noticed that it's a dry smoke, I would be interested to know if that resonates with anyone else, some cigars have that thick creamy smoke that coats your mout, this is opposite of that, even on longer draws with a lot of smoke it's a dry smoke and brings me right back to cinnamon or maybe an allspice but very light.

Second Third : Really trying to enjoy this smoke, trying to turn my brain off and live in the moment, with life's spiral, work, sister and now dad just trying to zone in on this stick and out on everything else. I have a feeling that for someone used to big in your face sticks this would come off as a bit "woody and bland", yet if you take your time with it it's a nice mellow and enjoyable stick, if this falls into that $4 a stick range sign me up for a couple dozen boxes stat.

Final Third : Started a cup of coffee at this point and its overpowering the stick, time for larger pulls and on those pulls picking up a lot of wood and ......something. Still a nice sharp burn, the wood is definite and its oak and cedar, still no sweetness to me, I was hoping the coffee would open that up but there just isn't any that I can identify. I think that something that keep coming across is moss, I don't want to talk myself into anything but it's definite there.

With about an inch to go, three inches if there are any ladies out there ready this, it's finishing up with that earthy / woody strength. Yup I think for review purposes coffee was a miscalculation for the most part, yet for the finish it's working out well. There is actually a touch of pepper on the snork now, just a tickle but it's recognizable, like Benicio Del Toro in a lineup. I also notice no "taste" on the lips, where as at times you get a sweetness or saltiness, really quite plain in that aspect.

Final Thoughts : While not a super distinctive smoke to me I found it enjoyable and not ....hmm... That doesn't stand out, I would say this is my favorite of the 5, this bends the line between "just a smoke" and something that that I could see inserting into my rotation with no problem. Starting to pick up a bit of tar at the end but not notice in the smoke or enough to stain my fingers.

I'd like to thank Dan for the opportunity to show what a noob I am :lr and to try a few smokes that I would have experienced with his generosity. At 2 or 3 a week I don't think 10 would be an issue and again this makes me think I need to be writing more reviews and enjoying my cigars that much more. Thank you again for your generosity and hopefully I'll get to thank you in person one of these days, maybe SoCal next year :tu

Final rating 7 out of 10.

http://i.imgur.com/QhGl4OC.jpg

[DBall]

Ripplingh2o Cigar #5
******************

Back to a Corona style 5 1/2 x 42RG medium brown (EMS?) wrapper. Tightly packed, double cap, nice satin finish. Just looks and feels like a quality stick. Precut aroma lends itself to subtle hints of caramel, chocolate, or cocoa (I'm really trying inmates, this is my last chance). Made a nice V-cut & toasted at 9:00 a.m. along with a second cup of coffee.

First 1/3- Right out of the gate, I am confident to say we'll be concluding this 5-cigar blind taste test with the best or second best stick of the lot. Draw is superb with lots of rich, creamy smoke. With the aid of my Cigar Flavor Wheel, my palate is leaning towards toasted almonds or warm buttery toast (as the crowd goes wild). Medium to full bodied richness void of any spice or peppery notes even thru a slow retrohale. Another perfect burn and perfect ash.

Second 1/3 - Continue to taste a nutty nuance but there seems to be a transition forthcoming as a slight tingle remains on the finish from time to time. For sure, my Connecticuts pale in comparison to this fine cigar.
Call me crazy, but I'm getting tastes of spicy peanut butter (but then I've never had spicy peanut butter before either). The spicy note isn't overpowering, yet it's definitely there. Maybe that's what "white pepper" is all about. I hear that a lot.

Final third - This delectable cigar has become my favorite of the lot. Medium to full bodied, creamy rich smoke, superb draw, razor sharp burn, and full of flavor. The nuttiness has been replaced by a smooth molasses note (see, I'm referring to my Flavor Wheel). This is simply a damn good cigar emboldened with richness which, in its entirety, electrified my palate; I hated to see it go out. I await with baited breath to learn the name of this premium stogie.

Smoke time: 55 minutes. In conclusion then, it comes as no surprise that I'll rate this stick a solid 9.5. Naturally, leaving room for that cigar from Heaven's humidor. Kudos and many thanks to Dan for this most memorable experiment. I hope my fellow inmates have enjoyed my reviews; I tried, with my minimal, Newb experience to provide an honest, entertaining interpretation of my taste-testing adventures. Regards and thanks for permitting me to share my humble opinions and thoughts. Now I'm off to shop around for a larger humidor. Seems the "addiction" isn't the smoking...it's possibly the buying or "winning".

[DBall]

What they smoked
****************

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/dichotomyx/20161011_192018.jpg

Early 1980's Romeo y Julieta Corona (En Cello)

AdamJoshua rating: 7/10

Ripplingh20 rating: 9.5/10

First off, I'm super happy I got to do this and especially with you two... great sports and an awesome group of reviews. Congrats, guys, and thanks for playing along!

Now, on to this cigar. Honestly, I've smoked a few of these and my sentiments were pretty much perfectly summed up by Robb's review. I get those flavors, those nuances... I just LOVE this cigar... old RyJ's are just beautiful.

Most times these are reserved for Puff Puff Passes, but I was really hoping to get some unbiased reviews on this cigar I so adore. Adam, sorry you have so much going on with life, man... I've smoked some great cigars in stressful/shi##y times and the magic was just lost on me, too. It certainly doesn't fall into the $4 a stick category, though, Adam... sorry about that. :D

Thanks again for completing this and now that you know that you smoked a 35ish year old handmade cuban cigar protected by cello against the elements from a box that was factory sealed until about 5 months ago, what do you think?

[AdamJoshua]

Ok I'll give you $5 a stick but for that you have to throw in some stickers and a copy of the newsletter! :lr

On a serious note, I probably should have held off on the review but did want something different to do and not just sit around. It is kind of a neat in a way to see how outside influences affect you when you smoke, I never really thought of it before so that was at least something to take a way, save your good sticks for when you are in a good place, mentally at least.

Thanks again, Dan!

[croatan]

Very fun thread. Good job Dan, Adam, and Robb!

[Ripplingh2o]

I was very glad to learn this was a RyJ!! One of my favorite, top-shelf cigars (by my standards anyway). This one was extra special being a 35 yr old CC. It was nice to learn that Adam felt this stick was also his favorite of the lot. Thanks again Dan for permitting me to be a part of this blind taste test.
-(P

[CigarNut]

Thank you to Dan, Adam and Robb for doing this!

[Porch Dweller]

Nice reviews! I've enjoyed reading this; thanks to all involved.

[yourchoice]

Great reviews Robb and Adam, and very generous, Dan! Robb, don't sell yourself short with your tasting notes!

Very enjoyable thread to follow. :tu

[DBall]

Looks like I've acquired a not-so-newb for round 7...! :banger