TopQualityCigars.com

Tatuaje Cojonu 2012

2012-02-22T15:49:00.002-06:00

Tatuaje Cojonu 2012

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf and Ecuadorian Sumatra

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Vitola: Toro Box Press

Length: 5.5 inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium to Full

Pete Johnson of Tatuaje will be releasing 3 wrappers this year for his Cojonu series; a Connecticut Broadleaf, Ecuadorian Sumatra, and a Habano. The Connecticut Broadleaf and Ecuadorian Sumatra will be released at Casa de Montecristo on March 21^st with an official book signing with Pete Johnson himself. All 3 wrappers will officially be released at this year’s IPCPR in August.

The book that will be available on March 21^st will consist of 12 Connecticut Broadleaf and 12 Ecuadorian Sumatra, so those are the two cigars I will review.

The Connecticut Broadleaf has a gorgeous dark brown wrapper. There were no veins lines that I could see and it was virtuously seamless! The cigar was firm to the touch with no visible imperfections. The cap was beautifully constructed.

This cigar smoked beautifully! The draw was effortless and smooth. The burn was nice and even. I noticed a spicy undertone throughout. The cigar was creamy with coffee notes also lending a sweet undertone.

The Ecuadorian Sumatra had a dark reddish brown almost milk chocolate colored wrapper. There were very few veins and again was seamless! This cigar was also firm to the touch with no visible imperfections. The cap on this cigar was perfect and well constructed.

Both cigars are creamy! But this one had an almost savory spice to it! Not the traditional Tatuaje spice but very pleasing and noticeable to the palate. I picked up on coffee and espresso with almost a smoked, savory finish.

Both cigars are simply fantastic! I would smoke these cigars again and again! These are the type of cigars that would hold up well next to a nice scotch or whiskey after a long day!

For more information on the Official Book Signing with Pete Johnson please visit our website at www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!

AVO Heritage

2012-02-22T15:03:00.002-06:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuador (Cuban Seed)
Binder: Dominican San Vincente
Filler: 3 Different Ligero, Dominican Seco, Peruvian Seco
Vitola: Short Robusto
Length: 4 inches
Ring Gage: 56
Strength: Medium to Full

The Avo Heritage is one of the latest from the Avo line and has become one of my favorite go to short smokes. I reviewed the Robusto in December and I am revisiting the Line because of an upcoming AVO Event.

I found the cigar great then and I still find it great months later! Appearance wise this cigar has a gorgeous dark espresso oily wrapper. It has huge vein lines with a perfectly constructed cap. It felt solid to the touch; there were no soft spots or imperfections I could notice.

It did have a fairly loose draw, even though it never burned too hot. I like a more resistant draw but this did not take away from my enjoyment of this cigar. The burn was nice, even, and smooth.

There was a nice spice upon first lighting. I noticed a sweet caramel almost chocolate/mocha undertone. I also picked up on earthy notes. The spice does mellow out as you smoke but the flavors stayed pretty consistent. There was creaminess to it that I just fell in love with.

This is a perfect short smoke when you do not have a lot of time available. This cigar will last about 45 minutes to an hour giving you just enough time to enjoy and then be on your way!

Avo never disappoints, in my opinion, when it comes to cigars. I thoroughly enjoyed this cigar from the first light to the last puff of the little nub I had left!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!

Also to find out more information on the AVO Heritage Tasting Event that is visiting 8 to 8 Cigars on March 23^rd please visit our website: www.8to8cigars.net!!!

La Aurora 107

2012-01-26T13:38:00.003-06:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Rebublic
Wrapper: Ecuador
Binder: Dominican and Nicaraguan
Filler: Dominican
Vitola: Robusto
Length: 4 1/2
Ring Gage: 50
Strength: Medium

This cigar is made by the Miami Cigar Company to celebrate the 107 years of La Aurora making cigars. This cigar has been out for awhile but I wanted to blog about it because it is just a fantastic cigar that has become a staple of mine and many people I know.

The cigar has a nice dark chocolate almost espresso colored wrapped. It has nice construction with very beautiful veins running along the cigar. There are no soft spots and it feels very firm to the touch. The cap also appears to be perfectly constructed as well.

This cigar is a perfectly balanced and smooth smoke from beginning to finish. I pick up on earthy and nutty notes, as well as semi-sweet undertones. About halfway through I did start to pick up on a nice spicy undertone as well.

The cigar had a nice even draw and a smooth even draw. The 107 is a consistant smoke every time that does not disappoint! Like I said at the beginning of this blog this has become a go-to staple for myself and many people! This cigar will not disappoint!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!

Diamond Crown Julius Caesar

2011-12-07T10:37:00.001-06:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ecuadorian (Havana Seed)

Binder: Secret Blend

Filler: Secret Blend

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 4 ¾ inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium

This line was launched in 2010 and traditionally is released only to Diamond Crown Lounges. I’m very excited to say that these cigars are available at 8 to 8 Cigars and are also offered through topqualitycigars.com. This cigar is rolled by the Fuente Family in the Dominican Republic. This cigar was named after the founder of JC Newman Cigar Company; Julius Caesar Newman.

These cigars are packaged in beautiful black boxes accented with the coveted Roman purple, with 20 to a box. There are four sizes available:

· Churchill (7 ¼ by 52)

· Pyramid (6 ½ by 52)

· Toro (6 by 52)

· Robusto (4 ¾ by 52)

The cigar has a striking, dark, slightly oily wrapper. It looks very well constructed with very few vein lines and perfect cap construction. I read some reviews that stated they believed their cigar to be a bit squishy, I have to admit I didn’t notice that at all. I thought the cigar had just the right amount of firmness. It had a nice, even slow burn. And I have to say that the ash was amazing. It stayed for quite a bit and was a stunning dark gray and white color.

This cigar was very smooth, creamy, and flavorful. I picked up on earthy and woodsy notes. I also did notice a semi-sweet undertone that I couldn’t quite place but was very pleasing and added great flavor to the overall smoke.

I’ve seen this cigar reviewed as a mild to medium or a solid medium smoke. I’m on the fence actually, I can see both sides. If you start this out as the first smoke of the day I can see why people would say a solid medium. But if you’ve smoked a medium bodied, or even a full bodied cigar, before this one I can see where people would quantify it as a mild to medium. Either way it is a medium at its strongest, which is just fine by me. Because occasionally you need something a little milder to switch things up a bit, and this will become one of my go to medium smokes when I need that break!!!

If you would like to purchase these cigars please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!

Avo Heritage

2011-12-06T12:56:00.001-06:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuador (Cuban Seed)
Binder: Dominican San Vincente
Filler: 3 Different Ligero, Dominican Seco, Peruvian Seco
Vitola: Robusto
Length: 4 7/8 inches
Ring Gage: 50
Strength: Medium to Full

The Avo Heritage is one of the latest from the Avo line and a great addition it is!! This cigar is a fantastic everyday smoke!

Appearance wise this cigar has a gorgeous dark espresso oily wrapper. It has huge vein lines with a perfectly constructed cap. It felt solid to the touch, there were no soft spots or imperfections I could notice.

It did have a fairly loose draw, even though it never burned too hot. I like a more resistant draw but this did not take away from my enjoyment of this cigar. The burn was nice, even, and smooth.

There was a nice spice upon first lighting. I noticed a sweet caramel almost chocolate/mocha undertone. I also picked up on earthy notes. The spice does mellow out as you smoke but the flavors stayed pretty consistent. There was a creaminess to it that I just fell in love with.

Avo never disapoints, in my opinion, when it comes to cigars. I thoroughly enjoyed this cigar from the first light to the last puff of the little nub I had left!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!

Alec Bradley Black Market

2011-11-25T08:10:00.002-06:00

Country of Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Nicaraguan from Jalapa
Binder: Sumatra
Filler: Honduas and Panama
Vitola: Toro
Length: 6 inches
Ring Gage: 50
Strength: Medium

Leave it to Alec Bradley to do something a little different! The band on this cigar is at the foot rather then being wrapped near the top. The box is a beautiful presentation as well, it has a distressed wooden appearance. The whole package looks very well put together.

The cigar looks very pretty as well. It has a medium dark brown wrapper that is slightly oily, with very few vein lines. It feels firm to the touch and the cap is perfectly constructed.

The draw on this cigar was perfect. There was a slight resistance, but that's what I like in a cigar. The burn for the most part was fairly even. I did have to do a few touch ups, but it did not ruin the overall smoking experience at all.

There was a lot of spice upon lighting the cigar. A chocolate sweet undertone hit me almost right away as well. The spiciness mellowed out as you smoked. I wouldn't quantify this as a complex cigar, but the flavors were prominent throughout the smoke and made up for the lack of complexity.

On a side note, on the internet I've noticed people are quantifying this as a medium to full. My taste buds tell me this is a mild to medium cigar. But again keep in mind I do enjoy a more fuller bodied smoke. This would be a great everyday smoke for the medium bodied smoker and a great first cigar of the day for a fuller bodied smoker. Just overall a great cigar!!!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!

H. Upmann 1844 Reserve

2011-11-09T12:32:00.002-06:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Cubano

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Dominican

Vitola: Corona

Length: 5 ½ inches

Ring Gage: 44

Strength: Full Bodied

This is a complete re-blend of the old 1844 Reserve. The new blend has an Ecuadorian wrapper where the old blend had an Indonesian Wrapper. The Binder stayed the same, but the Brazilian filler was also removed. I was anxious to try the new blend as the old blend was not bad.

The cigar has a gorgeous dark oily wrapper. It was seamless with very few vein lines. It looks impeccably constructed and was firm to the touch. It had a nice even burn. It did have a slightly resistant draw, but it did not ruin the smoking experience for me. As it burned it accumulated a nice dark gray ash, that stayed on the cigar for quite a bit.

This cigar has a very earthy profile. I would almost be willing to say a nice cedar wood taste. I also did pick up on roast coffee with hints of bittersweet chocolate. I found this to be a great smoke. I like the new blend and feel like this is a cigar I can smoke on daily basis. In my opinion the re-blend was a good choice and with the sticks being around $8.00 this is definitely my new favorite everyday smoke.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!!

CAO OSA Sol

2011-11-04T14:20:00.002-05:00

Country of Origin: Honduras

Wrapper: Olancho San Agustin (Honduran)

Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf

Filler: Nicaragua and Honduras

Vitola: Lot 50, Robusto

Length: 5 inches

Ring Gage: 50

Strength: Medium

This cigar is named OSA after the wrapper – Olancho San Agustin. This sun grown wrapper was hand selected by master blender Rick Rodriguez from a 2008 crop. This is also the first cigar released from CAO since General Cigar took over. And so far the reception has been good!!

This Cigar has a gorgeous golden wrapper. It was slightly spongy but all in all just as firm as a good cigar should be. It had a slightly resistant draw, but I tend to like that. The burn was pretty even. As you smoked the ash would not stay on the cigar, it kept falling. This doesn’t really make it a bad cigar or ruin the smoking experience, just worth noting.

This cigar is rich, complex, earthy, woody and very complex. One can tell this is a bit different than the Traditional CAO that we are used to, but that by no means makes this a bad cigar. This is a great cigar with a great price!!!!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!

Vega Fina by Jose Seijas Limited Edition 2011

2011-10-26T11:23:00.004-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Connecticut

Binder: Indonesian TBN

Filler: Columbian, Dominican, and Honduran

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 5 inches

Ring Gage: 56

Strength: Mild

This is a new cigar from Altidas blended by Jose Seijas. This is a limited edition release and only comes in a Robusto size.

The presentation is gorgeous. This cigar has a gorgeous moderately dark wrapper. Perfect roll – seamless!! Very few vein lines. It is firm to the touch with a beautifully constructed cap. The label is perfect – simple black and white. These cigars make you want to buy it just on appearance alone!!!

But now down to business and how it smokes! It had a perfect even burn and an excellent draw. There was a nice burst of pepper upon lighting. That mellowed out about an inch or so into the cigar. At about this time I did pick up on an acidic taste. Best way to describe it would be like tannins from wine. And for the remainder of the smoke it was just a very mild mellow cigar.

This cigar is very reasonably priced and with its near perfect construction has so much potential! What I would do with this cigar is age this for about 3 to 6 months to allow the flavors to marry and become more prominent. Because to me this was just too mild!

As it stands at this moment this cigar would be good for the beginning smoker. This is a good mild cigar for a reasonable price.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!!

Diamondback by Omar Ortez

2011-10-24T09:58:00.003-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Vitola: Corona

Length: 5 ½ inches

Ring Gage: 44

Strength: Mild to Medium

Traditionally this is not the type of cigar I gravitate to. This cigar does have a sugared tip – which I am not a fan of. So I did try and be as impartial as I could to that fact while smoking this cigar!

This is a new cigar from Altidas blended by Omar Ortez. The price point on this cigar is very reasonable. I would equate this – just to make it clear to everyone – like a Baccarat.

This cigar does have a nice looking golden brown wrapper. It was somewhat spongy to the touch but otherwise appeared to have good construction. The draw was good – a little too loose for my liking but it really didn’t hinder the overall smoking experience. The burn started out even but as I smoked it got jagged. Again not enough to impede the smoking experience but it did happen. I do have to admit though the ash was a gorgeous dark grey color and stayed on the cigar well through the half way point.

I would call this a complex cigar. I picked up on earthy and nutty notes. This cigar was creamy and smooth, and of course sweet (thanks to the sugared tip!). After about an inch I did notice a slight bitterness, I actually didn’t mind it at all.

To try and give this as fair a review as I can I would say this is a good cigar. The price is right and Omar Ortez is a fantastic blender in his own right. This is not something I would smoke on a consistent basis due to the sugared tip but if your tastes sway that way this is definitely one to try!!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!

Liga Privada Unico Serie UF4

2011-10-22T16:19:00.003-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Connecticut Valley Stalk Cut and Cured Sun Grown Habano

Binder: Plantation Grown Brazilian Mata Fina

Filler: Nicaraguan

Vitola: Toro

Length: 6 inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Full

I want to start by pointing out that I have not smoked this cigar yet! As soon as we receive these cigars I will be sure to add my personal opinions on the post. I just wanted to get some information on it and to make everyone aware that Jonathan Drew himself will be at Casa De Montecristo on the 27^th to release this cigar.

This particular cigar was originally supposed to be called the MF4 but it is now called the UF4. This is a stronger version of the T52 because it has more ligero than the 52.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!!

Paul Garmirian Artisan’s Passion

2011-10-22T09:14:00.003-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican

Wrapper: Dominican

Binder: Dominican

Filler: Dominican

Vitola: Short Robusto

Length: 4 ½ inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Full Bodied

There was never a big buzz about the release of this line, it just showed up in the shop one day. I really like Paul Garmirian, especially the Symphony 20. And I was pleasantly surprised at the price point of these cigars and figured PG cigars are great so what can it hurt.

There are three sizes available:

· Short Robusto 4 ½ by 52

· Super Robusto 5 by 54

· Toro 6 by 52

They have a beautiful dark oily wrapper. The draw was good and the burn even. Again from a PG I would expect nothing less.

There is a strong spice upon first lighting. I pick up on earthy notes with an almost sweet chocolate note. The cigar does mellow out throughout the smoke and then fires up again for a strong finish. I would quantify this as a complex cigar.

I am very, very impressed with this cigar. It has all of the normal qualities one would expect from a PG but at a price that is just fantastic. So it’s a win, win for everyone! This cigar is definitely worth trying!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!!

Padron Family Reserve 85th Maduro

2011-10-21T14:50:00.002-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Nicaragua

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Robusto(ish)

Length: 5 ¼ inches

Ring Gage: 50

Strength: Medium to Full

Every year, in September, the Padron family releases a new blend. The first year was the 45^th, last year was the 46^th, and this year was supposed to be the 47^th. But Jorge O. Padron was turning 85 this year and the family decided to dedicate this cigar in his honor. They used rare tobaccos that were already aged for about 8 years!

This cigar has the traditional Padron Box Press. It has a dark, dark, perfectly seamless wrapper! It has very few veins and as always is perfectly constructed. Only way to describe the appearance of this cigar – flawless!

The draw was great, with little to no resistance. It burned evenly and smooth. Upon lighting there is quite literally an explosion of pepper! The strength of the pepper comes and goes, but at least a slight spice stays throughout the smoke. It really calms down about halfway through the cigar. I picked up on earthy notes, and also a slightly sweet chocolate flavor.

What I thought was pretty interesting with this cigar is it starts out as a full body and then makes its way to a medium. Padron cigars are in a league of their own when it comes to taste and flavor, and trust me this cigar does not disappoint.

You can purchase these cigars at www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!

EP Carillo Edicion Limitada 2011 Dark Rituals

2011-10-21T14:31:00.002-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ocscuro Maduro

Binder: Ecuadorian Sumatra

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Toro Grande

Length: 6 ½ inches

Ring Gage: 56

Strength: Medium

EP Carillo has had a fantastic year with all of wonderful cigars he has released this year! I truly do not think that Ernesto Perez-Carillo could not make a bad cigar if he tried!

These cigars will come in a gorgeous wooden box of 10. This cigar is downright pretty. It has a dark, dark coffee/espresso color. It is slightly oily and has gorgeous vein lines. It is slightly spongy to the touch and looks very well constructed. The draw was nice and easy and it burns evenly and smooth.

There is only a tiny bit of spice to this cigar. There is a bit of bitterness upon first lighting. I also pick up on roasted coffee and/or espresso notes. There is a bit of sweetness throughout – it is not overpowering but a bit of pleasant sweetness.

I would not quantify this as a super complex cigar however the flavors are rich and robust, and still somehow manage to be creamy, which made this a very enjoyable cigar to smoke!

These cigars are available on www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!!

Liga Privada L40 Lanceros

2011-10-20T09:45:00.003-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Connecticut Sun Grown Habano

Binder: Brazilian Mata Fina

Filler: Honduras and Nicaragua (The Liga Blend)

Vitola: Lancero

Length: 7 inches

Ring Gage: 40

Strength: Medium

The L40 is collaboration between Drew Estate and Steve Saka. The tweaking of the blend took these guys over a year to perfect! They even made this Lancero a 40 ring gage so they could add 1 extra leaf to the cigar! Ultimately they decided on a blend that is not too peppery and has a smooth sophistication that would not be over powering or just like other cigars in the Liga line.

I am a big fan of Lancero’s because of their smaller ring gages and also because of the flavor profiles they produce. And this cigar (even at the 40 ring gage) is no exception! The L40 has a gorgeous dark, oily, and seamless wrapper. It is firm to the touch and looks perfectly constructed. The draw was excellent and burned quite nicely.

There was spice upon first lighting. But that mellows out after an inch or so and the flavors really begin to shine. I noticed an earthy, almost woodsy taste immediately. Also I picked up on roast espresso and coffee. The flavors stay consistent throughout the smoke and also becomes rich and creamy, but I would not quantify this as one dimensional cigar. I would certainly call this a complex smoke with many different levels of flavor.

This is a much anticipated cigar and I’m really glad I got a chance to smoke this before it’s delivered because I know they will sell quickly!! My advice – enjoy this after dinner with your favorite cocktail and relax!

These have shipped and will be available for purchase shortly – please visit www.topqualitycigars.com for more info and to order.

La Gloria Cubana Artesanos Retro Especiale

2011-10-19T08:27:00.004-05:00

Country of Origin: Honduras

Wrapper: Connecticut (Cross bred and grown in Honduras)

Binder: Double Binder: Nicaraguan and Mexican

Filler: Nicaraguan and Dominican Ligero

Vitola: Corona

Length: 5.7 inches

Ring Gage: 47

Strength: Medium to Full

This cigar has been 8 years in the making! Old cigar boxes were found in the factory and the boxes were recreated and this cigar was created to match that retro theme. They cross bred the Connecticut seed and then grew it in Honduras. It is a gorgeous golden brown color – but this cigar is more of a full body! This cigar is reminiscent of cigars from years and years ago and is even adorned with a triple cap.

The wrapper is a beautiful golden honey color that is seamless! It is slightly oil with very few vein lines. It is firm to the touch and appears to be impeccably constructed. I did not have any problems lighting or drawing from this cigar. It burned evenly and perfectly.

I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by this cigar. I enjoy a fuller bodied cigar and this cigar gives you that. There is a pleasant spiciness upon first lighting. This does mellow out but is a nice undertone throughout the smoke. I noticed a nutty, chocolate almost cocoa sweetness to it.

This was a very nice complex, smooth smoke that I really enjoyed.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!!

Drew Estate Undercrown

2011-10-17T12:11:00.006-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: San Andres Negro

Binder: T52 Stalk Cut Habano

Filler: Brazilian Mata Fina and Nicaraguan Habano

Vitola: Gran Toro

Length: 6 inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium

I have been patiently waiting for this cigar and I am so excited I finally got to smoke it. And let me tell you it was well worth the wait! I feel like I should start this review with a warning. Yes it is true; this cigar is somewhat like the Liga Privada line but it was created to be a standalone cigar. So try not to compare it too much with the Liga line.

Firstly this is a gorgeous cigar!!! It is the darkest of roast espresso brown. It has nice sheen to it because the oils, there are a few vein lines. The cigar is firm to the touch and looks amazingly constructed.

This is a very smooth cigar. I can pick up on an earthy, coffee, chocolate (almost cocoa), with a slight spice from the cigar. The cigar stays pretty consistent throughout. The draw was perfect and the burn was even and also consistent.

I really, really enjoyed this cigar, as I always do with Drew Estate Cigars!! It was the perfect choice to sit and smoke while relaxing after a rough rough week!!

These cigars are available at www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!!

Alec Bradley American Classic Blend

2011-10-17T11:35:00.003-05:00

Country of Origin: Honduras

Wrapper: Honduran Connecticut

Binder: Honduras, Nicaragua

Filler: Honduras, Nicaragua

Vitola: Corona

Length: 5 ½ Inches

Ring Gage: 42

Strength: Mild to Medium

This review will be short, sweet and simple. This has to be my new favorite mild, first smoke of the day cigar. I was really impressed with this.

I would have to say in my personal opinion this is a mild cigar, but I can see where someone who doesn’t like as full bodied cigars as I do finding this almost a medium. I did notice that it starts out extremely mild and then picks up a bit, but my taste does not say it picks up to a medium.

The construction on this cigar is excellent. This cigar has a gorgeous reddish-brown wrapper. It was slightly oily, not a lot but enough to cause a gorgeous sheen. The draw and burn were consistent and excellent.

I noticed earthy tones, and if I had to place a flavor almost a sweet coca/chocolate flavor. This cigar is really complex, flavorful and smooth!!!

Just a great, great mild cigar at a very reasonable price.

If you would like to purchase these cigars please visit www.topqualitycigars.com!!!!

Jaime Garcia Reserva Real

2011-10-08T15:01:00.001-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf

Binder: Ecuadorian

Filler: Nicaragua (From the Pepin and Oliva Farms)

Vitola: Belicoso

Length: 5.5 Inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium to Full

Jaime Garcia is fast becoming an extremely popular blender and cigar manufacturer in his own right. His name is becoming just as synonymous with cigars as his father, Don Pepin. Already the reception to the Jaime Garcia Limited Edition 2011 (my first review!!!) was hugely popular and a great success.

This cigar is Jaime’s core line that has more than half a dozen different sizes.

This cigar has a gorgeous dark veiny wrapper. Very smooth to the touch, it is firm not spongy. This is visually a perfect cigar.

The draw on this cigar is amazing and the burn even and perfect. There is a strong punch when first light. A nice spice and tobacco notes hit you from the first puff. The cigar mellows out throughout the smoke but then fires up again for a strong finish.

I would not have this as the first cigar of the day; this would be perfect after a meal. This cigar is flavorful, smooth, and robust. Just a fantastic cigar!!!

My Father Commemorative 911 Cigars Blend 343 10th Anniversary

2011-10-04T16:18:00.003-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Habano Rosado / Oscuro Oscuro

Binder: Corojo / Secret

Filler: Secret / Secret

Vitola: Toro

Length: 5 ½ Inches

Ring Gage: 54

Strength: Medium to Full / Medium to Full

I had the pleasure of smoking these cigars over last couple of days. Let me tell you, you guys are in for a treat!! These cigars are so amazing – I would have to say some of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year.

I’ll start with the review on the Habano Rosado blend first. The cigar has a gorgeous medium brown wrapper. It was slightly oily with a small number of veins. All in all the construction on this cigar is solid. It actually almost lights itself when I brought the match to it! The burn was even and consistent. I never needed to relight this cigar. Upon first lighting there was a slight spice. But about half an inch down it began to pick up. Overall this was a really consistent and smooth cigar.

The Oscuro Oscuro blend has a gorgeous dark espresso oily wrapper. Construction just like the other is solid!!! I have to admit I was at work when I had this one and couldn’t light it immediately. I was thoroughly impressed with the flavors I was getting off this cigar on a pre-light! The typical Don Pepin/Jaime Garcia spice hits you as soon as you light this cigar. I would say this cigar starts out as a medium and then about a third of the way down becomes full bodied. Overall I would say this is a really robust and smooth cigar.

I am so happy that these cigars are as truly awesome as they are because of the cause they are representing. I hope that I can persuade more people into buying this cigar, and I’d also like to say Thank You to everyone who bought this cigar and helped us contribute to the wonderful charity that will help the families of the 343 fallen heroes.

I should also clarify that these cigars are bandless. The Habano Rosado wrapped cigars are on the top layer and the Oscuro Oscuro wrapped cigars are on the bottom layer.

If you would like to purchase this cigar pleae visit www.topqualitycigars.com!

Tatuaje Monster Series The Wolfman

2011-10-04T15:46:00.001-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Box Press Torpedo

Length: 7 ½ inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium to Full

I just got my hands on one of these sticks, and let me first start out by saying that this is going to be one of the most popular smokes of 2011.

The Wolfman has a rugged shaggy look about it, they nailed this perfectly! Construction is excellent, like all Tatuaje cigars. The draw was spot on and it burned nice and even. This cigar is very complex. It really is a very hard cigar to explain, it is just good. It is not bitter or acidic; this doesn’t need to sit before you smoke it.

When you first light the cigar you are basically smoking filler only so it starts out pretty mild. Once you get to the wrapper this cigar just explodes with flavor!!! When you first light this cigar you are hit with a nice hint of spice, chocolate, and some earthy notes. As you smoke the flavors become more complex and robust. The spiciness stays throughout, and you really can pick up on a sweet chocolate undertone that I loved!!!

I cannot wait for the official release of this cigar!!!!

If you would like to pre-order this cigar please visit Top Quality Cigars at the link below (option will be available soon). We apologize for any inconvenience but we cannot guarantee a dress box.

Davidoff White Edition Super Belicoso

2011-10-01T11:54:00.003-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Dominican Criollo

Binder: Peruvian Corojo

Filler: Dominican San Vicente and Piloto Ligero

Vitola: Super Belicoso

Length: 5 ½ inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium to Full

We just got these cigars in and trust me they are amazing!!!! I would almost be willing to say better than the Puro Belicoso. This tobacco has already been aged for 5 years with only 8,000 boxes made. This is a limited release so once they are gone they are gone.

The construction on this cigar is impeccable! It is seamless, firm to the touch, has a dark gorgeous oily wrapper. I love the simplicity of the Davidoff Band, the white offsets the deep espresso color of the wrapper beautifully.

This is a little stronger than your average Davidoff, but that is one of the reasons why I like it so much. It has a very powerful start and mellows out for a smooth finish. It definitely has some spice to it, but at times I can also pick up on a little bit of sweetness. I would say it is an earthy cigar that is just fantastic to smoke.

My suggestion would be to age a box for about 6 months and then try it. This cigar is most certainly one that would get even better with age. I can’t wait to try one again in 6 months!!!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit topqualitycigars.com!!!

Tatuaje Monster Series The Wolfman

2011-09-30T16:57:00.003-05:00

I just got an update about the Tatuaje Wolfman.

Casa de Montecristo will be one of the lucky 13 stores to sell the Wolfman.

I have more information coming and I will post everything in the morning.

Zino Embassy Selection Limited Edition 2011

2011-09-28T11:22:00.002-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Special Sun Grown 702

Binder: Dominican Criollo

Filler: Criollo, San Vicente and Piloto Dominican Ligero

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 5 inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium

This cigar was just released this month and I'm excited to say that we just received shipment. This is a limited production with only 3,000 boxes made. They will come in a beautiful burgundy box of 10. I smoked the Robusto but found reviews for a Belicoso (5.5 by 52) and a Perfecto (6 by 53).

Davidoff and Zino have released some really impressive cigars this year and this one is certainly no exception!

This cigar has a perfect construction, as always from Davidoff and Zino. It has a gorgeous, dark, oily, seamless wrapper. The draw was a little loose, but did not affect the overall smoking experience. The burn was nice and even. This cigar is savory, creamy, slightly sweet, and a mild spice throughout. Just a complex, robust fantastic smoke!!!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit topqualitycigars.com!!!

La Sirena Sea Sprite

2011-09-24T10:37:00.001-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: Nicaraguan Corojo and Nicaraguan Habano
Vitola: Corona
Length: 5.5 inches
Ring Gage 52
Strength: Medium to Full

The La Siren is blended by Don Pepin for La Auroa. The label on this cigar is like nothing you have ever seen before, just beautiful!!!!

Appearance wise, this cigar is flawless! It has a dark, oily wrapper. There were very few vein lines. The draw was good and it burned very evenly. I never needed to relight this cigar.

There was a slight spice to this cigar with earthy notes. I would consider this a complex cigar that was strong (enough for my liking but not overpowering), smooth, and had a fantastic finish!!!

I would highly recommend this cigar to sit down with after a long day and unwind.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Zino Z Class 546P

2011-09-23T15:02:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Dominican (Yasmasa Rojiza)

Binder: Peru (Pelo de Oro)

Filler: Nicaraguan (Esteli and Jalapa Ligero) and Honduran (San Vincente Ligero)

Vitola: 546P Pyramide

Length: 5.25 Inches

Ring Gage: 46

Strength: Medium

The new Zino Z Class is truly an amazing cigar. But again we never again expect anything less from Davidoff!!!

The cigar has a nice dark chocolate brown wrapper. It is firm to the touch not spongy. It is a seamless wrap with a small amount of oils.

The burn is perfect and the draw is amazing. There is a slight spice upon lighting. This cigar is slightly sweet with earthy notes. It can be considered complex but this is a very balanced, smooth, and robust smoke.

It always seems that my Davidoff reviews are short, sweet, and simple!! But again a good smoke is a good smoke and leaves me very little to say.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Tatuaje Monster Series The Wolfman

2011-09-21T15:51:00.001-05:00

As you know Tatuaje releases a cigar around Halloween every year for the Monster Series. This began in 2008 with The Frank, a Double Corona box press for Frankenstein. In 2009 they released The Drac, a fang like torpedo for Dracula. And last year they released The Face, a toro gordo for Leather Face of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

This year will be The Wolfman, a 7 ½ by 52 Box Press Torpedo. This cigar will also have a shaggy foot to give the cigar a more hairy appearance. As always 666 dressed boxes with 13 cigars will be released along with 1300 undressed boxes of 10. These cigars are usually released within a few weeks of Halloween. So as soon as I can get my hands on a cigar I will be sure to blog about it immediately!!!!

On a side note during my research I found two cool accessories to hit the market soon from the monster series. The first is a coffin shaped travel humidor that holds 10 cigars and comes with a free guillotine cutter. And the other is a S.T. Dupont lighter for the Wolfman. So keep your eyes open for these items.

As soon as these cigars are available you can purchase them from http://www.topqualitycigars.com/.

Ashton VSG Pegasus

2011-09-21T10:27:00.001-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ecuador

Binder: Dominican

Filler: Dominican

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 5 inches

Ring Gage: 54

Strength: Full Bodied

The Ashton VSG has always been a popular well constructed, flavorful, full bodied smoke. We now just have another smoke in which to enjoy these great cigars. They have been a huge success since the first sizes were released in 1999. They were blended exclusively for Ashton by Carlos Fuente Jr. The wrapper for this cigar is grown in the Andres Mountains in Ecuador by the Oliva Tobacco Company.

The Pegasus will be a round VSG like the Eclipse. The Pegasus has a gorgeous dark and oily wrapper. Seamless construction with beautiful vein lines throughout.

This cigar has a perfect draw and burns evenly and smooth. The flavors in this cigar are amazingly crisp and clean. This is a flavorful and complex smoke. I noticed earthy and roasted coffee notes. In my opinion this cigar starts out as a medium bodied smoke then blooms in a delicious full bodied.

I have always enjoyed the Ashton VSG and now the Pegasus is more my size.

** If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit http://www.topqualitycigars.com/!!!!!

My Father Commemorative 911 Cigars Blend 343 10th Anniversary

2011-09-13T17:42:00.000-05:00

I just got updated information about the 911 cigars!!!!!

In the box you will be getting 9 Habano Rosado wrapped cigars with a 96 corojo binder and a sercret filler. You will also be getting 11 Oscuro Oscuro wrapped cigars with a secret binder and filler.

The size is 5 1/2 by 54.

And the most amazing part about this cigar; the price for the box will be $199.95!!!!!!

We were just told by Jaime Garcia we should have them by the end of next week!!!!

If you would like to pre-order these cigars check out 911cigars.com, TopQualityCigars.com, or call Michele at (630) 993-1234. (Please keep in mind only 343 boxes were made.)

Vega Fina Robusto

2011-09-12T14:05:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut

Binder: Indonesian TBN

Filler: Columbian, Dominican, and Honduran

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 5 inches

Ring Gage: 50

Strength: Mild

Normally I enjoy a fuller bodied cigar but Vega Fina was just amazing!!! For me it is a perfect first smoke of the day and for some it can be their fantastic everyday smoke. I was thoroughly impressed with this cigar. It is an absolute hidden gem!!

This cigar has a golden yellow wrapper and shows very good construction. Something unusual about this cigar is that is has an Indonesian Binder. But I think it suits this cigar well, all of the flavors are perfectly balanced to create one of the most flavorful cigars I’ve smoked.

The draw on this cigar was excellent. There was a nice even, slow burn with great looking ash. This cigar is smooth, flavorful, and creamy. Another thing I noticed is the smoke also had almost an aromatic quality to it. (Maybe I was imagining it because I was so happy at finding a good inexpensive smoke!!)

This cigar is said to be one of the most popular non Cuban cigars in Europe, and since its release in the United States in 2007 it has done really well in a market geared more towards fuller bodied smokes. Also as I just mentioned the price on these cigars are amazing!!!

This cigar is definitely worth trying, even if you are like me and like a fuller bodied cigar.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

My Father Commemorative 911 Cigars Blend 343 10th Anniversary

2011-09-10T14:55:00.001-05:00

This whole process has been very secretive; some details are unknown even to me. What I can say is that Jeffery Holst, a Battalion Chief from Firehouse No. 1 in Lombard, brought to us the idea of doing something special to commemorate the 343 fallen Firefighters of 9/11. Mike and Sam approached Jaime Garcia with this idea and he graciously accepted to blend and create this highly special extremely limited cigar.

What I do know is that each box will contain 9 Ecuadorian Habano Rosado wrapped cigars and 11 Nicaraguan Habano Oscuro wrapped cigars. The size best described as a Toro, somewhere between 5 ½ to 6 inches long and between a 52 to 54 ring gage. This will be a special size created by Jaime just for this cigar. Both cigars are said to have Cuban Seed Nicaraguan Binder and Filler.

Part of the proceeds from the sale of this cigar will be donated to designated persons relating to the 343 Fallen Heroes.

We are still awaiting the official release date from Jaime Garcia, as soon as we know we will post this information.

If you would like to pre-order these cigars please visit: http://www.911cigars.com/. or http://www.topqualitycigars.com/ when availabe

Curivari El Gran Rey

2011-09-09T11:08:00.001-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Nicaragua

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Prominentes

Length: 6 1/2

Ring Gage: 50

Strength: Medium to Full Bodied

Curivari is a relatively new company in the Cigar Industry and they are already creating quite a buzz. They only use Cuban Seed Criollo and Corojo tobacco grown in Nicaragua and they use the traditional Cuban style processes for making cigars. The cigars even have a traditional Cuban triple cap!

The El Gran Rey is a delicious smoke. I’ve even heard a lot of people say that this cigar is about as close as we will get to a real Cuban. When looking at the cigar you can immediately see how well constructed they are. It was firm to the touch with no soft spots. The wrapper was seamless with very little veins. It was slightly oily and a beautiful dark brown color.

This is a very rich and complex cigar. There is some spice to it with almost a sweet caramel, honey finish. The draw was perfect and I never needed to relight.

This cigar is definitely worth more than what you pay for it!!!

** If you'd like to purchase this cigar please visit TopQualityCigars.com!!!!!

Kristoff Corojo Limitada Robusto

2011-09-08T10:01:00.001-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Corojo

Binder: Nicaraguan Habano

Filler: Nicaraguan Habano and Dominican Habano

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 5 ½

Ring Gage: 54

Strength: Medium to Full

I just got my hands on this cigar and let me tell you I am thoroughly impressed! This is Glen Case’s fullest and spiciest Kristoff Cigar.

The wrapper on this cigar looks absolutely gorgeous! The color of the wrapper is a dark espresso brown. There are gorgeous vein lines and a quite a bit of oil! It is firm to the touch and looks immensely well constructed.

Right from the first puff you get a nice spice! This cigar is nicely balanced and very smooth. The spice has stayed pretty consistent throughout the smoke. This cigar has an excellent draw and a nice even smooth burn with gorgeous dark grey ash. I never needed to relight. In my opinion it did get stronger as I smoked.

I am very, very impressed with this cigar. I wouldn’t suggest this as the first smoke of the day but a great smoke at any other time. Actually I would have loved to have had this at the end of the day with a nice cocktail. Maybe that is what I will do tonight………

** If you'd like to purchase this cigar visit TopQualityCigars.com!!!

Macanudo 1968 Robusto

2011-09-05T10:14:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Honduran

Binder: Connecticut Habano

Filler: Dominican and Nicaraguan

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 5

Ring Gage: 50

Strength: Medium

This is a great change up for the Macanudo line. The best way to describe this cigar is when comparing it to other Macanudo; this can be quantified as a full bodied. But when you compare this other lines it is considered a medium bodied.

This cigar has a nice dark, oily wrapper. It is firm to the touch and shows good construction. It has a nice firm and steady draw. It did not need to be relight once while smoking.

I noticed a slight spice to the cigar, with an earthy, coffee undertone. This is a great smooth and complex smoke.

General Cigar also just reduced the price on these cigars!

If you would like tp purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

La Reloba Seleccion Sumatra Torpedo

2011-09-01T13:33:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Nicaraguan Sumatra

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Torpedo

Length: 6 1/8

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Medium

La Reloba is a new release by My Father Cigars. This cigar is a great value at under $6 for all sizes! Two blends were released, a Habano blend and a Sumatran blend.

Appearance wise this cigar looks great! It had a nice seamless wrapper with a small number of veins visible. The wrapper was a dark golden brown. The draw on this cigar was perfect. It light perfectly and burned evenly with a nice gray ash.

This was a well balanced smoke. I noticed bitter coffee and earthy notes to it. There was a slight spice to it upon first lighting then balanced out with a bit of sweetness.

This is truly a great smoke for the value. If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

ultra-Premium Stradivarius de Los Maestros

2011-08-31T13:32:00.001-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: 15 Year Old Connecticut

Binder: Havana Seed Nicaraguan

Filler: Honduras, Nicaragua, and Dominican

Vitola: Robusto

Length: 5 ½

Ring Gage: 50

Strength: Mild

Stradivarius is a General Cigar product created by Daniel Nunez. This cigar encompasses everything a great cigar should be! This cigar has premium tobacco that has been aged for 15 years! The construction on this cigar is perfect. And it is presented in individual coffins that are adorned with a wax seal and a ribbon.

The wrapper is a nice golden color. The construction is seamless with beautiful vein lines throughout. It is firm to the touch and a touch of oil on the wrapper. The draw is perfect and burns evenly and smooth. This is a very well balanced cigar that is creamy, smooth, earthy, and also has a touch of sweetness to it.

I’ve read a lot on the internet where people were saying that this cigar is too bland. This is not a bland cigar (in my opinion, at least) most likely it is not suited for some palates. This cigar is the best of the best, just keep in mind you will be smoking a mild cigar. If you are used to more full bodied smokes I would suggest smoking this cigar in the morning as the first cigar of the day, that way you will be able to appreciate the flavors of this cigar.

And also it’s worth noting (since I did a blog on aged cigars yesterday) that this would be a perfect aged cigar to try. These cigars were released in 2007 on top of the wrapper also being aged for 15 years!! I found that 8 to 8 Cigars in Villa Park is pretty competitive in their pricing for this cigar. So if you have been wanting to try this cigar but were turned off by the price try buying it from TopQualityCigars.com where it comes right from our aging room!

Aging a Cigar

2011-08-30T20:25:00.001-05:00

(Escaparate Room at Casa de Montecristo)

I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about aged or vintage cigars. There are many people who believe aging a cigar does impact the taste and then there are people who believe aging a cigar is nothing but hype. I’ve had the pleasure of smoking what one would call an aged cigar and I did notice a significant difference in the taste. A cigar, like fine wine, truly will get better with age.

More often than not when speaking of premium cigar manufacturers, your cigar has already been aged naturally as a part of the process of creating the cigar. This is why you can smoke most cigars immediately upon delivery.

Occasionally, though, you might find a new cigar that has a very bitter taste. It does not necessarily mean that the new cigar is bad; it just means that the production was rushed and the cigar wasn’t given enough time to age. Unfortunately high demands for cigars sometimes forces manufacturers to release cigars sooner than they would like. Then, on the other hand there are people out there that can smoke a cigar (one that most people think is pretty damn good as is) and know that it would only get better if it were aged for a year.

So what does it mean to age a cigar?

In its most basic definition aging a cigar is continuing the fermentation process. A fermentation process is absolutely necessary in the creation of your cigar and happens to every one of them before they are even sent to distributors. Fermentation is simply the changing of starches into sugars; it’s more complex but that is the basic idea. As the starches turn into sugar, impurities and ammonia are also released from the cigar. To age a cigar one must maintain a constant temperature and humidity, 70/70 rule. Humidity and heat inside the cigar force the different tobaccos in the cigar to “merry” and release oils. This overall process leads to a mellowing and blending of flavors.

Aging a cigar only makes a good cigar even better. You cannot take a bad cigar, age it, and expect it to be good. Say for example, a Maduro cigar that has been colored or cooked to achieve the dark wrapper. They do not age well because the techniques used to create them ruin the tobacco, thus making the aging process useless. Larger ring gages are better suited for aging because when more tobacco is used the more complex the end result will be.

How long to age a cigar is a matter of personal opinion. There is a noticeable difference in the taste as early as two to three months. From my research aging cigars for one year seems to be the most common time frame. Again my research suggests trying your cigars every few months during their aging process. The aging process does reach a plateau and then any time after that plateau the cigar no longer ages. So by trying a cigar every few months you can be sure that you smoke an aged cigar an the optimal time and not waiting an extra year or few months for nothing.

Davidoff Colorado Claro

2011-08-29T11:22:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Colorado Claro

Binder: Dominican

Filler: Dominican

Vitola: Special T

Length: 6 inches

Ring Gage: 52

Strength: Mild to Medium

This is going to be a short and sweet review. Not that there isn’t much to say about this cigar, but we are talking about Davidoff. I shouldn’t even have to mention that this cigar burned perfectly and the draw was fantastic. In this day and age you expect that from a Davidoff and they deliver every time.

This is exactly what a Davidoff should be; smooth, creamy, complex, and earthy. There was also a hint of spice that gave a bit of complexity to this cigar.

You can never go wrong with a Davidoff; the consistency that this company maintains when it comes to their cigars is impeccable!! Always a great smoke!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

EP Carrillo Core Maduro No. 4

2011-08-26T12:27:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Miami

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Filler: Dominican Republic and Nicaragua
Vitola: No. 4
Length: 5 ½ inches
Ring Gage: 42
Strength: Medium

Ernesto Perez Carrillo is probably one of the most coveted blenders in the cigar industry today. He created La Gloria Cubana in the early 90’s where it became one of the most popular selling cigars even to this day. In 2009 Ernesto Perez created his own company EP Carrillo and it has been a huge success.

Ernesto Perez has added the Maduro line to his core line of cigars out of necessity. This cigar has a Connecticut Broadleaf grown in the Connecticut River Valley in 2008 and 2009. Ernesto Perez has said this is basically the same blend as the original core line the only difference is the binder, which is Sumatran, is used to compliment the Maduro wrapper. There are eight sizes available:

* No. 4 (5 ½ by 42)
* Encantos (4 7/8 by 50)
* Regalias Real (5 5/8 by 46)
* Club 52 (5 7/8 by 52)
* Churchill Especial (7 1/8 by 49)
* Predilectos (6 1/8 by 52 Torpedo Cap)
*Golosos (6 ¼ by 50)
* Monumentos (7 3/8 by 56)

I chose to smoke the No. 4. Appearance wise, this cigar has a dark oily wrapper. It has been rolled perfectly and feels firm to the touch. There is a bit of spice to this cigar. It certainly packs a punch that is noticeable from the original core line. I picked up on coffee, bitter chocolate, a subtle sweet finish. The draw was excellent on this cigar. It burned nice and even, smooth, and slow. There were no issues with having to keep relighting this cigar. Once light, I just puffed away and enjoyed.

Overall opinion, this is a very complex smoke that was great to relax with and enjoy for a wonderful finish to a long day.

If you would like to purchase any of these cigars please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Cain F Lancero

2011-08-25T09:06:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Nicaragua

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Lancero

Length: 7 inches

Ring Gage: 38

Strength: Medium to Full

Sadly I have reached the last cigar in the Studio Tobac 2011 World Tour Sampler Pack. I didn’t mean for it to happen this way, but I’m glad I left the Lancero for last, they are always so fun to smoke. Because of the nature of the size of the Lancero you get a more intensified flavor profile from the cigar. And this Lancero was no exception!

Cain’s are known for their straight Ligero cigars and I touched on the Cain F when I reviewed the Cain FF Torpedo. The Cain F has Ligero from the Jalapa Valley, Condega, and Estelli in Nicaragua.

The cigar starts off a bit mild but blossoms to a fuller bodied cigar. I noticed a little sweetness to this cigar with a nice spice, and a faint chocolate undertone. A perfect end to the Sampler Pack!

Studio Tobac put a triple cap on this Lancero instead of the traditional pig tail. They are also packaging this cigar in an aluminum tube making this one of the only Lancero to be presented in a tube.

Cain FF Torpedo

2011-08-24T09:31:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Nicaragua

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Torpedo

Length: 6 inches

Ring Gage: 54

Strength: Full Bodied

Continuing with the Studio Tobac Sampler we have come to the Cain FF. Again Cain cigars are all straight Ligero. This cigar uses Ligero from the Jalapa Valley, Condega, and Esteli all from Nicaragua. What they have done is used more Ligero from Esteli which makes this cigar more full bodied than the Cain F series. The size you will receive in the Sampler Pack is the Torpedo (6 x 54).

This cigar looks very pleasing to the eye. It has a dark oily wrapper and is very firm to the touch. Even though this cigar has more of the Esteli Ligero which makes it more full bodied than the Cain F series I did not find this harsh or overpowering at all. There was a very nice spice when you first light the cigar. I tasted coffee, almost espresso, chocolate, earthy notes to this cigar. It was complex and flavorful.

Unfortunately from my research it looks like this cigar (for the time being) will only be available in this Sampler Pack. A release date has not been given.

Guillermo Leon Corona Gorda

2011-08-23T08:10:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habana

Binder: Double Binder with Corojo and Cameroon

Filler: Dominican Republic, Peru, Nicaraguan, and Brazil

Vitola: Corona Gorda

Length: 6 inches

Ring Gage: 46

Strength: Medium

I thought I would deviate from all of the new fantastic cigars that have been released and talk a bit about one of my personal favorites! Guillermo Leon Cigars, from La Aurora, have been out for awhile but I find myself going to this smoke again and again. It is just a great medium bodied everyday cigar. This is going to be a short, sweet, and to the point review.

On a side note this cigar did receive a 92 rating from Cigar Aficionado!!

This is a fantastic consistent medium bodied smoke. There is a nice spiciness about this cigar, nothing overpowering or harsh. It’s almost an undertone whereas the flavors I pick up in the cigar are most prominent. I noticed a coffee, chocolate, almost a cinnamon finish. This is a very creamy and rich cigar that I always enjoy from the first light to the last puff!!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Nub Habano Perfecto

2011-08-22T08:03:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Habano

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: Perfecto

Length: 4 ½ inches

Ring Gage: 60

Strength: Medium to Full

So on to the next cigar only available in the Studio Tobac 2011 World Tour. This Nub Habano will be the same blend as the other sizes that are available, but it is the size that makes this cigar one of a kind. It is a perfecto size (4 ½ x 60) that makes it different than the other 3 sizes available; it is half an inch longer than the other 3 sizes!

There are three sizes that are available right now:

* 464T (4 x 64 with a torpedo cap)

* 466 (4 x 66)

* 464 (4 x 60)

This is a medium to full bodied smoke. I found the flavors complex and robust. I noticed a nice spice and almost a caramel undertone. It smoked very evenly and again even though it is only 4 ½ inches long lasted me well over an hour! Since this size is unique it’s great to have smoked a one of a kind cigar, but it is nice to know that 3 other sizes are available because I will smoke this one again.

Tatuaje La Casita Criolla HCBC

2011-08-20T08:16:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf
Filler: Connecticut Broadleaf
Vitola: H.C.B.C.
Length: 5 5/8
Ring Gage: 46
Strength: Full Bodied

Tatuaje has done it again! Add this to the list of fantastic cigars that Tatuaje has released this year. I like full bodied cigars so this one was a real treat. It is made 100% from Connecticut broadleaf. It has a dark Maduro wrapper. It looks very well constructed and was slightly firm to the touch.

The pepper and spice hit you immediately upon lighting. I did not find it to be harsh or overpowering. There were lots of flavors that I noticed in this cigar. It did have an earthy note to it, but I also picked up on a sweet coffee, chocolate taste. It was a pretty consistent cigar throughout the smoke. Once you got to the last third the flavors intensified for a nice finish.

Just like with the Avion 11 I would age these cigars a bit. This cigar would only get better if allowed to age for a few more months! So smoke a few now and enjoy, stash some away and smoke then again in a few months and enjoy them even more!

Studio Tobac ST/DS-001

2011-08-19T09:03:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: San Andres Maduro (Mexico)
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Vitola: Toro
Length: 6 inches
Ring Gage: 54
Strength: Medium to Full

This is a cigar from the Studio Tobac 2011 World Tour Sampler that is a prototype and only available in this Sampler Pack. The ST/DS stands for Studio Tobac Dark Side. As I mentioned in my blog about the Sampler Pack that this cigar comes in the pack with the prototype band, a band hasn’t even been created for it yet!

I wouldn’t consider this a complex smoke. It starts our mild with almost a cocoa taste to it. You will notice a spicy undertone but nothing strong. Even though I say this isn’t a complex cigar it makes up for it in flavor, this is a very flavorful smoke. I also noticed a bitter espresso and a earthy notes to it. I really enjoyed smoking this cigar and wished a release date was available because I certainly would smoke it again.

La Flor Dominicana Colorado Oscuro No. 3

2011-08-18T08:15:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

Wrapper: Ligero Sumatra from Ecuador

Binder: Dominican and Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaraguan Sumatra

Vitola: No. 3

Length: 5 inches

Ring Gage: 50

Strength: Medium to Full

I would first just like to start out with a bit of an explanation on this cigar because I’m sure you were confused by the name of this cigar as well. I was pretty excited when I heard about a Colorado Oscuro; I mean how do you do that!! But the wrapper is a Sumatran Ligero from Ecuador not an Oscuro Connecticut Broadleaf as the name implies. I have heard that Litto Gomez named this cigar Oscuro for the dark oily wrapper and Colorado because the hills of Sumatra, where this tobacco is grown, reminded Litto of the hills of Colorado.

This cigar will be released in limited quantities. There will only be two shipments of this cigar a year. It comes in four sizes:
* No. 2 (42.5 x 48)
* No. 3 ( 5 x 50)
* No. 4 ( 5.25 x 54)
* No. 5 (5.75 x 60)

I chose to smoke a No. 3 because I’m a fan of that size. The cigar has a dark oily wrapper, with a darkened LFD label that compliments this cigar beautifully. It shows striking vein lines and looks well constructed. It is not too firm or too soft to the touch.

You get a bit of spiciness upon first lighting. But as you smoke you get a slightly sweet, slightly salty caramel finish. I want to say you also notice a slight pepper taste as you smoke, but that just doesn’t describe it right. It stayed pretty consistent throughout the smoke. I did enjoy this cigar very much; I have to admit it was a bit of a change from La Flor. It didn’t pack that powerful punch we’ve come to love from Litto, but it’s nice to have a milder option available. In my opinion Litto is trying to reach more people by creating a cigar that everyone can smoke and enjoy, I think it’s fantastic!

This is a great cigar to enjoy after a great meal with a glass of premium cognac!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Nub San Andres Maduro

2011-08-17T12:23:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: San Andres Maduro (Mexico)
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Vitola: No Name
Length: 4 inches
Ring Gage: 64
Strength: Medium

Today I will review another cigar from the Studio Tobac Sampler Pack, the Nub San Andres Maduro. As of yet there are no plans for the release of this cigar, it remains unique to this Sampler.

Nubs are known for their size; they are usually around 4 inches long and have large ring sizes. They were said to have been created so that you can enjoy the best of a cigar. It’s only 4 inches so you get right to it from the moment you first light to the moment you finish. Now don’t shy away from the size of these cigars and think that they are a quick smoke, it is quite the contrary. They actually burn pretty slowly, this cigar in particular lasted me well over an hour!

It has a dark oily wrapper and is very well constructed. This cigar does have some peppery spice to it, but evens out as smoked for a nice smooth finish. I noticed coffee and chocolate notes as I smoked. It stayed pretty consistant throughout the smoke. This is not as full bodied as I thought it would be from the looks of the wrapper, but nevertheless a very good medium bodied smoke!

Tatuaje Avion 11

2011-08-16T12:22:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Habano Ecuador
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Vitola: 11
Length: 6 ¾
Ring Gage: 48/52
Strength: Full Bodied

Tatuaje has been coming out with some great cigars this year! The Fausto, Black Label Petit Lancero, now the Avion 11, and La Casita that I haven’t even reviewed yet!

This is another full bodied cigar from Tatuaje. This is a long cigar (6 ¾ inches) that is a perfecto shape. It has a beautiful, dark, slightly oily, veiny wrapper.

You notice the spice right away upon lighting the cigar. It stays balanced throughout most of the smoke. It is creamy and smooth with earthy notes to it. When you reach the bottom third of the cigar the strength picks up quite a bit for a powerful finish.

This is the perfect evening or after dinner cigar. In my opinion, I believe these cigars could stand to be aged for a few months. While I was smoking this cigar I just couldn’t help but think about how the taste and flavor of this cigar would only mature with aging it. Definitely buy extra and hold onto them for a few months. You’ll be glad you did!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Cain Daytona Short Robusto

2011-08-15T13:53:00.000-05:00

This will be the first cigar I will review that will be available in the Studio Tobac 2011 World Tour Sampler. This cigar was released earlier this year and has already become one of our most popular selling Cain cigars. There are a few cigars in the Sampler Pack that will not be available for individual sale, but thankfully the Cain Daytona is available for individual sale. The size that you will be receiving the Sampler Pack is a Short Robusto (41/2 by 50) and this size will not be available outside of this Sampler Pack. The other five sizes are available for sale right now!

Studio Tobac is an affiliate of Oliva Cigars and is in Estelí Nicaragua. Studio Tobac was created in 2007 and they make Cain and Nub cigars. Nubs are noted for their size and Cain remains to this day the only straight Ligero cigar on the market. Ligero is the leaf taken from the top third of the tobacco plant, which are the strongest leaves on the plant. Because Cain cigars are straight Ligero (wrapper, binder, and filler are all Ligero), these cigars are put through a triple fermentation process to allow them to be strong but not overpowering and harsh. Fermentation is a process by which the tobacco leaves are placed in large piles allowing the natural heat of the tobacco to heat the leaves releasing chemicals and impurities. Studio Tobac is very secretive about their triple fermentation process the only thing they will say is that it takes anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Cain Daytona is a made with Ligero from the Jalapa Valley. Tobacco from the Jalapa Valley is more refined than other tobaccos. This allows the Daytona to have the traditional Cain spice and flavor while being a medium bodied cigar. The five sizes available are; No. 4 (5 x 43), Robusto (5 x 50), Corona (6 x 46), Torpedo (6 x 54), and the Double Toro (6 x 60).

And now for the best part – how does this cigar smoke. Before I get into that I have to say that before all of these amazing new cigars starting coming out this was by far my favorite smoke for this year. I’m trying all of these new cigars (and am really enjoying them) but the Cain Daytona remains my favorite go to smoke. I found there to be a pleasant spiciness throughout the cigar, nothing over powering or harsh, just a nice spice on your lips as you smoke. In my research I have seen people categorize this as a medium to full smoke, but I definitely find this a medium bodied smoke. It is not as full bodied as the other Cain lines but still has that flavor and spice we love from Cain. My suggestion would be if you think Cain’s are too strong give the Cain Daytona a try it is medium bodied.

San Cristobal Elegancia

2011-08-14T16:50:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut
Binder: Nicaragua
Vitola: Robusto
Length: 5 Inches
Ring Gage: 50
Strength: Medium

Even though the Tatuaje Fausto and Black Label Petite Lancero were excellent cigars, it is nice to smoke a medium bodied cigar to shake things up a bit. This is a new release from San Cristobal that was unveiled at the 2011 ICPCR show, this cigar was blended by Don Pepin.
This cigar is an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, so it has a beautiful golden yellow wrapper. It felt firm to the touch and showed good construction. There are five sizes available for all under $9!

*Churchill (7 x 50)
*Corona (5.5 x 46)
*Imperial (6 x 52)
*Robusto (5 x 50)
*Pyramid (6.13 x 52)

I noticed the traditional San Cristobal spice when you first light up. It was nothing over powering or too strong. The flavors come at you almost immediately. There was a nice earthy, nutty, almost a toast flavor to it. The flavors are rich and complex, but still very creamy!

It should be noted that this is pretty mild as far as traditional San Cristobal’s go. But if you take this cigar for what it is and forget while you smoke that it is a San Cristobal, this is a very flavorful, complex, and rich medium bodied smoke. A perfect first smoke of the day!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Tatuaje Black Label Petite Lancero

2011-08-10T14:26:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Sun Grown Criollo
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Vitola: Petite Lancero
Length: 6 inches
Ring Gauge: 38
Strength: Medium to Full

This is an amazing complex and well balanced cigar! This cigar is very well constructed with a dark slightly oily wrapper. It is firm to the touch with a seamless wrapper. I was very excited to smoke this cigar because I feel you get more flavors from the size of a Lancero, and this cigar was no exception!

You get a strong peppery spice when you first light this cigar. As you smoke it does mellow and stay pretty consistent throughout. The flavors in this cigar are amazing and very pronounced. I noticed coffee, almost espresso, chocolate notes. As you smoke you also notice a slight cinnamon undertone.

The Black Label was Pete Johnson’s Crown Jewel, and only available to the consumer as a three pack when you attended an event with Tatuaje Cigar Company and purchased a box. Everyone I know saved and savored these cigars and now it is available for you to buy whenever you want. I’m very excited that. I smoked this one until there was almost nothing left!

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Studio Tobac Sampler Pack and 2011 World Tour

2011-08-10T13:51:00.000-05:00

Studio Tobac, the company that brings you Cain and Nub, will be on the road from February of this year to the end of November promoting their new cigars. This event is creating quite a buzz and I thought I would take a few moments to talk it up a bit. This year one lucky winner will win a Special Edition 2011 Touring Corvette Convertible. They are actually bringing the car to every venue so you will be able to view the vehicle at each event!

This year they are also releasing a Limited Edition Sampler Pack that features six cigars. The Sampler packs are not available for individual sale nor will they be available on the internet through Studio Tobac. You will receive this sampler pack as a gift with purchase.

A board member from Studio Tobac, Ian Hummel, states; “It’s important to offer some unique cigars to the retailers and consumers that come out and support our events.” (qtd. from a Studio Tobac Press Release).

The Sampler Pack Contains one of each of these six cigars that are unique to this Sampler Pack:
* Nub Habano Perfecto
* Nub San Andres Maduro (Unique Size - No Name)
* Cain Daytona Short Robusto
* Cain FF Torpedpo
* ST/DS-001
* Cain F Lancero

All six of these cigars are unique to this Sampler Pack. The Cain F Lancero for the time being in unique to this Sampler Pack. It has been decided that this cigar will go into regular production but a date has not been given. The ST/DS-001 is a new prototype cigar. The ST/DS stands for Studio Tobac Dark Side. This cigar is set to be released this year but an official date has yet to be given. It is being packaged in this Sampler with the proto-type band; the official band has not even been made yet! The Cain Daytona short robusto is a size that is unique to this Sampler Pack, 5 other sizes of the Daytona are available for purchase. The Cain FF Torpedo is only available in this Sampler. The Nub Habano Perfecto is again another cigar where the size is unique to this Sampler Pack, 3 other sizes are available for regular purchase. And finally the Nub San Andres Maduro is a cigar unique to this Sampler Pack.

The World Tour is visiting 8 to 8 Cigars (one of my go to stores) September 1st from 5 to 10pm. So I thought over the next few weeks I would review each of the cigars in the Sampler Pack because I know you’re going to enjoy them as much as I did!

Tatuaje Fausto FT127

2011-08-09T10:22:00.000-05:00

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Maduro (Ligero)

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

Vitola: FT127

Length: 5.5 Inches

Ring Gage: 54

Strength: Full Bodied

If you enjoy a full bodied smoke, you cannot miss this cigar just released by Tatuaje. This cigar is the same blend of a cigar Pete Johnson created in 2009, the T110 or Thermonuclear. Pete Johnson originally made this cigar as a joke because it was so strong. He only released 200 boxes in Hawaii and what he thought was a joke turned into a huge success.

The Fausto, as it is now called, will be released in four sizes;

* FT127 (5 x 54)
* FT 140 (5.5 x 52)
* FT153 (6 x 60)
* FT166 (6.5 x 48)

The original T110 was a smaller cigar so it packed quite a punch, but by making these cigars bigger Tatuaje was able to keep the strength of the original blend but not have it be as overpowering as the original. Now don’t get me wrong this is still a strong cigar, but to people who like full bodied cigars, it is smokable.

When you first light this cigar you immediately get that strong peppery taste. After about the first third of the cigar that mellows out a bit and the flavors of the cigar come through. This is a very rich cigar with a hint of bitter coffee (which I love!) and almost an earthy oak taste. The flavors are rich and prominent. When you get to the last third of the cigar the spiciness comes back for a powerful peppery finish. I would definitely say that this is an after dinner cigar. After having smoked this cigar, with my experience, I believe that this cigar will age very well! So buy extra and forget about them for a few months.

If you would like to purchase this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Jaime Garcia Reserve Especial Limited Edition 2011

2011-08-04T14:54:00.000-05:00

Handmade in Esteli, Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Broadleaf Viso
Binder: Cuban Seed Grown in Nicaragua
Filler: Cuban Seed Grown in Nicaragua

This cigar was introduced at the 2011 IPCPR show in Las Vegas and already it has become one of our most talked about cigars. The new Limited Edition features a Broadleaf Viso Wrapper. The Cuban seed binder and filler makes this cigar stand out, they used Pelo de Oro Cuban seed grown in Nicaragua as the binder and filler so it has a different flavor profile than the regular Reserva Especial Line. As is customary with the My Father, Jaime Garcia, and Don Pepin lines the Limited Edition is a full bodied full, flavor smoke. Only one size is available, a Toro measuring 6 1/2 by 52. It is packaged in a beautiful box of 16. You get 15 Reserva Especial Limited Edition with a bonus Connecticut Broadleaf milder smoke that Jaime Garcia is testing for the 2012 Limited Edition release. Your feedback on the Connecticut Broadleaf will actually decide if that cigar will go into production for next year.

Ok now that all of the logistics are out of the way we can get down to the real information – how does it smoke? This is one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. Appearance wise it is a beautiful maduro wrapper that looks very well constructed and firm to the touch. When you first light it up it has a peppery spice, almost salty, slightly carmel finish to it that evens out into a earthy and complex smoke. This is a very flavorful cigar from start to finish, you will burn your fingers!

Friday August 5th Jaime Garcia will be at Casa de Montecristo to release his new cigar. Be some of the first to smoke this fantastic Limited Edition Cigar and meet the man behind it all.

If you would like to buy this cigar please visit www.topqualitycigars.com.

Davidoff Puro D'Oro

2010-04-24T12:56:00.000-05:00

Davidoff Puro D’Oro cigar line is a new Dominican Puro tradition featuring the exclusive Davidoff Yamasa™ wrapper. Davidoff introduces new Puro D’Oro cigar after 22 years in development. The creation of this line began in 1986 with small experimental crops planted in the remote region of YAMASA Dominican Republic, by Hendrik “Henke” Kelner. For two decades he meticulously cross bred select hybrid seeds which he planted and harvested year after year until he struck gold with his hybrid Criollo seed in 2008. Driven by a scientist’s patience and an artisan’s passion, Mr. kelner knew the rich, red, clay-like soil of Yamasa would deliver a truly unique flavor experience and enticing aroma that would meet Davidoff’s incomparable standard of excellence. His perseverance not only innovated a new tradition of growing cigar tobacco in this area, it also resulted in the exclusive Davidoff Yamasa™ wrapper used for the new Puro D’Oro Puro Gold Series.

The cigars are dark, slightly rustic, with an oily wrapper. This imparts a subtle dominance and complexity to the medium bodied Puro blend of select Dominican-origin Tobacco. Coffee and Spice notes combine to provide a long, pleasing finish.

The four format line will be available in boxes, packs, and an assortment box containing one each of:
* Magnificos (Robusto)
* Notables (Corona Gorda)
* Deliciosos (Corona)
* Sublimes (Petit Panatela)

These Cigars are crafted with a pigtail cap and an elegantly embossed GOLDEN band at the foot.

I smoked the above 4 cigars and all have a phenomenal delicious taste. Upon lighting there is a little bite and spiciness. The cigar smooths out to a magnificent unforgettable taste you’ll always remember.