Cohiba Esplendidos Review

Cohiba Esplendidos -  12-Feb-2012

Origin:  Cuba

Format:  Julieta #2

Size:  47 x 178

Initial impressions:  Construction is very nice, almost satiny, oily like a well worn paper bag.  Pre-light, the draw is a bit easier (not loose mind you) than I would like.  Aroma at cold is a creamy cocoa and hay.

Opening:  This is a fairly young cigar, from a mid 2011 box.  As such, and based on my last several Esplendidos, I am honestly not expecting a whole lot out of this cigar.  Draw after lighting is still a bit easy.  The creaminess is right there from the start, and the finish and mouth feel lasts very long.  Almost like a creamy espresso taste.

First third:   When Esplendidos are on, they are really good – when not, they vary from mediocre to bad.  This one, while its way too early to call it a victory, is tasting very good.  Still very creamy and espresso notes, but a hint of nuttiness has crept in.  Draw firmed up a touch to spot on mid way through the first third.

Second third:  Pretty dead on medium at this point, still very creamy with a long finish and oily mouth feel.  A nutty almost raisin bread taste is creeping in as well.  Overall, a nice combination of flavors.

Final third:  Still medium not much more.  The creaminess is still there, but not as long on the finish.  The nutty, raisin bread and dried fruit notes are there, and create a nice sensation with the slight creaminess that remains.

Conclusions:  While far from the best Esplendidos I have smoked, its head and shoulders above those I have smoked in the past 1-2 years.  A nice smoking experience this evening.