Holiday Cigars
photo by Edward Addeo
“Vote early and vote often” - Al Capone
The weather outside is chilly and brisk as I write this from SMOKE’s offices in New York’s Times Square. Meanwhile, in the decidedly warmer climes of south Florida, government workers arc frantically counting Presidential votes, even though the Election was well over two weeks ago. Yes, Virginia, as of this writing, we Americans are still without a President-elect. But whomever the heir apparent to the Oval Office is, there's some respite in sight, because the holiday season is now upon us. And whether you're decorating the Christmas tree, lighting the Hanukkah candles, or even joining "Seinfeld’s" George Costanza in dragging out the ol' Festivus Pole, one thing is constant; it's the time to give and receive gifts.
For some of us, good things come in large packages, like the graduate student's new car, the budding musician's drum set, or the movie fanatic's home entertainment system. Others look forward to smaller gifts, like the weary city-dweller whose eyes light up at airline tickets to the Bahamas or the up-and-coming young exec who drools over a Swiss watch. The same holds true of cigars: some are big, some small, many fall somewhere in-between. And everyone's got their own taste. The holidays are a time of tradition, and so for this Winter Review, we opted to stick with cigars of the traditional corona shape - but to include the whole gamut of sizes: petit corona, grand corona, double corona, and a smattering of toros and Churchills, as well.
If the findings of our panelists indicate anything, it seems to be that bigger is indeed better, as two of the largest cigars in the survey, Estavan Cruzs Corona Gigante and Padron's Diplomatico copped two of the highest scores (a 4.5 and 4.4, respectively), and La Gloria Cubana's Serie R. No. 6, a barrel-chested monster with a hefty 60 ring gauge (the largest in the survey) weighed in with a respectable 4.3.
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SMOKE Cigar Ratings |
|---|
| Rating | Quality |
|---|
| 0-2.0 | Poor |
| 2.1-2.9 | Fair |
| 3.0-3.7 | Good |
| 3.8-4.4 | Excellent |
| 4.5-5.0 | Superior |
An increasing array of box-pressed smokes are winning over cigar mavens as well: our friends at C.A.0. grabbed the top single score this time around, with their LAnniversaire Cameroon earning an astounding 4.6 (Maybe we should all start wrapping our holiday gifts in Cameroon leaf!), and two offerings from perennial top contenders Tabacalera Perdomo, the La Tradicion Cabinet Series, Perdomo Reserve No. 4 (4.5) and the Perdomo Estate Seleccion Imperio (4.2) had a typically strong showing.
A few new offerings from General Cigar, the Excalibur 1066 King Arthur (4.3) and the Sancho Panza Caballero (4.2) won over our panel, as did the new Don Tomas Dominican Selection Corona (4.2) from U.S. Cigar. Davidoff of Geneva also unveiled another winner, garnering a 4.2 for its new Tubo 2000 Corona.
If you feel like making a clandestine run for the border for your holiday shopping, three Cubans in the survey all pulled respectable numbers as well, with a 4.2 for the Montecristo No. 3 and Saint Luis Rey Petit Corona, and a 4.1 for the Bolivar Corona Extra.
Thanks go to our hard-working panel, which this month included SMOKE "Become a Reviewer" Contest winners Brian Levine, James Childress, and Rob Malone. And remember, you, too, can have a chance to review cigars for SMOKE by logging on to our contest page. And while you're at it, drop us a line about our redesigned Review format that debuts this issue.
But for now, sit back, light up, and use this review to start picking out gifts for the cigar lovers on your list, and for yourself as well. The holiday season brings craziness of its own, and sometimes we all need some of those quiet cigar moments. Who knows? Maybe by the time you read this, we'll actually know who our next Commander in Chief is. And whomever it may be, perhaps this one will know the proper use of a good cigar.
- Mark Bernardo
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 |  | H. UPMANN Tubo Gold | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Altadis USA | Wrapper:
Indo/Conn | Filler:
DR/Mex | Binder:
DR | Price:
$4.25 | | Panelist #1 |
Just a good smoke all the way around, with great construction, robust flavor, and a clean aroma. SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
Relatively bland; I smoked it after lunch and it tasted OK, but I probably wouldn’t put it in my rotation. SCORE 3.4 | | Panelist #3 |
My first choice for a nine-hole golfing excursion. An outstanding cigar with character, abundant in taste. SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #4 |
A seasoned smoke, rolled with the hairy-chested in mind. You’ll want a Scotch and a pooch at your feet. SCORE 4.2 |
 |  | C.A.O. L’ANNIVERSAIRE Corona Maduro | Country:
Nic | Manufacturer:
C.A.O. | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Nic | Binder:
Ecu | Price:
$6.30 | | Panelist #1 |
You have to work to puff this one, which takes a bit of relaxation out of it, but the blend is excellent. SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #2 |
A sassy little smoke with good Nicaraguan characteristics. It would likely go quite well with a martini. SCORE 3.8 | | Panelist #3 |
A good, solid smoke all the way. I enjoyed this and would add it to my humidor, even with the box-press! SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #4 |
A good smoke to have outdoors. The bold taste wearies the palate; inhale at your own risk! SCORE 3.7 |
 | | LICENCIADOS Excelentes | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Mike’s Cigar | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$3.00 | | Panelist #1 |
A pleasant little surprise. This is a ‘must-try’ for fans of the lighter and milder smokes. SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #2 |
An unassuming cigar, built with a novice in mind. I’d recommend it for those with a more delicate palate. SCORE 3.2 | | Panelist #3 |
A crowd pleaser. All natural lovers will appreciate this one. It won me over completely. SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #4 |
Not an ass-kicking cigar, but a romantic one. Have one in the morning or midday, after lunch. SCORE 4.0 |
 | | PUROS INDIOS No. 4 Especiale | Country:
Honduras | Manufacturer:
Puros Indios | Wrapper:
Ecu | Filler:
Br/DR/Nic | Binder:
Ecu | Price:
$3.30 | | Panelist #1 |
A top-notch stogie in all aspects. If you like a well-built, full-bodied smoke, this one’s a must-try.SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
This one’s most appealing after a steak dinner. I’ll buy some for special occasions, depending on the price. SCORE 3.3 | | Panelist #3 |
A good, quality smoke, smooth and pleasant. The second sample was more full-bodied, but just as nice. SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #4 |
This a perfect cigar for after dinner. Relax with it a little while, as it needs a little room to blossom. SCORE 4.5 |
 |  | NAT SHERMAN VIP Barnum | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Nat Sherman | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Braz | Binder:
DR | Price:
$9.30 | | Panelist #1 |
Dry and fussy coming out of the gate, this cigar develops some very nice characteristics as you smoke it. SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #2 |
It started out as a mild smoke, but picked up in intensity and complexity. I’m looking forward to another! SCORE 3.6 | | Panelist #3 |
Frankly, I needed some Scope after this one. I think this cigar was smoked way before its time. SCORE 2.7 | | Panelist #4 |
Not a bad little cigar overall. If you want a quick smoke, and like ‘em on the lighter side, give these a try.
SCORE 3.8
|
 |  | LA PERLA HABANA Black Pearl | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
La Perla Hab. | Wrapper:
Hon/Conn | Filler:
DR/Hon/Mex | Binder:
Honduras | Price:
$3.30 | | Panelist #1 |
A real man’s cigar, with an incongruous absence of much smoke. Ideal for hiding in a disapproving bar.
SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #2 |
I would smoke this again! A straightforward stogie, with nice power and body. Solid and satisfying.
SCORE 3.8 | | Panelist #3 |
This one could be a sleeper; it lived up to the promise of its appearance. I’d definitely carry this in my shop!
SCORE 3.8 | | Panelist #4 |
Just like heaven. I’d make the extra effort to get this even if it were in the $10 to $20 range!
SCORE 4.6 |
 |  | J-R ULTIMATE Corona | Country:
Honduras | Manufacturer:
Santa Clara | Wrapper:
Hon | Filler:
Hon | Binder:
Hon | Price:
$3.25 | | Panelist #1 |
Perhaps the best of the batch. A sassy smoke; good body and rich flavor. I’m looking forward to another.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
A pleasant surprise, after my initial judgment of its appearance. A fine smoke from start to finish. SCORE 3.8 | | Panelist #3 |
All the samples were consistent - unfortunately. Dry and uneven-burning, the harsh taste was too much.
SCORE 2.9 | | Panelist #4 |
All the samples were consistent. This one is perfect for after dinner, with your favorite brandy or port.
SCORE 4.0 |
 | | AVO Notturno Tubo | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Davidoff | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$6.25 | | Panelist #1 |
This cigar never quit in the taste department. Good with a beer, probably better with a single malt. SCORE 4.3 | | Panelist #2 |
So many fine rollers, so little fine tobacco to work with. I’m sorry, but these just don’t taste like premiums.
SCORE 2.7 | | Panelist #3 |
A great “any time of day” cigar. I enjoyed it while driving home from work. It just relaxes you!
SCORE 3.9 | | Panelist #4 |
An overall excellent cigar. This one is great for when you want that full, rich taste but you’re short on time.
SCORE 4.0 |
 |  | PLAYBOY BY DON DIEGO Gran Corona | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Altadis | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Braz | Binder:
DR | Price:
$8.50 | | Panelist #1 |
This makes for a mild celebration for the right occasion. Consistent and mild, it’s a good afternoon smoke.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #2 |
A newcomer to cigars would probably enjoy this one. In my own opinion, I think it could use a little age.
SCORE 2.7 | | Panelist #3 |
This was somewhat of a grueling expedition. Enter this cigar’s realm at your own risk.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #4 |
A fine smoke for a leisurely day out on the boat. It’s not a powerhouse, but it will be a reliable companion.
SCORE 4.1 |
 |  | PERDOMO2 Exponente | Country:
Nic | Manufacturer:
Perdomo | Wrapper:
Cam | Filler:
Nic | Binder:
Nic | Price:
$6.00 | | Panelist #1 |
A fantastic, flavorful cigar, highly recommended. It’s full-bodied and packed with loads of savory flavor.
SCORE 4.8 | | Panelist #2 |
In all, an OK smoke for football watching. Judging by its appearance, I expected it to be more full-bodied.
SCORE 3.3 | | Panelist #3 |
A very good cigar, hindered a bit by muscle-bound rollers using too much filler. “Full-bodied” fans should try it.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #4 |
This is a cigar for the afternoon or evening. I recommend buying some and storing them for awhile.
SCORE 4.3 |
 |  | ASTRAL Descanso | Country:
Hon | Manufacturer:
UST | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Nic | Binder:
DR | Price:
$3.80 | | Panelist #1 |
I recommend these as a good morning smoke, or at any time of the day for someone who likes them light.
SCORE 4.1 | | Panelist #2 |
A very flavorful and tasty one here; not overpowering, but enjoyable. A well-made cigar, with great flavors.
SCORE 3.9 | | Panelist #3 |
I can’t recommend this one. Heed my advice and spend your money on something else.
SCORE 3.0 | | Panelist #4 |
I’m not a fan of mild smokes, but this one won me over. An excellent diversion from a heavyweight cigar.
SCORE 4.0 |
 |  | EXCALIBUR 1066 King Arthur | Country:
Honduras | Manufacturer:
General Cigar | Wrapper:
Cam | Filler:
DR/Hon/Nic | Binder:
Conn | Price:
$4.55 | | Panelist #1 |
Even with the wonderful flavors and aroma, my favorite aspect was how great this baby felt in my hands!
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #2 |
I didn’t enjoy this as much as I expected to, but it’s worth a try. It may be just what you’re looking for.
SCORE 3.9 | | Panelist #3 |
A good companion to either a pint of stout or a double espresso, this one’s versatile. But take it outside!
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #4 |
A consistent, high-quality, medium-bodied bomb. Like Tonto, this cigar can be a trusted sidekick.
SCORE 4.5 |
 | | 898 COLLECTION Corona | Country:
Jamaica | Manufacturer:
Mike’s Cigar | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$4.80 | | Panelist #1 |
This cigar never let me down. Put it on your Christmas list and hope you find it in your stocking!
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #2 |
Great construction and mechanics are a real plus, but some age could make this corona outstanding.
SCORE 3.6 | | Panelist #3 |
All in all, a very raw combo. In my opinion, this cigar is too immature to be offered to anyone you like.
SCORE 2.5 | | Panelist #4 |
Smooth, well-constructed, and consistent in flavor, this corona would make for a good after-brunch treat.
SCORE 3.6 |
 | | DAVIDOFF Tubo 2000 | Country:
DR | Manufacturer:
Davidoff | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR | Binder:
DR | Price:
$8.30 | | Panelist #1 |
Wherever this cigar came from, it’s good, and I want it in my store! It’s great for after just about any meal.
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #2 |
The fairly mild yet complex flavors made this one an enjoyable smoke. Especially nice for a midday break.
SCORE 3.5 | | Panelist #3 |
Respect this cigar. Avert your eyes and bring a drink with you. Recom-mended for anyone sick of the norm.
SCORE 4.0 | | Panelist #4 |
As close to perfect as a cigar can get; the best I’ve had in quite some time, maybe in the top five ever.
SCORE 4.8 |
 | | S.T. DuPONT Churchill | Country:
Can. Isl. | Manufacturer:
S.T. DuPont | Wrapper:
Indo | Filler:
DR/Braz | Binder:
DR | Price:
$8.20 | | Panelist #1 |
A fantastic smoke. I could see myself having one of these every day, paired up with a peaty single malt.
SCORE 4.5 | | Panelist #2 |
She ain’t perfect. She’s got her faults. But in the pursuit of satisfaction, she’s worth the ride.
SCORE 3.9 | | Panelist #3 |
This reminded me of a Nicaraguan cigar that’s missing a key ingredient. There are better mild smokes.
SCORE 2.4 | | Panelist #4 |
My own taste leans toward more full-bodied smokes, but I’d definitely take one of these if it were offered.
SCORE 4.0 |
 | | BOLIVAR Corona Extra | Country:
Cuba | Manufacturer:
Habanos SA | Wrapper:
Cuba | Filler:
Cuba | Binder:
Cuba | Price:
$15+ | | Panelist #1 |
You work a little for it, but this cigar yields up a distinctly satisfying experience for a seasoned smoker.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
Construction was fair, but flavors were interestingly complex. I would reach for this one again, I believe.
SCORE 3.8 | | Panelist #3 |
Not a smoke for the uninitiated, and not for before dinner. Enjoy this one in the evening, after a heavy meal.
SCORE 4.1 | | Panelist #4 |
Flavors made up for the questionable construction. Have this with a Scotch that can keep up with it!
SCORE 4.4 |
 | | CARLOS TORANO RESERVA SELECTA Petit Corona | Country:
Hon | Manufacturer:
Torano | Wrapper:
Conn | Filler:
DR/Hon/Nic | Binder:
Indo | Price:
$5.95 | | Panelist #1 |
Just an enjoyable, tasty little smoke that I’d have any time of day. It’s small in size, but not in flavor.
SCORE 4.1 | | Panelist #2 |
Give this cigar six months in a humidor, and you have a great summertime smoke. Happy July 4th!
SCORE 3.4 | | Panelist #3 |
All in all, not one I couldn’t live without, but certainly a worthwhile smoke when your time is short.
SCORE 3.6 | | Panelist #4 |
Anyone that passes on trying this remarkable little cigar would be no friend of mine. Highest marks.
SCORE 4.6 |
 | | TE-AMO ANNIVERSARIO Vintage 98 Churchill | Country:
Mex | Manufacturer:
Altadis | Wrapper:
Mex | Filler:
Mex | Binder:
Mex | Price:
$5.00 | | Panelist #1 |
A very approachable start for those who tend to be intimidated by the “big boys” in the cigar echelon.
SCORE 4.2 | | Panelist #2 |
All in all, this monster looked a little better than it smoked, but it certainly wasn’t a bad cigar experience.
SCORE 3.8 | | Panelist #3 |
You can’t judge a book by its cover. The second sample was better than the first, but still wasn’t top-notch.
SCORE 2.9 | | Panelist #4 |
I enjoyed this cigar. The perfect outdoor accompaniment to a four-star tequila and a good book.
SCORE 4.5 |
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