Up for review today is the newest cigar from Yamakaze, the popular Japanese whisky brand.
Just kidding! It’s a new cigar from Viaje (read on).
The Viaje “Hamaki Omakase” is a limited run cigar from a company known for limited run cigars. The company didn’t release any blend info on the cigar nor any info on where the tobaccos are from, though I’d guess by the flavor profile that it’s largely from Nicaragua. For that reason, we’ll skip the “blend specifics” section and move straight to the review.
Appearance & Construction
As mentioned above, you could be forgiven for wondering if the branding here was ripped off straight from a bottle of Yamazaki. If you compare the box art of the Hamaki Omakase with Yamazaki 18 label, you’ll notice, let’s say, significant similarities.
I’m a marketer. I get the desire to want to profit off of the Japanese whisky boom. It’s a smart business decision. But this takes things a bit far. Even down to putting “18 cigars” in a box so “18” can be displayed in the same way that the year is presented in a bottle of Yamazaki 18. The typeface as well is nearly identical. And the overall placement of the text is uncannily similar.
This is lazy branding. And, lest anyone remind me that “imitation is flattery,” I’d say that’s true in all cases except when what’s being imitated is the graphic design of a more successful company.
All that said, let’s get to the tobacco itself.
Despite my misgivings about the branding, the outer wrapper has a silky smooth texture and a visible oily sheen that really gets me excited to light up. There are some substantial veins, as well as a major crack, but after cutting and testing the draw, the binder seems fine and the air flow with it. Off of the foot of the cigar I pick up strong spice aromas mixed with damp wood and corn chips (thanks halfwheel for identifying the corn chips).
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
On kick0ff, the Viaje Hamaki Omakase is initially spicy but immediately tones down to a very soft and creamy medium bodied smoke. The first impression on the tongue is one of slight spiciness that activates the center of the tongue, followed by very creamy notes of chocolate, oak, nougat and a tartness that I can’t quite place but which gives the smoke the kick it needs to be interesting. The cigar produces ample smoke, and though there’s some initial waviness to the burn it corrects itself quickly.
As the first third advances, some pepper creeps in on the retrohale, layered on top of the tartness from the palate. There’s also a bit more oomph on the palate, with more vegetal spice, more oak, and an creamy caramel note that is quite nice. All things told, a very good start to the cigar.
The Viaje Hamaki Omakase smokes mostly the same until well after the halfway point, which is a bit disappointing because, good as the first half was, any great cigar should have movement of flavors and strength that keeps the experience interesting. In this case though, the body and strength stay at just a touch under medium, with a core flavor profile of vegetal spice, milk chocolate, oak and that tartness which I still can’t place but would probably call a rhubarb kind of tartness. Construction-wise, the cigar continues to produce great amounts of smoke, but the burn also continues to be quite wavy and continually tempts me to touch it up.
The final third is mostly a replay of the second third, which is to say that not much changes. The spice that was fairly dominant in the first third draws back on the palate and on the retrohale, though it does ramp up a bit near the end. Otherwise, more of the same.
Conclusion
The Viaje Hamaki Omakase has a lot going for it when it kicks off, and really throughout most the smoke too. But where it shines in having great flavors, it doesn’t have a lot to offer in terms of complexity. It’s a bit of a one trick pony. Construction as well struggles throughout the course of the smoke, making the experience more frustrating than it would otherwise be.
Wall St. Humidor, first floor – photo courtesy Andy Oh
In April, Wall St. Humidor joined the ranks of other uniquely New York lounges consigned to memory like Velvet Cigar Lounge in the East Village, Beekman Bar & Books in Midtown East, JR Cigars in Midtown, and Merchants NY Cigar Bar on the Upper East Side. If you didn’t hear about the closure, that’s because the only evidence of its closing is its sudden absence. The website is down, phone disconnected, and a ‘for sale’ sign hangs above the entrance.
In fact, if you’re a NYC cigar smoker and haven’t heard of Wall St. Humidor at all before, don’t beat yourself up. For most of the last ten years the two-story lounge was only known by a smaller inner-circle of cigar enthusiasts and FiDi workers, and one can only guess this was one of the factors that led to its closing.
The demise of Wall St Humidor is sad for a few reasons. First, the main floor, though a bit on the shabby side, was very large and had plenty of seating. And although the staff had a well-earned reputation of being inexplicably rude to newcomers (a reputation I had proved to me on two occasions), it was still a quiet refuge where cigar smokers could pick out a good smoke and take a quiet break.
For those that spent time at the place, what may be missed most of all is the downstairs lounge, which was, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful private lounges in the city, with a baby-grand piano, modern interior, private member lockers, and much more. Losing that room is sad for the entire city, because it marks the end of one of the few remaining rooms where everyday citizens can sit down, light up, and talk about issues that really matter.
Wall St Humidor downstairs – photo courtesy Andy Oh
We can hope that this is where the sad trend of cigar lounge closings ends, but with ever more stifling city ordinances around anything tobacco, and new federal laws (current and future), the list of closings will likely only grow in the next decade.
Up for review today is another cigar from RoMa Craft Tobac, a brand I became a fan of after finally deciding to review the Intemperance BA XXI Ambition which is a downright enjoyable smoke. Today, we’ll look at the Cromagnon “Mandible,” which features a USA Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper (yum), and produced in the large 60 ring gauge format–I size I typically find pretty unappealing. But, today I’m up for something new, so let’s get to it.
Blend Specifics
Cigar Reviewed: Cromagnon Mandible by RoMa Craft Tobac
Wrapper: USA Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro
Binder: African Cameroon
Filler: Nicaraguan (Esteli, Condega, Pueblo Nuevo)
Size: 4 1/2 x 60
Appearance and Construction
The outer Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper has a dark complexion and a leathery feel, and the cigar is packed tight its entire length. The band has a cool, sleek look as well, though it’s hard to read the brand name because it’s debossed in black.
Taking a whiff off of the foot brings a blast of spice, sweet granola, and mustiness. The draw is perfect, a 7/10 in terms of amount of restrictiveness.
I’m very excited to light up.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
The Cromagnon Mandible opens with thick smoke that’s chock full of bitter espresso, coarse black pepper, grilling spices (mainly red pepper), and some charred wood. It’s at about medium in terms of strength and medium to full body, and damn it’s good. Only drawback: smoke production is adequate, but not quite as voluminous as I expected.
At an inch in, the Cromagnon Mandible takes a significant turn toward a more savory profile, with some leather and smoked meats joining the grilling spices that are still heavy on the tip of my tongue. Interestingly, a quick purge brings out a new, creamy cocoa flavor in the smoke. At this point, it’s clear this is a special cigar, and one I’m glad I purchased to review.
The second third develops the themes established in the first, with the flavors finding even more balance, and the body ramping up to medium full. Flavors include charred wood, Mexican chocolate, salt, smoked meats, and heavy red and black pepper. It’s the kind of flavor profile that tricks your brain into thinking that you’re eating a full meal. The retrohale is surprisingly tame, with black and red pepper. Construction wise, the Cromagnon Mandible never falters, with the all white ash falling in one inch increments and the burn remaining razor sharp. Smoke production also improves near the end of the second third, with the cigar producing opulent amounts of smoke.
The final third of the Cromagnon Mandible is just as stellar as the first two. There are no notable flavor changes, but the smoke remains remarkably cool even as the cigar continues to deliver big flavors of wood, spice, and bitter chocolate.
A truly excellent cigar.
Conclusion
The Cromagnon Mandible is a fantastic cigar. With full bodied smoke and big flavors of black and red pepper, charred wood, cocoa, and more, it’s just about as close as you can get to a perfect cigar following a big steak dinner.
If you’re a fan of rich, flavor bomb cigars like Padron, you’ll love this blend.
Up for review today is a cigar from one of the few new boutique brands on the market, Nova Cigar company. Thanks to halfwheel’s coverage of IPCPR 2019, you can get a glimpse of the company and some info on the leadership here. But this isn’t a news site, it’s a cigar and spirits review site. So let’s talk about the LE Perfecto.
The cigar features a Nicaraguan Rojiza 2000 wrapper, which I can’t say I know much about, but it is an attractive wrapper. The standout fact about this cigar though is its price tag. At about $25 per cigar, it is priced… let’s say.. aggressively.
Blend Specifics
Cigar Reviewed: Nova Limited Edition Perfecto
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Rojiza 2000
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Dominican Republic
Size: 4 1/2 x 56 perfecto
Appearance & Construction
Inspecting the Nova Limited Edition Perfecto, it is clear that it is beautifully constructed, and has a very attractive band. I love the combination of silver, black, and Tiffany blue (almost identical). The outer wrapper as well is nice, with a chocolate brown color. The perfecto-shaped cigar is consistently packed over its length, with just a bit of springiness when squeezed.
The outer wrapper leaf smells of barnyard, pepper, and espresso beans, and with the foot adding just a touch of sweet hay. The draw is about a 7/10 in terms of restrictiveness (e.g. just right). Let’s light up.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
The Nova Limited Edition Perfecto kicks off with loads of toasty, mild to medium bodied smoke. It produces about an average amount of smoke, and I notice touches of pepper and spice hitting the palate first. I’d say the bulk of the flavor profile is a balance between bitter and sweet notes. On the bitter side: bitter wood, fresh grass, and black espresso. The sweet side is less dominant, with notes of cocoa, cream, and baking spices. Overall, it’s a decently enjoyable opening, but the dominant bitterness does (I think) betray the youth of some of the tobaccos involved.
At about an inch in, some construction issues are becoming evident. First, there seems to be a small hole through the wrapper and binder, leading to air flow issues. Second, maybe as a result of the air flow issues, the cigar has trouble staying lit for more than 20 or so seconds after a puff. Both issues degrade the experience considerably.
The second third of the Nova Limited Edition Perfecto is unfortunately more bad news. Where the flavor profile was at least somewhat balanced in the first third, the second third veers into what I can only describe as bitter blandness. Wet paper, bitter woodiness and sharp spice dominate the experience, with a touch of sweeter baking spices evident on the retrohale.
In the final third, the strength and heat of the smoke pick up considerably. Strength goes up past medium, and the smoke hits the palate hard. There’s not much to say on the flavor side of things – there’s little development save for a hot spiciness which dominates all of the other flavors. Unfortunately, the rapid increase in temperature of the smoke means I set this cigar down early.
Conclusion
The Nova Limited Edition Perfecto is a bit of a head scratcher for me, mainly because the Nova website lists a box of 12 cigars for $300. Given the lackluster flavor, near non-existent complexity, and substantial construction issues, this cigar doesn’t come close to competing with other cigars in that price range. I think a more reasonable price would be $8 – $10.
I realize that sounds harsh, but those are my honest thoughts.
All that being said, I do think the cigar has some promise. I’d probably purchase the Toro size next, let it age for about three months, and then give it another try then.
If you’ve been reading our reviews for the last six months, you’ve noticed we haven’t reviewed that many new cigars in 2019. That’s partially because we have a huge backlog of other cigars to get through, and also because the lion’s share of new cigars are released at or after IPCPR, the largest annual cigar tradeshow in North America (going on as I write this, in fact).
All that to say, I’m excited to finally be digging in to some of the new 2019 product, starting with the Don Pepin Garcia Original TAA Exclusive 2019. As you can see, it’s a beautiful cigar and carries all the hallmarks of Don Pepin Garcia branding.
Blend Specifics
Cigar Reviewed: Don Pepin Garcia Original TAA Exclusive 2019
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Size: 6 x 54 Toro Extra
Price: ~$10
Appearance & Construction
The first thing that strikes me about this cigar, besides the ornate blue and gold banding, is just how soft the cigar is. It seems packed sufficiently, but has a lot more give than I’m used to, with the most discernible soft spot under the secondary band.
The cigar is wrapped in a beautiful, nearly flawless wrapper that has just a few very minor tears that shouldn’t cause any problems in the smoking experience. Off of the foot, I take a whiff and pick up bright, nearly sneeze-inducing aromas of cedar, barnyard, and savory grilling spices. Very typical for what I know from other experiences with the Don Pepin Garcia Original.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
The Don Pepin Garcia Original TAA Exclusive 2019 opens up with copious amounts of sandy textured, medium bodied smoke. It’s got a bit of pepper kick off the bat, but not as much as I’ve expect from other Don Pepin blends—in this case that’s a good thing.
For the most part, in the first third the flavors of the Don Pepin Garcia TAA 2019 are balanced between savory notes of grilling spices, cedar, and pepper, and sweeter notes of berries and a light vanilla. The retrohale is a mix of pepper and wood, thankfully not overwhelming. The ash that develops is solid and holds strong for about an inch and a half.
As the ember nears the second third, notes of leather, white and red pepper begin to emerge, though they don’t manage to unseat the now dominant notes of espresso and black pepper. Construction remains mostly good on the burn though it does stray from time to time. So far, an enjoyable experience, but nothing groundbreaking (which let’s be honest, probably isn’t the point for this cigar).
The next real change in pace for the Don Pepin Garcia TAA 2019 comes at the final third mark, and they are significant changes. First, the strength and body of the smoke climb to medium-full. Second, most of the sweetness that balanced the cigar out dissipates, leaving a mix of black pepper and grilling spices vying for center stage and mostly hitting the tip of the tongue. The retrohale on the other hand loses its peppery edge, leaving smooth charcoal and light toast to define the experience.
Overall, the final third is probably the least enjoyable part of the overall experience, which is too bad because I love cigars that conclude better than they begin.
Conclusion
I haven’t smoked the Don Pepin Original in quite a while so I’m not sure how this limited edition blend compares, but I do think I enjoyed this cigar more. Its certainly got more complexity than its regular production sibling. That said, complexity isn’t everything and the overall profile doesn’t land it at top tier status.
Up for review today is the Davidoff Nicaragua, a blend that when I first smoked it after its initial release I found to be about what I expected, but still underwhelming. I decided to give the cigar another chance and give it a formal review, and I’m glad I did because the experience this time around was a complete reversal of what I experienced my first few times smoking the cigar.
Here’s some background info on the cigar from the Davidoff website:
Inspired by Zino Davidoff’s pioneering spirit, Davidoff Master Blenders went on an exploration for a new type of blend that would stimulate both the bitter and sweet taste buds. Finally, they found it in Nicaragua, where the earth is infused by the fiery activity of some of the country’s forty volcanoes. The elegant Nicaragua Toro is spicy and peppery at the beginning, before evolving into a pleasant smoke with the familiar delight of the dual Davidoff sweet and dark bitter chocolate notes.
The 100% Puro Nicaraguan blend combines a 10-year-old Habano Seed Nicaragua Rosado wrapper in a beautiful colour, with a binder from Jalapa and a filler blend of tobaccos from Esteli, Condega and Ometepe. The range comes in three sizes: Toro (5 1⁄2 inches; 54 RG); Robusto (5 inches; 50 RG) and Short Corona (3 3⁄4 inches; 46 RG).
Blend Specifics
Cigar Reviewed: Davidoff Nicaragua Robusto
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Rosado
Binder: Jalapa
Filler: Esteli, Condega, and Ometepe
Size: 5 x 50 Robusto
Retail Price: ~#20
Appearance & Construction
The outer wrapper of the Davidoff Nicaragua is marbled dark brown and rugged, with some very noticeable seams and veins running the length of the cigar.
When squeezed, the cigar has a moderate amount of give, more than I’m used to on most Davidoff cigars. In addition, the softness seems most substantial at about halfway down the cigar. The aroma off of the foot is very gentle and unassuming, a mix of light earth, mixed berries, and slight spice that tingles the nose. The draw is good, though a bit loose (about a 6.5/10 in terms of restrictiveness).
Flavor and Smoke Characteristics
The Davidoff Nicaragua Robusto opens much stronger than I remember it being. Body and strength are both at medium on lift off, though there is a spice that’s surprisingly strong and frankly out of character for Davidoff. Flavors on the palate and aroma include toasted oak, black pepper, bitter sweet espresso, granola and grilling spices. The overall balance is between sweet, savory, and spicy, and, true to Davidoff form, it’s all balanced expertly. This gives the Davidoff Nicaragua an elegance that is rare on Nicaraguan blends with similar flavor profiles. The first ash holds well past the inch, and the cigar continues producing an excellent amount of cool (though spicy) smoke.
By the second third, I’m picking up some distinctive cocoa on the draw, followed by toasted wood, black pepper, and savory grilling spices. The retrohale is full of hot spices and peppers, but isn’t overly aggressive. This adds a great additional layer to the experience, and I’m loving this cigar so far.
At halfway, that great chocolate note gives way to a semi sweet, dry wood. Although the body of the smoke remains at medium, the strength of flavor (and the spice) settles below medium. This is reflected on the retrohale as well, which is now very smooth and woody. The construction of the cigar remains almost perfect, with a nearly straight burn and great smoke production.
This doesn’t last long, because in the final third, the pepper and charred wood come roaring back, unencumbered by almost any other flavors. It’s not the most enjoyable end, but it does seem to be somehow fitting given what came before. A thoroughly enjoyable smoke.
Conclusion
An altogether different experience than when I first smoked this cigar in 2014. So different that it may as well be a different blend (though of course in reality it is not). The Davidoff Nicaragua is a wonderfully crafted medium to full bodied smoke that combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors expertly. If you’re a fan of Davidoff or of Nicaraguan tobacco, this is a must smoke cigar.
Up for review today is the Bandolero Seleccion Especial which I discovered through my friends at Luxury Cigar Club. They’re great in part because they introduce cigars in their monthly boxes that are a bit ‘off the grid’ but also exceptional from a quality standpoint.
In any case, Bandolero cigars are produced by Neslon Alfonso and Selected Tobacco. Alfonso is famous for his work developing the branding for the Cuban Cohiba “Behike” which is renowned as one of the most desirable (and expensive) cigars in the world. Selected Tobacco on the other hand is a company now famous for two ultra-premium (and similarly expensive) non-Cuban cigar brands: Atabey and Byron Cigars. The Bandolero Seleccion Especial is billed as a less wallet-crushing cigar from the same maker, but only tasting the product will determine if it lives up to the same standards as the other brands.
Well, I can’t say I understand the branding on the band, especially given the branding mind behind this cigar. The mixture of black, gold and brown is not very appealing, and the brown portion of the band seems to be a printed wood texture (weren’t we done with that in the 70’s?).
Thankfully, the outer wrapper is a different story: pristine, with just one substantial vein and an otherwise smooth texture. The cigar is springy when squeezed, and as I squeeze along the length of it, it seems consistently packed.
Taking a whiff off of the foot I pick up predominantly sweet aromas of peanuts, granola, coffee bean, and earth. The cold draw is less interesting, with just a bit of sweet earth and a slight tingly spice.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
If the branding on this cigar is bad, the opening flavors are the exact opposite.
The Bandolero Selecccion Especial opens beautifully, with surprisingly mild, approachable smoke. The texture is extremely creamy, and the core notes of the profile at the start are peanuts and oak, with hints of floral and spice sometimes evident in the aroma. The retrohale is shockingly mild, with notes of warm bread and light baking spices. Construction wise, the draw is perfect, a 7/10 in terms of amount of restrictiveness, and the cigar produces ample smoke. The quality of the tobacco used in this cigar is unmistakable.
As the cigar develops more into the first inch, the texture and experience of the smoke starts to resemble my experiences smoking the Cuban Montecristo No. 2. That is to say, the draw is very smooth, the texture is silky, and the flavors are present and pronounced. Throughout the first half, construction is excellent, with the ash dropping in inch and a half increments and no issues with the burn.
The Bandolero Seleccion Especial smokes mostly the same all the way until the beginning of the final third. Definitely disappointing as the cigar started off great and I was hoping for a bit more flavor development in the second third.
In any case, the final third does have some significant changes. Although the body of the cigar never reaches medium, it does build a bit, with a noticeable increase in spiciness on the tongue and in the retrohale. The flavor palette as a whole also shifts, away from the creamy sweetness of the first two thirds and toward a more bitter base with notes of wood, fresh bread, paper, and nuts. The big negative though about the final third is that the smoke begins to heat up far too soon, with at least an inch and a half left before the cigar begins to be difficult to continue smoking.
Conclusion
After smoking the Bandolero Seleccion Especial, it’s obvious to me that it utilizes some very special tobacco. The first half of the cigar is close to sublime, with a very Cubanesque flavor profile that features prominent notes of nuts, cream, floral, and light spices. Unfortunately, the complexity and harmony falls off a bit, making the second half a lot less compelling overall.
Either way, I think this particular cigar would be a worthy investment for veteran cigar smokers looking to experience a Cubanesque non-Cuban cigar.
Up for review today is the RoMa Craft Tobac Intemperance BA XXI. I haven’t smoked many cigars from Roma Craft Tobac, but I do have to say that after reviewing this cigar, I will be smoking many more in the future. Read on to learn why.
Blend Specifics
Cigar Reviewed: RoMa Craft Tobac Intemperance BA XXI Ambition
Wrapper: Brazilian Arapicara
Binder: Indonesian
Filler: Nicaraguan and Dominican
Size: 5 1/2 x 54 Belicoso
Retail Price: ~$8
Appearance & Construction
The Intemperance BA XXI is an attractive cigar, with an espresso bean colored Brazilian Arapiraca that has minimal veins. Strangely, the wrapper leaf doesn’t actually extend all the way to the foot of the cigar. I couldn’t tell you why, but William Cooper at Cigar Coop looked into it and found the following:
At the footer of each of the Intemperance BA, it has an exposed binder, and then some exposed filler. Martin explained there were two reasons for this: First because Arapiraca wrapper is sensitive to humidity, the wrapper would actually shrink. They found the best way to work with this wrapper would be to let it age before cutting the foot (thus the shrinkage). Secondly, by exposing the binder and then the filler, it allows the cigar enthusiast to experience those parts of the blend without the dominant flavor component of the wrapper.
Besides the fascinating construction, the foot of the cigar smells great, with strong aromas of cedar, grilling spices, and earth. The cold draw is very spicy, with balanced, sweet notes of sweet earth and wood. Construction-wise, the draw is mostly free, about a 6/10 in terms of amount of restrictiveness.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
The first few puffs of the Intemperance BA XXI Ambition are noticeably thin on flavor, a direct result of having no combustion of the wrapper leaf. That’s short-lived though. Only two minutes in to the smoke, the wrapper leaf begins to burn and the flavors become much more rich and textured, with creamy fruitiness leading the way (a unique note to be sure) followed by rich cocoa and espresso notes. Every now and again, the smoke becomes a bit toasty, which keeps things interesting. Speaking of interesting, there’s also a surprising salt and spice that hits just the very tip of the tongue and sizzles momentarily, especially when I hold the smoke in my mouth. The cigar performs great on the construction side, with cool smoke, great smoke production, and a razor sharp burn line. As the cigar continues on in the first third, the spicy and toasty elements of the smoke begin to take center stage, upending the predominantly smooth and rich introduction. I’d put body and strength at medium in the first third.
The Intemperance BA XXI continues to shift and evolve all the way through the second third. First shifting to a spicier, drier and more full strength profile with leather, pepper and charred oak, and then minutes later shifting toward silky smooth smoke that highlights salty-sweet notes of popcorn, grilling spices, milk chocolate and concentrated espresso. For the most part the retrohale is mild and unassuming except for a few puffs here and there where a nicely placed dry spice comes through and livens things up. It’s a whirlwind, but a good one. Absolutely no issues with construction either: a great draw and good burn all the way through with the ash falling in inch and a half increments.
In the final third of the Intemperance BA XXI Ambition, the strength and body finally peak just past medium, with a noticeable uptick in dry wood, leather and spice and a diminishing of the smoother espresso and chocolate flavors. It’s a great way to wind the smoke down, not with a whimper but with more of a bang. The only negative that comes up is that the draw, already free near the beginning, opens up even more leading to the smoke overheating in the final inch.
Conclusion
As Halfwheel rightly noted in their review of the Intemperance BA XXI, this cigar relies less on blasts of power and more on finesse. I’ve got to hand it to Skip Martin and the team at RoMa Craft Tobac. They really have proven in this cigar, and in the CroMagnon, that they are capable of blending truly unique and skillful product.
Over the last few months, you may have seen many new whisky reviews written by Mark Garbin, a recent guest author to Fine Tobacco NYC (ex: (here, here, here, and here). He breaks the mold of the typical 100-point review, injecting in some much needed personality and charm.
Mark's reviews aren't just about reporting smells and flavors. He takes the time and thought to help people understand the experience of whisky; embracing the fact that every one of us approaches life in ways that are quite personal. His philosophy as he puts it: "If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, enjoyment is in the taste of the sipper!" I very much enjoy reading his posts and appreciate the unique spin he brings to this website. Although focused on cigar smokers, our site is also visited by tens of thousands of spirits lovers from all parts of the globe each year.
We all know that the link between a great smoke and fine drink enhances both. So I'm excited to announce that Mark has agreed to grace us with his measured thoughts on alcohol the world over, taking the role of Spirits Editor for finetobaccoclub.com/.
In the "spirit" (Ha!) of meeting our newest team member, I asked Mark to share his story and his take on all things distilled. Read on to find out what he said.
FTNYC: Let’s get started with the basics. Who are you? Where are you from? And how did you come to be involved with reviewing on Fine Tobacco NYC?
MG: By day I’m a institutional risk and portfolio specialist who sits on Fund boards helping to guide the portfolio performance of investment advisers. In my 35+ years in the business, I’ve been around the world numerous times and had the privilege and pleasure of enjoying thousands of whiskies and places to drink. Last year, I decided to become a certified whisky sommelier and received my certification from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust.
Recently, I met Fine Tobacco NYC’s fearless leader, Matthias Clock, over coffee. His approach to cigars and events is unique and dovetails well with my own beliefs. It was a natural for me to contribute to the fun and enjoyment.
FTNYC: Putting together a review of any product takes time and effort. What got you in to writing about whisky and why do you keep it up?
MG: I noticed more people trying new whiskies but they struggle to find clarity in their own preferences. I also saw how they start with but want to get beyond mass production bottles. I got into writing because I want people to drink better quality but also have an appreciation for how time, place, food and emotion play into life’s wonderful nuances. I didn’t see that (and still don’t) in the current review genre. I love helping individuals view tasting as an experience to be savored.
Pictured: Mark Garbin at a recent Fine Tobacco NYC event. (Photo credit: John DeMato Productions)
FTNYC: Besides being an accomplished writer, you mentioned that you put together whisky events in New York City for businesses. What do those events usually look like?
MG: They range from 20 – 250 people. Some companies love the idea of a vertical range of a single whisky label. For example, at a recent event, we tasted all of the stunning Dalmore brand expressions. Another firm wanted to sample different bourbons with multiple mashbills as well as create bespoke cocktails. These get-togethers are often for law firms, financial companies and for tech industry client thank-you events. My objective is to create a memorable experience.
FTNYC: What do you think of numerical ratings and letter grades?
MG: This is an emotional subject for me. First, there are many fine whisky reviewers who provide a great intro to quality. One of the best is Kara Newman at Winemag.com. She packs a lot of helpful info into a brief description. Ari, The Whisky Guy also does fantastic 60-second video reviews. Distiller.com and the Ultimate Spirits Challenge are also helpful.
That said, these grades are better taken as initial guidelines. One person’s 95 is another’s 75 and vice versa. But more important, a whisky that you might like at 6pm for a pre-dinner drink is different than one you would enjoy with certain main courses, desserts or after a meal. Your mood and flavor desires at the time also matter. For example, you might want a high rye bourbon or peated malt when you’re eating a steak. Or if it’s before a meal, your frame of mind could take you to a delicate Japanese whisky or wheated bourbon. Are you with your partner or with a group of friends engaged in a friendly taste-a-thon?
Bottom line, use ratings as starting points. More critical is what do you feel like drinking, when do you want it, with what are you pairing and with whom.
FTNYC: In your reviews, you break down whiskies by the type of person they would appeal to. Can you tell us a bit about those categories?
MG: Sure. Like Cigars, whisky has many facets. You can enjoy a whisky for its balance but then crave a real powerhouse. Sometimes a softer touch is needed or you want a dram where you can sit back and contemplate life. Flavor profiles are highly subjective. So don’t choose one. Embrace them all!
Next, where are you on your whisky journey? The Apprentice is starting down the road to a sophisticated palate. The Enthusiast is engaging in education as much as they can and the Adventurer climbs mountains just because they exist. Finally the Hedonist seeks spiritual (pun intended) rapture every time they raise their glass. Please note: It’s so much fun to indulge in multiple personalities when you enjoy what’s in the glass. A person can be an Apprentice and Hedonist simultaneously! Any permutation is welcome!
Finally, when and with what food, if any, are you drinking? There are some brands I would never, ever have with food. There are some where I would ONLY have them with a meal. You can love a whisky at many times or at a single time and place. Finding what works for you is the great joy! I hope to earn your trust as a guide on your voyage and bring a smile to your face.
It’s one of those things magazines write about for a person to do before they die. It will spoil you forever. The glasses and gins/vodkas are kept at -10º F as you select from a myriad of hard to get gins and designer vodkas. Then quintessential butler service brings a small portable station to you where long-serving bartenders pour the syrupy spirit into your now frosted glass. Then a precise peeling separates a Sorrento lemon skin from its host as droplets of the most fragrant oils caress the surface of your drink. A bowl of olives and nuts are placed on your table as you invoke your hedonist persona to savor each glistening sip.
FYI, the Dukes’ compelled me to: 1) Keep my gins & vodkas at sub-zero temps, 2) Buy organic lemons if I can’t get Sorrentos and 3) Buy a small freezer that now holds my precious secret stash of Beefeater Crown Jewel Gin and other hard to get whiskies.
Btw, they also stock a magnificent collection of Single Malts, Cognacs and Armagnacs. It might look like the classic “man’s bar”, but women are equally welcomed and pampered. Why are you reading this? GO THERE NOW!!!
FTNYC: You’ve sampled a lot of whisky in your time. What are your top three to five choices?
MG: OMG, the list is long and distinguished. It’s so hard to narrow everything down to so few. But, let’s look at two categories: 1) Great value whiskies less than $100/bottle and available at great prices. 2) TKO spirits i.e. The best devil-may-care availability or price point.
Whisky
Great Value
TKO
Single Malt
Cragganmore 12
(Tie) Ardbeg Uigeadail and Balvenie 21, Dalmore Cigar Malt
Blended Scotch
Johnnie Walker Green
Hibiki Japanese Harmony
Low Rye Bourbon
(Tie) Stagg, Jr. & Elmer T. Lee
Clyde May’s 10 Year Cask Strength
High Rye Bourbon
Four Roses Single Barrel
Remus Repeal Reserve
Rye
Hudson Maple Cask
Hillrock Sauternes Cask
Gin (London Dry)
Greenhook Ginsmiths
Beefeater Crown Jewel (Have to go to London)
Tequila
Herradura Anejo
Patron Cask Collection Sherry Anejo
FTNYC: You have an ebook with an extensive selection of bar reviews. Can you tell our readers what it is, and where they can get a copy?
MG: Thanks. It’s called Whisky and Romance Manhattan. It’s about the most romantic whisky bars in the city. For those interested in Spy Thrillers, my novel, No Fingerprints, is perfect for pairing with a great stick and a dram.
Reviewing cigars is a great hobby for a number of reasons, not least of which is that as a reviewer, I get to smoke a lot of the newest product on the market, discover new brands, and develop my palate. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t good reasons to turn to regularly return to the classic brands that have defined the industry since the mid twentieth century. In the case of today’s post, that’s Arturo Fuente, more specifically the Hemingway Signature Maduro which is rightly understood as a classic among industry veterans.
The Arturo Fuente Hemingway Signature Maduro features a classic Fuente band (I’ve always found the similarities of the bands confusing), with a slightly sandy textured maduro wrapper that has plenty of oil and some pronounced veins.
The outer wrapper smells of barnyard, vegetal, and savory spices. Par for the course for Fuente. The draw is very tight, an 8.5/10 in terms of restrictiveness, but that’s mostly due to the tapered format, so we’ll see how the construction changes as the cigar burns.
Flavor & Smoke Characteristics
The Arturo Fuente Hemingway Signature Maduro ignites and immediately produces wonderfully mild but thin flavors of creamy chocolate. But as soon as the tapered end burns, the draw suddenly opens up and smoke production kicks in full blast. Notes of floral, barbecue, espresso and cocoa powder come together to make a unique, dessert-like initial impression. Each time I puff, I’m greeted with white and red pepper, but the finish is creamy and lightly sweet, making for an excellently balanced experience. The retrohale is chock full of red and white pepper, along with some wood and vegetal notes.
Overall, the kick off of the Hemingway Signature Maduro strikes the balance between sweet, savory, and spicy quite nicely, though the wood note at times is a little bit abrasive.
As the ember burns past the first inch, the ash continues holding on with a perfectly shaped point. The strength and body of the cigar are now past medium and getting close to full. There’s plenty of sweet cream up front, with some bitter wood, but most of all lots of finely ground white and red pepper. The aroma is excellent, with more sweetness than the palate.
The ash continues to hold all the way up to the end of the first third. The flavor shifts away from bitter / savory and toward sweet, with a distinct dark chocolate note peeking through the more aggressive spice and pepper notes. It’s quite nice, and especially so because just a few puffs layer, the chocolate is joined by sweet cinnamon, adding nice complexity.
Remarkably, the ash holds almost to halfway. Smoke production never let’s up, and the cigar continues providing cool, flavorful smoke. At halfway, the pepper of the cigar finally subsides, though strong spice remains on the tip of the tongue with each puff. At the same time, soft mushroom emerges.
At this point what I find so interesting about the Hemingway Signature Maduro is that, though there is plenty by way of flavor complexity, there’s nearly as much complexity in the different textures I’ve experienced up to this point. This really enhances the experience and is a testament to the craftsmanship at work on this cigar.
The final third of the Hemingway Signature Maduro brings it all together. Nearly perfect construction, great smoke production, and a very complex flavor profile. Lots of spices on the tip of the tongue, cream coating the palate, and supporting flavors of mushroom, espresso, cedar, and hints of dark chocolate. Strength at this point is full, providing one hell of an ending to the experience.
Conclusion
The Arturo Fuente Hemingway Signature Maduro is a classic cigar for a reason. Impeccable construction, rich and complex flavors, and a real journey of strength and texture. It’s the kind of cigar that has so much going on that it isn’t the best beginner cigar, but veterans of all preferences will find much to love.
