Size: belicoso (5.5 x 55)
Age: N/A (obtained from a PIF)
Wrapper: Dark Nicaraguan
Binder: Jalapa
Filler: Ometepe, Condega and Esteli blend
MSRP: $6

Drink: Diet Dr. Pepper
Cold aroma: chocolatey, meaty, dark earth
Cold draw: wet hay, grass



At the start of the first third there is a lot of pepper up front, mixed with bold rich flavors. I can't emphasize the richness enough, and it's there throughout the entire smoke. The richness develops as a desert-like stewed fruit flavor. It reminds me a lot of strawberry or cherry cobbler. A creamy pepper lingers at the back of the throat. Very little oiliness is left on on the lips. As the first third progressed, the pepper faded just enough for some faint citrus notes to make an appearance. The fruit flavor remained dominant, with the pepper primarily on retrohale only.



There were no prominent transitions going into the second third. A touch of chocolate mingled with the usual AJF baking spice was present. The fruit flavor became more balanced, with the notes of strawberry easier to pick up on. There was a bit of nuttiness/toasted tobacco flavor that appeared, but this could have been due to some humidity issues smoking outside at night. A relight was needed not long after this.



Again, there were no flavor transitions going into the last third. Some notes of coffee and cocoa were present, but the fruit still dominated. Due to the humidity the cigar started to get hot and mushy about halfway into the last third, so I put it down at that point. This was a very full-flavored cigar with medium strength turning to medium-full by the end.

This is a fantastic cigar at a great price point, and I can see why it's getting a lot of buzz. If the richness balances out after sitting for several months in the humidor, this would make for a great everyday smoke. Definitely box worthy IMHO. Thanks for reading!