H. Upmann Connoisseur No. 1

Origin:  Cuba

Format:  Hermosos #4

Size:  48 x 127

Box Code/Date:  LSM ABR08

Initial impressions:  Very rustic in appearance.  Not sure if this due to its age, be design or from heavy handed customers.  No construction flaws, but a small wrapper split at the foot which was definitely from a heavy handed customer.  Draw at cold was firm but good.  Aroma at cold is very understated, hints of coffee bean, earth and a slight nuttiness.

Opening:  Almost white ash.  Touch of cream and spice, but only a touch.  Earthy and nutty.  Perfect draw.

First third:  Even burn.  Nice volume of smoke.  Flavors are coffee bean, nuts and a slight creaminess.

Second third:  Creaminess and nuttiness getting a bit more forward on the palate.  Very creamy mouth feel.  Burn is staying even.

Final third:  Creamy and nutty flavors are strong now, but in a good way.  Not like peanut butter, but a definite creamy nutty flavor on the palate.

Conclusion:  This has been a very enjoyable smoke.  We are down to our last few sticks from this 2008 box.  I might decide to keep these all for me.