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CTCP DEPT. INCIDENT: CIGAR REVIEW CASE NUMBER: CCR2025-09-05 DATE/TIME OF INCIDENT: 2015-09-05, 20:11 CDT LOCATION OF INCIDENT: Cedar Room REPORTED BY: Marty C -I. INCIDENT TYPE: Product Assessment - Cigar –II. PRODUCT INFORMATION: PRODUCT NAME:  Karatoba BRAND:  Oz Family Cigars VITOLA:  Toro 6.5 x 50 MANUFACTURING ORIGIN:  Nicaragua @ NACSA COMPONENTS: WRAPPER:  Ecuadorian Sumatra BINDER:  Nicaraguan FILLER:  Nicaraguan and Dominican PRICE:  $12.25 USD —III. NARRATIVE OF ASSESSMENT: On the aforementioned date, this reviewer conducted an assessment of a cigar identified as the "Karatoba" by Oz Family Cigars. The assessment spanned approximately 95 minutes. A. SENSORY EVALUATION (TASTE): FIRST THIRD:  Cigar opens with some molasses sweetness with some cinnamon spice and toasted oak SECOND THIRD:  Sweetness fades and toasted oak remains joined by leather FINAL THIRD:  toasted oak and leather remain and are joined by a nice mild pepper COMPLEXITY:  A nice transition from first to second third STRENGTH:  medium-full RETROHALE:  Earthy leather on the retrohale with a light spice on the tongue B. PHYSICAL EVALUATION (CONSTRUCTION): QUALITY:  A nice soft box press with a chocolate brown wrapper. Smooth with a light sheen. TACTILE SENSORY:  firmness is typical of soft box press PREPARATION:  straight cut is clean C. FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION (DRAW): RESISTANCE:  perfect draw SMOKE PRODUCTION:  moderate CONSISTENCY:  draw remained consistently good D. VISUAL EVALUATION (APPEARANCE): AESTHETICS:  Cigar looks like a delicious chocolate bar MARKINGS/BAND:  Main band is Bronze with black background. Bronze is a mix of satin with glossy Oz symbol and Karatoba name. An all black footband tops it off OVERALL PRESENTATION:  The bronze stands out nicely and gives an elegant touch. E. COMBUSTION EVALUATION (BURN): CONSISTENCY:  Burn is straight RESIDUE (ASH):  grey stacked dime ash hangs on in one inch chunks INTERRUPTIONS:  no touch-ups required DURATION:  95 minutes —-IV. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS: Karatoba is a mashup of the Kara - the Turkish word for dark, and Toba - a lake in a volcanic caldera in Indonesia. It pays homage to Oz Family Cigars founder Tim Ozgener’s Turkish heritage and the heritage of the sumatra seeds from Indonesia grown in Ecuador used in the dark wrapper. This is one of the fuller bodied sumatra cigars I have had the pleasure of smoking, and I really enjoyed this blend. The molasses sweetness, toasted oak, leather and mild spice were well balanced, the construction and burn were impeccable, and the presentation was refined and elegant. This is definitely a cigar you will want to try and should make some end of the year lists. —--V. RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSIONS: PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  Bourbon or root beer RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:  5 pack TOTAL SCORE:  90/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  With a medium-full strength profile, elegant branding, thoughtful naming, and flawless burn, this cigar is a testament to quality craftsmanship and blending. Whether paired with a robust bourbon or a crisp root beer, the Karatoba is poised to impress both seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike. It’s a must-try that earns its high score and a spot in any cigar enthusiast’s rotation. —---END

CTCP DEPT. INCIDENT: CIGAR REVIEW CASE NUMBER: CCR2025-08-30 DATE/TIME OF INCIDENT: 2025-08-30, 14:53 CDT LOCATION OF INCIDENT: Cedar   Room REPORTED BY: Marty   C -I. INCIDENT TYPE: Product Assessment - Cigar -II. PRODUCT INFORMATION: PRODUCT NAME:  La Boheme BRAND:  Aging Room VITOLA:  Pittore (5.125x52) MANUFACTURING ORIGIN:  Nicaragua at AJ Fernandez COMPONENTS: WRAPPER:  Hybrid Connecticut Broadleaf / Habano BINDER:  Nicaraguan FILLER:  Nicaraguan PRICE:  $23.92 USD -III. NARRATIVE OF ASSESSMENT: On the aforementioned date, this reviewer conducted an assessment of a cigar identified as the "La Boheme" by Aging Room. The assessment spanned approximately 80 minutes. A. SENSORY EVALUATION (TASTE): FIRST THIRD:  Cigar begins with a well balanced sweetness and chewy oaky earthiness and a mild spice. Retrohale is smooth with a hint of spice. SECOND THIRD:  Creamy oak with an earthy tobacco sweetness and mild spice FINAL THIRD:  Toasted oak with an earthy sweetness COMPLEXITY:  Not a lot of transitions but a well balanced flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. STRENGTH:  Medium strength medium full body. RESIDUAL FLAVOR:  A mild spice on the tip of the tongue and lips B. PHYSICAL EVALUATION (CONSTRUCTION): QUALITY:  Toothy dark brown wrapper with some visible veins and a light oily sheen TACTILE SENSORY:  Firm PREPARATION:  Straight cut was clean C. FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION (DRAW): RESISTANCE:  Perfect SMOKE PRODUCTION:  Moderate. CONSISTENCY:  Remained consistent D. VISUAL EVALUATION (APPEARANCE): AESTHETICS:  A great looking cigar MARKINGS/BAND:  Dark Blue with Gold lettering. Footband includes “by Rafael Nodal”. At the center there is a painting what I assume is the character Mimi from the Italian Opera La Boheme by composer   Giacomo Puccini OVERALL PRESENTATION:  Elegant E. COMBUSTION EVALUATION (BURN): CONSISTENCY:  Burn was perfect throughout RESIDUE (ASH):  White INTERRUPTIONS:  No touch-ups required DURATION:  80 minutes -IV. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS: La Boheme was originally created in 2014 but this is a rerelease with an entirely new bland. The wrapper is a Connecticut broadleaf / Habano hybrid from Connecticut (the first time Rafael Nodal has used this leaf) with all Nicaraguan binder and fillers and is produced at Tabaclara AJ Fernandez. The line is named for the Italian opera La Boheme and the vitolas are named for characters from that story. The cigar is pricey with vitolas ranging from $18-$25. The construction and burn were fantastic and the presentation was elegant. I enjoyed this cigar quite a bit as a flavors fit my wheelhouse and I was they were priced lower so I could enjoy more. The blend was well balanced with a medium-full body and just the right amount of sweetness for my palate. -V. RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSIONS: PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  An old fashioned or a root beer. RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:  For the price probably not. I feel like I can get similar flavor profiles for a lower price. Try one! TOTAL SCORE:  90/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  I liked this cigar quite a bit but I wish it was priced lower. The blend was well balanced with just the right amount of sweetness for me. I finished both cigars I smoked for this review to the nub trying to make them last. -END

CTCP DEPT. INCIDENT:  CIGAR REVIEW CASE NUMBER:  CCR2025-06-27 DATES OF INCIDENT:  2025-06-27, 2025-08-02 LOCATION OF INCIDENT:  Cedar Room, Aganorsa Studios in Central IL REPORTED BY:  Marty C, Michael George -I. INCIDENT TYPE: Product Assessment - Cigar –II. PRODUCT INFORMATION: PRODUCT NAME:  Oscuro BRAND:  Lure VITOLA:  The Big Joe 6x52 Toro MANUFACTURING ORIGIN:  Tabacalera Pages de Nicaragua  COMPONENTS: WRAPPER : Nicaraguan Oscuro Maduro  BINDER:  Nicaraguan Estelli FILLER:  Nicaraguan including Ometepe Ligero PRICE:  $13.00 USD —III. NARRATIVE OF ASSESSMENT: On the aforementioned dates, the reviewers conducted an assessment of a cigar identified as the "Oscuro" by Lure. The assessment spanned approximately 90 and 125  minutes. A. SENSORY EVALUATION (TASTE): Marty FIRST THIRD:  Draw was way too tight to start, but once improved with a PerfecDraw tool, the cigar starts with a dominant dark roast coffee flavor. Wood and roasted nut notes are in the background. Retrohale is smooth and pleasant. SECOND THIRD:  Dark coffee remains prominent. The wrapper begins to separate, probably due to handling while trying to unplug the draw, but was doctored with PerfecRepair cigar glue. A mild pepper joins the mix with a black licorice note. FINAL THIRD:  Final third continues the dark roast coffee dominant. Burn has been perfectly straight despite all the doctoring. Wrapper splits again and was doctored up with a little more cigar glue. Pepper is ramping up but is pleasant and not overpowering. The cigar was put down with a little less than an inch remaining. COMPLEXITY:  Flavors are straightforward and enjoyable. STRENGTH:  Medium-full. RESIDUAL FLAVOR:  Pleasant dark coffee flavor. ASSESSMENT (Taste Category):  Good Mike FIRST THIRD:  Observed strong dark coffee notes almost espresso-like along with leathery notes.  Retrohale reveals notes of black pepper. SECOND THIRD:   Some earthy notes appeared, the black pepper continues and there are still some hints of coffee. FINAL THIRD:  There are some sweet notes maybe a pitted fruit, the black pepper is in the background as well as the earthy notes.  COMPLEXITY:  This is a good smoke with some real complexity with the flavor notes.  STRENGTH:  Medium to full. RESIDUAL FLAVOR:  Pepper and coffee ASSESSMENT (Taste Category):  Above Average  B. PHYSICAL EVALUATION (CONSTRUCTION): Marty QUALITY:  Wrapper is smooth with minor bumps but defect free. Seams look nice and tight. TACTILE SENSORY:  Firm PREPARATION:  Clean straight cut. Cap maintained integrity. ASSESSMENT (Construction Category):  Good Mike QUALITY:  High quality, some veins but nothing bad. TACTILE SENSORY:  Average firmness PREPARATION:  Straight cut performed cleanly. ASSESSMENT (Construction Category):  Good C. FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION (DRAW): Marty RESISTANCE:  Very tight draw initially. A PerfecDraw tool was used to loosen it, removing a fairly thick 3-inch long stem which improved the draw quite a bit. SMOKE PRODUCTION:  Moderate amount of smoke. CONSISTENCY:  Draw continued to improve as it was smoked, especially after the wrapper split. It seems like this cigar was bunched too tightly. ASSESSMENT (Draw Category):  Below Average Mike RESISTANCE:  Draw is on the light side of good, but easy. SMOKE PRODUCTION:  Smoke volume observed as moderate. CONSISTENCY:  Draw improved slightly as the assessment progressed. ASSESSMENT (Draw Category):  Average D. VISUAL EVALUATION (APPEARANCE): Marty AESTHETICS:  Wrapper is a dark brown maduro. Band coloring fits well, a very appealing cigar. MARKINGS/BAND:  The band displays a crankbait fishing lure with the Lure Cigars Logo underneath. Band is matte paper with a red background. The Oscuro cigar name is on the side. OVERALL PRESENTATION:  Excellent. ASSESSMENT (Appearance Category):  Great Mike AESTHETICS:  Wrapper is light brown resembling light brown sugar. MARKINGS/BAND:  Single band with great graphics of a fishing lure. With Orange all around  OVERALL PRESENTATION:  A great band, surrounding a well made cigar ASSESSMENT (Appearance Category):   Good E. COMBUSTION EVALUATION (BURN): Marty CONSISTENCY:  Burn is razor sharp. RESIDUE (ASH):  Ash is grayish white and stacks dimes as it burns. INTERRUPTIONS:  None. DURATION:  90 minutes. ASSESSMENT (Burn Category):  Great Mike CONSISTENCY:  Burn observed as straight for most of the smoke. RESIDUE (ASH):  Ash noted as silvery-white.  The Ash was firm and fell off after about an inch and a half. . INTERRUPTIONS:  No touch ups to maintain the burn. DURATION:  Approximately 125 minutes. ASSESSMENT (Burn Category):   Good —-IV. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS: Marty The Lure Oscuro is a Nicaraguan cigar with a dark roast coffee-dominated flavor profile, accented by wood, roasted nuts, and mild pepper. Despite a tight draw requiring a PerfecDraw tool to remove a stem and wrapper splitting fixed with cigar glue, the medium-full strength cigar offered an enjoyable 90-minute smoke. The burn was razor-sharp with a solid ash. The fishing-themed band scored a perfect appearance rating. While construction issues slightly marred the experience, the cigar’s straightforward, flavorful profile made it a worthwhile smoke. Mike The "Lure Oscuro Big Joe”, a regular production released in 2025. Blended and rolled Tabacalera Pages de Nicaragua.  This is a factory owned by Raymond Pages Raffo who prior worked at AJ Fernandez.  Lure Cigars focus on tobacco from Ometepe, Esteli and Jalapa —--V. RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSIONS: Marty PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  Coffee, rootbeer or a bourbon. RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:  Yes, would smoke again despite the troubles with this one. TOTAL SCORE:  85/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  The Lure Oscuro “The Big Joe” was enjoyed despite its challenges—the coffee-driven flavors with hints of pepper were engaging for the full 90 minutes. The tight draw and wrapper splits were a hassle, but the PerfecDraw and cigar glue saved the day, proving this cigar’s solid bones. The razor-sharp burn and well-done fishing-themed band made it a standout, and as a fishing enthusiast, there is interest in trying more from Lure. Mike PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  Bourbon or Dr Pepper Zero. RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:   For a new brand started in 2023 these are good cigars and worth the price.   Definitely recommend trying one of these TOTAL SCORE:  89/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  The “Lure Oscuro Big Joe” is priced to make these affordable and worth the experience.   Lure Cigars is doing good work and making cigars worth smoking.  They are staying in line with what a new cigar company should be doing and I look forward to seeing what comes next.   Combined Score :  87/100 —---END

CTCP DEPT. INCIDENT: TEAM   CIGAR REVIEW CASE NUMBER: CCR2025-0802-002 DATES OF INCIDENT: 2025-08-02, 08-02, 07-21 LOCATION OF INCIDENT: Various REPORTED BY: Teddy Michael George, Marty C., Teddy “The Greek” Mavrakis -I. INCIDENT TYPE: Product Assessment - Cigar –II. PRODUCT INFORMATION: PRODUCT NAME:  New World Decenio BRAND:  AJ Fernandez VITOLA:  Toro 6.5x54 MANUFACTURING ORIGIN:  Nicaragua, San Lotano factory in Ocotal COMPONENTS: WRAPPER:  Mexican San Andres BINDER:  Nicaraguan FILLER:  Nicaraguan and Honduran PRICE:  $14.00 USD —III. NARRATIVE OF ASSESSMENT: On the aforementioned date, the reviewers conducted an assessment of a cigar identified as the "New World Decenio" by AJ Fernandez. The assessment spanned approximately 98, 100 and 95 minutes. A. SENSORY EVALUATION (TASTE): MIKE FIRST THIRD:  Observed some chocolate notes along with some sweetness I could not identify.  Retrohale reveals of black pepper that I expect from Aj Fernandez. . SECOND THIRD:   Chocolate notes continue with some espresso,   The sweetness takes a back seat however  the black pepper continues  FINAL THIRD:  There isn’t much change but rather the flavor notes evolve making this cigar worth enjoying and experiencing the cigar. COMPLEXITY:  This is a complex smoke that will challenge any cigar enthusiast with its flavor notes and progression.    STRENGTH:  Medium to full. RESIDUAL FLAVOR:  Chocolate and sweetness ASSESSMENT (Taste Category):  Above Average  MARTY FIRST THIRD:  Cigar opens with a bit of spice which lasts for the first few puffs and is joined by coffee, umami, and chocolate sweetness in the background, SECOND THIRD:  Dark roast coffee moves into the forefront with a savory salty umami and subtle earthiness. FINAL THIRD:  The cigar mellows in the final third. Just a hint of spice remains on the tip of the tongue. Dark chocolate is the theme here with a hint of coffee and a pleasant smokiness. COMPLEXITY:  This is a hearty blend of spice, coffee, salty smoked umami. Flavorful but not overly complex. STRENGTH:  Medium full. RESIDUAL FLAVOR:  Spice lingers on the tongue. ASSESSMENT (Taste Category):  Good TEDDY FIRST THIRD : Cigar opens with very earthy notes, continuing with some oak and hickory taste. SECOND THIRD : The profile shifts slightly, developing into oak, a raw resinous snap of freshly split hardwood taste, also a shot of midnight roast espresso. FINAL THIRD : In the final third, the cigar becomes a little peppery but not overwhelming the palate, and the woody notes continue kicking in with nutty flavors on top. COMPLEXITY : Another complex cigar by AJ, changes notes making it desirable to smoke. STRENGTH : Medium to Full Body RESIDUAL FLAVOR : Burning wood taste ASSESSMENT (Taste Category) : Good B. PHYSICAL EVALUATION (CONSTRUCTION): MIKE QUALITY:  Good quality.  Beautiful wrapper TACTILE SENSORY:  Firm PREPARATION:  Straight cut performed cleanly. ASSESSMENT (Construction Category):  Good MARTY QUALITY:  This is a well-constructed soft box press. TACTILE SENSORY:  Firm with the give expected from a soft box press. PREPARATION:  Straight cut was clean and easy. ASSESSMENT (Construction Category):  Good TEDDY QUALITY : A beautiful San Andres wrapper, a little veiny but smooth. TACTILE   SENSORY : Feels smooth, you can feel a little bit the veins on the wrapper. PREPARATION : Straight cut. ASSESSMENT  (Construction Category): Great C. FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION (DRAW): MIKE RESISTANCE:  Draw is on point.    SMOKE PRODUCTION:  Smoke volume is excellent.  CONSISTENCY:  Consistent throughout the smoke  ASSESSMENT (Draw Category):  Good MARTY RESISTANCE:  Draw was perfect. SMOKE PRODUCTION:  A moderate amount of smoke output. CONSISTENCY:  Draw remained consistent throughout. ASSESSMENT (Draw Category):  Good TEDDY RESISTANCE : Draw is right on point, perfect. SMOKE   PRODUCTION : Moderate smoke output, doesn’t produce a lot of smoke while you hold it. CONSISTENCY : The draw remained steady throughout the entire smoke. Ash held firm until the first third before dropping naturally. ASSESSMENT  (Draw Category): Good D. VISUAL EVALUATION (APPEARANCE): MIKE AESTHETICS:  Wrapper is oily brown MARKINGS/BAND:  Three bands which include a foot band.  Gold surrounding a classic image is the main band.   Then there is the second band which is DECENIO in gold surrounded by blue and then a gold foot band. I OVERALL PRESENTATION:  Great band, still not a fan of foot bands. ASSESSMENT (Appearance Category):   Good MARTY AESTHETICS:  A dark brown wrapper with minimal veins. MARKINGS/BAND:  Cigar has three bands. A gold footband with a large AJ with Fernandez below it. A smaller navy blue band with gold lettering 2014 Decenio 2024 and gold edging. A medium-sized main navy blue band with gold and the branding of New World over a picture of explorers landing by sea in the new world. OVERALL PRESENTATION:  A beautiful presentation fitting for the 10-year celebration of the iconic New World line. ASSESSMENT (Appearance Category):  Great TEDDY AESTHETICS : The wrapper had a nice sheen from the Mexican San Andres. MARKINGS/BAND:  Features three bands containing blue and gold colors, New World picture on top and smaller band beneath it saying Decenio—the Spanish word for decade. Finishing on the foot of the cigar is a gold band with AJ Fernandez name on it. OVERALL   PRESENTATION : Another great presentation from AJ Fernandez, it will catch your eye. No issues taking the bands off. ASSESSMENT (Appearance Category):  Great E. COMBUSTION EVALUATION (BURN): MIKE CONSISTENCY:  Very consistent. RESIDUE (ASH):  Ash is white.  Firm ash which fell off at about two inches. INTERRUPTIONS:  No touch ups to maintain the burn. DURATION:  Approximately 97 minutes. ASSESSMENT (Burn Category):   Good MARTY CONSISTENCY:  Burn was straight. RESIDUE (ASH):  White ash that hung in 1-inch chunks. INTERRUPTIONS:  No relights. DURATION:  Approximately 100 minutes. ASSESSMENT (Burn Category):  Great TEDDY CONSISTENCY : Very good burn, started burning sharp straight but then had some uneven burns on the wrapper and it got fixed by itself. RESIDUE (ASH) : A nice white ash throughout the cigar, was kept about 2” long. INTERRUPTIONS : None needed. DURATION : 49 minutes. ASSESSMENT (Burn Category) : Good —-IV. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS: MIKE This is an AJ Fernandez cigar.  The draw is on point and the smoke output is what I have come to expect with their cigars.   The construction is of the highest level thanks to the rollers and quality control. MARTY The AJ Fernandez New World Decenio (Spanish for 10 years) marks the 10th Anniversary of the New World Line. It is the 6th release in the line and was delayed from 2024 to 2025 so as not to detract from the AJ 20th Anniversary cigar released last year. Described as a “bold statement of passion, precision, and legacy,” Decenio aims to be an instant classic for AJ Fernandez fans and you can definitely tell this is an AJ blend. It has medium full body and delivers a strong blend of spice, coffee, and savoryness. TEDDY I think this is the best New World from AJ’s portfolio. New World Decenio commemorates a decade of legacy, tradition, and passion. In the early years of pioneering his own company, AJ alongside his father, Ismael, developed the New World brand with the intention of illuminating AJ’s distinct blending style and to pay respect to his roots in tobacco. —--V. RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSIONS: MIKE PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  Bourbon or Repasado Tequilla RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:   Probably sound like a broken record but you can’t pass up this cigar.  Yes, I will buy more. TOTAL SCORE:  94/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  AJ Fernandez had a factory fire and this cigar was not affected.  The release was on time and delivered.   This cigar is a showcase of AJ Fernandez and their dedication to cigars and those of us who smoke them.  MARTY PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  This is a hearty blend that would go well with a strong drink. RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:  Yes, 5 pack. TOTAL SCORE:  90/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  The AJ Fernandez New World Decenio Toro delivers a robust and flavorful experience, blending bold spice, dark coffee, and savory umami notes that evolve smoothly across its three stages, making it a fitting tribute to the New World line’s 10th anniversary. Its impeccable construction, consistent draw, and impressive burn showcase the craftsmanship expected from AJ Fernandez, with the soft box press and striking triple-band design adding a touch of elegance. While not overly complex, the medium-full strength and hearty flavor profile pair excellently with a strong drink, ensuring broad appeal for fans of bold cigars. Overall, the Decenio is a memorable smoke that lives up to its promise of passion, precision, and legacy, earning its place as a standout in the AJ Fernandez portfolio. TEDDY PAIRING   SUGGESTIONS : Any Bourbon, Whiskey, Scotch, or just a simple Coke or Dr. Pepper. RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY : Absolutely—this was my second time. TOTAL SCORE : 92/100 FINAL   OBSERVATIONS : A satisfying cigar that delivers on taste and craftsmanship. Whether you're a cigar enthusiast or a horse racing fan celebrating the Preakness, this stick is worth a spot in your humidor. COMBINED   SCORE : 92/100 —---END

CTCP DEPT.  INCIDENT: CIGAR REVIEW CASE NUMBER:  CCR2025-0802-001 DATE/TIME OF INCIDENT:  2025-08-02, 1305 cdt LOCATION OF INCIDENT:  Aganorsa Studios in Central IL REPORTED BY:  Michael George  -I. INCIDENT TYPE:  Product Assessment - Cigar –II. P RODUCT INFORMATION: PRODUCT NAME:  Lure Oscuro BRAND:  AJ Fernandez MODEL/VITOLA:  Toro 6x54 MANUFACTURING ORIGIN:  Dominican Republic @ Tabacalera Diaz Cabrera COMPONENTS: WRAPPER:  Ecuadorian Corojo 99 BINDER:  Ecuadorian FILLER:  Dominican ESTIMATED VALUE:  $9.50 USD --- III. NARRATIVE OF ASSESSMENT: On the aforementioned date, this reviewer conducted an assessment of a cigar identified as the "Enclave Eladio Diaz" cigar by AJ Fernandez. The assessment spanned approximately 90 minutes. A. SENSORY EVALUATION (TASTE): FIRST THIRD:  Observed Ce dar and hay with a lurking citrus sweetness. Retrohale reveals mild white pepper. SECOND THIRD:  Toasted peanuts emerge with a creamy toasted bread. A mild milky sweetness balances the flavor profile. Retrohale transitions to  baking spices  FINAL THIRD:  Toasted oak and peanuts with an earthiness in the background. Pepper returns to the retrohale. COMPLEXITY:  Straight forward with a wood, bread and  peanut profile and a little bit of retrohale spice but no standout transitions. STRENGTH:  Medium. RESIDUAL FLAVOR:  White pepper on the tip of the tongue ASSESSMENT (Taste Category):  Average B. PHYSICAL EVALUATION (CONSTRUCTION): QUALITY:  The roll of the cigar is of good quality. Wrapper is smooth with no major veins and no hidden stems lurking underneath. TACTILE SENSORY:  Average firmness PREPARATION:  Straight cut performed cleanly. ASSESSMENT (Construction Category):  Good C. FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION (DRAW): RESISTANCE:  Draw is on the light side of good, but easy. SMOKE PRODUCTION:  Smoke volume observed as moderate. CONSISTENCY:  Draw improved slightly as the assessment progressed. ASSESSMENT (Draw Category):  Average D. VISUAL EVALUATION (APPEARANCE): AESTHETICS:  Wrapper is  creamy milk chocolate brown with an oily sheen MARKINGS/BAND:  Dual Bands of Gold over a white background and a painting of Native Americans on horseback in the center. The band was glued well and required some tearing of the paper to release. OVERALL PRESENTATION:  A high quality appearance ASSESSMENT (Appearance Category):   Good E. COMBUSTION EVALUATION (BURN): CONSISTENCY:  Burn observed as wavy. RESIDUE (ASH):  Ash noted as white, with nickel sized stacking. Ash holds on in inch sized chunks. INTERRUPTIONS:  A few minor touchups required. DURATION:  Approximately 90 minutes. ASSESSMENT (Burn Category):   Average ---- IV. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS: The "Enclave Eladio Diaz" ci gar, a regular production released in 2025. It was blended by Eladio Diaz of Davidoff fame and produced in his Tabacalera Diaz Cabrera factory under the AJ Fernandez Enclave brand. This is the first AJ Fernandez brand cigar from in the Dominican Republic since the San Lotano Dominicano in 2018. -----V. RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSIONS: PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  Coffee or Root Beer. RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:  Something different to try. Easy to grab a single at this price point. TOTAL SCORE:  86/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  The Enclave Eladio Diaz is  a Dominican cigar with Nicaraguan tendencies which makes it a nice unique fit in the AJ Fernandez Enclave lineup. The price makes it approachable and worth a try to see if it fits your flavor profile. ----- END OF REPORT

CHI-TOWN DEPARTMENT OF CIGAR REVIEWS INCIDENT REPORT CASE NUMBER:  CCR2025-0726-001 DATE/TIME OF INCIDENT:  2025-07-26, 14:04 CDT LOCATION OF INCIDENT:  Cedar Room REPORTED BY:  Marty C. -I. INCIDENT TYPE:  Product Assessment - Cigar –II. PRODUCT INFORMATION: PRODUCT NAME:  Gold Star BRAND:  United Cigars MODEL/VITOLA:  Robusto 5x52 MANUFACTURING ORIGIN:  Dominican Republic @ Tabecalera Willian Ventura COMPONENTS: WRAPPER:  Ecuador Habano 2000 BINDER:  Indonesian Sumatran FILLER:  Dominican ESTIMATED VALUE:  $12.00 USD --- III. NARRATIVE OF ASSESSMENT: On the aforementioned date, this reviewer conducted an assessment of a cigar identified as the "Gold Star" cigar by United Cigars. The assessment spanned approximately 75 minutes. A. SENSORY EVALUATION (TASTE): FIRST THIRD:  Product exhibited notes of sweet tobacco creaminess and cedar, akin to buttered popcorn. SECOND THIRD:  Continued with similar notes. Retrohale deemed exceptionally smooth. Coffee notes subsequently emerged. FINAL THIRD:  Predominant flavors observed were creamy coffee and cashews. COMPLEXITY:  Assessment determined the product to be straightforward in flavor profile, consistently creamy with transitions as noted above. STRENGTH:  Medium. RESIDUAL FLAVOR:  Creamy coffee with a hint of spice. SCORE (Taste Category):  31/40 B. PHYSICAL EVALUATION (CONSTRUCTION): QUALITY:  Wrapper observed as smooth, absent of significant veining. Cap noted as flat. TACTILE SENSORY:  Product exhibited a firm feel. PREPARATION:  Straight cut performed cleanly. SCORE (Construction Category):  19/20 C. FUNCTIONAL EVALUATION (DRAW): RESISTANCE:  Minor tightness noted, not to a degree warranting detriment to overall experience. SMOKE PRODUCTION:  Volume observed as moderate. CONSISTENCY:  Draw remained consistent throughout the assessment. SCORE (Draw Category):  19/20 D. VISUAL EVALUATION (APPEARANCE): AESTHETICS:  Wrapper described as milk chocolate brown, complemented by a black and gold band. MARKINGS/BAND:  Band features a black matte background with a raised gold star, appearing embroidered. OVERALL PRESENTATION:  Deemed to be of high quality. SCORE (Appearance Category):  10/10 E. COMBUSTION EVALUATION (BURN): CONSISTENCY:  Burn observed as straight. RESIDUE (ASH):  Ash noted as white, with an almost painted appearance. INTERRUPTIONS:  No relights or touch-ups were required. DURATION:  Approximately 75 minutes. SCORE (Burn Category):  10/10 ---- IV. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS: The "Gold Star" cigar, a limited release in 2024 to honor Navy SEALs and subsequently made regular production in 2025, presents as a 5x52 Robusto manufactured in the Dominican Republic. It features an Ecuador Habano 2000 wrapper, Indonesian Sumatran binder, and Dominican filler, with a price point of $12.00 USD. The flavor profile progresses from sweet tobacco and cedar to buttered popcorn, then creamy coffee and cashews, characterized by a smooth retrohale and a creamy coffee aftertaste. -----V. RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSIONS: PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:  Optimal for consumption with coffee in a morning setting. RE-ASSESSMENT PROBABILITY:  Positive. Recommendation for purchase of a 5-pack. TOTAL SCORE:  89/100 FINAL OBSERVATIONS:  The Gold Star cigar is deemed a pleasant morning product, harmonizing well with coffee for a creamy, nutty profile. Its smooth transitions and notable presentation are observed as a fitting tribute to the Navy Seals. ----- END OF REPORT

Cigar Name : Sobremesa Solita Red Brand : Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust Vitola : Grand Corona 6 ¼ x 46 Origin : Fábrica de Tabacos Joya de Nicaragua S.A. Wrapper : Ecuador Habano Binder : Mexican San Andrés Negro Filler : Nicaraguan from Esteli, Condega, Pueblo Nuevo, and  Pennsylvanian Broadleaf Price : $18 Date Smoked : June 20th, 2025, June 27th, 2025, July 27th, 2025 Smoking Time : 90 minutes, 87 minutes, 90 minutes Reviewer:  Marty C, Michael George, Teddy Marty Flavor Profile : I am smoking this cigar at noon on the back porch of our cabin on the lake in Northern Wisconsin. First Third : We start with a burst of flavor - It’s Cinnamon apples like Grandma used to make. The whole nine yards with butter and brown sugar. Oh man, so good! Retrohale further brings out the cinnamon spice a little more deeply. Second Third : I can see a Loon out on the lake and this cigar is making me Looney (in a good way)! Cedar joins the mix in the second third. The apple brown sugar sweetness recedes a bit but the cinnamon remains. A cashew nuttiness joins as I get closer to the final third and the second chuck of ash falls. Final Third : Cedar ramps to the forefront as we enter the final third. The spice shifts to a mild pepper. The watersports have begun on the lake so the loon is gone but the birds are abundant here. I’ve seen an Oriole and a red headed woodpecker, a wren and a sandhill crane. I havent spotted the bald eagle yet but we see one most days. This is such a perfect place to enjoy a cigar. A toasted nuttiness joins the cedar as I near the end. As I get to the nub the cinnamon apples returns. I really don't want to put this down, but I’ll burn my fingers soon if I don’t. Complexity : The cigar has some nice transitions and really enjoyable flavor notes. I would classify this as a desert cigar. Strength : Medium  Aftertaste : A very pleasant mild spice remains on the tongue between puffs. Notes : Wow! Score : 36/40 Mike Flavor Profile :  Cold Draw : Woody and some sweetness First Third : Woody, like dress cut lumber, some pepper, possibly red pepper flakes and leather notes.    As I continued to smoke, notes of a freshly grilled steak came through.  Retrohale was very nice, no burn and some lite spices. Second Third :  The creaminess I got on the first third has been maintained.   There are sour dough bread notes that are more forward.   The wood and spice notes are still there but less dominant. Final Third :  I don’t really sense any dramatic change in the cigar.   The bread notes along with the spices and red pepper flakes are maintained. I enjoy the retrohale as its smooth and pleasant. Complexity : Saka continues to produce excellent cigars and this is one of them.  Although not very complex, it is a fantastic cigar that is enjoyable for the seasoned cigar smoker. Strength : Medium and medium strength  Aftertaste :  There is a a creaminess that will remain on your palate.. Notes : I paired this with YellowStone Select and it was a very complementary pairing.   Score : 34/40 Teddy Flavor Profile : Cold Draw:  Very musty, almonds and earthy notes for a cold draw ( When is a new cigar i always Cold draw on it) First Third : Another masterpiece from Steve Saka added for the Sobremesa line. Right from the get go, the first flavors I got were straight espresso coffee notes. Second Third: Second third woodiness takes over the cigar with leather continues notes that came out of nowhere. It became meaty goodness with cedar powdering the palate, also tasting saltiness too from it.  Final Third: Cigar changed a lot, light pepper notes started kicking in out of nowhere. Definitely medium to heavy body cigar, love the taste of a good habano. Solita Red hits the spot on this blend with the combination of the Ecuadorian habano and the San Andres binder. Complexity : The flavors that you can taste from this cigar are off the chart, your palate will go crazy with all the different notes of flavors you will taste. Strength : Medium to Full Aftertaste : Woody notes with coffee beans Score : 32/40 2. Construction  Marty Quality : Very good Construction. Seems are minimal. I can sense a vein from the binder underneath but it does not affect the burn or appearance. Feel : Cigar is firm and feels solid in the hand. Cut : A straight cut with my Guillotina de Saka cutter slices through the pigtail nicely and the cap retains its integrity. Notes :  Score : 19/20 Mike Quality : Wrapper is brownish and smooth. There is a vein that starts at the top and wraps around but had no influence on the smoking experience.  Feel : Good feel in the hand, not too firm  and not soft. Cut : Straight cut Score : 19/20 Teddy Quality : Wrapped in an Ecuadorian Habano with some veins, Feel : Smooth and Firm  Cut : Straight  Score : 19/20 3. Draw Marty Resistance : Draw is very nice. Right in the perfect zone. Smoke Volume : Its noon and I’m outside so its a little hard to tell but it seems like like a typical amount of smoke Consistency : Remained consistent throughout Notes :  Score : 20/20 Mike Resistance : The draw was on mark.     Smoke Volume :  Average amount of smoke output  Consistency : Draw never changed throughout. Notes :  Very good and enjoyable.  . Score : 18/20 Teddy Resistance : Great draw no issues Smoke Volume : Moderate Consistency : Draw never changed  Score : 20/20 4. Appearance  Marty Visual Appeal : Wrapper is a medium brown with a light sheen. This goes well with the gold and red band design. I almost want to see more of the red but I like the smaller band. The cigar is what is on display here. The cigar has a nice coiled pigtail on the cap which is a nice touch and adds to the elegance. Band Design : The band is on the small side like  the Sobremesa Brulee Blue. A raised matte gold crown with a red inlay owing to the name. The red is unique with a pinkish hue. Maybe a medium candy apple. The is also a footband with the same colors and Sobremesa lettering in gold. Overall Presentation :  Notes : . Score : 9/10 Mike Visual Appeal :  Brown wrapper that just draws you in as something you want to smoke.  Nice pig tail top adds nothing but looks impressive.   Band Design : (If applicable—style, placement, ease of removal?) There are two bands and a foot band that says Sobremesa in gold surrounded by red with a gold header and footer.   The top band is the signature Sobremesa crown in gold with red running through it.    Really love the play of the red on the gold.  Both bands came off with zero damage to the cigar.    Overall Presentation :  This cigar looks tasty.  The appearance is on point and the bands just draw you into the cigar. Notes : Love the Gold and Red colors for this cigar Score : 10/10 Teddy Visual Appeal : Band Design : A nice medium dark brown wrapper and with the regular band design of the Sobremesa line, this time the crown is red inside also gold on it. Overall Presentation : Red stands out from the other cigars from the coreline. Score : 10/10 5. Burn  Marty Evenness : Burn is perfectly straight and stayed that way throughout  Ash : Ash is whitish grey with the dime stamp effects as the burn progresses. Ash holds nicely with only 3 chunks of ash total for the entire cigar. Relights : None! Burn Time : 90 minutes down to the nub. Notes : no touchups required which is a nice rarity for me. Score : 10/10 Mike Evenness : A good toasting set this cigar up for success.   Burn started out straight and required no touch ups.   Ash : Ash was white and just looked perfect.   Relights : None Burn Time :87 minutes Notes : Nothing to complain about here.  The burn was great Score : 10/10 Teddy Evenness : It was a straight burn in the beginning, after the second third was getting uneven but it was fixing by itself Ash :Greish, very flaky Relights : One time  Burn Time :80 minutes  Score : 9/10 Overall Experience Marty Summary : The Sobremesa Solita Red from Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust, delivers a flavorful experience with a medium strength profile, starting with cinnamon apple and brown sugar notes, transitioning to cedar, cashew, and mild pepper, and finishing with a return of cinnamon apple sweetness. The construction is solid with minimal seams, a firm feel, and a nice coiled pigtail cap, complemented by a visually appealing medium brown Ecuador Habano wrapper and a distinctive gold and red band. The cigar offers a perfect draw with consistent smoke volume and an even burn, producing a whitish-grey dime stacked ash. I consider this a dessert cigar which would  pair well with coffee, cola, root beer, or light whiskey. This is a box-worthy cigar that has earned a spot in my regular rotation. . Pairing Suggestions : This would go nicely with a coffee or cola and as always a rootbeer. I think a lighter whiskey would work too, but nothing too overpowering. Would You Smoke Again? : Box worthy! So glad this will be regular production. Definitely going to get more.. Total Score : 94/100 Final Thoughts : This is the third of these I have smoked and I have been impressed by every one - a great addition to the Sobremesa line. It is another banger from Steve Saka who keeps hitting them out of the park. Mike Summary : “Sobremesa Solita has a special place in my heart” was Steve Saka's comment about the Solita Red.   I can understand why.  This cigar although not complex is a solid smoke and well worth the money.  You don’t need a sophisticated palate, just one that is ready for a great smoke with some fantastic notes.    Pairing Suggestions : YellowStone Select.    Would You Smoke Again? : Yes no doubt I will be adding more of these to my humidor Total Score : 91/100 Final Thoughts : Can you ever go wrong with a Dunbarton Cigar?   Doubtful.   Take some time and just sit back and enjoy this cigar.   The price point shouldn’t scare you away as you will find enjoyment during your smoke. Teddy Summary : In November 2024, Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust announced it was adding yet another variant of the Sobremesa Solita to the company’s lineup. Named Sobremesa Solita Red, the 6 1/4 x 46 grand corona is described as a bolder and stronger varietal of the original seven-tobacco core recipe. The blend is made up of a dark rosado grade one Ecuadorian habano wrapper, a Mexican San Andrés Negro binder, and a filler that includes four varietals of Nicaraguan tobacco and a filler from Pennsylvania. You can see the difference in quality in Steve Sakas tobacco, I have been noticing a lot throughout the years just another box worthy of cigars.   Pairing Suggestions:  RC cola Would You Smoke Again? : Absolutely , Box worthy Total Score : 90/100 Combined Score:  92

Cigar Name : Legacy Nicaraguan Shade Grown Brand : Perdomo Vitola : Epicure 6x54 Origin : Tabacalera Perdomo Nicaragua Wrapper : 10-year-aged Nicaraguan Shade Grown wrapper, bourbon barrel-aged for a minimum of 10 months grown from a unique hybrid of Cuban and Cameroon seeds developed at Perdomo’s Finca Natalie farm in Estelí, Nicaragua Binder : Cuban seed Nicaraguan aged 10 years. Filler : Nicaraguan from Estelí, Condega, and Jalapa Valley aged 10 years Price : $13.50 Date Smoked : July 2nd, 2025 Smoking Time : 95 minutes Reviewer:  Marty C 1. Taste  Flavor Profile :  First Third : Cigar starts with a tanginess and oak woodiness that I assume comes from the bourbon barrel aging. The Connecticut version which uses the Nicaraguan shade leaf as a binder did not have this and makes me wonder if they use barrels from a  toasted oak bourbon for this wrapper or if its just the extra time in the barrel aging process. There is a medium roast coffee note and nuttiness in the background. Second Third : As I enter the second third, the sweetness ramps up with a chocolate breadiness reminding me of chocolate chip cookies. The bourbon twang continues and is very pleasant. The smoke given off is very aromatic and the retrohale is smooth and delicious. Final Third : In the final third the coffee notes increase and the tanginess switches to more of a peppery spice. Woody oak notes also ramp up and the sweetness subsides. I set the cigar down with about an inch remaining. Complexity : Some nice transitions. The middle third was my favorite. Strength : Medium body  Aftertaste : aftertaste is a very nice  peppery tang Score : 31/40 2. Construction  Quality : Wrapper is smooth reddish brown with minimal veins. Feel : Firm with little give. Cut : Straight cut was smooth and the cap maintained its integrity.  Notes : The construction of this cigar was great. Score : 20/20 3. Draw Resistance : Draw is perfect. Smoke Volume : Moderate amount of nicely aromatic smoke. Consistency : Draw remained consistent throughout  Score : 20/20 4. Appearance  Visual Appeal : Wrapper is reddish brown. Smooth with a light sheen and minimal veins. Band Design : The band is large and dominated by glossy gold intricate designs with red in the background and some hints of blue near the edges. The Perdomo “P” is the centerpiece in the middle of a sunburst surrounded by black with and “1965 Legacy 2025” displayed underneath. Overall Presentation : A very elegant presentation with the band being very similar to those used on most Perdomo brand cigars. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it. Notes : Band came off easily which I appreciate. Score : 10/10 5. Burn  Evenness : Burn was straight and sharp  Ash : A mostly white ash with black specking that held on in large chunks. When I smoked the Legacy Connecticut the ash stayed on for the whole cigar, which was fun but a bit distracting. I tapped these off before they were ready to fall. Whatever Perdomo is doing for their construction, it's working. Relights : No touchups required. Burn Time : 95 minutes Notes : You cant get much better than this. Score : 10/10 Overall Experience Summary : The Perdomo   Legacy   Nicaraguan Shade Grown is a Nicaraguan Puro cigar crafted by Nicholas Perdomo III as a tribute to his father, Nick Perdomo Jr. This cigar features a Nicaraguan Shade-Grown wrapper from a unique hybrid of Cuban and Cameroon seeds developed at Perdomo’s Finca Natalie farm in Estelí, Nicaragua and in development since 2014. This same tobacco is used as the binder in the maduro and connecticut versions of the cigar. “By carefully crossing Cuban Seed and Cameroon Seed tobaccos through hand-controlled pollination and precise seed pod development, we've cultivated a groundbreaking tobacco varietal: the Nicaraguan Shade Grown. This exceptional hybrid, which we proudly call our “Super Seed”, represents a perfect marriage of tradition and innovation. We believe it stands among the greatest contributions to the tobacco industry—bold, refined, and deeply rooted in craftsmanship.” —Nicholas Perdomo, III. Pairing Suggestions : The tanginess in this cigar would go great with bourbon or as always a rootbeer.. Would You Smoke Again? : For sure Total Score : 91/100 Final Thoughts : The Perdomo Legacy Nicaraguan Shade Grown offers a medium-bodied flavor profile, starting with tangy spice, oak, and coffee notes, transitioning to sweet chocolate breadiness in the second third, and finishing with pleasant peppery spice and woody oak. It boasts impeccable construction, perfect draw, and consistent, sharp burn producing aromatic smoke and a strong ash. The elegant presentation, highlighted by a glossy gold and red band, complements the 90-minute smoking experience, earning high scores for construction, draw, appearance, and burn.

Cigar Name : Legacy Maduro Brand : Perdomo Vitola : Epicure 6x54 Origin : Tabacalera Perdomo Nicaragua Wrapper : 10-year-aged Nicaraguan Maduro, bourbon barrel-aged for 14 months Binder : Nicaraguan Shade Grown Grown utilizing a unique hybrid of Cuban and Cameroon seeds developed at Perdomo’s Finca Natalie farm in Estelí, Nicaragua aged 10 years Filler : Nicaraguan from Estelí, Condega, and Jalapa Valley aged 10 years Price : $13.50 Date Smoked : July 19th and 20th, 2025 Smoking Time : 95 minutes Mike, 85 minutes Marty Reviewer:  Michael George, Marty C 1. Taste  Mike Flavor Profile :  First Third : Cigar starts with some minerality and earth notes.   There are some coffee notes which I really enjoy and on the retrohale there is a little hint of white pepper.   Continuing through the first third the earth notes fall to the back and the chocolate notes remain with coffee.   Second Third : The transition to the second third is not easy to detect but there is that creaminess and the chocolate intensifies.   I detect some wood like cedar but nothing strong.  The retrohale is still very smooth, the pepper is kicking it up but just slightly. Final Third : Jumping into the final third this is a full strength cigar, not something that will knock you off your feet but it has a punch.  The pepper continues to move up the scale on the last third and the chocolate is right there.   Complexity : This is a fun and yet complex cigar.     Strength : Full Body  Aftertaste : chocolate and creaminess Score : 35/40 Marty Flavor Profile :  First Third : Cigar starts with chocolate mixed with some tanginess on the tongue. This is the same tanginess found in all three Legacy cigars although muted compared to the Nicaraguan Shade Grown version. It must come from the shade grown hybrid leaf shared between the three or maybe that and a combination of the barrel aging process used in all three. Second Third : As it enters the second third espresso notes become prominent. Tanginess remains constant while the chocolate sweetness fades to the background. As I have smoked through all the Legacy lineup, this tangy note has grown on me. It is very unique note to find in a cigar. Final Third : The cigar becomes creamy in the final third and the tanginess evolves into a spicy crispness with an almost menthol cooling sensation on the tongue. This was unexpected but enjoyable. Espresso turns into a dark roast coffee as we enter nub territory. Complexity : This was a fairly complex blend in my opinion. The tanginess turning into a cooling spice was not something I have experienced previously as was as enjoyable as it was unique.. Strength : Medium body  Aftertaste : aftertaste is a pleasant tangy cooling spice. Score : 30/40 2. Construction  Mike Quality : This is a well constructed cigar.    Feel : Smooth feel, no bumps or anything Cut : Straight cut, no issue with cap Notes : Once again the construction is great. Score : 20/20 Marty Quality : Wrapper is smooth chocolate brown with minimal veins. Feel : Firm with little give. Cut : Straight cut was smooth and the cap maintained its integrity.  Notes : The construction of this cigar was great. Score : 20/20 3. Draw Mike Resistance : Draw is perfect.  But I expect that with Perdomo who draw tests all their cigars. Smoke Volume : Not bad, good aroma.  Consistency : Draw remained consistent throughout  Score : 20/20 Marty Resistance : Draw is perfect. Smoke Volume : Moderate amount of smoke. Consistency : Draw remained consistent throughout  Score : 20/20 4. Appearance  Mike Visual Appeal : Wrapper is that perfect maduro color, darker brown in color.  Band Design : The band is large and dominated by glossy gold intricate designs with red in the background and blue in there to set it apart from the other Legacy cigars.  The Perdomo “P” is the centerpiece in the middle of a sunburst surrounded by black with  “1965 Legacy 2025” displayed underneath. Overall Presentation : If the wrapper doesn’t grab your attention then the band will.  Notes : No issues with band Score : 10/10 Marty Visual Appeal : Wrapper is dark chocolate brown. Smooth with a light sheen and minimal veins. Band Design : The band is large and dominated by glossy gold intricate designs with blue in the background and some hints of red near the edges. The Perdomo “P” is the centerpiece in the middle of a sunburst of tobacco leaves surrounded by black with and “1965 Legacy 2025” displayed underneath. Overall Presentation : A very elegant presentation with the band being consistent with those used on most Perdomo brand cigars.. Notes : Band came off easily which I appreciate. Score : 10/10 5. Burn  Mike Evenness : No question this is a well constructed cigar.   The burn even throughout.   Ash : I had a good 3” ash going for a while.    White with some black dispersed throughout.    Relights : No touchups required. Burn Time : 95 minutes Notes : Another great cigar Score : 10/10 Marty Evenness : Burn was straight and sharp  Ash : A white speckled ash that held on in large chunks.  Relights : No touchups required.  Burn Time : 85 minutes Notes : If you want a line of cigars that smoke well, Legacy is it. Score : 10/10 Overall Experience Mike Summary : It’s fun to review another cigar in the Legacy line.   I said this before with the Connecticut Nicholas Perdomo III created a fantastic line and a true honor to his dad and family.    Pairing Suggestions : I paired this with EH Taylor Small Batch and that was a good complementary bourbon to this cigar.    I would recommend other bourbons or maybe a Scotch. Would You Smoke Again? : Absolutely Total Score : 95/100 Final Thoughts : This is a core line for Perdomo now and that is good for the industry and us who enjoy smoking cigars.   This is an affordable cigar that will continue to rate in the 90s.   Highly recommend picking one of these up and just enjoy it.    Marty Summary : The Perdomo   Legacy   Maduro is a Nicaraguan Puro cigar crafted by Nicholas Perdomo III as a tribute to his father, Nick Perdomo Jr. This cigar includes the Nicaraguan Shade-Grown binder created from a unique hybrid of Cuban and Cameroon seeds developed at Perdomo’s Finca Natalie farm in Estelí, Nicaragua and in development since 2014. This same tobacco is used as the binder in the Connecticut and wrapper on the Shade Grown versions of the cigar. "Over a decade ago, my father established a shade-grown operation on our 600-acre farm in Estelí, Nicaragua. The mineral-rich volcanic soil created the perfect environment for cultivating a rich, flavorful tobacco from a hybridized Cuban-Cameroon seed developed in collaboration with our agronomy and genetics teams. I am beyond excited and proud to share this exceptional tobacco—the Perdomo Nicaraguan Shade-Grown—with our loyal retailers, devoted consumers, and the entire cigar world." —Nicholas Perdomo, III. Pairing Suggestions : This cigar would pair well with any whiskey Would You Smoke Again? : Absolutely Total Score : 90/100 Final Thoughts : The Perdomo Legacy Maduro, a Nicaraguan Puro crafted by Nicholas Perdomo III, features a 10-year-aged Nicaraguan Maduro wrapper, a shade-grown binder, and fillers from Estelí, Condega, and Jalapa Valley, delivering a medium-bodied smoke with an 85-minute burn time. Its flavor profile evolves from chocolate and tangy notes in the first third, to espresso with continued tanginess in the second, culminating in a creamy final third with a spicy, menthol-like cooling sensation. The cigar boasts impeccable construction with a smooth, dark brown wrapper, perfect draw, and consistent burn, producing a white speckled ash without needing relights. Its elegant appearance is enhanced by a glossy gold and blue band, contributing to a highly enjoyable and complex smoking experience, scoring 90/100 overall. You will want to have some of each of the Legacy in your humidor. Final Combined Score: 92.5

Cigar Name : Legacy Connecticut Brand : Perdomo Vitola : Marty - Robusto 5x54, Mike - Epicure 6x54 Origin : Tabacalera Perdomo Nicaragua Wrapper : 10-year-aged Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper, bourbon barrel-aged for a minimum of 8 months Binder : Nicaraguan Shade-Grown from a unique hybrid of Cuban and Cameroon seeds developed at Perdomo’s Finca Natalie farm in Estelí, Nicaragua. Filler : Nicaraguan from Estelí, Condega, and Jalapa Valley Price : $13, $13.50 Date Smoked : June 29th, 2025, July 17th, 2025 Smoking Time : 90 minutes, 87 minutes Reviewer:  Marty C, Michael George 1. Taste  Marty Flavor Profile :  First Third : Cigar starts with a hint of spice with a creamy cappuccino. Retrohale is smooth and pleasant with a slight spice. The ash is hanging on solidly as I enter the second third.  Second Third : Second third continues more of the same but joined with a buttered toast. Maybe I am hungry but this cigar reminds me of Eggs Benedict - rich, savory, and slightly tangy, creamy, velvety, buttery, lemony tang and a hint of cayenne spice. This is really good. My mouth is watering. The ash is still hanging on and at this point I am tilting my head back on every puff. Final Third : I usually don't try for the long ash but I feel compelled to keep this going. Its starting to lean but it stays on horizontally as I shake it slowly over the ashtray. The burn hasn't been perfectly straight. The construction has been amazing. The flavor continues creamy and smooth with a mild pepper. The ash finally falls off with ½ inch remaining. Incredible! Complexity : Not a lot of transitions but really great layered flavors.  Strength : Medium body  Aftertaste : Creamy aftertaste with a hint of spice. Notes : I've never had an ash hold on this long before. Score : 36/40 Mike Flavor Profile :  First Third : Cigar starts with a hint of hay and cedar.   The retrohale is very smooth not a lot of pepper.   As I continue to smoke I get a hint of peanuts specifically cashews, and a little note of vanilla.    I am liking how this starts.  This is medium body for sure.   The burn is on point and the ash finally fell off after 1 ½”.   There is a slight transition where the vanilla is more prevalent then the cashews, and the cedar notes remain. Second Third : Going into the second third, the burn line remains great, the flavor notes continue to be cedar, vanilla and cashews.   This is a very creamy cigar and levels up slightly on the medium level.  The retrohale is right in my wheelhouse, not too peppery and very pleasant.  . Final Third : Onto the final third, the pepper and spices have become a little more prevalent on the retrohale and I am enjoying that aspect.   The woody notes are still there and the creaminess remains.  I smoked this to the nub and the burn line was intact the whole time.  This cigar finished as a medium plus. Complexity : Not too complex, maybe a little more of a transition on the last third with the pepper coming forward Strength : Medium Plus Body Aftertaste : Creaminess with some peanuts. Score : 34/40 2. Construction  Marty Quality : Wrapper is very smooth with no defects. Feel : Cigar is firm and solid in the hand.  Cut : Straight cut was smooth and the cap kept its integrity.  Notes : The construction of this cigar was amazing. I would give it an 21 if I could. Score : 20/20 Mike Quality : Wrapper is smooth ligh brown with minimal veins. Feel : Not too firm but nice hand feel. Cut : Straight cut, no issue with cap Notes : The construction of this cigar is exactly what I expect from Perdomo. Score : 20/20 3. Draw Marty Resistance : Draw is easy - maybe a little on the light side, but pretty good. Smoke Volume : Moderate Consistency : Draw remained consistent throughout  Score : 18/20 Mike Resistance : Draw is perfect. Smoke Volume : Very good amount of smoke and pleasant aroma Consistency : Draw remained consistent throughout  Score : 20/20 4. Appearance  Marty Visual Appeal : Wrapper is a beautiful silky tan.  Band Design : I’ve always been impressed with the Perdomo bands and this is not exception. The band is large and dominated by glossy gold intricate designs with black in the background and some hints of red. A “P” at the center of a sunburst with and a pattern reminiscent of a WWE wrestling belt with 1965 Legacy 2025 underneath. Overall Presentation : A very appealing presentation Notes : The band came off easily but took a small bit of wrapper with it although this did not end up affecting the burn or smoking experience. Score : 9/10 Mike Visual Appeal : Wrapper is that light brown Connecticut wrapper that has one slight vein. Band Design : The band is large and dominated by glossy gold intricate designs with red in the background and black thrown in areas highlighting the gold.. The Perdomo “P” is the centerpiece in the middle of a sunburst surrounded by black with  “1965 Legacy 2025” displayed underneath. Overall Presentation : This is eye-catching and by sheer appearance you want to grab it and smoke it.   It’s Perdomo and it looks great.  Notes : No issues with band Score : 10/10 5. Burn  Marty Evenness : Burn was straight and sharp  Ash : A white ash with black specking that held on for the whole cigar. Incredible! Relights : No touchups required. Burn Time : 90 minutes Notes : You cant get any better than this. Score : 10/10 Mike Evenness : Perfect, the mascara line was on the mark throughout.  Ash : The ash held on long and fell off mainly because I placed the cigar too hard on the edge of the ashtray.    It was pretty white in color and each time the ash fell it was at least an inch in length.   The construction made this cigar very enjoyable as it burned.   Relights : No touchups required. Burn Time : 87 minutes Notes : This type of smoke makes the lifestyle so amazing . Score : 10/10 Overall Experience Marty Summary : The Perdomo   Legacy   Connecticut is a premium cigar crafted by Nicholas Perdomo III as a tribute to his father, Nick Perdomo Jr. This cigar includes a Nicaraguan Shade-Grown binder from a unique hybrid of Cuban and Cameroon seeds developed at Perdomo’s Finca Natalie farm in Estelí, Nicaragua and in development since 2014. This same tobacco is used as the wrapper on the Shade grown Nicaraguan version of the cigar which I am also excited to try. The Perdomo Legacy Connecticut Robusto delivers a rich, creamy, and layered flavor profile with notes of cappuccino, buttered toast, and a mild peppery spice, earning high praise for its medium-bodied complexity and smooth aftertaste. Its construction is exceptional, featuring a flawless wrapper, firm feel, and an impressively long-lasting ash. The cigar’s stunning appearance, with a silky tan wrapper and intricate gold band, enhances its premium appeal. Overall, it offers a memorable 90-minute smoking experience Pairing Suggestions : This would go great with coffee and as always a rootbeer. Would You Smoke Again? : Absolutely box worthy Total Score : 93/100 Final Thoughts : This was the first from the Legacy series I tried and I am looking forward to reviewing the other blends. This cigar is definitely going to earn some end of year awards! Mike Summary : The Perdomo   Legacy   cigars crafted by Nicholas Perdomo III are a tribute to his father, Nick Perdomo Jr.  Asked why he made this cigar the answer was very simple “Because I love my dad”.  Is there ever a better compliment to a dad or to be said by a son?   This cigar is a good representation of a love between a son and father and expressed to anyone who smokes this cigar.   Smoking this cigar and understanding its purpose brought forth memories of my own dad and grandfather.   Don’t miss this cigar.  Pairing Suggestions : Coffee, Coffee, and Coffee Would You Smoke Again? : Absolutely Total Score : 94/100 Final Thoughts : This cigar is a Legacy cigar.   From Nick Sr all the way back to his grandfather and brought forth by his Nicholas III this cigar honors the Perdomo family.  Vito was in prison for 15 years, then able to flee to the US with Nick Sr., this family loves the United States and cigars.  You will feel that love and passion in these cigars.     Combined Total Score : 93.5/100

Cigar Name : 601 La Bomba Warhead: Independence Day Brand : Espinosa Vitola : 6x55 Box Pressed Toro Origin : Nicaragua made at the AJ Fernandez San Lotano Factory Wrapper : Ecuadorian Maduro Habano Binder : Nicaraguan Filler : Nicaraguan Price : $18 Date Smoked : July 4th, 2025 Smoking Time : 90 minutes Reviewer:  Marty C 1. Taste  Flavor Profile : (Describe the dominant flavors—e.g., earthy, spicy, sweet, creamy, woody, etc., and any shifts across thirds) First Third : Cigar opens with dark chocolate, coffee bean earthiness. It’s surprisingly smooth given the name and because I associate Espinosa with some spicier blends. There is a hint of spice in the background but it's subtle. The retrohale is smooth but with some mineral qualities. Second Third : Second third continues more of the same and then the sweetness moves to the forefront. The sweetness is reminiscent of chocolate bar with caramel and peanuts. Final Third : The final third transitions to a dark roast coffee as the sweetness subsides but remains in the background. The subtle background spice remains Complexity : Notes remained fairly consistent. I enjoyed the sweetness in the middle third. Strength : Medium-full Aftertaste : A very subtle spice in the background with a chocolatey coffee taste that holds on. Score : 32/40 2. Construction  Quality : Wrapper has a kind of a rustic coarse feel but is smooth with no visible seams or stems lurking underneath. Feel : The soft box press is firm yet supple as you would expect from this type of vitola. Cut : Straight cut is easy and the cap holds its integrity. Score : 20/20 3. Draw Resistance : Draw was a little towards the loose side of perfect but very nice as I expect from a box press. Smoke Volume : A moderate amount of smoke Consistency : Draw remained consistent throughout Notes :  Score : 19/20 4. Appearance  Visual Appeal : The cigar is a beautiful dark brown maduro and with the soft box press shape it looks like a chocolate bar. Band Design : The band is a red white and blue footband with stars and stripes. It comes off easily and unrolls into the shape of a screaming bomb with the text 601 La Bomba Warhead Independence Day. A very nice looking band. Overall Presentation : A really nice presentation. I liked the band design. I kind of wish it was not a foot band so I could look at it longer on the cigar, but being a footband let me remove it and admire it in all its red white and blue glory! Score : 9/10 5. Burn  Evenness : Burn was perfectly straight! Excellent the whole way through.  Ash : Ash is white. A little flaky but comes off in 1 inch chunks. Relights : No touchups at all! Burn Time : 90 minutes Score : 9/10 Overall Experience Summary : I smoked this cigar while watching the Cubs play the Cardinals on the 4th of July. The Cubs were dropping bombs all day as they hit a Cubs record 8 home runs in one game. A perfect setting for this cigar. This cigar was delicious and smoother than I expected. With a name like La Bomba Warhead I guess I was expecting something spicier but I was surprised in a good way. The flavors melded well and it was very enjoyable. Pairing Suggestions : An old fashioned or rootbeer would go well with this cigar. Would You Smoke Again? : Yes but it's very limited and a lot of shops are sold out. Total Score : 89/100 Final Thoughts : The Espinosa 601 La Bomba Warhead: Independence Day is a standout cigar that delivers a surprisingly smooth and flavorful experience, defying expectations set by its bold name. With a rich profile of dark chocolate, coffee, and caramel-like sweetness, it transitions seamlessly across thirds while maintaining a medium-full strength that’s approachable yet satisfying. The cigar’s impeccable construction, near-perfect draw, and flawless burn showcase Espinosa’s craftsmanship at its finest. Its striking maduro wrapper and patriotic footband add visual flair, perfectly complementing the festive July 4th smoking experience. Paired with the excitement of a record-breaking Cubs game, this cigar proved to be a memorable treat. While its limited availability may make it difficult to revisit, its delicious balance and quality make it a must-try for enthusiasts.

Cigar Name : Circle of Life Brand : West Tampa Tobacco Vitola : Toro 6x54 Origin : Casa Carrillo, Santiago, Dominican Republic Wrapper : Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro Binder : Ecuadorian Sumatra Filler : Nicaragua (Condega, Estelí, Jalapa) plus Dominican Corojo ’99 Price : $13,99 Date Smoked : June 8th, 2025 Smoking Time : 95 minutes Reviewer:  Marty C 1. Taste  Marty Flavor Profile :  First Third : Starts off with a light pepper on the tip of the tongue with a mix of cinnamon and chocolate which reminds me of a spicy hot chocolate.Retrohale is a very nice spice, not too over powering. Second Third : As we enter the second third spice maintains its level and coffee joins the mix along with cashews and molasses. This would be an enjoyable cookie.  Final Third : Coffee comes to the forefront for the final third. The sweetness is fading. The profile remains enjoyable with a consistent spice. I  set the cigar down with ¾ of an inch remaining. An enjoyable smoke!! Complexity : This is a well balanced flavor profile. Flavor is a complex mix of spice, chocolate, nuts, molasses and coffee. Strength : Medium to full body and medium strength  Aftertaste : A pleasant taste profile with a mild spice maintained on the tongue. Notes : The cigar evolved throughout mirroring the name Circle of Life Score : 34/40 Mike Flavor Profile :  Cold Draw : Leathery, oak, wood, and earthiness First Third : Black pepper, nuts, earthiness, dry hay, and chocolate. The earthiness was very pleasant with some creaminess.  The retro had some black pepper but not overpowering and then transitioned to a creaminess.  This was a very nice start to a cigar.  Second Third :  The creaminess remains and now coming into play is the chocolate and peanut nuts show up.   The pepper is still there with some light fig notes on the retrohale.  Final Third :  The earthiness returns here on the final third.   The chocolate is there and the peanuts are taking the back seat, but the earthiness is still the dominate flavor..   The pepper is a bit more aggressive, more like red pepper on the retro.   Complexity : Not overly complex but definitely and interesting smoke.  The start of this cigar had me taking several puffs right away trying to identify the flavor notes, but once I did it was very apparent.  As it progressed to the 2nd and final its lost some of the complexity.   However I really enjoyed this cigar.  . Strength : Medium and medium-full strength  Aftertaste :  The earthiness is the dominate flavor note Notes : I paired this with Respado and it was a very good pairing.   The drink helped elevate the earthiness. Score : 32/40 2. Construction  Marty Quality : Wrapper is mostly smooth with with good construction. It is a  sturdy wrapper cigar that held up nicely the entire smoking experience. Feel : Feel is firm roll with no soft spots Cut :  I used a straight cut.The triple cap cuts smoothly and stays intact. Score : 19/20 Mike Quality : Wrapper is dark brownish with a rough sand paper feel.  Feel : No soft spots, but firm.  Cut : Straight cut Score : 19/20 3. Draw Marty Resistance : Draw is just right Smoke Volume :  Moderate smoke output  Consistency : Draw remained perfect throughout. Notes : I wish every cigar had this draw! Score : 20/20 Mike Resistance : The draw was very good..     Smoke Volume :  Excellent smoke output  Consistency : Draw never changed throughout. Notes :  Very good and enjoyable.  . Score : 19/20 4. Appearance  Marty Visual Appeal :  Wrapper is medium to dark brown with minimal veins and minor bumps but a sturdy look Band Design : Band is medium large matt black with gold foil printing on the upper half of the band. The. WTT logo is surrounded by a paint brushed circle  that doesnt quite complete itself in a C shape with lettering of the name Circle of Life underneath. A train track like line extends from both sides of the circle across the band. There is also a gold footband with a subtle raised wavy line pattern. The wavy lines are repeated in the lower half of the main band in black. Overall Presentation :  The cigar looks elegant and the subtle pieces of the painted C shaped circle and the wavy lines show that a great deal of attention was paid to the design. Notes : The band came off nicely with little effort and no tearing. Score : 9/10 Mike Visual Appeal :  Dark dark brown wrapper that makes you think of dark chocolate.    Band Design : (If applicable—style, placement, ease of removal?) There are two bands and a foot band that is just gold.  The top band is black or dark so much that it blends into the cigar you have to look hard to find “Circle of Life” but its there..  Overall Presentation :  The cigar grabs your attention and makes you wonder..   Notes :  If you put the name of the cigar on the band make sure it sticks out. Score : 8/10 5. Burn  Marty Evenness : Burn started out straight but required several touchups as one side or the other needed help to keep up despite continually rotating the cigar as it burned. Ash : Ash is whitish gray and held on it one inch increments Relights : Several minor touchups throughout Burn Time :95 minutes Notes :  Score : 8/10 Mike Evenness : Burn was very good, consistent, and required no touch ups.   Ash : Ash was good.   Didn’t drop off until about 2 inches.  Relights : None Burn Time :87 minutes Notes : Score : 10/10 Overall Experience Marty Summary : This cigar was previewed at the 2024 PCA Convention, originally slated for May 2024 but delayed due to production issues with boxes, finally shipping in January 2025. The cigar reflects Rodriguez’s journey in the cigar industry, mentored by Perez-Carrillo at General Cigar Co. The name “Circle of Life” symbolizes passing knowledge to new generations, including Rodriguez’s daughter, Sara. The cigar matches the name and provides and enjoyable journey. Well constructed with a complex flavor that evolves throughout. This is the second time I smoked this cigar, the first time being in March of this year during our podcast live stream. The second cigar was the more enjoyable of the two indicating the may have benefitted from the extra 3 months of rest in the humidor. Pairing Suggestions : Would pair well with a coffee, cola, rootbeer or bourbon Would You Smoke Again? : Definitely would pick up a five pack Total Score : 90/100 Final Thoughts : The West Tampa Tobacco Circle of Life provides an enjoyable smoking experience with an evolving and complex flavor profile including spice, chocolate, nuts, molasses, and coffee. It is well-constructed and matches its name by offering a flavorful journey, reflecting Rick Rodruquez’s  journey in the cigar industry.  Mike Summary : The next release from West Tampa is a solid cigar.    There is some good complexity and very enjoyable.   Pairing Suggestions : Respado, diet pop, or iced tea.    Would You Smoke Again? : Yes, if I see them out in the wild I will pick up a few. Total Score : 88/100 Final Thoughts : This is a good cigar.   If you are looking for a cigar with some good earth notes or just something that will keep you thinking this is the one for you. Combined Score: 89