[lenguamor]

Had one of these last night, gifted by Shilala. I have to say that I feel terribly spoiled when I get to enjoy one of Scott's aged sticks. This one was a rare treat as well.

First, the construction was superb. Leaden in the hand, like a solid bar of metal. The wrapper a seasoned, dark nutella brown that spoke of deep aging. The fragrance at either end, after cutting was strong with raisins and the musty odors of the making of sweet wine.

It lit like it was born to it, and the first third was the first act in an opus; minor notes of currants, ginger and cinnamon on top of a rich, molasses sweetness, working to set up the story.

The second act was a more organized template of dried fruit and what floated between marzipan and the flavor of an excellent scone, And yet, through all this there was no cloying sweetness which overwhelmed; a well-conducted orchestra kept every part in harmony.

The final act continued the theme, but upped the energy, and in that action flavors became muddled; some bitterness and a sour undertone crept in. It didn't completely ruin my enjoyment of the last third, but the net effect was that I found myself wishing it could have stayed more like the first two thirds.

Upon removing the band, my suspicion that this was a well-aged stick was confirmed; it was slightly discolored inside and stained nicely at the glue joint.

A beautiful cigar made better by Scott's care. If you're ever lucky enough to sample one, you won't forget it.