Cigar review:
A big cigar for a big day in our country. Happy July 4 to all.
Cuban cigars have such an allure that many think there is no such thing as a bad cigar manufactured in Cuba. While I have a humidor of about 30 or so Habanos, most of the time they are hoarded and safeguarded. The Connoisseur A was part of a sampler I bought from CigarTerminal.com. a company that has been the main source of my Cuban collection. As always how and where I receive the product does not impact my subjective opinion of the smoke. Please make your own judgment.
Brand/Name of Cigar: H Upmann/ Connoisseur A
Country of Origin: Cuba
Size: 5x5x52
Wrapper: Habano
Filler: Habano
Binder: Habano
Shape: Robusto Extra
Price: Purchased from CigarTerminal.com, sampler
Date Purchased: 6/15/2020
Where and when smoked: Los Angeles, July 4, 2020
Appearance/Construction: A thick body with a large presence. The cigar band is impressive and adds to the overall image of the smoke. Medium brown wrapper, firm to the touch , slightly oily. No obvious faults in the construction.
Flavor/Taste and Aroma: First Third: A full blast of black pepper creating an almost overpowering presence. Adding to the flavor is a combination of coffee, molasses and cinnamon. The flavor has a no holds barred taste of power and strength.
Second Third: The cigar is very earthy with a barnyard, primitive taste. The cigar conjures up the vision of sitting around with a group of Cuban farmhands , just smoking away with no conversation between anyone.
Final Third: More black pepper makes this a very potent blend, creating a very powerful full bodied smoke.
Smoking Characteristics: There were major problems with the construction with an uneven burn, relights and a battle to keep the cigar in proper shape. This glitch made the cigar tough to truly enjoy.
Conclusion/Overall Impression/Final Thoughts: The cigar have distinct pieces with the flavor and taste a positive experience. The poor construction knocked the cigar down several pegs.
It certainly is worth another attempt as the flavor was a winning combination of complexity and nuisance. The poor construction was bad news. However, I would indulge again to see if it improves overall.