Cigarslovermagazine Autumn 2016

MAGAZINE

interview r. caldwell intertabac 2016 smoking with no sense of smell smoked drinks don carlos fuente japanese

whisky

d n i l b e l trip ! g n i tast

Autumn 2016

CigarsLover

CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

TEAM & EDITORIAL

Lover Cigars

Magazine

Editor: Deputy Editor:

Luca Cominelli Michel Arlia

Graphic Designer: Graphic Designer Assistant:

Mario Amelio Renz Mauleon

Authors:

Photos:

Mario Amelio Ivana Lorusso

Marketing:

Luca Cominelli Michel Arlia

Editing:

Translations:

Blind Tasting Panel:

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CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

Didier Houvenaghel Giuseppe Mitolo Luca Cominelli Michel Arlia Nicola Ruggiero Roberto Canzi Simone Poggi Giovanni Bolzonella

Giovanni Bolzonella Roberto Canzi Rachelle Mauleon Simone Poggi Aaron Reddy (U.S.A.) Giovanni Bolzonella (Italia) Giuseppe Mitolo (Italia) Kaarel Kluge (Estonia) Luca Cominelli (Italia) Michel Arlia (Svizzera) Nelson Campos (El Salvador) Richard Frazier (U.S.A.) Sebastian Hefel (Austria) Thomas Hoebe (Olanda)

Editorial Cigar manufactures are focusing more and more their attention toward the European market, in rapidly growing. Many are the aspects suggesting it. We could talk about the European trade fair, the Intertabac in Dortmund, being the busiest in years, rather the limited editions for the European market, that are real exclusives. If you add to all this the FDA regulations, now imminent, and the growth of the European market, it is very simple to reach the initial conclusion.

In the Summer issue we announced the release of a vast number of news, that would have been first introduced to the IPCPR and subsequently at the Intertabac. As expected, the news were a lot, concerning both products ready to be launched or the multitude of products which were urgently placed on the market, to stem the pressing FDA normative. Focusing on the latter, there were many rumors, often surrounded by images that portrayed the new cigar boxes in question, but without the information that interests us the most: the blend details.

The positive thing is that all the “under pressure“ work of the producers is or will be soon available, including everything presented in its embryonic phase a couple of months ago. Selecting the best cigar of 2016 won’t be easy, but all the news will make testing definitely appetizing. This, however, will be for the last issue of the year.

”Passion moves us!”

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INDEX

Contents Team

CigarsLover people ..................................................... 3

9

Editorial

thoughts about the magazine ................................ 4

Rating

how to read the scoring scale ............................... 8

Don Carlos

a man who changed cigar world ........................... 9

13

Smoking

smoked drinks .............................................................13

Mignon

little travel companions .......................................... 17

Cuaba

20

20° anniversary ........................................................ 20

Xokolatl

from Montezuma’s harem to nowadays ........ 23

23

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Blind smell

how critical is the sense of smell? .................... 28

28

Japanese whisky

the beginning of a legend ...................................... 31

Caldwell cigars

interview with Robert Caldwell ............................ 34

The italian job

italian kentucky terroir ........................................... 39

31

Oporto

Yeatman hotel ............................................................ 43

Blind tasting

Short Robusto, Robusto, Piramides ................ 46

Intertabac 2016

36

the european main event ...................................... 65

Vocabulary & Sections

what you can find on the magazine .................. 67

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CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

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THE BEST HUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM

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INFO

Rating

HOW TO READ THE SCORING SCALE The cigars reviewed are valued using a 100 point scale. This helps giving every cigar a sharp rating, which collocates it in a wide scoring scale. The final score results by the average scores of both the cigar smoked and the smokers evaluations.

95-100:

excellent smoke. The cigar has all the components that distinguish a remarkable smoke: intensity of the aromas, balance, complexity, finesse, evolution, quality of construction, persistence and a constancy of the production.

90-94:

great smoke. The cigar shows numerous qualities of excellence, but not quite showing them to the maximum. It’s nonetheless a cigar that proposes a high level of satisfaction.

86-89:

good smoke. The cigar has considerable qualities of a high level, also having some slight flaw in the parameters of the evaluation. It’s nonetheless a recommended cigar with a high rate of satisfaction.

81-85:

decent smoke. The cigar convinces in parts, shows both quality and flaws inherent to the different parameters of the evaluation. It’s nonetheless a cigar to smoke with appreciable continuity.

<80:

meager smoke. The cigar proposes numerous flaws throughout the arc of the parameters of the evaluation. The merits are not eligible if not in a ludicrous way and marginally, the smoke is classified as absolutely not recommended. cigars with a really good quality/price ratio. They show high level characteristics and are really competitive price. We defenitely recommend the purchase.

CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

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TOBACCO HISTORY

Don Carlos

A MAN WHO CHANGED THE CIGAR WORLD

by Michel Arlia

Born in 1935 in Tampa, Florida, and raised in Ybor City, Carlos Fuente entered the world of cigars at a young age.

His father, Arturo Fuente, had restarted producing cigars in 1946, after a fire destroyed the first factory, in 1924; the cigars were produced on the porch behind the house, that quickly was converted into a little factory: it was here, were Carlos Fuente, at only 11 years of age, started being a part of the family business. Every day, after school, Carlos rolled 50 cigars.

At the age of 12 he fell ill with poliomielite; fortunately the recovery in the hospital was a success and he quickly returned to walk normally again.

Before graduating he decided to leave school and

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married at the age of 18.

In the ’50, Fuente is a local business, that is limited to the Tampa area.

The selling philosophy of Arturo Fuente was simple: the cigars were only sold on a cash basis.

The cigar business wasn’t big, during that period, to the extend that it couldn’t completely support Carlos, who was forced to start working as a baker during the day, while at night he continued to produce cigars.

When he started working full time at the factory, his salary was a mere $40 a week.

In 1958 Carlos Fuente bought the business from his father, paying him $1. Purchasing assets

year disaster struck again: this time an unintentional fire reduces this factory to ashes again.

worth $1’161, with zero debt. The first move was the decision to start selling the cigars by credit. By doing so, the expansion in other areas of Florida and New York started, concentrating on markets with a strong latin presence. The growth was slow and the times continued to be rough.

Everything changed with the embargo, that forced the producers in the United States, that used Cuban tobacco before, to completely change their blends. It was like this, that Arturo and Carlos Fuente started to experiment with tobaccos from different countries, creating the blend that bore the name Flor de Orlando. It was a success and the growth started in major way. Slowly the space of the Fuente’s home decreased, forcing Carlos Fuente to look for a new place, in Tampa, where to produce cigars.

At a dinner Carlos and his son Carlito discussed the future of their affairs, arriving to the conclusion that, if their cigars business should continue, everything has to be done in the family, cultivation included. So they decide to make a last attempt, this time in the Dominican Republic. After Carlito had learned the art of tobacco cultivation, they both decided to invest everything that they possessed, opening the Tabacalera A. Fuente factory in Santiago, on September 1980.

In a short period of time the brand Arturo Fuente earned recognition as one of the best in the world.

Thanks to lines like the Añejo, the Don Carlos, the Hemingway and the much vaunted Opus X (also producing for other brands like Ashton, Diamond Crown, just to name a few), it grew to the point of being one of the largest family-run brands.

This is the story of a legend, that has left us in the month of August of this year. A legend that has influenced the world of tobacco and cigars like only a few have done. A humble, generous and wise man and a hard worker as well.

He will be very much missed in the world of cigars, although his memory remains alive, by lighting up a Arturo Fuente.

The seventies were a difficult period in the world of cigars in Tampa: inflation, costs and tax rates interests increased and a shrinking number of expert rollers forced Carlos to the decision to move the production outside of the United States.

The production moved from Tampa first to Puerto Rico, then to Mexico. The quality that these factories guaranteed didn’t meet the standards that Carlos desired.

It was then, after a suggestion of a family friend, that the production was moved to Nicaragua.

The nicaraguan Fuentes were exceptional and the company grew further. The revolution in Nicaragua, however, represented a bad blow: the cigar factory was completely burned down. At that time, Carlos decided to opt for a collaboration with a tobacco grower from Honduras, but in the same

Xikar Volta: 5,4 x 10,1 cm.

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SMOKES FROM THE WORLD

The Finest Philippine Cigars Since 1881.

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ALOHA HOTEL Unit F, Corta Bitarta Street Malate, Manila TEL (632) 525-3266

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www.tabacalera.com.ph cigars@tabacalera.com.ph

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U.S.A. DISTRIBUTION Daughters & Ryan Inc. 207 Johnston Parkway Kenly, NC 27542 TEL (919) 284-2058 FAX (919) 284-2305

The Finest Philippine Cigars Since 1881.

CigarsLoverMagazine CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn | No.14 2016

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DRINKS

Smoking SMOKED DRINKS

by Nicola Ruggiero

Did you ever happen to walk inside a bar and be enveloped by a wave of smoke? What could seem as a novelty in the bartending world, is a process that has been used for ages, as a method of conservation or to flavor foods.

It is almost a certainty that the smoking was born when the primitive men noticed an improvement in both conservation and meat flavor after exposing it to the fires smoke that were used for heating.

Currently the smoking, other than not having lost its original purpose, has been subject of several improvements and overdrafts over the centuries, to the point of being used also for enhancing the appearance and the characteristic flavor of some food products.

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The foods are exposed to the effects of heat and smoke, both a result of burning timber, that is specifically selected depending on the food that needs to be smoked. The substances released by the combustion, penetrate the product, altering the organoleptic characteristics.

The smoke, that varies depending on the wood type used, is made by different components including the ones with a preservative functions, namely formaldehyde, phenolic compounds and aliphatic acids. Oftentimes the smoking process is anticipated by other methods, such as drying and curing.

Referring to the flavoring, large part of the work is done by the wood used, that, we remember,

is made of cellulose and hemicellulose bound together by lignin. During the combustion these components are transformed into other compounds and some of those are responsible for the aroma awarded to the food or drink.

The sugars contained in the cellulose and hemicellulose are, while burning, transformed into molecules, that can emit buttery, fruity or flowery notes, while the vanilla flavor is derived from the combustion of lignin.

Fundamental are the types of wood used and the combustion temperature. The types of wood recognized as the most suitable for smoking are beech, cherry, orange, apple and mulberry.

Oak, walnut and fruit trees produce a balanced smoking, while the resin of rich woods, such as pine, spruce and conifer, produce a more pungent and sharp smoking.

In the world of beverages the smoking is a fairly widespread practice: in addition to the already mentioned woods, it is not unusual, for us bartenders, to set on fire spices (like cinnamon), flowers and dried plants (rosemary for example) and, for the more daring, tobacco (flavored on, for pipes, or a small piece of cigar). However, do not think that setting fire to an aromatic substance is enough to give a drink a good taste. It is difficult to add a pleasant flavor to a cocktail and this technique requires also the use of special tools.

One could use the smoking gun: certainly very choreographic, but very often it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give the drink a uniform and pleasant smoke, it rather adds a very captivating visual impact.

A certainly more immediate alternative could be the use of peaty distillates, like Whisky or Mezcal, with a distinctive character of smoke/peat, sprayed (following right doses) over the drink through a perfume sprayer.

It is also possible to put the drink inside a bell jar filled with smoke and leaving it in contact with the gas for a few tens of seconds.

Needed to be mentioned, is that during the combustion, also harmful substances like benzopyrene CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

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DRINKS and benzanthracene are emitted.

However, in order to not give up on this technique, there are some methods under study capable of limiting the generation of this substances as much as possible.

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Now you just have to look out for your favorite bartender, give the first centimeter of the foot of your favorite cigar up (by using your cutter) and trying it paired with the cocktail that best expresses its characteristics with the smoke.

Triple-aged & hand-selected by all the Maestros del Ron Cubano

From left to right: Juan Carlos GONZALES, Manuel CALDERON, Cesar Augusto MARTI, Asbel MORALES, Maestros del Ron Cubano

Taste our know-how wisely.

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DRINKS

Mignon

LITTLE TRAVEL COMPANIONS

by Luca Cominelli

Mignons are a typology of bottling, definitely nice, mostly destined to a collectors market (at least for the more valuable versions of the spirits).

The term Mignon refers to a bottling capable of containing not more then 100 ml of liquid, although the vast majority of this small bottles usually are 50 ml. We are therefore in front of two or three glasses of distillate.

If we look at the liter price of the Mignons and the standard bottles of 70 cl, we are facing the same product, but with a higher liter price in the case of Mignons. The very reduced amount, however, allows us to taste the distillate without having to pay the whole price of the bottle and this is not just a small advantage.

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Another advantage lies in their portability. The distillates are products with which we can not travel freely (on an international level), as they are subjected to strict regulations.

The Mignons, considering that they contain only a small quantity of distillate, pass rather quietly and arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t considered much by customs, that focus more on the standard bottles.

They are therefore a sort of Joker, which can be matched to the transport of standard bottles without major problems (obviously within reason!).

Since they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exceed 100 ml, they can also be transported in the hand luggage in the case of air travel, making the flight surely more pleasant!

CigarsLoverMagazine CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn | No.14 2016

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TOBACCO HISTORY

Cuaba 20° ANNIVERSARY

by Giovanni Bolzonella

The Cuaba brand was presented 20 years ago, in 1996, for the english market. It was the first of 4 brands in the nineties, that followed a commercial expansion maneuver from Habanos SA (the other three brands were: Vegas Robaina and Vegueros in 1997; San Cristobal de La Habana in 1999).

Cuaba was the first brand introduced from the Cohiba event.

Other then being a very young brand, it is mostly known for the line that is made up exclusively of perfectos cigars, a precious form in Hollywood in the recents years thanks to the gangster movies.

They were very important and widespread formats in the first part of the 900, in particular in the twenties, but at the time when the brand was launched they had almost vanished.

On the boxes used for the packaging there is a picture of a tobacco vega from the Vuelta Abajo near an antique shrub, notarially autochthonous, from which the brand gets his name. This shrub, known for its combustion, was used for centuries by the indigenous (the Tainos) as a flambeau during the celebration of magical rituals.

The doble figurados or perfectos represent an important challenge for the torcedor, so much that they are only entrusted to the most expert of hands, because of the many difficulties in the realization of this format. The mix of experience and dexterity, necessary to perfectly close the puros with two tips, seems to have contributed to the

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TOBACCO HISTORY disappearance of these formats from the Island for a period of time. To obtain a quality structure, it is necessary to determine the exact points in which to apply the right pressure on the tripa and capote. If in addition to this we consider that these cigars were initially realized without an appropriate mold, to press and giving them a proper shape (like it practically happens for every cigar in production today), one could guess the extreme difficulties of the realization of these cigars.

It was Carlos Izquierado Gonzáles who initially, by going to London with a team made up of 14 of the best rollers, showcased the art of the realization of the “perfecto“ format.

This format distinguishes itself by a rather “slow“ first part, because of the very tapered foot, for which it take a couple of minutes to open up to create the brazier.

In the beginning the brand Cuaba was made up by 4 doble figurados cigars. The vitola Diadema was the queen of this format and the brand, with her dimensions of 55 x 233mm; out of production since 1980 and infamous for the large quantity of tobacco with which is was rolled was the principal exhumation of this brand. An equally worthy product of this brand, be it for the complexity of the smoke or the important quantity of tobacco used, is the Salomone (57 x 184mm), another heavyweight of this brand.

Other then the Salomone, there are currently other three formats in production: Divino (Petit Bouquet, 43 x 101mm), Distinguido (Romeo, 52 x 162mm) and Exclusivo (Favorito, 46 x 145mm).

In 2008 the Piramide was released as a limited edition. Books and commemorative humidors have provided the collector with some prestigious pieces. The next release, to commemorate the 20 years of the birth of the brand, is the Aniversario humidor, containing 50 cigars measuring 56 x 170mm.

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FOODS

Xokolatl

FROM MONTEZUMA’S HAREM TO NOWADAYS

by Roberto Canzi

The cocoa was known since the antiquity and the Mayan and Aztec population made large use of it.

The etymology of “chocolate“ is still uncertain: the english missionary Thomas Gage traces the term back to the beverage that the Aztec drank called “xocolatl“, composed of the word “atl“, which in the mexican language means “water“, and “xoc“, the sound made by mixing the beverage in a container so that it produces a foam. The myth has it, that the word chocolate comes from the “snake with the Quetzalcoatl feathers“, priest-king Tolteco

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worshipped for having taught the men how to cultivate cocoa, whose seed as sign of gratitude, was named “xoko-l-atl“.

As described in the book “True history of the conquest of the New Spain“ from Bernal Diaz de Castillo, Cortes parted from Cuba in 1517, with five hundred men. Barely disembarked in the Golf of Honduras, he gave orders to burn all the sailing ships of the fleet, forcing his comrades to achieve the best efforts in research of the Inca’s gold. In

reality it was the gold of the Aztec: the conspicuous booty included the valuable metal, but also the equally precious chocolate.

The Aztec king Montezuma, as the legend narrates, drank many cups of chocolate aromatized with pepper, chili or vanilla, before going to his own harem to copulate with his multiple women; a sort of primordial “Viagra“.

The Aztec considered the chocolate plant as sacred, to the level that people involved in the thirteen days of harvesting in the cocoa plantations were not allowed to have sex. The cocoa beans were so precious that they constituted a sort of economic exchange currency.

Anyone hearing the word chocolate, unconsciously associates cocoa with it, principle ingredient in the fondant preparations, extra dark and bitter chocolate, but much less used (if not completely absent) in other typologies of confectionery.

Although his origins are Amazonian, 70% of today’s commercialized cocoa comes form African plantations; the main producers are Ivory Coast,

Ghana and Indonesia. Among the most known cocoa species is the Forastero (the most diffused and easy to cultivate), the Criollo (the finest and rarest) and the Trinitario (a hybrid between the two, mostly used in pastry shops). It is curious to notice, that some qualities closely recall the world of cigars.

We come now to the different typologies of chocolate and the characteristics that they have to present: Milk Chocolate: the most diffused in the world, with a soft and “buttery“ consistency; the regulations state, that it has to contain a minimum of 25% of dry substance (cocoa) and not less then 14% of milk.

White Chocolate: technically it shouldn’t be called chocolate, because it is the only one that doesn’t utilizes any cocoa beans, therefore sweeter and more appreciated by the little ones. Amongst its ingredients you’ll find a minimum of 20% of cocoa butter, at least 14% of milk, 55% of sugar and vanilla.

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FOODS

Gianduja Chocolate: symbol of the Turinese mastery of chocolate manufacturing, it owes its aroma to the perfect combination of cocoa and hazelnut oil. Consisting of at least 32% of cocoa and a variable quantity of 20 to 40% of hazelnut.

Flavored Chocolate: the following spices may be added; vanilla, cinnamon, coffee, chili, mint or flowers that jessamine and oranges. The antique recipes of the Mayans already contemplated the aromatization of their beverages with vanilla hulls, dried chilis or flowers.

Bonbons and pralines: a chocolate wrapped exterior (minimum 25%) envelopes a, more or less, soft filling: walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, coffee, liquor, cherries, apricots, citrus peels and flavored ganache are amongst the most popular.

A separate chapter has to be dedicated to the dark and bitter chocolates. It differentiates itself depending on the minimum percentage of cocoa mass contained: Dark Chocolate: it has to contain a minimum percentage of cocoa paste equal to 43%; the most popular declare between 50 and 70%.

Extra Dark Chocolate: close relative to the dark chocolate and is characterized by a higher concentration of dry cocoa mass, from a minimum of 70% to a little over 80%.

Bitter Chocolate: contains a high percentage of

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cocoa paste, between 80 and 90%; in this case the sugar component is present in small amount.

Extra Bitter Chocolate: contains a very high amount of cocoa, from 90 to 99%, it can be referred to as pure cocoa. These products are pasty, very bitter with an intense flavor.

The moderate intake (not more then 20-30g a day) of dark chocolate, at least 70%, has multiple beneficial properties for our organism. All this is thanks to the fact that the chocolate fat comes from the cocoa butter, vegetable substance contained in the cocoa seeds. approximately 34% of saturated fats contained in dark/bitter chocolate are made up of stearic acid (neutral to cholesterol), 33% are represented by mono and polyunsaturated fats like the oleic acid, the same content as in olive oil, part of the renown Mediterranean diet, and the remaining 34% are palmitic acids (saturated fatty acid with cholesterol-reducing properties).

In the chocolate one also finds antioxidants substances, the polyphenols (also present in red wine), the catechin and the epicatechin.

Lastly, one curiosity: do you know why the chocolate melts in the mouth?

The chocolate is one of few edible products with a temperature of fusion of about 34°C, under the canonical 36,5°C of the human body. This small differenze in degrees allowes it to easily melt on the tongue!

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SMOKES FROM THE WORLD

NUOVO DAVIDOFF YAMASA IL LUOGO IN CUI NESSUNO È MAI STATO PRIMA È QUI CHE I PIONIERI VOGLIONO ARRIVARE

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HENKE KELNER E IL SUO TEAM DI ESPERTI SONO COME I PIONIERI

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VISIONARI DEI SIGARI, SI SONO MESSI IN VIAGGIO ALLA RICERCA DI QUALCOSA DI ESTREMAMENTE AUDACE IN TERMINI DI INTENSITÀ ED ESPERIENZA

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E GRAZIE A UNA COLTIVAZIONE ATTENTA DEL

TERRENO ROSSO E GREZZO DELLA REGIONE DI YAMASA, HANNO TROVATO QUELLO CHE CERCAVANO

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PARTI PER UN INTREPIDO VIAGGIO VERSO L’ANIMO TERROSO DI YAMASA ATTRAVERSO I SAPORI DOLCI E SPEZIATI DEI TABACCHI NICARAGUAN ESTELI E CONDEGA

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LASCIA CHE I TUOI SENSI

VENGANO BLOCCATI E RISVEGLIATI DA UNA SERIE DI COMBINAZIONI INTENSE E STIMOLANTI

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N I E N T E P OT R À P R E PA R A R T I A Q U E S TA I N T E N S A O N DATA D I SENSAZIONI E ALL’EUFORIA DI UN MOMENTO CHE NON RIVIVRAI MAI PIÙ

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TI CHIEDERAI COME SIA POSSIBILE

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LA RISPOSTA

SEMPLICEMENTE CREDENDO CHE FOSSE POSSIBILE

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S FIDA L’IMPOSSI B I L E S OGN A · OSA · SCO P R I

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Nuoce gravemente alla salute

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davidoff.com

photo: Ivana Lorusso

SLOW ATTITUDE

Blind smell

HOW CRITICAL IS THE SENSE OF SMELL DURING SMOKE?

by Giuseppe Mitolo

The sense of smell can be identified as the most involved sense in smoking since the first fruition experiences. This awareness becomes later certainty when extra attention is posed to the samples tasting.

However, when more carefully analyzed, the sense of smell can be perceived as today’s least used sensorial organ, despite the fact that, in our ancestral past, hominids used that even to discern whether a specific food was edible or a potential poison.

Nevertheless, as stated by a famous Italian aficionado during lessons and catas that he conducted: “the sense of smell is the only sense we cannot decide not to use: we can shut our eyes down,

close our ears, decide not to eat nor to touch, but we cannot stop our nose from perceiving smells, at least without jeopardizing respiration”.

We wanted to understand to which extent the sense of smell could actually influence the perception aspects of a smoke. To do so, together with Luca Cominelli, we decided to run a short test. After choosing two short dimensions cigars, enjoying a constant, reliable production quality, independent from box origin, we smoked the first one of the two literally with closed nose and the other one according to a classic tasting, exchanging then impressions and elaborating common guidelines.

However, we were under the impression that CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

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SLOW ATTITUDE deciding not to use the nose was not sufficient since, as said, excluding smells perception is not an opportunity for us. We thus closed the nose by using “nose clips”, commonly used in water sports, in order to exclude the sense of smell both in the direct access (orto-nasal) and retro-nasal access.

The choice of first smoking the “closed nose” cigar (and not vice-versa) was planned, too: that was intended to avoid that during the “smell blind” tasting the brain, having registered aromas during the previous classic fruition, might have been deceived by a fake aromas perception, mainly due the summation between tastes (mouth) and the remembering of the performed smoke.

The experiment, in addition to prove specific thesis we thought we already had worked on, also provided us extra hints, which we want to share with our readers.

First of all, we decided not to mention in details the difficulties of smoking with an object tightening our naris, particularly on managing at the same time smoking and breathing only with mouth, without experiencing apneas.

As guessed, tastes and their intensity (the cigar was actually perceived as mineral and bitter, similarly to the following “regular” smoke), being them recorded both by the taste buds and by other receptors located in the oral cavity, are not jeopardized by this particular way of smoking. The tactile sensations did not suffer from the lack of the sense of smell as well, since it was possible to feel both the smoke density in the mouth, its temperature variations, and a slightly piquant note characterizing the cigar samples.

Expected was a total lack of capacity to register any aroma with sealed nose and actually, as easily understandable, that has proved to be impossible even by retro-nasal access (it was impossible to force the smoke into the nasal cavity).

Other smoke peculiarity which was not possible to perceive during our experiment was the strength. Even though the user can risk a certain kind of “swallowing” mouth-filling smoke in order to

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understand cigar’s body, this is not a suggested behavior, as it would only result in coughing, since the alkaline cigar smoke is very poorly suiting the acid Ph of our oral mucous membrane.

The following “classic” smoke confirmed all the sensations recorded by mouth during the previous fruition (tastes and their intensity, tactile sensations), providing back the aromas and strength data, completely missing in the previous one.

What we did not forecast were problems, during the test, of the tastes evolution perception, as well as their perception during the second part of the smoke. In fact the mouth air exhalation during breathing resulted in a much drier mouth, thus preventing us from understanding, as an example, how much the smoke was dry or acid. It has to be however clear that this is a secondary consequence of our experience, which would have not been popping up in case we could have had the chance to breathe choosing not to perceive any smell.

Finally, even though we initially thought the sense of smell to be as important as taste during smoking, after this test we modified our thesis, identifying the nasal way as even more important than the one managed by the same mouth we mechanically use to smoke cigars. As an example, using a percentage we should state that a correct fruition or a tasting is 65% depending on the sense of smell (including in it the retro-nasal way) and only for the rest to the taste.

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DRINKS

Japanese whisky THE BEGINNING OF A LEGEND

by Luca Cominelli

In the last couple of years the notoriety of the Japanese whisky has grown greatly, as a result of many international awards. The “hunt“ for this products have started, catching the producers off guard. The market demand for their distillates boosted considerably. The market law in these cases is very simple: facing an increasing demand, without increasing the supply, almost immediately creates an increase on prices. This is what has happened in the last months.

Despite this, the aged versions of the more renowned brands have become very difficult to find and even if you were to “luckily“ stumble on to some bottles, the price you’d have to pay is much higher then a few years ago. All this didn’t make the lover of Japanese whisky give up, on the contrary..! A

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greater focus on these products was created, making the research even more rewarding.

Many international stores are sold out of the more aged versions of these whiskies. Therefore we have decided to fly to their motherland, to understand the situation nowadays, but also to try and bring back a few bottles that are able to excite emotions.

Arriving in Japan, the situation, as predicted, wasn’t particularly favorable. We had to enter various liquor stores to find something particular and with a few years on its shoulders.

Let’s get one thing clear right away: Japanese whiskies are available and also many! The large

part of them, however, are the answers of the Japanese companies to the incredible surge of demands for their products. Not being able to replace their aged versions of their brands in a short time (to make an 18 year old you need at least 18 year!), they have decided to introduce non-aged lines. All this can be seen by the absence of references, regarding the aging of the distillate, on the label. What differs is the type of barrels used, but with no indication of how long the distillate was refined.

Talking about price, the recent not seasoned versions of the Japanese whiskies are around an average of about 4000 Yen (circa $40 - €35).

The brands Yamazaki, Hakushu, Yoichi and Nikka can be found without a problem. A positive note is the easy availability of the Mignon versions of these products, but also bottlings of 180 and 250 ml, which makes trying it easier before committing to buy a standard sized bottle.

Moving on to the aged and more sought after versions, the difficulties of finding some bottles are not minor. The limited editions are the rarest, while the more refined bottlings (talking about 17 years and upwards) are only available in some stores (versions like the Hibiki 17yo, Nikka 17yo, Hakushu 18yo and Yamazaki 18yo). The prices vary not by a little and we have found differences of 5’000 Yen on the same bottle. The 12yo versions of the most famous houses are more available, but also in this case some efforts are needed to avoid being in front of non-aged bottlings only. The prices vary here as well (we found

a range of about 2’000 Yen). The hunt for this products has already severely affected the market and the situation will only stall within a few months, where the offer won’t be able to make up for even a small part of the demand.

The current scenario leads us to a twofold conclusion. First of all, the faster you are able to find the brand and the bottling you are looking for, the less you’ll have to pay and the lesser you will have to spend on resources to obtain it. Secondly, seeing that we are headed in a one way direction, without being able to go back, the advice is to not just be limited to the more famous and wellknown products, but to also experiment (universal advice and always valid) with Japanese whiskies, that right now don’t have the notoriety that makes their research expensive and difficult!

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INTERVIEW

Caldwell Cigars INTERVIEW WITH ROBERT CALDWELL

by Michel Arlia

Tell us about you and how you joined in this business.

I have always loved cigars. I have been smoking now cigars for over 20 years. I never envisioned myself in the industry. I originally became involved as a distributor. I started a company to distribute cigars to restaurants and hotels in South Florida.

I started it as an investor but ended up running the company. From there I started manufacturing some private label products for my customers.

That is where became very involved in tobacco, blending, and packaging. From there, it continued to progress until I had the idea to manufacture a brand to sell commercially to stores.

How was your experience in learning how to

blend and working with tobacco?

It was a lot of trial and errors. A lot of listening and asking questions. As I became more involved and experienced in the process, my skills became fine tuned. What I love now is that people can smoke my products without knowing what they are and still know that I made them. I have been able to develop a bit of a signature taste and style with what I do.

Caldwell Cigars is a company â&#x20AC;&#x153;built by friends for friendsâ&#x20AC;?. Can you explain the meaning behind this phrase?

We enjoy what we do. This is a business but it is so much more than that. I started this company with CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn 2016

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INTERVIEW one of my best friends. Everyone that works with us is a friend. We consider all of our customers to be our friends. We are not in this just for the business. We enjoy what we do and want to work with people we like. I believe that the smokers of our product can feel this through our brand. Everyone that is with us is fun. We have fun. We have a great energy and are excited with what we do.

The brand is rather young, but you have had tremendous success in a rather short period of time. What is the secret?

We have good cigars. Quality cigars. I think that people notice this. In addition, our marketing and packaging is well thought out and contemporary, yet still classic. I believe that we have a special niche in the market.

We built the brands to only compete with ourselves. We did not want to copy anyone or do anything similar to other brands.

Art seems to play a major role in Caldwell Cigars, this is not only reflected in the bands, but also in the branding creativity more in general. Where do you take inspiration from?

I am inspired by almost everything. I have had the pleasure of developing very special relationships with fantastic artists all over the world who have really opened my eyes in a creative way.

I have learned to see things differently.

You are involved in many different things: collaborations for new cigar brands, co-owning other brands, distribution, etc. How did all this things come to be?

When we started Caldwell we wanted to do things differently. The collaborations were a very big thing for us. No one does it. After about a year

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of having our own brands I realized that it could be done. I thought it would add a lot of complexity to our portfolio by working with other manufacturers, especially those who were not like us. I felt as if we were building a puzzle and the collaborations were the final pieces.

You are very transparent when it comes to your blends. People can find exact information of how the blend is made and on the boxes just going to your website. Why do you think this information is wanted by the consumer?

With cigars and tobacco, it is important for the consumer to understand what they are smoking. Certain tobaccos have different characteristics.

Additionally, we feel that it is a good thing for the consumers to be able to educate themselves further by having this information.

Lastly, we have tried to recreate our blends using different tobaccos from different farms and origins. The flavor is never spot-on. Small changes such as location of the plant within the farm, how the tobacco is processed, who is processing it and growing it can all have an effect on the flavor. Many manufacturers are secretive about their blends out of fear of being copied. I feel that it is next to impossible to do this without exact information.

Your cigars are already distributed around the world. As a â&#x20AC;&#x153;smallâ&#x20AC;? company, why did you decide to not just stick to the American market?

I love traveling. I love other cultures. It is one of my favorite things. I have been to about 70 countries and many of them 10 or more times. It is let of who I am. Caldwell Cigars has been influenced a

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INTERVIEW lot by who I am as a person, what I have seen, where I have gone. Everyone inside of the industry in the US always talks about how difficult international markets are. I love a challenge.

becoming approved will be. At this point there are thousands of more questions than answers. The one truth that everyone sees is that things will never be the same.

The FDA regulation is putting a lot of pressure on the cigar market. What do you think?

Coming to our last question. Give us three reasons why the aficionado should smoke Caldwell Cigars?

It will forever change the industry for the worse.

That is the only thing people know for certain.

There is much speculation as to how damaging it will be and how difficult the various options for

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1. We use quality tobacco.

2. We are committed to construction.

3. We put our hearts into every cigar.

Largest and Best Range of Quality Tobacco and Cigars in the UK C.Gars Limited Est. 1997 16-18 Kingsgate Place, London, NW6 4TA 0207 372 1865 www.cgarsltd.co.uk sales@cgarsltd.co.uk Turmeaus Tobacconist Mayfair 1 White Horse Street, London W1J 7LB 0207 495 7330 mayfair@cgarsltd.co.uk Turmeaus Tobacconist Est. 1817 32-34 Fenwick Street, Liverpool L2 7NB 0151 236 3802 turmeaus@cgarsltd.co.uk Turmeaus Tobacconist Est. 1817 34 Watergate Street, Chester CH1 2LA 0124 434 8821 Chester@cgarsltd.co.uk Turmeaus – Norfolk Hall Farm, Martham Road Rollesby, Great Yarmouth Norfolk NR29 5DR 01493 749 710 sales@turmeaustobacconist.co.uk La Casa Del Habano 32 Watergate Street, Chester CH1 2LA 01244 348 821 Chester@cgarsltd.co.uk

ALSO AT: Whisky and Cigars by Robert Graham Ltd 4 Broadwell Parade, Broadhurst Gardens, West Hampstead, London NW6 3BQ 0207 624 3351 london@robertgraham1874.com Robert Graham Ltd 9 Sussex Street, Cambridge, CB1 1PA 01223 354 459 Cambridge@robertgrham1874.com Robert Graham Ltd Est. 1874 194A, Rose Street, Edinburgh EH2 4AZ 0131 226 1874 rosestreet@robertgraham1874.com The Treasurer by Robert Graham Ltd 254 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8AA 0131 556 2791 canongate@robertgraham1874.com Robert Graham’s Global Whisky Shop 111 West George Street, Glasgow G2 1QX 0141 248 7283 glasgow@robertgraham1874.com

Orchant and Johnstone Family Business Member of the AICS Association of Independent Cigar Specialists

RMEAU TU emier Cigar S T he uk

r ‘s P EST 1817 &

To b

nt ha rc ac c o M e

LONDON •LIVERPOOL•CHESTER•NORFOLK

CigarsLoverMagazine CigarsLoverMagazine | Autumn | No.14 2016

38

MADE IN ITALY

The italian job ITALIAN KENTUCKY TERROIR

by Giuseppe Mitolo

A typical winery concept has been adopted by the tobacco World since some years ago: the terroir.

The meaning of the French-origin name is not immediately corresponding to any Italian word, however the expression “terroir” includes all those characteristics determining the final product quality, such as soil bio-chemical composition and climate factors (for a deeper analysis of those we suggest the article “Terroir and cigars” by Luigi Ferri on Cigarslover Magazine n. 8). Mather Nature’s gift is then enriched by human work, focusing on agriculture work his passion and Know-how.

The entire World is used to classify, deeper analyze and evaluate peculiarities of each Caribbean terroir, but it is not that easy to clarify what Italy can

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offer in terms of geographical diversity when speaking about Kentucky tobacco.

Since the beginning of year 2000 Italy, thanks to its crop-favorable climate and position, boasted its 7°-8° place in the global tobacco producers ranking, preceded by giants such as China (with its 45-50% of global production), Brazil, India and Unites States. However, after a strategic change in the agricultural political directions by Italy and European Union (with specific reference to EC 2004/864), devoted to gradually reduce (up to the complete cancellation in 2014) economic incentives to tobacco-growing (slang name was “awards”), Italian production has suffered a major decrease starting from 2006 (as for the rest of Europe). Despite this major cut, Kentucky

tobacco-growing (or better, growing of the 04 group – Dark Fire Cured) has been able to keep momentum, allowing Italy to reach 3°-4° position in the production ranking (percentages are different according to production periods and to different varieties) after United States, Indonesia and other African countries.

In order to go deeper in the details of the local Italian production, we asked Domenico Napoletano, renowned and long tradition experienced master blender [ndr. in the past he worked in the manufacturing of Toscano, Nostrano del Brenta and, lately, Ambasciator Italico cigars] to tell us something more on the specificities of different Kentucky tobacco-growing areas.

ultimate best one regarding extrinsic characteristics (lamination, color, flexibility, texture and burning capability) and intrinsic ones (taste and aroma). In Italy this plant, during the centuries, has become so well accustomed that it is now showing a valuable quality.

Up to some years ago Campania was n.1in terms of Italian Kentucky production volume, followed

by Tuscany, Veneto and Lazio. Today the Italian situation has changed dramatically. Almost the entire Italian Kentucky production volume is from Tuscany (Val Tiberina area), with minor volumes in Campania, Veneto and southern part of Lazio.

More in details, the most suitable Italian areas and Verona, Val Tiberina, Val by Chiana, Pontecorvo and Benevento.

Techniques for growing and subsequently curing are almost standardized in all the areas. However (and luckily) minor differences still exist in harvesting mechanisms and curing: as an example in Campania, after the fire cure, tobacco undergoes a minor fermentation which, together with other specificities, differentiates this product from others.

Can you please discuss about the most suited areas in Italy for Kentucky tobacco growing, and how the specificities of each of those become a “terroir”?

Product quality depends on soil composition and on its sun exposure, on the climatic conditions and, perhaps the most important one, on the passion and efforts by the farmer.

The terroir concept is thus a valid one, with no hesitation, for every tobacco type, and in particular for the Kentucky (DFC). This concept is not normally extended to cigars since, due to mix and manufacturing requirements, different tobaccos from several regions are used.

An introduction has to be made: worldwide, according to my personal opinion and experience, tobacco coming from Kentucky and Tennessee, origin area for this variety, continues being the

Following an analytical approach, which are the “organoleptic” characteristics provided to the Kentucky tobacco by the different areas where this is grown?

- The one from Verona is gentler, elastic and originates an elegant and refined smoke, associated with sustained strength.

- The Tuscan Kentucky, almost entirely grown in Val Tiberina, can be considered as the most typically Italian. Taste is bold and rich, while strength is the highest. Val by Chiana provides a Kentucky which keeps the Tuscan specificities, but taste is less vivid and aroma is less intense.

- Kentucky from southern Lazio (Pontecorvo) has been less and less used in the recent years due to its characteristics. Leaves texture is thick and nervation is evident. Taste is full-bodied, with a not very intense aroma. Burn capabilities can thus be problematic.

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MADE IN ITALY - As mentioned above, in Campania and in particular in Benevento province and partially also in Avellino one, a Dark Fire Cured tobacco is grown with some differences from the others. The special curing originates an easily burning tobacco, associated with a mellow, sweet and elegant taste. Aroma is delicate.

characteristics not allowing usage to manufacture smoking goods and thus their cultivation was suppressed.

The initiative of trying again seems quite interesting to me in order to verify if, by using up-to-date technologies, smoking-suitable tobacco can be obtained. If, among the different varieties, Kentucky would become well accustomed there, than one could consider this as the new frontier.

Allowing a short parenthesis, what can you tell us regarding the other tobacco types grown on the Italian soil? How did they become accustomed to this soil?

Is there any Italian area where Kentucky tobacco is no longer grown?

With the exception of the above described areas, no other regions in Italy are suited for Kentucky tobacco growing, or maybe they have never been explored.

Other tobaccos are, on the other side, in a different situation. In the past almost in every region snuff and cigarettes tobacco was grown. The curing technique, by sun, by air or by hot air, was greatly helping the agricultural stage.

Growing Kentucky in Sicily: new frontier o renewed challenge?

In Sicily, up to several years ago, a tobacco variety named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rusticâ&#x20AC;?, used for snuff tobacco and nicotine extraction was grown. Probably due to those yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; agricultural and agronomic techniques, tobaccos from that terroir were holding

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Since its discovery and the subsequent import of seeds, the practice of growing tobacco has spread over different Italian regions first for sanitary (and anti-parasitic) reasons, and then for economic reasons. For several years, and in many regions, tobacco has been the most important source of income. Soil and, more in general, climate conditions favored development of specific varieties instead of others. As an example in the Salento region the Levantine tobacco (derived from the oriental one), which is a sun cured, was efficiently grown. The Air Cured such as the Burley, the Havanna and others spread over more windy areas.

In the last decade new manufacturing realities appeared: how can we interpret these data? Which advantages can the smoker get from this?

With the liberalization of the manufacturing of smoking goods, the situation in Italy has changed dramatically. We moved from a scenario where Italian Monopolio was manufacturing and selling 60-70% of the processed tobacco to a very fragmented market.

In the particular case of cigars the situation is different. After product liberalization some privates, with passion rather than business as main drive, are starting to face a market which is ruled, with quotas over 90%, by a unique manufacturer.

Competition and open market are for sure leading towards quality improvement and prices reduction, thus smokers advantages are many.

“Acting is like lying. The art of lying well. I’m paid to tell elaborate lies.”

Mel Gibson

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LOUNGES

Oporto YEATMAN HOTEL

by Simone Poggi

“We can sell our time, however we are unable to buy the same back.”

Fernando Pessoa, Lisbon, 13th June 1888 – 30th November 1935

To the lucky ones traveling to Porto during the shiny June days, destiny reserves an unforgettable light, married with the green of the parks and the cobalt blue of Douro River, crossed by the famous seven bridges.

To the ones having friends in this welcoming land, destiny provides as well tales of ancient trains, only comparable to the more celebrated Orient Express, which during their transit on the famous Ponte de Maria Pia, masterpiece of the nineteenth century by the Belgian engineer Théophile Seyrig,

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follower of Eiffel, were forcing cinema screams to travelling matrons, as the bridge itself seemed to move and roll when the wagons of the North train line were quickly passing on the intrepid iron arch.

However for us aficionados the undefeated city reserves an even deeper pleasure, yet unexplored and softly advertised: The Yeatman Hotel.

This luxury structure is located in a really panoramic spot on the steep banks of the Douro River, and immediately shows characteristics making salivation of readers increase: a properly prized Habanos menu, a good humidor kept in correct working conditions, and a list of alcohols, wines and teas which can stimulate envy in the most renowned collections.

The polite and kind waiter Jorge refers that more

than 80 are the wines by glass. He tells us that in winter a customer of another 5 stars hotel in Porto sent a taxi to the Yeatman just to buy after dinner a Partagas Serie D N.2 and smoke it the same night. This is also Porto, finding puros after dinner is for us aficionados really difficult. On the contrary The Yeatman is paradise, since also during winter one can smoke in the Library, an elegant and sober inn, possibly belonging to a good (excellent) reputed American key family, grown up by chocolate and champagne in Swisse.

The choice finally is for the last, small Cohiba Siglo I tubo, partially for the duration but also to taste again the light sweet base of the famous Cuban brand, and to pair it with a Dow’s Colheita 2002 Port wine, to better understand if the idiom from Florence “the ones having similar characters are easier to fall in love to each other” (“chi si somiglia si piglia”) can also be applied to cigars-drinks pairings (sweet-sweet), or if contrasts are better choices. The night is fresh and crisp, the terrace on the Douro River too tempting, the Library will host us next winter.

all the tastes in the palette, but the brand is fully represented, with Cuban spices evident on a slightly characteristic sweet base. However the pairing is not fully convincing, and in some situations a good no sugar espresso is perceived to be a better choice, to balance the sweetness of the cigar instead of boosting it. The vinho do Porto is anyhow a great pairing.

Once opened the tubo gives off abundant Caribbean cedar notes, and the small Perla is pleasantly soaked with that. The capa is silky, smooth and oily, and anticipates the first draws, immediately velvety and spicy, maybe with a slightly bitter notes I was not remembering, however not unpleasant. POSIZIONE The fruition is short, and gives immediately RAGGIUNGIBILITA' ***** ***** Centrale e panoramica

If you would be passing by Porto, you will not be able any longer to get the thrill passing over the shaky Ponte de Maria Pia, now unused, however Jorge will be waiting for you at The Yeatman, for a Cuban smoke on the most beautiful terrace on the Douro River.

SIGARI DISTILLATI SERVIZIO ** **** **** Vino e Porto al molto semplice da Alcuni moduli di brand bicchiere. Distillati di Attento trovare cubani ogni tipo

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Some Cuban brand modules

SPIRITS SERVICE **** **** Wine and port by the glass. Spirits of all Careful kinds

The Yeatman Hotel Rua do Choupelo, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portogallo Tel +351 22 013 3100 http://www.the-yeatman-hotel.com/en/

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SMOKES FROM THE WORLD

Smoking Kills

Drinking Kills

Driving Kills

Money Kills

Stress Kills

Thinking Kills

Love Kills

LIVE!

Fallon & Nicarao Š

Balance. Character. Passion.

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www.laleycigars.com

CigarsLoverMagazine | No.14 Autumn 2016

BLIND TASTING

Short Robusto Called in many ways, sometimes Short Robusto, other times Petit Robusto, or simply “Shorts”.

They have become ever more frequent since the advent of the smoking restrictions. These cigars offer a quick smoke, with no need of too much attention to them. This is the reason behind their

birth, but they slowly became more refined and now, between the myriad of products on the market, there are many of them considerable more then just a “hole filler”. Many are interesting cigars, capable to offer a smoke above the average, short in duration, but not in flavors.

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BLIND TASTING

Tatuaje Black Label Short Robusto - Nicaragua Size: cepo 50 x 101 mm (4”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 9 $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua

Medium to full strength. It exhibits huge intensity and harmony since the first puff. The persistence is long and the aromatic palette is deep and well structured. Very satisfying.

It develops notes of earth, leather, bread and black pepper, with citrus aromas in the aftertaste. By the second half, the spices get richer and it delivers nutty and woody notes, with cinnamon peaks.

92

/100

Cavalier de Genéve Medio - Honduras

Size: cepo 50 x 90 mm (3,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 10 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: N/A | Binder: N/A | Filler: N/A Medium strength. Well balanced and harmonious, it delivers a creamy smoke. An elegant and refined Short, but at the same time well satisfying.

The aromatic bouquet is made of cedar wood, nut and some vanilla in the background. The base is sweet. The second half turns to earthy and balsamic notes.

90

/100

Mombacho Corto - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 50 x 101 mm (4”) - EUR: 8 € (IT) - - € (EU) | USD: 6 $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua Slightly over the medium strength. Balanced and with a nice intensity. The aromas are well defined and the complexity is noticeable. The persistence is very long.

It develops earth and black pepper notes, together with nutmeg.

The second half changes and brings to the palate wood and roasted note of coffee. Spices are well perceivable for the whole smoke.

90

/100

Padron 1964 Hermoso - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 56 x 101 mm (4”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 13 € (EU) | USD: 12,5 $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua Medium strength. Well balanced, elegant and refined from the fist to the last puff. The harmony is one of the best features of this small Padrón.

This Short Robusto exhibits roasted notes of coffee and hazelnut.

In some puff are perceivable aged wood and delicate notes of cappuccino. Extremely creamy.

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90

/100

Royal Danish Umami - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 55 x 114 mm (4,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 6,5 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: N/A | Binder: N/A | Filler: N/A Full strength. A flavors bomb. The balance is on the edge for the whole length of the smoke. The aromatic palette is defined and deep. This cigar is amazingly fulfilling.

It develops cocoa notes on slightly bitter base. Going on, earth, walnut and mineral notes complete the aromatic palette of this Nicaraguan cigar.

90

/100

Cohiba Maduro 5 Magicos - Cuba

Size: cepo 50 x 115 mm (4,5”) - EUR: 22,5 € (IT) - 22 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Medium strength. The aromatic palette is not very wide but it shows a nice complexity and the aromas are defined and rich. A fulfilling cigar, with a great balance to it.

Cocoa, leather and roasted notes of coffee are the main aromas.

Around them spicy notes build up slowly during the smoke. The base is slightly sweet. Very creamy.

89

/100

Partagas Serie D No.6 - Cuba

Size: cepo 50 x 90 mm (3,5”) - EUR: 7,7 € (IT) - 7,5 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Medium to full strength. Nice body and intensity. The aromas are way more than expected, considering the short length of this Partagas. Satisfying and with a long persistence to it.

The aromatic bouquet is made of green nuts, peanuts and roasted note of coffee. Leather and balsamic herbs gets develops in the second half. The base is slightly savory.

89

/100

Chinchalero Picadillo - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 50 x 101 mm (4”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 3 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Honduras | Filler: Honduras, Nicaragua Medium strength. Short Robustos are usually known for their intensity but not to be complex smokes. This Chinchalero disprove all this, being something more than just a quicky.

The start is acidulous, but soon the base gets savory. It exhibits roasted coffee notes, spices and black pepper in the first half.

Later on, pan brioches and honey complete the aromatic bouquet.

88

/100

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BLIND TASTING

Eiroa CBT Maduro Corona Prensado - Honduras Size: cepo 48 x 101 mm (4”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8 € (EU) | USD: 9 $ Wrapper: Maduro | Binder: Honduras | Filler: Honduras

Full strength. It develops a satisfying smoke, with a decent complexity to it. Despite the short length, a mall evolution is present. The aromatic palette is deep and well structured. Intense and creamy.

After a floral opening, it brings to the palate cocoa, walnut and fine spices. In some puff rich balsamic herbs perceivable aswell.

88

/100

Trinidad Vigia - Cuba

Size: cepo 54 x 110 mm (4,3”) - EUR: 12,1 € (IT) - 12,5 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Medium to full strength. It exhibits a modest aromatic palette. Despite this, the harmony is good, aswell as the intensity. The consistency of this cigar is something to be careful of.

The aromatic bouquet is made of cedar wood, nut and white pepper. In some puffs, peaks of vanilla are perceivable. The smoke is linear and there are no changed for the whole length.

Villa Zamorano Expreso

88

/100

- Honduras

Size: cepo 52 x 90 mm (3,5”) - EUR: 2,6 € (IT) - 3 € (EU) | USD: 4 $ Wrapper: Sumatra | Binder: Honduras | Filler: Honduras Medium to full strength. Rustic smoke, but fulfilling and harmonious in its simplicity. The persistence is remarkable. A cigar representing perfectly the Short Robusto size.

It delivers aged wood, coffee and leather notes. The roasted aromas get more and more intense during the smoke. In the last part, the spices kick in.

88

/100

Arturo Fuente Chateau F. Short Rob. - Dominican R. Size: cepo 50 x 114 mm (4,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 6 € (EU) | USD: 6 $ Wrapper: Connecticut Shade | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.

Medium strength. It delivers an intense and harmonious smoke, with a good persistence to it. Elegant and refined, it can be enjoyed in every moment of the day.

The aromas developed are hay, vegetal and grass, with some citrus notes in the aftertaste. The finale shows off rich earthy notes, completing the bouquet.

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87

/100

AVO Syncro Short Robusto

- Dominican R.

Size: cepo 52 x 101 mm (4”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,5 € (EU) | USD: 5 $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Nicaragua, Dominican R., Peru Medium to full strength. The intensity is good and the aromatic bouquet shows a decent complexity. Fulfilling and suitable for a quick smoke.

The aromatic palette is made of spices, wood and cocoa, which get develops on a sweet base. The second half turns to walnut and leather. The wood gets richer, becoming slowly the main aroma.

Flor de Selva Egoista 20th Aniversario

87

/100

- Honduras

Size: cepo 56 x 90 mm (3,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7,5 € (EU) | USD: 8 $ Wrapper: Habano Jamastrán | Binder: Olancho / Azacualpa | Filler: Honduras Slightly over the medium strength. The smoke is elegant and with a nice balance to it. The harmony is the main feature of this cigar. The aromatic palette is decent.

It delivers fine wood, together with citrus and black pepper in the aftertaste. The second half turns to wet earth and rich roasted notes of coffee.

La Estancia Short Robusto

87

/100

- Honduras

Size: cepo 50 x 110 mm (4,3”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 6,5 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua & Cuba Medium plus strength. The smoke is fresh, delicate and with a great harmony. The balance is fine in the first half, but on the edge in the second one. Fulfilling and intense.

The aromatic bouquet is made of vegetal and floral notes, with some tea and mint. In the second hald it delivers spices and leather. The base is a bit sour.

Machetero Short Robusto

87

/100

- Nicaragua

Size: cepo 46 x 95 mm (3,7”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 1,5 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua Medium to full strength. The smoke is rich and intense, but in some puff it is even too sharp. The persistence is long and the aromatic palette is wide.

The smoke has no big changes during the length. The cigar brings to the palate coffee, spices, walnut and earth. In the second half, light peppery notes are added.

87

/100

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Blueprint of an inspiring blend

For Macanudo Inspirado our Master Blenders used tobaccos from Honduras, Nicaragua and Dominican Republic and is held together by a binder from the Jamastran Valley in Honduras. Wrapped in an oily and rich Rosada leaf from San Agustin, Honduras, you will surely get inspired with great ideas while enjoying Macanudo Inspirado.

BLENDING IS IN OUR DNA

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BLIND TASTING

Robusto The most requested and appreciated size, as well as the most commercialized one. Maybe it is because if its dimensions, not too small neither excessive, maybe for its smoke time, being around one hour. The Robusto size is dominating by over a decade, since it became preferred to the other main vitola at that time: the Petit Corona.

In this blind tasting there are many news which just got to the market. These exhibited very quality smokes, reaching the top positions of the list.

All this is a proof about the great attention these new products receive, making them being preferred even to big and solid smoke already available in the past years.

This result underlines the increasing attention to the details in the cigar world, which is definitely not a surprise. What cough us off guards was the timing of all this: because of the new FDA regulations, many producers have been pushing a lot of new products on the market, anticipating the release dates. Despite this, considering the work that has been brought on in parallel, the new products we tested seems to not have been touched by this all, like they have been crafted under a glass bell. Knowing all this, the result of the new entries sorts even a bigger effect.

Among the first 5 places, there are news like the a new size of “La Sobremese” and the “Anastasia Kartel” of Caldwell. Very close there are the Wunder Lust made by RomaCraft and the lastest new of Joya de Nicaragua: Joya Black.

Despite this all, the scepter of the winner is held by a cigar belonging to the “old guard”, a product made by Arturo Fuente: the Opus X.

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BLIND TASTING

Arturo Fuente Opus X Robusto - Dominican R. Size: cepo 50 x 133 mm (5,2”) - EUR: 28 € (IT) - 21 € (EU) | USD: 22 $ Wrapper: Dominican R. | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.

Medium to full strength. Creamy and satisfying, It develops a huge intensity and complexity. The puffs are rich and meaty, the persistence is long and the aromatic palette deep.

It exhibits notes of earth, wood and ripe fruit, together with a lot of spices: first pink pepper and later black pepper. In the second half, walnut, coffee and leather are added to the bouquet.

93

/100

La Sobremesa Short Churchill - Nicaragua Size: cepo 48 x 133 mm (5,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - € (EU) | USD: 11 $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Mexico | Filler: Nicaragua & USA

Full strength. Intense and creamy, this is a very satisfying cigar. The persistence is remarkable and the aromatic palette is well structured. Good the complexity.

It develops notes of incense, black pepper, hot spices and balsamic herbs. Later on, the smoke get sweet and the cigar brings to the palate almond and cocoa aromas.

92

/100

Eiroa Robusto - Honduras

Size: cepo 50 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 10 $ Wrapper: Honduras | Binder: Honduras | Filler: Honduras Medium to full strength. Balanced and with a great harmony, this Robusto develops a huge intensity. The persistence is remarkable and the evolution perceivable.

The aromatic palette shows cedar wood, coffee and spices, followed by balsamic and piquant notes. The second half alternates earth, coffee and spices. In the finale the balsamic herbs get back.

92

/100

Señorial Maduro Robusto Dingo - Dominican R. Size: cepo 52 x 140 mm (5,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 8,5 $ Wrapper: Mexico | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.

Medium to full strength. The cigar performs well under every parameter. The evolution is remarkable, the aromatic palette wide and it is well balanced and harmonious aswell.

It develops notes of earth, leather, wood and spices. In the second a nutty aroma is added and in the final third are perceivable roasted note of coffee and ripe fruit, together with cocoa and pink pepper.

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91

/100

Caldwell Anastasia Kartel - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 50 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,8 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Brazil | Binder: Indonesia | Filler: Secret Medium strength. Balanced and with a good complexity, this cigar is elegant and refined.

The aromatic palette is well defined and wide.

It exhibits aromas of cedar wood, ripe fruit and spices, with some honey. Later on, rich black pepper developes, together with walnut notes. The finale completes the bouquet with citrus notes.

91

/100

RomaCraft Wunderlust - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 50 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,8 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Brazil | Binder: Indonesia | Filler: Secret Medium to full strength. Despite de intense finale, this Romacraft is way more “docile” than what expected. Harmonious, intense and balanced.

The aromatic bouquet is made of fine wood, leather and coffee, followed by earthy hints. In the second half, citrus notes and black pepper get developed.

90

/100

Brun del Re 1638 LE - Costa Rica

Size: cepo 58 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,9 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Habano 2000 (Dominican R.) | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R. Light to medium strength. Both evolution and complexity are not the best qualities of this cigar, but the balance and the harmony are great. The smoke is very enjoyable and creamy; the persistence is long.

The aromatic palette develops hay, spices, cappuccino and roasted notes of coffee, that alternate for the whole length of this Robusto.

90

/100

Joya de Nicaragua Joya Black Robusto - Nicaragua Size: cepo 50 x 133 mm (5,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7 € (EU) | USD: 7 $ Wrapper: San Andres (Mexico) | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua

Medium plus strength. Balanced and with an aromatic palette that easily remind to the Nicaragua terroir. The smoke is intense, harmonious and with a long persistence.

It exhibits notes of cocoa and balsamic herbs, with balck pepper in the aftertaste. In the second half, earthy notes get developed, together with piquant spicy peaks.

89

/100

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BLIND TASTING

Casa Turrent Robusto - Mexico

Size: cepo 48 x 108 mm (4,25”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 8,95 $ Wrapper: Mexico | Binder: Mexico | Filler: Honduras, Nicaragua & Mexico Medium strength. A balanced and intense Robusto. The complexity is remarkable and the aromatic palette deep and well structured. The persistence is long. Satisfying.

It develops ripe fruit and fine spices on a sweet base. In the second half the spices get more intense and the cigar delivers citrus notes.

In some puff is perceivable a black tea aroma.

89

/100

Davidoff Nica. Box Pressed Robusto - Dominican R. Size: cepo 48 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 14 € (EU) | USD: 15 $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua

Slightly over the medium strength. The balance is great and the aromatic palette of this box pressed Robusto is wide. The complexity is good.

At first it delivers notes of aged wood, earth and spices (black pepper). In the middle third the spices get less intense but they go back in the finale, culminating with piquant peaks.

89

/100

Dunhill Heritage Robusto - Honduras

Size: cepo 50 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,6 € (EU) | USD: 10 $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Honduras & Nicaragua Medium to full strength. A cigar with a great intensity and persistence. Balanced, rich and satisfying, with a wide and deep aromatic palette.

It develops aromas of leather, cocoa and earth, together with spices. Roasted notes of coffee are perceivable and in the second half the cigar turns to undergrowth and black pepper notes.

89

/100

Belmore Maduro Robusto - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 50 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - -5,9 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Honduras | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua Medium to full strength. A cigar with a great intensity and a good complexity. The persistence is long and the aromtic palette is wide. Satisfying.

The aormatic bouquet opens up with earth, cocoa and black pepper. Going on, aged wood, liquorice and almond are added. The finale alternates cocoa and earth.

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/100

Romeo y Julieta Short Churchill - Cuba

Size: cepo 50 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: 12,2 € (IT) - 11 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Medium to full strength. Well balanced, it develops an intense smoke, with a nice persistence. The evolution is limited but the cigar is creamy and harmonious.

The aromatic bouquet opens up with vegetal and cedar wood aromas, together with walnut notes. Later on, it brings to the palate earth and peppery notes. The second half is slightly savory.

88

/100

Flor de Claro Robusto - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 54 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - - € (EU) | USD: 15 $ Wrapper: Honduras | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua Light strength. The evolution is linear and this Robusto doesn’t show a lot of flavors change. Despite this, it is well balanced, harmonious and creamy.

The aromatic palette is made of cedar and oak wood, together with spices (black pepper). In the second half the spices get a lot more intense.

87

/100

Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.2 - Cuba

Size: cepo 50 x 124 mm (4,9”) - EUR: 12,5 € (IT) - 11 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Slightly over the medium strength. Very harmonious and balanced, with a remarkable persistence. The aromatic palette is wide.

It exhibits notes of cedar wood, developed on a sweet base. In the aftertaste are perceivable rich notes of black pepper, together with piquant spices. Later on, cocoa and earth aromas get devered.

87

/100

Gurkha Ghost Shadow - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 52 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,2 € (EU) | USD: 7,5 $ Wrapper: Brazil | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Brazil Medium strength. It shows a nice intensity and harmony. The evolution is not too wide, but still perceivable. The aromatic bouquet is uncommon, making it particularly enjoyable.

Cocoa, leather and coffee notes get delivered on a slightly sweet base. Later on, spices and smoked wood make a noteworthy union that characterize this cigar.

87

/100

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BLIND TASTING

La Rica Maduro Robusto - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 55 x 124 mm (4,9”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 5 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Brazil | Binder: Sumatra | Filler: Nicaragua Light to medium strength. Balanced Robusto, with a decent persistence. The complexity and the evolution are not its best spots, being very limited.

The aromatic palette delivers aromas of cocoa, walnut and wood.

The base is slightly sweet in the first third. In some puff get developed black tea notes.

Vegas Robaina Famosos

87

/100

- Cuba

Size: cepo 50 x 124 mm (4,9”) - EUR: 10,3 € (IT) - 10 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Medium strength. The evolution is lacking in this cigar and also the harmony is not a go for regard. However, the persistence is remarkable and the aromatic palette deep.

It delivers notes of hazelnut, spices and balsamic hebrs. The latter get richer in the second hal of the smoke. In the final third earthy notes get to the palate aswell.

87

/100

Camacho Barrel Aged Robusto - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 50 x 124 mm (4,9”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 13 € (EU) | USD: 10 $ Wrapper: Conn. Broadleaf | Binder: Conn. Broadleaf | Filler: Honduras & USA Medium to full strength. Balanced and with a great intensity, this Robusto shows a wide and deep aromatic profile, but the evolution is not on the same level.

It exhibits cocoa and earth aromas, that alternate for the whole smoke. In the second half, an enjoyable bitter hint is added, giving something more to the aromatic bouquet.

86

/100

Kristoff Kristania - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 50 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - € (EU) | USD: 5,5 $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R. Medium strength. The balance is on the edge in some puff. The aromatic intensity is good. The persistence is medium.

The aromatic bouquet deliver cocoa and earth notes, which alternate for the whole smoke. From the second half, the cigars develops a acidulous and enjoyable vein.

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/100

Piramides A size that was more appreciated in the past, then it is today. However, there are many products deserving attention in this blind tasting: Cuba has two cigars in the top 5 positions: Vegas Robaina Unico and Sancho Panza Belicoso. In the list are

many well performing products, from many different terroir. Among these, a couple of Dominicans, the new YamasĂ by Davidoff and the La Galera by Jochy Blanco, and one Nicaraguan, the winner: My Father Le Bijou.

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BLIND TASTING

My Father Le Bijou Torpedo - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 52 x 156 mm (6,1”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 11 € (EU) | USD: 12 $ Wrapper: Habano Oscuro | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua Medium to full strength. Great balance, from the first to the last puff. Very rich and intense, with a deep aromatic palette. The persistence is long. Very fulfilling.

The aromatic bouquet opens up with walnut and black pepper, soon accompanied by balsamic herbs, earth and wood resin. The finale is roasted (coffee) and earthy.

93

/100

Vegas Robaina Unicos - Cuba

Size: cepo 52 x 156 mm (6,1”) - EUR: 13,4 € (IT) - 13,5 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Slightly over the medium strength. Intense and savory, it develops a complex and satisfying smoke. The evolution is not too wide but the bouquet is wide.

It delivers tree nuts (mainly nuts) notes, together with balsamic herbs. The base is lightly sweet. In some puff, roasted notes of coffee are perceivable and in the part gets very earthy.

92

/100

Davidoff Yamasa - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 52 x 165 mm (6,5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 24 € (EU) | USD: 24 $ Wrapper: Yamasà | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R. & Nicaragua Medium. Great intensity and harmony. Elegant and refined it develops a wide and deep aromatic palette. Fulfilling and creamy.

It delivers fine wood, black pepper and light vanilla. In the second half the cigar turns into piquant spices, coffee notes, leather and balsamic herbs.

91

/100

La Galera Habano Cortador - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 52 x 158 mm (6,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 8,5 € (EU) | USD: 7,5 $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R. Medium to full strength. Well balanced and harmonius, very satisfying and with a wide aromatic palette. The persistence is long.

It brings to the palate cocoa, earth and leather notes. Going on, black pepper, spices and coffee are added. In some puff are perceivable tree nuts aromas.

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/100

Sancho Panza Belicoso - Cuba

Size: cepo 52 x 156 mm (6,1”) - EUR: 12 € (IT) - 11 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Slightly under the medium strength. Rustic smoke, easy but straight and close to the Sancho Panza aromatic profile. It develops a nice evolution. Good intensity.

At the beginning is nutty and woody, with some vegetal and piquant notes to it. Later on, earthy notes get delivered, together with aged wood and aromatic herbs.

Drew Estate Undercrown Shade

90

/100

- Nicaragua

Size: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 9 $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Sumatra | Filler: Dominican R. & Nicaragua Medium strength. Great balance and harmony. The evolution is well perceivable and the aromatic palette is wide and complex. It delivers a huge amount of smoke.

It exhibits fine wood, white pepper and balsamic herbs, with hints of cinnamon. In the second half the spices get richer. Later on earthy ad coffee notes come to the palate. The finale is leathery.

89

/100

Caldwell The King is Dead - Dominican R.

Size: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 11 € (EU) | USD: 11 $ Wrapper: Dominican R. | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R. Light to medium strength. Balanced and harmonious, with a decent persistence. The evolution and the complexity are less remarkable. Refined and cramy.

The aromatic palette is made of cedar wood, cocoa and spices (pink pepper), that alternate each other for the whole smoke. The spices get richer in the last third.

89

/100

Royal Danish Sangre Azul - Costa Rica

Size: cepo 52 x 127 mm (5”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 6 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Nicaragua | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua Medium to full strength. Well balanced and intense smoke. The evolution is well perceivable. Satisfying and with a good intensity to it.

Walnut, black pepper and piquant spices get develops in the first part. Then it turns into woody, earthy and nutty aromas. The spices are very rich. The finale is earthy and peppery.

88

/100

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BLIND TASTING

CAO Colombia Magdalena - Nicaragua

Size: cepo 54 x 158 mm (6,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7 € (EU) | USD: 7,8 $ Wrapper: Honduras | Binder: Cameroon | Filler: Brazil, Colombia Medium strength. It develops a structured aromatic palette, with a good complexity. The intensity is good and the persistence long. Satisfying.

It delivers walnut, aged wood and mineral notes. The second half adds spices and piquant notes, together with balsamic herbs. In the finale the mineral notes become the main aroma.

L’Atelier La Mission

88

/100

- Nicaragua

Size: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - - € (EU) | USD: 8,5 $ Wrapper: Mexico | Binder: Nicaragua | Filler: Nicaragua Medium to full strength. The intensity is remarkable and the aromas are well defined.

Balanced but with one defect: a too linear evolution. Despite this, the smoke is creamy and satisfying.

It exhibits cocoa and earthy notes, accompanied by roasted and citrus aromas. In the second half, the black pepper kicks in.

88

/100

Maria Mancini Torpedo - Honduras

Size: cepo 54 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 5,5 € (EU) | USD: 5 $ Wrapper: Honduras | Binder: Honduras | Filler: Honduras Medium to full strength. Very fulfilling smoke, with a nice complexity to it. The intensity is great and the persistence very long. The evolution is perceivable.

The aromatic palette is made of earth, cocoa, fine wood and citrus.

In some puff are recognizable spicy notes. The finale alternates cocoa and earth.

Cuenca y Blanco Torpedo Especial

88

/100

- Nicaragua

Size: cepo 50 x 160 mm (6,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 10 $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Nicaragua, Peru Medium strength. Harmonious and intense smoke. The evolution is lacking, as the complexity. The smoke is, however, easy to enjoy.

The main aroma is the aged wood (oak), well present during the whole smoke. It is accompanied by leather and vanilla, that develop on a light savory base.

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87

/100

Quesada Oktoberfest 2016 Das Boot - Dominican R. Size: cepo 52 x 152 mm (6”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 9 € (EU) | USD: 8 $ Wrapper: Dominican R. | Binder: Dominican R. | Filler: Dominican R.

Light strength. Well balanced and harmonius. The aromatic palette is decent aswell as the persistence. The intensity is good.

The cigar delivers floral notes, togher with cocoa and cedar wood aromas. In the second half are recognizable light roasted coffee notes and nuts.

86

/100

Diplomaticos No.2 - Cuba

Size: cepo 52 x 156 mm (6.1”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 11 € (EU) | USD: - $ Wrapper: Cuba | Binder: Cuba | Filler: Cuba Medium strength. Despite the length, the aromatic palette shows little changed during the smoke. The intensity is good and the persistence decent.

The aromatic bouquet brings to the palate rich woody and vanilla notes, with white pepper in the background. In some puff are perceivable roasted aromas.

Alec Bradley Connecticut

85

/100

- Honduras

Size: cepo 60 x 160 mm (6,2”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 7,5 € (EU) | USD: 7 $ Wrapper: Ecuador | Binder: Honduras | Filler: Honduras & Nicaragua Light to medium strength. The intensity and the evolution are decent. Well balanced and harmonious. It lacks on complexity and persistence.

Id delivers peanuts notes, which are the main flavor for the whole length of the smoke. In the back ground are perceivable peppery notes, coffee and hay.

Zino Platinum Rocket

85

/100

- Dominican R.

Size: cepo 60 x 156 mm (6,1”) - EUR: - € (IT) - 29 € (EU) | USD: 34 $ Wrapper: Ecuado | Binder: USA | Filler: Dominican R., Peru Medium strength. Easy smoke, with a linear evolution to it. The persistence and the complexity are limited.

The aromatic palette is made of wood, roasted notes and spices, that alternates for the whole smoke. In the last part get develops a slightly bitter vein.

85

/100

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EVENTS

Intertabac THE EUROPEAN MAIN EVENT

by Michel Arlia

Like every year the world of tobacco gathers, in mid September, in Dortmund, Germany, at the biggest tobacco fair in Europe: the Intertabac.

With around 450 exhibitors, from 60 different countries, and an impressive number of 11â&#x20AC;&#x2122;700 visitors, the Intertabac continues to be the most important fair of this sector.

The cigar world has seen a continuation of last years trend, meaning that the new releases presented were many, this year as well.

The new tubos from Padron, the 20 anniversary of the Opus X of Arturo Fuente, The Davidoff Yamasa, the Andalusian Bull of La Flor Dominicana, the Presse of Flor de Selva, the WunderLust of

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Romacraft, just to name a small part of the news that were presented.

You could not miss the recurrent personalities from the cigar world, like Jorge Padron, Carlito Fuente, Jonathan Drew, A.J Fernandez, Pete Johnson and many many more. Many of the stands presented also a new look, which reflects the will to be present and move forward in Europe.

The most noticeable fact of this year are the many brands (big or small in the States) present, with their own stand or part of a stand, for the first time: Caldwell Cigars, Quesada Cigars, Oscar Valladares, Jas Sum Kral, Roma Craft, Cavalier de Geneve, Fratello Cigars, Dumbarton Tobacco & Trust (Steve Saka), etc.

Antonio & Litto Gomez The increase of interest in respect of the European Market can be speculated to be due to the new FDA regulation going on in the States.

What can be said with certainty is that the European Aficionado has a positively interesting future ahead of him.

Xikar Volta: 5,4 x 10,1 cm.

Liana & Carlos Jr Fuente

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EVENTS

Jorge Padrรณn and son, Cesar Gadea

Jonathan Drew

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Tatuaje Skinny Monsters

Didier Houvenaghel

Steve Saka

Juan MartĂ­nez

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INFO

Vocabulary

MEANING OF THE TERMINOLOGIES USED Anilla: paper band on the cigar, which is used to identify the brand.

Calibre (cepo or ring gauge): diameter of the cigar.

Capa (wrapper): the leaves used to wrap the Tripa and the Capote.

Capote (binder): the leaves used to wrap the Tripa.

Catadores: from the factory assigned employees, which try the cigars on a daily bases, to verify the quality.

Cepo: ring gauge.

Claro: tonality of the light brown color of the wrapper.

Colorado: tonality of the chestnut brown color of the wrapper.

Colorado claro: tonality of the light brown color of the wrapper.

Colorado maduro: tonality of the dark brown color of the wrapper.

Figurado: a cigar which presents a pointed end.

Fortaleza: the sensation of the strength, which the smoke provokes in the throat of the smoker with every puff.

Galera: a place where the cigars are prepared.

I.S.: International Shape.

Largo: length of the cigar.

Liga: the mixture of the leaves used, which characterizes the cigar.

Ligero: leaves that are harvested in the higher part of the tobacco plants and that give the strength to the cigar.

Maduro: tonality of the mahogany-dark brown color of the wrapper.

Medio tempo: leaves that are harvested in the top part of the tobacco plants.

Puro: a cigar, which is exclusively prepared with leaves from the resulting country.

Seco: leaves that are harvested in the interim part of the tobacco plants and give aroma to the cigar.

SLD: short for Slide Lid Box. Tercio: ball of untreated tobacco.

Thirds (first, second and third): parts in which the cigar gets divided.

Torcedore: employee who rolls the cigars.

Tripa (filler): leaves which compose the filling of the cigar.

Tripa corta: a filling which is composed of the cuts, pieces and damaged leaves.

Tripa larga: a filling with whole leaves.

Vitola: module or format of the cigar with an established diameter and length.

Vitola de galera: unique name which is attributed to distinguish the different formats, independent of the name which is will be given to the cigar (Marevas, Prominentes, etcâ&#x20AC;Ś).

Vitola de salida: name attributed to the commercial end and changes from each brand (Siglo VI, Serie D no. 4, etc...).

Volado: leaves which are harvested at the bottom part of the tobacco plant. Fundamental for the combustion of the cigar.

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Sections

WHAT YOU CAN FIND ON CIGARSLOVER MAGAZINE DRINKS The better beverages reviewed and explained. The new products and the old fascinated ones, with a hint of history.

PAIRINGS The best alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks which perfectly match with cigars. When pairing becomes a source of absolute pleasure.

EVENTS The main international events.

Fairs, meetings and everything having the cigar as the main character.

PILLS A brief article that goes straight to the heart of the matter. A topic to be read in one breath, a small pill.

FAMOUS SMOKERS Biographies and curiosity about famous people of present and past days, that all have in common just one this: a huge passion for cigars.

SLOW ATTITUDE Technical ar ticles for a better understanding of the product cigar secrets and insights of use for both beginners and aficionados.

INTERVIEW Stories of passions narrated directly by the protagonists: interviews with insiders, tobacconists, importers, collectors, and so on and so forth.

TOBACCO HISTORY Stories from the tobacco world: the big brands, the crops, the manufacturers of the past, and the city grew on the tobacco business.

LINE UP Insights, reviews and evaluations about all the cigars that belong to the same line, plus details about its making.

TOOLS Accessories are an essential element for the modern smoker: cutters, humidors, lighters, cigar holders, furnishing accessories.

MADE IN ITALY Reviews, discussions and insights regarding the cigars made in Italy. The tradition of Tuscani, the novelty of Nostrano del Brenta and more!

VINTAGE The world of collecting: cigars aged for decades, the great classics of the past and rarest cubans.

The charm and the quality of the impossible.

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