Te Amo?

Zanaspus · 09-16-2009, 10:42 AM

In my short time doing this I have found almost zero correlation between price and goodness. Being the frugal guy that I am, I'm still searching for some "go to" value smokes while I save my Padrons, Oliva V's, Tats, and Cabaiguans (yet to try Illusion, San Cristobal, and a few others, but I'm sure they'll be added to my specials list). I'm in the process of assembling a bunch of fivers from Famous to find more cheap go to's.

Anyway, my question; normally from 100 reviews, I can get a sense of whether something is worth trying, however, Te Amo reviews are just all over the board from the worst thing I ever smoked, to the second coming. So I thought I would ask my assemblage of well-seasoned BOTLs and SOTLs here? What are the thoughts on these enigmas? Thanks in advance.

borndead1 · 09-16-2009, 10:52 AM

I don't care for them, and I smoke a lot of cheap cigars.

Some of my favorite cheapies:

5 Vegas Gold*
Famous Nicaraguan 3000
Famous Dominican 4000 (mild)
Indian Tabac Super Fuerte*
La Floridita
El Mejor Emerald*

*Can be had for under $2/stick at C-bid.

Kreth · 09-16-2009, 10:56 AM

I'd add to that list:
Perdomo Slow-Aged Lot 826
Sancho Panzo Double Maduro
Victor Sinclair Triple Corojo
Sol Cubano Maduro
Posted via Mobile Device

Doctorossi · 09-16-2009, 11:00 AM

The last time I had a Te-Amo was probably 1993. Don't know what they're like now, but back then they were, for me, kind of a 'cigar you love to hate' thing. The flavor was... ahem... unsophisticated, but somehow attractive for that same reason. It was a real STOGIE, if you know what I mean: brash, harsh, stinky, simple, unrepentant. They tasted like molasses on grass and upset my stomach. Probably the only cigar I enjoyed (from time to time) that I could never bring myself to recommend to anyone else. I liked the maduro-wrapped Toro size. I think I probably paid about $1.80 for 'em.

This comment is probably useless, as it's essentially 20 years old and I'd bet they're quite different today. Thanks for the opportunity to indulge a fun memory, though. Good luck in your exploration!

TheTraveler · 09-16-2009, 11:05 AM

I've only tried one blend from Te-Amo: the World Selection Series 'Dominicana'.

For me it was mild, pleasant and unassuming instead of an in-your-face flavor bomb. It was not harsh, I picked up no ammonia, the few flavors that were present were calm --- basically it's exactly what I'd look for in a 'breakfast and tea' type cigar except for the size! Certainly a cigar I wouldn't mind handing out to new smokers who'll enjoy the smoothness. In fact I'll be keeping a few of these around just for those times I don't want my cigar to kick my a$$, I just want to relax and smoke.

I'm going to try the other two World Selection Series blends soon. I've never had the standard Te-Amo blend though.

D_A · 09-16-2009, 11:06 AM

Can't help you out on Te Amo, but based on the list of other smokes you enjoy I'd recommend heading over to holt's and picking up a bundle of Little havana overruns. Fumadores and Benchmade would also probably fit your profile and are pretty cheap. And since everything you listed is Nicaraguan, I've also heard good things about the famous Nic 3000's, but haven't tried them personally.

Zanaspus · 09-16-2009, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doctorossi

The last time I had a Te-Amo was probably 1993. Don't know what they're like now, but back then they were, for me, kind of a 'cigar you love to hate' thing. The flavor was... ahem... unsophisticated, but somehow attractive for that same reason. It was a real STOGIE, if you know what I mean: brash, harsh, stinky, simple, unrepentant. They tasted like molasses on grass and upset my stomach. Probably the only cigar I enjoyed (from time to time) that I could never bring myself to recommend to anyone else. I liked the maduro-wrapped Toro size. I think I probably paid about $1.80 for 'em.

This comment is probably useless, as it's essentially 20 years old and I'd bet they're quite different today. Thanks for the opportunity to indulge a fun memory, though. Good luck in your exploration!

I find that very useful.

Sort of like a love hate ex-girlfriend experience we all have in our back pockets.

JJG · 09-16-2009, 11:24 AM

These have been around forever and I've always been curious, just because they are made with Mexican tobacco (right?). never tried one though.

anyhow as far as cheap smokes go, how cheap are we talking? There is a huge difference between $1 cigars and $2-3 cigars. Personally I have never found anything in the $1 range that was worth a sh*t. seriously, they're all terrible in my opinion. However, there are a lot of tasty options if you are willing to part with the extra dollar. If I want a good cigar for less than $3, I usually grab a Padron Londres.

I've been impressed by several JR bundle cigars but considering there is absolutely ZERO consistency with those, I can't recommend them as a cheap "go-to" smoke. In fact, come to think of it, this is problem with all cheap cigars. It's hard to find a go-to smoke because manufacturers usually don't bother with making sure their super value stuff is perfectly blended. In many cases you're getting a completely different cigar from one box to another.

McSmokey · 09-16-2009, 11:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kreth

I'd add to that list:
Perdomo Slow-Aged Lot 826
Sancho Panzo Double Maduro
Victor Sinclair Triple Corojo
Sol Cubano Maduro
Posted via Mobile Device

I especially like the Sancho Panza Double Maduro

kenstogie · 09-16-2009, 01:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by borndead1

I don't care for them, and I smoke a lot of cheap cigars.

Some of my favorite cheapies:

5 Vegas Gold*
Famous Nicaraguan 3000
Famous Dominican 4000 (mild)
Indian Tabac Super Fuerte*
La Floridita
El Mejor Emerald*

*Can be had for under $2/stick at C-bid.

Great list. Plus the Sancho P's Dble maduros too. The last time I had Te-amo's they tasted like dirt. yuck! But you'll never know if you love em or hat em till u try em!

Zanaspus · 09-16-2009, 02:52 PM

Well, I hadn't expected this to turn into a suggestion thread, but thanks for the awesome pointers. Sancho Panza Double Maduro are in my cart as we speak (Yes, I'm a maduro whore). I've been waiting for a good deal on a box of Sol Cubano maduros on cbid since I smoked the one in my bomb from Brian. I have a bundle of Famous Nic 5000, and the two young ones I've sampled have been yummy.

One other question then based on the metamorphosis. Any other thoughts on La Cuna Bin 85's? The two reviews in the blind ten spot made them sound very Cabaiguan-like. This would make me extremely happy.

Don't stop now on my $2-3 quest!

Tazziedevil · 09-19-2009, 04:09 AM

I like them. Not the worst thing I've ever had, but by no means the worst.
Posted via Mobile Device

taltos · 09-19-2009, 05:02 AM

Big fan of the Te Amo Anniversario in maduro. Very smooth with a unique taste . Basically a more refined version of the original Te Amo. Excellent smokes for the price.

09-19-2009, 05:10 AM

i will admit i like them i like tham alot nice cigar for a bbq or something like that

09-19-2009, 06:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zanaspus

Anyway, my question; normally from 100 reviews, I can get a sense of whether something is worth trying, however, Te Amo reviews are just all over the board from the worst thing I ever smoked, to the second coming. So I thought I would ask my assemblage of well-seasoned BOTLs and SOTLs here? What are the thoughts on these enigmas? Thanks in advance.

I liked the Te-Amo robusto's and the relaxation's and smoked a lot of them when I was working in Mexico. I haven't smoked to many of them since moving back up north but I thought they were good.

After having tried many, many cheap sticks, my cheap stick of choice lately has been the Perdomo Fresh rolled bundles from CI.

09-19-2009, 07:51 AM

Check out tampa sweetheart maduros. They are great and at 40ish for 25 they are a great deal.

OHMatt · 09-24-2009, 12:26 PM

Te Amo is a love/hate cigar, Puros Indios is the only other brand I can think of that has such polarized opinions.

My feeling on (both); a cigar I would not care to smoke often but which I really enjoy every once in a while. A very distinct blend easily recognized. This is a cigar you really should sample one or a 5er before buying a box unless you get a great deal.

While Te-Amo is often in my humi; I would not call it a "go-to" cigar; some of the suggestions in this thread should be considered.

Another thought:
Te Amo (and Puros Indios): sort of a White Castle/Crystal slider in the cigar world to me.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zanaspus

In my short time doing this I have found almost zero correlation between price and goodness. Being the frugal guy that I am, I'm still searching for some "go to" value smokes while I save my Padrons, Oliva V's, Tats, and Cabaiguans (yet to try Illusion, San Cristobal, and a few others, but I'm sure they'll be added to my specials list). I'm in the process of assembling a bunch of fivers from Famous to find more cheap go to's.

Anyway, my question; normally from 100 reviews, I can get a sense of whether something is worth trying, however, Te Amo reviews are just all over the board from the worst thing I ever smoked, to the second coming. So I thought I would ask my assemblage of well-seasoned BOTLs and SOTLs here? What are the thoughts on these enigmas? Thanks in advance.

thebiglebowski · 09-24-2009, 12:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OHMatt

Te Amo is a love/hate cigar, Puros Indios is the only other brand I can think of that has such polarized opinions.

My feeling on (both); a cigar I would not care to smoke often but which I really enjoy every once in a while. A very distinct blend easily recognized. This is a cigar you really should sample one or a 5er before buying a box unless you get a great deal.

While Te-Amo is often in my humi; I would not call it a "go-to" cigar; some of the suggestions in this thread should be considered.

Another thought:
Te Amo (and Puros Indios): sort of a White Castle/Crystal slider in the cigar world to me.

hey, look who it is...

Sr Mike · 09-24-2009, 12:50 PM

I had the '99 Anni, it was a disappointment Being a special cigar for the brand, it left me wanting something better.

OHMatt · 09-24-2009, 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thebiglebowski

hey, look who it is...

sssssssssshhhhh be vewwwy vewwy qwiet.

09-16-2009, 10:42 AM	#1
Zanaspus Adjusting to the Life Join Date: Aug 2009 First Name: Tony Location: Columbus, OH Posts: 492 Trading: (3)	Te Amo? In my short time doing this I have found almost zero correlation between price and goodness. Being the frugal guy that I am, I'm still searching for some "go to" value smokes while I save my Padrons, Oliva V's, Tats, and Cabaiguans (yet to try Illusion, San Cristobal, and a few others, but I'm sure they'll be added to my specials list). I'm in the process of assembling a bunch of fivers from Famous to find more cheap go to's. Anyway, my question; normally from 100 reviews, I can get a sense of whether something is worth trying, however, Te Amo reviews are just all over the board from the worst thing I ever smoked, to the second coming. So I thought I would ask my assemblage of well-seasoned BOTLs and SOTLs here? What are the thoughts on these enigmas? Thanks in advance.

09-16-2009, 10:52 AM	#2
borndead1 Ayatollah of Rock n Rolla Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Mark Location: Lancaster, CA Posts: 1,321 Trading: (7)	Re: Te Amo? I don't care for them, and I smoke a lot of cheap cigars. Some of my favorite cheapies: 5 Vegas Gold* Famous Nicaraguan 3000 Famous Dominican 4000 (mild) Indian Tabac Super Fuerte* La Floridita El Mejor Emerald* *Can be had for under $2/stick at C-bid. __________________ None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free.

09-16-2009, 10:56 AM	#3
Kreth Ronin smoker Join Date: Jan 2009 First Name: Jeff Location: Oneonta, NY Posts: 3,620 Trading: (14)	Re: Te Amo? I'd add to that list: Perdomo Slow-Aged Lot 826 Sancho Panzo Double Maduro Victor Sinclair Triple Corojo Sol Cubano Maduro Posted via Mobile Device

09-16-2009, 11:00 AM	#4
Doctorossi Have My Own Room Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Burlington, VT Posts: 1,684 Trading: (8)	Re: Te Amo? The last time I had a Te-Amo was probably 1993. Don't know what they're like now, but back then they were, for me, kind of a 'cigar you love to hate' thing. The flavor was... ahem... unsophisticated, but somehow attractive for that same reason. It was a real STOGIE, if you know what I mean: brash, harsh, stinky, simple, unrepentant. They tasted like molasses on grass and upset my stomach. Probably the only cigar I enjoyed (from time to time) that I could never bring myself to recommend to anyone else. I liked the maduro-wrapped Toro size. I think I probably paid about $1.80 for 'em. This comment is probably useless, as it's essentially 20 years old and I'd bet they're quite different today. Thanks for the opportunity to indulge a fun memory, though. Good luck in your exploration! __________________ Marvin Shanken is a terrific guy... for me to poop on!

09-16-2009, 11:05 AM	#5
TheTraveler giggity giggitty Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Jonathan Location: Near a Walmart Posts: 1,813 Trading: (12)	Re: Te Amo? I've only tried one blend from Te-Amo: the World Selection Series 'Dominicana'. For me it was mild, pleasant and unassuming instead of an in-your-face flavor bomb. It was not harsh, I picked up no ammonia, the few flavors that were present were calm --- basically it's exactly what I'd look for in a 'breakfast and tea' type cigar except for the size! Certainly a cigar I wouldn't mind handing out to new smokers who'll enjoy the smoothness. In fact I'll be keeping a few of these around just for those times I don't want my cigar to kick my a$$, I just want to relax and smoke. I'm going to try the other two World Selection Series blends soon. I've never had the standard Te-Amo blend though. __________________ "My life is my own."

09-16-2009, 11:06 AM	#6
D_A Dave's not here Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: David Location: NC Posts: 272 Trading: (7)	Re: Te Amo? Can't help you out on Te Amo, but based on the list of other smokes you enjoy I'd recommend heading over to holt's and picking up a bundle of Little havana overruns. Fumadores and Benchmade would also probably fit your profile and are pretty cheap. And since everything you listed is Nicaraguan, I've also heard good things about the famous Nic 3000's, but haven't tried them personally.

09-16-2009, 11:24 AM	#8
JJG Have My Own Room Join Date: Jan 2009 First Name: Jeff Location: Houston Posts: 1,260 Trading: (4)	Re: Te Amo? These have been around forever and I've always been curious, just because they are made with Mexican tobacco (right?). never tried one though. anyhow as far as cheap smokes go, how cheap are we talking? There is a huge difference between $1 cigars and $2-3 cigars. Personally I have never found anything in the $1 range that was worth a sh*t. seriously, they're all terrible in my opinion. However, there are a lot of tasty options if you are willing to part with the extra dollar. If I want a good cigar for less than $3, I usually grab a Padron Londres. I've been impressed by several JR bundle cigars but considering there is absolutely ZERO consistency with those, I can't recommend them as a cheap "go-to" smoke. In fact, come to think of it, this is problem with all cheap cigars. It's hard to find a go-to smoke because manufacturers usually don't bother with making sure their super value stuff is perfectly blended. In many cases you're getting a completely different cigar from one box to another.

09-16-2009, 02:52 PM	#11
Zanaspus Adjusting to the Life Join Date: Aug 2009 First Name: Tony Location: Columbus, OH Posts: 492 Trading: (3)	Re: Te Amo? Well, I hadn't expected this to turn into a suggestion thread, but thanks for the awesome pointers. Sancho Panza Double Maduro are in my cart as we speak (Yes, I'm a maduro whore). I've been waiting for a good deal on a box of Sol Cubano maduros on cbid since I smoked the one in my bomb from Brian. I have a bundle of Famous Nic 5000, and the two young ones I've sampled have been yummy. One other question then based on the metamorphosis. Any other thoughts on La Cuna Bin 85's? The two reviews in the blind ten spot made them sound very Cabaiguan-like. This would make me extremely happy. Don't stop now on my $2-3 quest!

09-19-2009, 04:09 AM	#12
Tazziedevil Still Watching My Back Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Tasmania, Australia Posts: 110 Trading: (0)	Re: Te Amo? I like them. Not the worst thing I've ever had, but by no means the worst. Posted via Mobile Device

09-19-2009, 05:02 AM	#13
taltos Really, really old Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Paul Location: Saugus, MA Posts: 2,486 Trading: (3)	Re: Te Amo? Big fan of the Te Amo Anniversario in maduro. Very smooth with a unique taste . Basically a more refined version of the original Te Amo. Excellent smokes for the price. __________________ Jimmy, some of its magic, some of its tragic, but I had a good life all the way. He Went to Paris, J. Buffett

09-19-2009, 05:10 AM	#14
adampc22 Guest Posts: n/a	Re: Te Amo? i will admit i like them i like tham alot nice cigar for a bbq or something like that

09-19-2009, 07:51 AM	#16
dogface_313 Guest Posts: n/a	Re: Te Amo? Check out tampa sweetheart maduros. They are great and at 40ish for 25 they are a great deal.

09-24-2009, 12:50 PM	#19
Sr Mike As Is Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: EBFE Posts: 657 Trading: (6)	Re: Te Amo? I had the '99 Anni, it was a disappointment Being a special cigar for the brand, it left me wanting something better.