I missed this cigar event held at my cigar lounge , The Lone Wolf Cigar Lounge in West Los Angeles
The featured cigar was the Montecristo Espada, a blend from the capable hands of Nestor Placencia in tandem with Altadis, a cigar giant.
I received a free sample from the owner of the Wolf, the affable David Weiss. As always who and how I received the sample does not influence my judgment when I review a cigar. Cigar reviews are subjective so consider my viewpoint and make your own conclusion.
Brand/ Name of Cigar:
Montecristo/ Espada
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: 5 x 54
Wrapper: Nicaragua Habano
Filler : Nicaragua
Shape: Ricasso
Price: Received the cigar gratis, check the Lone Wolf Cigar Lounge for current price
Where and when smoked: Los Angeles, Ca. 4/10/16
The marketing boys must have had first dibs when this cigar was constructed. 3 bands surrounded the stick which effectively hid what the cigar looked like. I slightly damaged the wrapper when I removed the bands to smoke. Despite this the overall appearance had a light brown wrapper with small veins in the body. Construction was solid, well packed, no soft spots or major flaws. Not much of an oily feel .
Flavor/ Taste and Aroma
This is a smooth operator in the first third. My first hit was a blend of vanilla and grass which was why it was so smooth. It was enjoyable enough but was hoping for more of a kick. The flavor though was consistent which is a plus.
Had a bit of a burn issue in the second third as the photo shows. The draw was good with a pleasing ash of dark grey. The aroma was not a factor, neither overpowering or really evident. The final third was getting a charred taste creating a bitter flavor profile.
Conclusion/ Overall Impression:
Overall this was a disappointing smoke. The bitter taste stayed with me even after I finished the cigar. This is not what you hope for in a product especially as highly touted as the Espada. I guess even the greats such as Nestor Placencia have an off day.
Here is the breakdown:
Appearance/ Construction: 3 out out 5
Flavor/ Taste and Aroma: 2.5 out of 5
Smoking Characteristics: 2 out of 5
Conclusion/ Overall Impression: 2.5 out of 5
Final Thoughts:
Did not make my cut so this is a no go in my humidor. The price point is up there too which might also give you second thoughts if this is a factor.
Keep smoking