tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71870180656673628242024-03-19T00:04:23.252-05:00Simply Smoke & AshesChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-42422389664781863622010-08-22T13:59:00.006-05:002010-08-22T14:05:26.729-05:00Vato Cigars Vegas BlendVato Cigars Las Vegas Blend<br />Wrapper: Connecticut<br />Binder: Ecuador<br />Filler: Dominican and Honduras<br />Size: 5 ½” x 54 Robusto Largo<br />Strength: Mild<br />Blended by: Vato Cigars<br /><br />Initial Observations: The wrapper is a medium brown with no imperfections. Any veins on the wrapper are very small, which gives the cigar a smooth, streamlined look. It appears to be wrapped well. The cigar has a mild aroma of wood and a nice earthiness.<br /><br />Cut: Slightly soft but the cap stayed together.<br /><br />Prelight draw: The draw was very loose, sure to produce plenty of smoke.<br />Toast and burn: I was able to easily achieve an even toast and the light was effortless without requiring any touching up.<br /><br />First Blush Puffs: Slighty cedary, very smooth with an abundance of creamy smoke.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK514Jb_pHB05eUJEYb9JGqTdfo7We-gqzvz13VCG_90xT8Nj_ryfH31lG2_jiYWhMF5jNQfcRokSwauMo3sByHwutoGmlNso4MAyKtLTmJRvzWhJrgE81PRwx0HDJ3K1CwKqpotWH638/s1600/vegasblend1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 232px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK514Jb_pHB05eUJEYb9JGqTdfo7We-gqzvz13VCG_90xT8Nj_ryfH31lG2_jiYWhMF5jNQfcRokSwauMo3sByHwutoGmlNso4MAyKtLTmJRvzWhJrgE81PRwx0HDJ3K1CwKqpotWH638/s320/vegasblend1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508311419670535378" /></a><br /><br />First Third: Notes of Oak and Cedar are evident. The flavors are very well balanced as the ligero from the filler adds a hint of spice without being overwhelming on the palate or in the smell of the smoke. The cigar produces plenty of silky smoke as well with a rich earthy aroma.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpjzvS8fp0Kb6uoiwMVK3cHjiz9-fZ-ZD8Q3oh2yL76QGW6V_qzk7z5rVkMaXu8Wv0Mjq-tTqNq9rYexXV_qFvTnM8aqx2frr-0mcM8T82yjTKdHpy5UA1ORdIplrERYbunYAt8MdeJU/s1600/vegasblend2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFpjzvS8fp0Kb6uoiwMVK3cHjiz9-fZ-ZD8Q3oh2yL76QGW6V_qzk7z5rVkMaXu8Wv0Mjq-tTqNq9rYexXV_qFvTnM8aqx2frr-0mcM8T82yjTKdHpy5UA1ORdIplrERYbunYAt8MdeJU/s320/vegasblend2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508311634742075794" /></a><br /><br />Second Third: The burn has remained perfect and even through the first and into the second third of the cigar. It is clearly a well constructed stick. The notes of wood have picked up and the faint hints of pepper remain on the back of the palate. The flavor profile finishes off with hay and oak.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNoZft66myNOJEVtSo9DSDhMejWOU2XksJUDsfhpVsvDaRTt0L99YCBJ0tO9brRj28KklLtdrjKpuStXpvOYXTjzAPbJLLwTGI90fH7TetLVYPCGfLgWTcwTe9_lpN4j2RrO6gI5lCRA/s1600/vegasblend3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 222px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNoZft66myNOJEVtSo9DSDhMejWOU2XksJUDsfhpVsvDaRTt0L99YCBJ0tO9brRj28KklLtdrjKpuStXpvOYXTjzAPbJLLwTGI90fH7TetLVYPCGfLgWTcwTe9_lpN4j2RrO6gI5lCRA/s320/vegasblend3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508311899919046866" /></a><br /><br />Final Third: The epilogue of this Vegas blend remains as consistent as the rest of the cigar. Plenty of smoke, notes of oak, pepper and tangy cedar with underlying earthy flavors.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2_b17Kyeh1kdPIGckQWc4OVyrNaikdH_a4DZTrkjSd6N4f4ymnaKcH9R6XLsro44nzy8VLsKD_dmbV_rw3EiYZOIq561EIWRb9NiAEA5On8r7MijsTNINi9z49FyspKI9axCc1UNBCNM/s1600/vegasblend4.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 233px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2_b17Kyeh1kdPIGckQWc4OVyrNaikdH_a4DZTrkjSd6N4f4ymnaKcH9R6XLsro44nzy8VLsKD_dmbV_rw3EiYZOIq561EIWRb9NiAEA5On8r7MijsTNINi9z49FyspKI9axCc1UNBCNM/s320/vegasblend4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508312114167158162" /></a><br /><br />Conclusion: Vato Cigars has created a fantastic, balanced cigar. It is a perfect mild cigar for a morning smoke or even a great finish to the evening after a juicy steak with baked potatoes. This cigar is a great combination for a smoker with a more sensitive palate or a smoker new to cigars to experience the complexity and spice that a ligero leaf brings to the palate without being overwhelming. The Vato Cigars Vegas Blend is a cigar that I look forward to trying again and again.Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-71922397534069839932010-07-30T21:23:00.002-05:002010-07-30T22:02:27.915-05:00CAO Hybrid Experiment<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy9to0ZbRAU3N0NxqCyhJhYHpZir4EXXPE2HtYnXy86ui3NDTfdN-3JDdv-I0o0rjQ_-lMp17sHwFxbC7IFYA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-13990584339544531252010-07-29T23:39:00.000-05:002010-07-29T23:40:40.117-05:00The Aficionadas Address of Smoking Sins Article 2I do not want to smoke your mucus.<br /> <br />I am not a fan of booger infused cigars.<br /> <br />DO NOT pick up a cigar, place it right under your nose and sniff! Not only does this transfer your germs to the cigar wrapper but the oils on your hands can be damaging to the wrapper and therefore effect the taste.<br /> <br />I see this time and time again in shops and it makes me want to run for the industrial size bottles of Germ X. It is one thing if they are your own cigars that you have purchased and you will be the only one smoking them. ( It still makes my skin crawl, but hey at least its your choice!) But to see a supposedly educated cigar smoker, pick up a cigar out of a box and drag it under his nose, taking a deep breath in and then placing the cigar BACK IN THE BOX... No, No, No! The unsuspecting patron that picks up that cigar for purchase probably will not notice the slime skidmarks on the wrapper and the experience of such could damage his or her opinion of the cigar for a lifetime.<br /> <br />There is a reason why some cigars have cello; to protect the wrapper of the cigar. The constant touching, moving, picking up of a cigar can cause the wrapper to crack, flake, break down. That is not limited to the oils of the hands. I have seen many cases of someone digging a cigar out of a full new box using the leverage of their fingernail. This is like pulling on a loose thread of a sweater. It can all fall apart with one small piece missing.<br /> <br />Please, respect the shop patrons, shop owners and yourself by keeping your ooze off the oscuros (and every other wrapper)! And remember to double the check the next cigar you pick up. There might be someone else's cold waiting for you. Karma does apply to the cigar industry and they say Karma is a.... well, you know.<br /> <br />This Isn't Nike, Just Don't Do It!<br /><br />simplyChristineChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-64775842907443886672010-07-29T23:33:00.004-05:002010-07-29T23:38:15.357-05:00How Do I Palio?How Do I Palio?<br /><br /> <br /><br />No V cutters. No Scissors. Occasional Punch. Always Palio. For over three years, a simple black Palio cutter has been my method of choice to snip the tip of almost every cigar that touches my lips.<br /><br />As a new cigar smoker, I purchased the inexpensive cutters by the registers of my local B&Ms. I even had a punch on my keychain. But after awhile, they would all break or fall off my keychain. In January 2007, I made my first trip to Oklahoma to visit some good company. Due to flight regulations I was hesitant to pack my lighter and a cutter. So sitting on a leather couch at Maker’s in Bricktown, I had my first experience with a Palio. I loved it. I received one as a gift from someone very dear to me several months later. The only time I do not use that cutter is when I smoke a chisel and I will punch the top.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsoXGEEThs6zG4y7tQ6ju2LFvGfWjb-Vre_m8SyZ9ZnSS5fdxklqMhA0UkKyPmWwR8Cw_HwpX9cw_86xT8X9-lFhm0xtbQgnFlPjP3DmzPTH1jG1d9qUIKKUtBAgzqyeSFabUvnrr6f0/s1600/palio.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsoXGEEThs6zG4y7tQ6ju2LFvGfWjb-Vre_m8SyZ9ZnSS5fdxklqMhA0UkKyPmWwR8Cw_HwpX9cw_86xT8X9-lFhm0xtbQgnFlPjP3DmzPTH1jG1d9qUIKKUtBAgzqyeSFabUvnrr6f0/s320/palio.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499553689050752114" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />The Palio is truly the most durable, reliable cutter on the market. It has a double blade guillotine cut made from hardened surgical steel. The blades are very thin and provide a seamless cut. It is encased in state of the art polymers that make it comfortable to use. It also features “detent positioning” so it won’t open unless you do the opening. It even has a curvature on both sides so you can lay your Palio on the table and place your cigar in the curve, built in cigar rest!<br /><br />Www.Paliocutters.com features 7 available styles. (I currently carry the ever so classy Original Composite.) The company also has a very generous warranty offering a replacement cutter at any retail store if you feel your cutters performance has been compromised. At $30-40 per cutter, with case included, this product is a fantastic deal.<br /><br />I’m very confident in this company. The Palio cutter cuts with precision and ease and can withstand much abuse. I was once told of a conversation in a B&M where two cigar smokers were comparing their cutters, one had a Palio and the other, a competing brand. They went back and forth discussing the design and performance of their cutters and seemed to be at an impasse. All of a sudden, the Palio fan threw his cutter against the wall and it bounced off without a blemish. He turned to the other man and said “Now you do the same with your cutter.” The guy shook his head and put his cutter down.<br /><br />I think that story says a lot about not only the performance of the cutter, but the confidence its consumers have in the product. I know I don’t just speak for myself when I say that the only cutter I will ever purchase is a Palio.<br /><br />Simply ChristineChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-7799281996900834452010-07-29T23:33:00.001-05:002010-07-29T23:33:48.691-05:00The Aficionada's Address of Smoking Sins Article 1When extinguishing a cigar:<br /><br /> DO NOT snub out your cigar by grinding it in the ashtray, on a brick wall or under your foot. This releases a far from pleasant odor. If you leave a cigar alone for several minutes it will discreetly go out on its own. Once out, place it in a trash can or leave it in your ashtray until you are ready to dump out the entire contents. I see so many smokers, new and seasoned that use the grinding method to ensure the cigar is out. Although I love the smell of cigars, the acrid, foul burning smell is not something enjoyable. Please be courteous.<br /><br /> This Isn't Nike, Just Don't Do It<br /><br /> Simply ChristineChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-70793820532028374602010-07-29T23:32:00.001-05:002010-07-29T23:32:48.650-05:00The Brickhouse Robusto by JC NewmanThe Brickhouse Robusto<br /><br />Wrapper: Habana Subido<br /><br />Binder: Nicaraguan<br /><br />Filler: Nicaraguan<br /><br />Size: 5” by 54<br /><br />Price: $4.00<br /><br />Strength: Medium<br /><br />Manufacturer: JC Newman<br /><br /> <br /><br />Initial Observations: The wrapper is a medium brown with slight red hues, small veins and an ever so slightly visible seam. There is slight oil to the wrapper as well. The cap has a triple seam. The odor is robust and earthy.<br /><br />Cut: I used a guillotine cutter to snip off the tip with ease. I was able to cut the end without any shredding or flaking of the remaining cap.<br /><br />Pre-light Draw: Slight pull on the tongue, not too much resistance, seems rolled well<br /><br />Toast and light: Easy and Even with a single flame lighter<br /><br />First blush puffs: Predominately oak flavors, very earthy, medium body<br /><br />First Third: The draw was practically perfect producing moderate amounts of smoke. After half an inch I noticed the strength began to build slightly as a black pepper taste presented in the taste and smell of the smoke. There was no flaking of the ash and the burn remained even. The ash fell after about an inch and a half.<br /><br />Second Third: The Oak and Cedar mellowed slightly as the cigar took on a smooth creamy flavor. A Cedary, peppery aroma was evident in the smoke inhaled through the nostrils. Towards the end of the 2nd third the Oak became more prevalent once again, but not harsh, still very smooth.<br /><br />Last Third: The ash has only dropped twice, the burn is consistent, the draw very smooth with plenty of smoke. Slight hints of cedar and coffee.<br /><br />Conclusion: This cigar is very well constructed and maintained an even burn with no need to relight. This cigar is fantastic for the price. It is a great medium bodied smoke, perfect for a daily cigar. JC Newman did a top notch job blending a cigar that can please the palate of a vast variety of cigar smokers.Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-7080241176761867732010-07-29T23:30:00.000-05:002010-07-29T23:32:00.692-05:00The Best Cigar is the one YOU like best!I would like to take a moment to address a common criticism in reaction to reviews. A reaction often expressed in such a way as, “What are you talking about? There are no notes of leather in that cigar! You have no taste!”<br /><br />The simple fact is everyone’s palate is different. Everyone is going to have a different reaction to the same cigar. But this does not make someone who experiences different flavor notes than you incorrect. A cigar that one person may consider spicy, may be mild to you or vice versa. I believe that is the beauty of the cigar experience. The countless combinations of wrappers, binders and fillers create a unique taste for each individual.<br /><br />This is not linked solely to cigars. Everyone has a different taste in foods, drinks and scents but somehow in this industry I have seen more snobbery in differences of opinion than anywhere else. Instead of engaging in a conversation about separate experience, I have seen, on countless occasions, heated arguments full of disrespectful accusations about another’s taste buds or lack thereof.<br /><br />I would like to enter this disclaimer: My reviews are based solely on my own personal experience, my own palate. I do not however, make any claim to be the superior palate. I would love to hear any comments or opinions on my reviews. Please feel free to suggest cigars you would like to see me review as well.<br /><br />Finally, I ask just one thing, please be respectful, not just of me but of others you may come across. Their opinion about a cigar may be different from yours, but it is just as valid.<br /><br />Simply ChristineChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-80939750269185883922010-05-22T12:51:00.007-05:002010-05-23T17:13:21.014-05:00The Glory of La Gloria Cubana!The newest cigar from La Gloria Cubana is the Artesanos de Tabaqueros from the new Artesano line. It's predecessor is the Artesanos de Miami which was rolled at the El Credito factory in Miami. It is a true success made by the 10 roller team that produced this cigar. La Gloria Cubana upped the ante with an 18 roller team to create a dual wrapped masterpiece, the Artesanos de Tabaqueros.<br /><br />Before even picking up the cigar, the box is gorgeous. I opens in the middle with a lighter shade on the bottom panel, darker on the bottom which mirrors the division of the look of the cigars placed inside. The wrapper is a smooth, flawless Connecticut shade tobacco at the foot of the cigar with a dark, rich, oily Ecuadoran Sumatra in the top two thirds. The binder and filler are Dominican and Honduran tobaccos. All tobaccos that make up this cigar are aged for at least five years according to www.teamlagloria.com<br /><br />There are three sizes, simple enough, as they are named after their dimensions. The 650 is 6 inches in length with a ring gauge of 50. The 652 Belicoso is 6 inches in length and has a ring gauge of 52. Finally, the 750 is 7 inches by 50.<br /><br />I purchased the 652 Belicoso for $9.00 for my review. This cigar was constructed beautifully. The transition between the two wrappers is practically seamless. No splitting in the wrapper, no flaking at the foot. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZQIb5T7zOE4Gm9aHnfHxB3uC1gzXDuWvI2VkWahcJBd5lXBunNY_U9m4lKjDqM5oQ-PoDqY2D3bHwzwYWlPZN5fwggU3nreP1UKpHeb4NG8n3YeB0EMTwMk7JzXXlh8zucoS94IjieA/s1600/lgc+artesanotabaq1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZQIb5T7zOE4Gm9aHnfHxB3uC1gzXDuWvI2VkWahcJBd5lXBunNY_U9m4lKjDqM5oQ-PoDqY2D3bHwzwYWlPZN5fwggU3nreP1UKpHeb4NG8n3YeB0EMTwMk7JzXXlh8zucoS94IjieA/s320/lgc+artesanotabaq1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474220467524728450" /></a><br /><br />The cut was firm but not overly so with no peeling of the cap. I took a prelight draw, which pulled slightly, minimally tight. The toasting of the foot was even as was the light. I immediately noticed the smooth woodiness of the Connecticut wrapper, starting off very mild. The burn remained consistent with a little shakiness after the first inch, which quickly and easily corrected itself. After this point, the ash started to curve slightly but it never flaked.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5qkgDkEpNDRMz8blaifbtX4MXRN-KpCD0LqUVNeH1wmlIJt2l9LYdp4ISODl1GuDM92fx1si6X0y1IstAgXmsnuWdXq3vODmw9z0wOzf_U1CFhCHjgCtDw7AAI60lndFK527DHe93mA/s1600/lgc+artesanotabaq4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5qkgDkEpNDRMz8blaifbtX4MXRN-KpCD0LqUVNeH1wmlIJt2l9LYdp4ISODl1GuDM92fx1si6X0y1IstAgXmsnuWdXq3vODmw9z0wOzf_U1CFhCHjgCtDw7AAI60lndFK527DHe93mA/s320/lgc+artesanotabaq4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474220935742351890" /></a><br /><br />As I got closer to the Sumatra wrapper, the strength of the cigar began to pick up with the notes of wood graduating into a more leathery experience. The burn developed a slight curve, but no big deal!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJ_VqPR02v2RYkkCZ5oT47-c0S_Y79f7E5LZv8rwSEiUMYdikn1LXkKVtgJYaxCeGAwNVZQiRo299SdsGmTyMgIv9kEBuMSGZYpcorEMsOaKjscsFUFiCtLTfJCSsp8P0BwRF8M09hGk/s1600/lgc+artesanotabaq2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 255px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJ_VqPR02v2RYkkCZ5oT47-c0S_Y79f7E5LZv8rwSEiUMYdikn1LXkKVtgJYaxCeGAwNVZQiRo299SdsGmTyMgIv9kEBuMSGZYpcorEMsOaKjscsFUFiCtLTfJCSsp8P0BwRF8M09hGk/s320/lgc+artesanotabaq2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474221208906003250" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3ORjXunsZ1RVWeIlsAb7asA0sBG64REp_1LM9wrlcxTT0DtMIAvcne-Oj9xNwEiZusxiaz7UfTmwjGHJLsYgi9DhUDyZglK8b3OmNkQiv9zSFTmMRoZmiI9ieXVLbEux7pAn8fkphP4/s1600/lgc+artesanotabaq3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 232px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3ORjXunsZ1RVWeIlsAb7asA0sBG64REp_1LM9wrlcxTT0DtMIAvcne-Oj9xNwEiZusxiaz7UfTmwjGHJLsYgi9DhUDyZglK8b3OmNkQiv9zSFTmMRoZmiI9ieXVLbEux7pAn8fkphP4/s320/lgc+artesanotabaq3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474221609939668338" /></a><br /><br />Once I smoked down to the last two thirds, the Sumatra, the taste experience changed drastically and took me by surprise, actually. I immediately experienced notes of coffee and spice, which woke my tastebuds right up! The smell of the smoke was wonderful as the spice tingled my nostrils. Shortly after this point, the ash finally fell, into my lap! I brushed myself off and continued to enjoy my cigar. After the first third, the spices began to mellow a bit and the leather and coffee become more dominant on my palate.<br /><br />I never had to touch up the cigar with my lighter, never had any draw issues, no flaking of the tobacco. The Artesanos de Tabaqueros is a work of art and a treat graduating from mild/med to full bodied. I look forward to smoking more of these and I can't wait to see what else La Gloria Cubana has in store for their Artesano line!<br /><br />Go <a href="http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Blogs/Blog_Detail/0,4695,520,00.html">here</a> to read the blog by David Savona of Cigar Aficionado with a video featuring Mike Giannini of General Cigar.Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-55672235468065684022010-05-17T20:00:00.001-05:002010-05-17T20:01:55.590-05:00Video: How I Light a Cigar by Mydsooner44Very Instructive! Have a listen!:)<br /><br /><object style="background-image:url(http://i4.ytimg.com/vi/GFCwEjT29UQ/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GFCwEjT29UQ&hl=en_US&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GFCwEjT29UQ&hl=en_US&fs=1" width="425" height="344" allowScriptAccess="never" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-75105692162446125052010-05-16T21:39:00.004-05:002010-05-16T22:23:09.539-05:00The (naked) Cigar ReviewSome of you may be listeners on the CigaRobbie Radio Program ( and if not then you should be! Catch him Saturdays at 3pm EST. Listen live online at wsrqradio.com ) and may have already heard my cigar reviews. If not, you are in luck! I have vowed to post them here as well!<br /><br />My first review on the CigaRobbie Show was of the Coronado by La Flor Dominicana. This is not the first time I have smoked this cigar, nor will it be the last! It has quickly moved to my top ten. Ratings for this cigar have all be in the 90s! La Flor has once again created a fantastic cigar!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yEst69mRFkwn0AnT7xef0jlkD7lOrdHjaIEPYGhQKmutDOWKfqEblyYhmhUlypQXN4F-2bw8jEr8qi6wOqoo5gs64Zamxn2jIuqkBJ-DRhQ3L0ilGyqUAyh3Cn2u9yPw9elhKxqT-84/s1600/coronado-big.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 295px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yEst69mRFkwn0AnT7xef0jlkD7lOrdHjaIEPYGhQKmutDOWKfqEblyYhmhUlypQXN4F-2bw8jEr8qi6wOqoo5gs64Zamxn2jIuqkBJ-DRhQ3L0ilGyqUAyh3Cn2u9yPw9elhKxqT-84/s320/coronado-big.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472067738258040770" /></a><br /><br />I chose the Double Corona. Personally, I love this size. It really makes for a lovely, long and enjoyable smoke. It's 7" by 50 with Dominican Sumatra and Piloto Cubano for a filler, a binder of a Dominican Corojo and it is cloaked in a wrapper of Habano Sungrown Nicaraguan Tobaccos.<br /><br />Now for the catch...<br /><br /><b>I removed the wrapper!!!</b><br /><br />It is truly amazing to see how much the choice in wrapper can really effect a cigar. It is about 60 to 80% of the flavor blend of a cigar.<br /><br />In this case, the sungrown is what adds the spice. The wrapper and binder are the foundation. The choices of tobaccos for the binder and filler in the Coronado make for the groundwork that is woody and earthy as well as robust. The notes changed very little through this experience, it was very consistent. The burn was also surprisingly even, eventhough a naked binder is far less pleasing to the eye.<br /><br />Doing this has really enhanced my cigar experience. Blending cigars is truly an art form. There is so much thought and effort that goes into the process of choosing the tobaccos. <br /><br />Eventhough it was a pleasurable experience, it was very clear that there was something missing from the cigar. The sungrown wrapper really rounds out the flavors. The Coronado is a strong, spicy smoke that also has a smoothness and consistence that is lacking in many blends. La Flor Dominicana has truly mastered this art with the Coronado.<br /><br />If you have not tried this cigar yet, I recommend you do so. It is a great treat!<br /><br /><strong></strong><strong></strong>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-68035027720253382272010-04-10T18:02:00.010-05:002010-04-10T20:28:16.455-05:00In the Welterweight Division It's Arturo Fuente VS San Cristobal!!!Since Ashton's release of the Seleccion Del Sol, I have heard it compared to the Arturo Fuente Cuban Belicoso Sungrown. Let's see if this claim can win the championship belt! Here it is: Blow by Blow. As Micheal Buffer says <b>"Let's get ready to RRRRRRRRRUMBLE!!!!"</b><br /><br /><table border="0" width="100%" cellpadding="10"><br /><tr><br /><br /><td width="50%" valign="top"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcE9FiofH22WIbb7t7xvj8ncyu2_5jJ2ro9fuoKfbH0Glc-QDVWtNsEWK48SAsBr9MLoZ846Gxh58T35yCTEG8bICwANETaEon2u8JLaIoPBVpfvuOMXYmBpwCd2-U7U6z4top2yi18w/s1600/cubanbeli.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 275px; height: 149px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcE9FiofH22WIbb7t7xvj8ncyu2_5jJ2ro9fuoKfbH0Glc-QDVWtNsEWK48SAsBr9MLoZ846Gxh58T35yCTEG8bICwANETaEon2u8JLaIoPBVpfvuOMXYmBpwCd2-U7U6z4top2yi18w/s320/cubanbeli.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458659466353110402" /></a><br /><br />Arturo Fuente Cuban Belicoso Sun grown<br />5.7”x50<br />Wrapper:Ecuadorian Sungrown<br />Binder: Dominican<br />Filler:Dominican<br />Strength: Medium<br />Price:$6.50 <br /><br /><p>Appearance: Very well constructed cigar,no noticeable seams,few veins all small</p><br /> <br /><br /><br /><p>Prelight: The belicoso shape makes the cut easy. The cut is slightly firm, no flaking from the tobacco. The draw is a little tight, but barely, nothing to hinder smoke.</P><br /><br /><br /><br /><p>Burn: Easy, even and consistent throughout entire cigar.</p><br /><br /><p>Smoke: Copious amounts of thick spicy smoke throughout</p><br /><br /><p>Flavor: An immediate presence of a peppery spice that mellows slightly throughout the cigar. Notes of cedar are consistent, which is not surprising as it is wrapped in cedar. The woodiness becomes more noticeable towards the end but not overbearing.</p> <br /><br /><p>Ash: Solid, very few flakes</p><br /><br /><p>Summary: Very rich, robust full bodied smoke. Very well constructed. The draw can be a little tight but still<br />produces plenty of spicy smoke.</p><br /><br /></td><br /><br /><td width="50%" valign="top"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdYIPtvoLyt9xLgF8OWkqhosx7UEu22LTj7R8xezURlbxY35bJehfF4KxvEjZW9sivPQnJU8h1I5CVGCWoEI6NhcHNFUHS3Me_-LBdy9HG6pWwFZ5mbbHlxXiMZwQCFxjqYQn2w6yRF8/s1600/SanCristobal_01a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 175px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdYIPtvoLyt9xLgF8OWkqhosx7UEu22LTj7R8xezURlbxY35bJehfF4KxvEjZW9sivPQnJU8h1I5CVGCWoEI6NhcHNFUHS3Me_-LBdy9HG6pWwFZ5mbbHlxXiMZwQCFxjqYQn2w6yRF8/s320/SanCristobal_01a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458659703789077106" /></a><br />San Cristobal Seleccion Del Sol<br />5.5”x 52<br />Wrapper: Nicaraguan Sun grown<br />Binder: Nicaraguan<br />Filler: Nicaraguan<br />Strength: Medium to Full Bodied<br />Price: $7.25<br /><br /><p>Appearance: Smooth, even, well constructed,<br />very few small veins, no seams noticeable.</p><br /><br /><p>Prelight: Easy, firm cut, no seams no unraveling or flaking of tobacco. Open and easy draw sure to create plumes of smoke.</p><br /><br /><p>Burn: Easy, even and consistent throughout almost the entire cigar. Was a bit uneven towards the end, evened out almost immediately.</p><br /><br /><br /><p>Smoke: Copious amounts of rich smoke. Hints of spice.</p><br /><br /><p>Flavor: Mild notes of pepper and spice a woody, cedary undertone that picks up notes of leather. The flavors are very consistent throughout the entire cigar for<br />the most part, the peppery spice did pick back up towards the end which made for a very pleasant finish.</p><br /><br /><p>Ash: Mostly solid, slightly flaky</p><br /><br /><p>Summary: I would rate this as a more medium bodied smoke. It’s lacking the expected Pepin spice but it is still a wonderful treat with plumes of Smoke.</p><br /><br /></td><br /><br /></tr><br /></table><br /><br /><br />In conclusion, really the only discernable difference is strength. The Fuente Cuban Belicoso Sungrown is a good cigar for those of us with a lead stomach. I have known too many people who have sucked down one of these treats on an empty or sensitive stomach and regretted it. The San Cristobal Seleccion Del Sol claims to be more medium-full bodied, however, I would have to label it a medium body cigar better served for a more sensitive or medium palate. It is not lacking in flavor though. Both of these cigars are on my favorites list. Both balanced, flavorful, great construction, good burn. I can't find anything negative to say about either. I guess in the end it's Judges decision! :)Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7187018065667362824.post-50469086238056509822010-04-09T00:05:00.003-05:002010-04-09T00:30:02.414-05:00Ladies and Gentleman, you may smoke!Well, I may have made a small addition to King Edward VII's quote. This was stated after assuming the throne from Queen Victoria. She had banned smoking in the court during her reign. IMAGINE!<br /><br />Actually, I can imagine. Smoking bans are a plague a cross our country. Instead of maintaining well ventilated smoking sections so that we can enjoy one of our God given rights, such sections are being removed. In some places, like college campuses, smoking is being banned on the grounds! We can't even smoke in open air anymore?? Are you kidding me? <br /><br />We are all adults. We know the risks. We know the consequences. We know how therapeutic settling in with a favorite cigar and a Jim Beam Black and Diet Coke can be. However, it should absolutely be our priority to educate our children on the risks as well. In the end, as adults, it is our own choice, our own right, our own pleasure. And it is being threatened and taxed.<br /><br />I won't stand for this.<br /><br />Will you?<br /><br />That's why I am here, to make a stand with all Cigar Aficionados.<br /><br />But that is not the sole purpose of my blog. I am not here to stand on a soapbox (but I will from time to time). I want to share my experiences, reviews and hear from fellow brothers and sisters of the leaf. I want to help and be helped.<br /><br />I always appreciate feedback. And I hope you enjoy mine.<br /><br />Good night for now!Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05599625285715645180noreply@blogger.com0