Cigar review: Hot time in the city, Isabela Cigars

Cigar review: Last year I was fortunate to become acquainted with the Isabela Cigar Company, an organization that produces outstanding smokes.

My review of their 2018 Shape-Shifter made my favorites list and other cigar bloggers felt the same way I did. Now it is time to review their newest creation, Pepperhead, a limited edition cigar with 100 boxes, signed and numbered.

As always how and where I receive the cigar does not impact the judgment of my subjective review. Please try the cigar yourself and make your own decision.

Brand/ Name of Cigar: Isabela/ 2019 Pepperhead

Country of Origin; Nicaragua

Size: 5.5 x 42

Wrapper: It’s a well kept secret what exactly is in the cigar but as a teaser Isabela Cigars states: We utilized 13 strains of high priming tabacco each at different lengths with an additional 3 years of post production aging.

Binder:

Filler:

Shape: Corona

Price: $189 , box of 25, numbered and signed

Where and When Smoked; Los Angeles, Ca. 7/21/2019

Appearance/Construction: Attractive in all areas of construction and shape. The striped, barber pole wrapper is a striking dark/light contrast which should be a model for all manufacturers of this type of cigar. Small veins which are minimal. I like the cigar band which gives the cigar a unique look.

Flavor/Taste and Aroma: First Third: You get the hit of pepper right from the first puff which is totally expected hence the name of the cigar. The smoke is not coy about it’s strength or power but the flavor is rich tasting and smooth. Another aspect of the first third are the cinnamon and all spice interludes. This works very well for the aroma too.

Second Third: The pepper ratches down a tad , the cinnamon becomes more of the key flavor with a subtle addition of roasted nuts and sugar.

Final Third: The blend still holds solid with pepper, sweet spices and an overwhelming desire to keep smoking. The end is near but this a cigar that could be extended for another 1/2 hour without any issues.

Smoking Characteristics: Well crafted, burned smooth, no hot spots or relights. Medium grey ash.

Conclusion/Overall Impression: Isabela Cigars are a top flight cigar company who rank with the well known cigar manufacturers in terms of quality and exceptional value. They take their time making their products without rushing them to the general market. It would be well advised to grab this smoke or their other products right now.

Final Thoughts and the numbers:

Two out of two ain’t bad. Two cigars from Isabela I reviewed in the last two years and both have made my favorite lists. Pepperhead Corona is another gem with flavor, power, solid construction and an attractive looking cigar.

My only warning is with a load of spice, you need an experienced smoker to understand and appreciate this blend. The sometime cigar person or those desiring a medium body cigar should be cautious. You need to buy this cigar now.