This vitola is fairly new and is made with tobacco from the Jalapa and Esteli regions of Nicaragua. I’ll preface this review by saying I just received a sampler of these a few days ago so the cigar has only been resting for a short period of time. Normally I would let cigars sit for some time prior to smoking; however, I was very eager to try this marca.
Pre light The cigar is covered with a rich, Colorado wrapper and is finished with a triple cap. The cigar cuts easily with aromas of leather and coffee bean.
1 Third The cigar starts with rich leather and coffee flavors with a hint of spice. It yields a generous amount of smoke, which is pleasant to the senses. It is definitely a full-bodied cigar.
2 Third The ash is firm and holding well. The cigar has required a couple of minor touch-ups. The flavors are staying consistent with an additional hint of earthiness. The burn is cool. I’m not detecting any harshness or bitterness at all.
Last third There is a slight build in the spicy character. The burn has evened out at this point. Flavors are still rich and consistent.
Over all impression: A well-constructed, beautiful cigar with rich, bold flavors throughout. The uneven burn can be attributed to the lack of rest on my part. It will be interesting to see how these cigars mellow with some time. This cigar is one of the best non-Cubans I’ve smoked and reminded me a great deal of the classic Tatuaje line.
Rating: 4/6 smoke rings (a good cigar that should improve with rest)
The Oncoming Storm
Posts: 293 | Location: Ohio | Registered: February 14, 2007
Originally posted by scott sizer: I just finished my first Illusione and I am blown away. Its time to invest in a box if I can find one
I have been looking for a box of the 68.No luck yet
I just bought some 68's at my local, www.citytobacco.com. They may have a full or at least a partial box. You'll have to call and ask but they gladly do mail order. They take 10% off boxes and if you buy singles, they have a "cigar card" that you get a $30 credit when you fill it up. They keep them on file for mail order customers.
I had the 88 two nights ago, It was FANTASTIC!!! Tonight I had the 2. Not at all similar but a good cigar. I have two others cg4 and 68 waiting in the humidor for trying.
I had the '88' tonight and yes, this is a fantastic smoke. Wonderful flavors of coffee, leather, and balanced spice towards the end. I let my sampler sit for a while and I didn't have the slightest hint of uneven burn. I can't wait to try the others in my sampler.
Posts: 659 | Location: Signal Hill, CA | Registered: April 26, 2007
I purchased a box in Nov. 07 and I smoked one last night. With 5 months of aging, it seems to have mellowed it's strong spice to a milder spice. The meaty, pungent flavors are more pronounced and all the flavors have combined well. Considerable differnce between now and 5 months ago.
Posts: 16 | Location: Boston, MA | Registered: August 23, 2007
