Gurkha Estate Selection (Vintage Shaggy) Review

4/4/2014

Cigar: Gurkha Estate Selection (Vintage Shaggy)
Size: Gordo, 6.0”x60
MSRP: $10.80
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Dominican
Origin: Dominican Republic

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Prelight: This is an ugly cigar. The shag is nearly ¾”, which is fine. But the wrapper, which smells like a basement, is wrinkled and has pieces of tobacco stuck to it. There even appears to be a small glob of tar on one side near the cap. The wrapper is uneven in color and appears darker towards the foot. It is soft to the touch, so I double v-cut in an x shape hoping to not open it up too much. The cold draw is still basement.

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1/3: The shag is a bitch to light. It burns unevenly and tunnels immediately. Once to the wrapper, my hope of it evening out is dashed. I’m smoking a canoe. It tastes like cedar, with a bit of dried fruit. Multiple touch ups are required.

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2/3: Pretty much the same: cedar (lots of it), a very mild sweetness. Maybe there is some earth and/or cocoa, but I think I’m fishing. More touch ups.

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3/3: My x-cut is almost oozing tar. The flavors are the same and I’m tired of fighting the same damn side that just won’t burn like the other. I tossed it with 1 ½” left.

Overall: If my terse words make it seem like I’m in a bad mood, you’re right. This was one of the worst cigar smoking experiences I have had. Horrible construction, one-dimensional flavor, all-around bad smoke. I’m sorry if you like these, maybe I got a bad one. But, I will never smoke this cigar again. Even if for free. Even if I look like a snob for declining. I’d simply rather go without. At least the MSRP isn’t as inflated, but given the quality of the cigar, it’s about right for Gurkha.