Origin : Dominican Republic
Format : Corona Gorda
Size : 6 x 50
Wrapper : Brazil
Filler : Dominican Republic, Peru
Binder : Dominican Republic
Price : $9.00
Even a cursory mention of New York City leaves most people thinking about bustling streets, stunning architecture, Wall Street tycoons, and avant-garde artwork. What you might not know is that New York has had a luxury tobacco shop manufacturing its own cigar blends since 1930. That shop is, of course, Nat Sherman. One of their more unique cigars is the Westside 711 Gotham with its dark and pleasantly sweet Mata Fina wrapper.
Appearance - 3/5
The wrapper is rough with some discoloration but has a nice dark chocolate tint. The Westside has a tasteful red, purple, and gold band adorned with the iconic clock logo. Distinct flavors of cocoa are present in the prelight draw.
Construction - 4/5
The Nat Sherman Westside 711 feels evenly packed with a slight spongy give when gentle pressure is applied. Drawing on the cigar is easy with just enough resistance to lend the feeling of control. The burn line on the wrapper remained straight with only a modest self correcting wave briefly noticed toward the middle of the cigar.
Flavor - 4/5
The Westside 711 Gotham has a unique blend of flavors but is mostly sweet and earthy. A tasteful balance of wood and coffee round out the cigar’s flavor profile. The lasting finish is very sweet but much different in character than a maduro. This cigar is light on the palate.
Value - 4/5
At $9.00 per cigar it isn’t a bargain; however, the unique flavor and sound performance of the Westside 711 Gotham leaves me willing to buy a few more for my humidor.
Overall Rating - 4/5
Though slightly rough in appearance, this enjoyable medium bodied cigar offers a pleasing and unique flavor experience.