Cigar review: Macanudo Inspirado Red
General Cigar decided we did not have enough Macanudo choices on the market so they felt inspired to produce the Inspirado Red. I was sent a sample pack of these smokes in order to to review.
As always, how and where I receive the cigar does not influence my judgment but the best way to decide for yourself is to smoke it.
Brand/Name of Cigar: Macanudo/Inspirado Red
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: 5 x 50
Wrapper: Ecuador (Habano Ligero)
Binder: Nicaragua (Jalapa)
Filler: Honduras (Jamastran) and Nicaragua (Esteli Ometepe)
Shape: Robusto
Price: MSRP, $6.49
Where and When Smoked: Los Angeles, Ca. 4/22/18
Appearance/Construction: Box pressed with a darkish brown wrapper, very oily feel. I usually like that in a cigar. Very manly looking , solid construction, with a hip, modern cigar band. Small veins but no glaring issues in the construction.
Flavor/Taste and Aroma: First third was a pleasing combo of rich chocolate and nuts. I also perceived a hint of mint. I sat in a chair in my backyard as it was about 80 degrees in LA and puffed away. Seemed like a good way to spend the afternoon.
Second third gave me a new taste of spice which added to the enjoyment. The spice was not a blast but more of a steady stream which overall enhanced the experience. I still sat in my chair as the afternoon wore on.
Now we came upon the final third and the cigar hit a roadblock. The blend threw off a bit of a metallic taste which was not expected as I liked the cigar till then. I kept with it and eventually the metalic taste magically vanished. Have not idea what this was about.
Smoking Characteristics: Pretty straight up burn with a minor deviation but as far as I could figure out , was not a problem. The ash was mostly medium grey and the burn had no relight.
Conclusion/Overall Impression: I am glad that General Cigar sent me five samples to try. I liked the blend and my feeling as I smoke some more of these cigars, I will like it better. The cigar lasted somewhat over an hour and most of it was time well spent.
Final Thoughts and the numbers:
The Red has a good price point, and if aged I think will not have the harshness I experienced in the final third. Well worth trying it and sitting in your own backyard. If you want , you can join me in my yard but let me know you are coming over.
Appearance/Construction: 4 out 5
Flavor/Taste and Aroma: 3.3 out of 5
Smoking Characteristics: 3.5 out of 5
Conclusion/Overall Impression: 3.6 out 5
This is a buy and worth smoking.
Keep smoking