Cigar review:
CAO/Amazon Anaconda
Several years ago, the CAO brand was the rage in the cigar world. They had a hip, cool appeal with edgy products, catchy marketing and unique blends. Then something happened and they sank to the abyss. Now General Cigar has invested in developing new products with a broader appeal. It is a happening brand again.
I was given the Anaconda gratis from General Cigar for review. As always how and where I receive the product does not impact my judgment. Read my review, smoke the cigar and make your own mind up.
Brand/Name of Cigar: CAO/Amazon Anaconda
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Size: 6 x 52
Wrapper: Brazilian Bahiano, Habano Ligero
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Brazilian Braganca, Brazillian Fuma Em Corda, Columbia, Dominican Republic
Shape: Toro
Price: $10.49 MSRP
Where and When Smoked: Los Angeles, Ca. 5/6/2018
Appearance/Construction: The look is an eye opener with a thin tobacco band across the top. Very dark chocolate wrapper, rustic in its design. You will either love it or hate it. I liked it. Semi oily, veins showing.
Flavor/Taste and Aroma: The initial draw was kind of weird, the smoke tasted like blue cotton candy, the stuff you buy at a carnival. Sweet and very cloying. It did change pretty quickly with a more typical taste of hits of coffee, cinnamon, melon and mild pepper.
The second third gave me a new pop of orange and lemon peel which I liked. The other flavors remained constant.
The final third threw me for another loop as a heavy blast of black pepper hit the senses, pretty intense. It made for a very interesting overall taste sensation.
Smoking Characteristics: No relights, solid construction but a slight uneven burn line. All well done so no complaints.
Conclusion/Overall Impression: This is a very unique, interesting smoke with a varied range of taste sensations. Take your time, be patient, another flavor will pop up.
Not a cigar for beginners.
Final thoughts and the Numbers: This is a very unique cigar , worth trying but not a cigar I would smoke frequently. This is not a knock but you have to be prepared for a different type of cigar experience. It is full-bodied.
Appearance/Construction: 3.8 out of 5
Flavor/Taste and Aroma: 3.8 out of 5
Smoking Characteristics: 3.8 out of 5
Conclusion/Overall Impression: 3.8 out 5
Consistency is the name of the game. Try it and let me know.
Keep smoking