H. Upmann #2
Box Code: ROA NOV 06
Measurements: 52 x 6 1/8
Size: Piramide

There are a lot of comparisons between this cigar and the Montecristo #2. Having had an absolutely horrible Montecristo #2 from an 06 box on Thursday (tight draw, uneven burn, and grassy aftertaste), I decided to light up an H. Upmann from a similar time period to see how well it does. I would not want to smoke a lot of cigars out of this particular box in order to let them age over a few years; however, it’s good to see where it is right now.

Pre light
Very easy cut with my Xikar yielding an easy draw. The pre-light flavors are of cedar and earth. The cigar is a dark brown torpedo with few veins. It appears to be filled just right. It’s a cool evening here in Ohio, and I’m joined by my friendly neighborhood crickets for company.

1 Third
The cigar opens up with rich cedar, leather, and a small amount of spice. There is a slight tanginess to the aftertaste. It’s already starting out much better than the Montecristo #2. There is a generous amount of smoke with an earthy aroma.

2 Third
The burn is even, and the ash falls without effort from the foot. I’m getting flavors of chocolate and espresso now as well. This is definitely a full-bodied cigar.

Last third
This cigar is still keeping an almost perfect burn. The flavors are mixing well with a prominent flavor of earth and cedar. I’m still getting a large amount of smoke.

Overall impression:
I have to say this cigar is much better than its 06 cousin. It is full-flavored without being overwhelming and has excellent construction. I think it will only get better with age.

Rating:
4/6 smoke rings (a good cigar that will improve with time)

Nice review. As to the '06 Monte, I have found them to be quite good-- was your bad experience just one stick?

I'll have to get the Upmanns and compare.

Have had 2 HU #2 from 6/06 box and 1 MC2 from 9/06 and at this point give a decided edge to HU. This box code was rated 93 by CA in the past year. I agree, they are superb.