Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban - Corona Major
 

My previous review I reviewed the GPECC-EL which was ok but nothing great. I really like these cigars for their Price vs Taste equation.
Cheap, well made and a decent flavor. Don't be fooled by the name.

The cigar I am smoking for this review is from 2007 I believe.

The cigar:

Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban

Size: 5.62 X 44
Wrapper: Ecuador Sumatra
Binder: Ecuador Sumatra
Filler: Honduras/Nicaragua
Shape: Corona Major.
Price: $96.95 for chest of 50.

Pre-Light:
A very firm and dry(er) cigar. These have been aging in a Cooler at 65% RH. A well made cigar with distinctive veins running up the cigar.
After clipping, a firm draw with some barnyard smell on the foot.

http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/a...s/8bdfeacf.jpg

First Third:
First puffs greet me with tons of smoke full of a cedar profile. Very pleasing aroma. A slight leathery aftertaste. Compared to when I smoked these ROTT, these are quite mellow. It's one dimensional but hey, it's a $1.95 cigar.

http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/a...s/e675e969.jpg

Second Third:
Still no harshness. Some sweetness coming in and not overpowering. The cedar is still there with that earthy/leathery aftertaste in the background.
I really enjoy the tobacco taste in this cigar which I assume is the Ecuadorean wrapper (Yum).

http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/a...s/0168f980.jpg

Last Third:

That slight sweetness is still there. Cedar profile still going strong but the flavors are getting more concentrated at this point which is not a bad thing.
Still no harshness in the smoke.

http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/a...s/12ed779f.jpg

Another one of my "Old Reliables". Cheap and good. When I do yard work, you will most likely see me with this cigar.
I prefer this cigar over it's newer cousin the GPECC-EL but I think it is because I really enjoy this wrapper. At $1.97, this is no brainer for me.

Re: Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban - Corona Major
 

Nice thorough review, Chris! I've always looked at these things with a hairy eyeball, but after reading this, I just may have to try one. :tu

Re: Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban - Corona Major
 

Thanks Darren, try a few before buying a chest. 50 cigars that you don't like would make me feel bad!

Re: Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban - Corona Major
 

No, no; I'd never do that (again)! I'll hunt down one or two. -(P

Re: Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban - Corona Major
 

I've never heard or seen these before but am I alone in thinking that band is awesome?! That sounds like a steal at $2, much like GH2002s or Perdomo Fresh Cuban rolls. Great review :)

Re: Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban - Corona Major
 

Thanks for sharing, sounds like a good golf course stick.

Re: Genuine Pre-Embargo Counterfeit Cuban - Corona Major
 

I always hear positives about this smoke, but the name just turns me off to them. Maybe I'll give one a try.