Today's cigar: Drew Estate Java.

Drew Estate Java Maduro

The first thing that I noticed was the GREAT smell! coffee and cocoa. not what I was expecting, but pleasant, unlike other "infused" cigars I have tried. very square box pressed cigar. the wrapper was smooth with no flaws and the entire cigar was supple, well hydrated and pleasant to the touch.

My first taste was surprisingly sweet! it left me licking my lips to savor the chocolate flavor it left behind. I suspect that it is more the cocoa that I am tasting more than the coffee...

After lighting the flavor didn't change and the first lit draws were smooth and yet robust. And so I began.

I am beginning to be thankful that I found this smoke in my local shop. as a cigar noob, I am also glad that I am not stuck picking what I already know is a good smoke, that I am still looking for that next best cigar. that one cigar that I can say WOW! If I can only have one cigar the rest of my life, that was it! Though, I hope that day never comes!

First third down... Perfect burn and the taste has improved a bit, a perfect burn too, no runs or cold spots.

Second third, Stronger than the first, but still tasty and smooth. Definitely more cocoa than coffee! Still burning  perfectly! This is a very well built cigar.

The last third was excellent. The cigar got a bit stronger, but not overpowering, the flavors of cocoa were a bit more distinct but still didn't overwhelm the great filler tobaccos.

I have to say that I really enjoyed this cigar. From start to finish is was a sensory delight. the aromas were intense, the flavor was too spicy, too weak or too strong. I will try this one again. I would give this an 8 out of 10.

New posts coming soon!

I just received my sampler from gurkah and I can tell you that i am excited to try some New smokes.
Keep posted!

The Oliva Series G Maduro Perfecto

What can I say about this cigar...

I am by no means an expert, but I know what I like... The Oliva Perfecto form really agrees with me. I have tried the series G in the churchill and perfecto, both are good, but something about the perfecto...

Is it the slim gauge? The box pressing? The higher ratio of wrapper to filler? I'm not sure, but I think they all combine to make this cigar an 8 out of 10, maybe higher.

it lights a bit harsh, but by the end of the first 3/4 of an inch it is smoking smooth and flavorful. It has a rich taste and not too strong for a newbie like myself.

I would put a few of these in a humidor should I owned one. But that is not what this blog is about! It is about variety and trying new things. Liking some and saying "eeeew, never again" to others.

Perdomo Estate 2002

Tonight's Bill of Fare:

Starting with a Rogue Dead Guy Ale It is a GREAT ale in my opinion. You can read the brewers notes about what's in it and why they think it is great. I just know that I like it!

Following that with a Perdomo Estate Selection 2002 in a Natural Wrapper. It is a nice looking cigar, lighter than my normal fare. I prefer a Maruro wrapper. The cigar was well humidified and there was no crinkling beneath my fingers as I rolled it between my thumb and forefinger.

The first draws were full of flavor, slightly spicy, but a bit creamy too. We'll see how the taste changes as it burns down a bit...

... an inch in and the flavor has mellowed a bit. Still a hint of spice, but much smoother. I may want to try this cigar with a maduro wrapper next time to see how that affects the flavor. It seems to burn even and consistent.

In general, a good smoke. I would give it about a 6.5 out of 10 (I'm a hard grader though!)

Cheers!

Post No.1. I have been enjoying smoking a cigar for a bit now. Not just any cigar, but a good cigar. A smooth cigar. A cigar with flavor. A cigar that doesn't taste like the floor of a litter box (and yes, I smoked that one! Yuck!)
This blog will be a journey into the local smoke shop and beyond. An exploration of the many varieties of cigars that are out there to try.
So sit back, light one up, savor the taste and pair it with a great beer.

... I know, you are supposed to drink scotch with your cigars, but damn, can you beat a great micro brew?! I don't think so!