Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas (2004)

Produced: 2004
Made by: Prominentes
Vitola: 612
Shape: Parejo
Ring Gauge: 49
Length: 7 5/8 inches
Purchased: Baranows, Melbourne, Australia, 2006.

Date: October 7th, 2006
Time: 8:00pm Pacific
Location: Private Home and The Biltmore Hotel, Santa Barbara, California
Conditions: Clear and bright sunshine, Mild 73 degrees


The Locations
Looming on the calendar for months, I take the Friday morning “puddle-jumper” out of fog-enshrouded SFO and 50 minutes later I am in a cab speeding along PCH on my way to The Santa Barbara Biltmore to attend L’s cousins’ wedding.

I arrive at the old Biltmore which has been totally renovated and is an amazing indulgence of old world luxury and serenity. The accommodations, service and food are typical Four Seasons excess with someone always asking if they can offer assistance or give you a bottle of water (bloody Southern California!). A hangout for adulterous weekends by Hollywood, one can literally disappear into the lush foliage never to be seen or heard from again.

In-front of me at the check-in, Steven Cojokaru’s lap dog starts urinating on the beautiful Mexican tile floor. Cojo squeals with glee as three uniformed attendants instantly appear with mops and I realize how delightful it is to be back just north of La La Land.









The cousin’s nuptials have all the signs of being a the night of living hell. Making polite conversation with strangers, eating tepid warm fish or beef, drinking cheap wine, listening to ill-prepared speeches and having to dance to some Sinatra or Rod Stewart wedding ditty.

We arrive at a “friends” home in the low rent part of Montecito. We arrive on-time but the ceremony has actually started early. The invitation says 3:00pm and the bride and groom were already down the aisle at 2:55pm…what the hell is that all about? Was someone having second thoughts and was pressured to rush things along?

The ceremony is over in 5 minutes and the poolside cocktail reception drags on for 2 hours in the blazing sun before food is served. By the time the buffet line opens up, the mushroom risotto looks like Chinese sticky rice, and the salmon filet takes on the appearance of charcoaled carrot sticks.



There was no MC so the Groom and his buddies are in the pool house watching the ball game. The brides’ friend, who loaned the house for the wedding, has just delivered a somewhat insulting and defamatory speech about the bride, and publicly anointed a few chosen neophytes to join her in the main house (off-limits to everyone else so the sign on the window states) to enjoy their private French Champagne. I felt like I was back at Grimwade House being hunted down by the anti-Semites.



My only saving grace is that out of the corner of my eye I notice the kids table has fried chicken tenders, fries and a huge bowl of ketchup! As I lean over the 5 year olds to help myself, one of them starts screaming for Mommy because someone is “STEALING” their food.

All hell breaks loose as Mommy runs to the rescue accusing me of child abuse, so I quickly skipped over to the lawn and pulled out this extraordinary cigar.






The Smoke!

To me the HDM Double Corona exudes class. I first saw one of these over 12 years ago when I was invited to a charity event and had the fortune of seeing Milton Berle smoking one. It was at the Beverly Hilton back in the glory days when one could still smoke in-doors in California. Known for smoking El Producto's, I’ll never forget that Uncle Milty had two extra DC’s stashed into his tuxedo jacket pocket….geez, how many did he smoke in a day?!

I picked this one up 6 months ago and it is in excellent condition. No flaws it’s a dark tan and feels firm and smooth. I apply a cat’s eye and notice a crisp cut indicating some freshness that might benefit from just a little more ageing. The pre-light smell is subtle and aromatic.







It fires up easily and the taste and aroma are exquisite. As I take a deep draw, I immediately forget about the “chicken tender” incident. The ash is very firm and almost snow white.





L is signaling me to return to the table and they still haven’t cut the cake and it’s 7:30pm…..don’t these people know there is an agenda and schedule to keep at these things?? As the Barry Manilow tunes start to play, I wave the parking valet ticket at L and trot off to get the car to enjoy this beautiful smoke.


Rating: (5) CLASSIC
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: SMOKE SOON: 2007 - 2009
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Rafael Gonzalez Coronas Extra (1981)

Produced: 1981
Made by: Coronas Gordas
Vitola: 505
Shape: Parejo
Ring Gauge: 46
Length: 5 5/8 inches
Purchased: Davidoff, London, UK, 2006.

Date: September 30th, 2006
Time: 6:00pm Pacific
Location: 2006 San Francisco Greek Food Festival, San Francisco, California
Conditions: Overcast, Temperate 68 degrees

The Locations
I’m starving! This frickin organic-vegetarian-natural-fiber-low-carb-low-fat-green-tea-mumbo-jumbo diet that L has me on is driving me nuts. I want some meat and fat… and I want it now! I’m desperate and if I suggest a steak at Harris’s or a burger at Myth she’ll cotton onto me. And so I deftly suggest: “Hey honey, how about we do something cultural & ethnic tonight and experience the Greek Festival”? By carefully omitting the word “Food” from the festival description, we were on our way down to the Mission District with visions of Souvlaki dancing in my head.

As we crossed over Market Street and approached the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral (alarm bells will ring if I cross the threshold), I could see the billowing smoke from the open BBQ pits. Oh joy, this is going to be good.

The Greek culture really focuses on family and enjoying food and although I am not Greek, I really enjoy the cuisine. There’s something about the wine, food and erhhhh, their friendliness that is very inviting. Having grown up in a city that has the largest Greek population outside of Greece, I have an appreciation for mixing meat and yoghurt (not kosher, right?). The first person to correctly email me the identity of that city will receive a Cohiba Siglo VI!

As we entered the Cathedral grounds, I conducted a quick reconnoiter and started salivating. Food glorious food! BBQ’d Lamb, Pork, Octopus, Chicken all basted in amazing herbs and spices on open grills. At each station there were these elderly Greek gentleman (most of them named Nick or Nicky or Nicholas or Con) eagerly throwing meat at me as if they knew of my dietary purgatory.

We wandered around squeezing through the attractive all Greek crowd sampling the Pastitsio, Moussaka, Spanakopites, Tiropites, Stuffed Bell Peppers, Dolmathes, Greek Style Green Beans, and my favorite, a variety of spreads: taramosalata and skordalia. We had some mediocre Greek beer and then finished off with some spectacular pastries: Koulourakia, Galatobouriko, Baklava, Kataifi, Melomakarouna, Kourambiedes…. Pass me the pepto..

I grabbed a table near the fountain and watched the children dressed in their traditional costumes practicing for their upcoming dance performance. As L ran off to get some of those fried donut balls that are drizzled with honey and walnuts, I enjoyed the moment knowing full well that my menu for the next week would consist of wheat grass juice, cold tofu and raw grains…. It was at that point I reached for this Gonzalez.


The Smoke!
Muddy tan in color the cigar has a slight green tinge spot near the tip. It has solid construction with a beautiful yet understated cap. One hardly notices the band as the thin brown strip melds into the cigar. The lettering is miniscule and I struggle to read it even with my 2.5 multiple glasses.

This vitola is generally recognized as the best cigar made by Gonzalez. The full name of the brand is “Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Marquez” and it was created by a Spaniard named Marquez Rafael Gonzalez in 1928 for the British market. Once again, pandering to the British Empire! I guess back in those days when there was an empire, if you made it there, you could make it anywhere.

By 1936 the brand was acquired by Rey del Mundo Cigar Company and production was suspended in the early 1960’s to be resurrected in 1965. In the UK and especially by the guys at Davidoff it’s always been very highly regarded and was recommended by Zino Davidoff as an essential part of any aficionado’s collection.

I apply a cat’s eye cut and quickly get this smoke going. Initially it has a grassy flavor and a slight salty taste. The first third of the smoke is very pleasant and strong. As I progress, it starts to transition from a very good smoke to a truly outstanding experience. Not a subtle smoke, the flavors turn sweet with a floral and herbal taste. The salt is still on the lips (very different experience) but the herbal aroma is exquisite.

The folks at Davidoff told me they peak after about 10 years of ageing, so I’m very interested to see if this has faded since it’s over 20 years old. The final stage is even more pronounced and quite persistent. Still strong it becomes woody and sweet….this is an OUTSTANDING smoke that does not require any more ageing…. Clearly it should be enjoyed NOW.

L returns with the donut balls and they are absolutely wicked. We wander some more and I notice some interesting glances at me….”there is no bloody way I am extinguishing this smoke”….Oopah, better head for the exits before things get ugly.


Rating: (4) OUTSTANDING
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: SMOKE NOW
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Romeo Y Julieta Hermoso #1 EL 2003

Produced: 2003
Made by: Briones Montoto
Vitola: Corona Gorda
Ring Gauge: 48
Length: 6 1/8 inches
Purchased: Baranows, Melbourne, Australia, 2006.

Date: September 23rd, 2006
Time: 8:00pm Pacific
Location: Nickel & Nickel Vineyard, Napa Valley, California
Conditions: Starry skies, Warm 80 degrees


The Purchase
This cigar was recommended by Ben at Baranow’s.


The Locations
The “Indian Summer” is in full bloom in Northern California. It’s Jewish New Year, and what more fitting way then to celebrate at a barn dance! Our friends at Far Niente are putting on their annual Harvest BBQ & Barn Dance party at their sister vineyard Nickel & Nickel.

Both Far Niente and Nickel & Nickel produce some spectacular single vineyard wine. I especially like the FN cabernets (see previous experience) and this evening we sampled some very tasty N&N Pinot and what has to be the most delicious desert wine, the FN 1999 Dolce….this stuff is addictive!

This was a rare opportunity to mix it up with the wine elite of Napa and Sonoma. Everyone was dressed in their “wine country casual”, translation: designer jeans, Loro Piana plaid shirts, Bottega Venetta boots and the applicable over-sized baubles. Lot’s of beautiful people who “have a place in the city” and “some grapes growing” either in Napa or Sonoma counties.



We helped ourselves to the buffet and sat under the stars next to the century old Gleason Barn that was painstakingly rebuilt from it’s roots back in New Hampshire. As the sun finally set, they lit up bonfires to keep us all warm as we listened to catchy country tunes from a quaint quartet.


At our table I had the chance to learn about the FN philosophy from Larry Maguuire, the President & CEO of Far Niente…. Well, actually, I was also pandering in the hope of getting access to even more beautiful wines. The food and conversation was too good for me to barn dance (gosh, darn it, sorry L!), so when the desert wine was served, I pulled out this R&J and began to enjoy it al fresco.



The Smoke!
This is an impressive looking cigar. This specimen is in excellent condition, smooth and shiny, medium brown wrapper, no visible flaws and well constructed from cap to tip. It’s a little firm, suggesting that further ageing is required which is not unexpected for Edicion Limitada (“EL”) cigars.

The EL lines have been a marketing coup for Habanos SA. First introduced in late 2000, a limited number were introduced internationally. In each box there is a note that states “The wrapper used for rolling this Habano has been specially selected from the top of the plant and aged during two years”. When I first heard that Habanos SA was starting to produce aged puros in commercial quantities it almost caused me to lose control of bodily functions.

The 2000 EL’s consisted of Hoyo de Monterrey Particulares, Montecristo Robustos, Partagas Piramides and Romoe Y Julieta Exhibicion No. 2. There was definitely a mystique about these incarnations and it has been exciting to see what will come next. Early on they were experiments in new vitolas and blends and the intent was for these cigars to be aged and gain maximum enjoyment. As such, smoking them early did result in some less than perfect experiences.

Since 2000 new EL’s have been introduced under various brands and vitolas. I make the practice of acquiring the latest batch and “laying them down” for at least 5 years, and re-sampling them as time progresses. No question about it, they are starting to improve with an investment in time.

As I light up this RJ I have a tinge of regret as I feel I might be smoking this too early. The beginning is slightly harsh and the draw requires some finesse. Once lit, I never had to touch it again. This is a medium strength smoke and there is some pepper overtones and a pronounced tobacco taste. Halfway through it does mellow and become more woody and aromatic. This is a nice average smoke mixing in with the BBQ and delicious wines. With more ageing and being PUT AWAY this could become a VERY GOOD smoke.

Uh oh, we have run out of Dolce and our transport back to the city, Joe in his souped up Navigator, is calling me on the cell. The smoke is at it’s end and I toss it into the adjacent vineyard…. Shessh, was it still lit?


Rating: (2) AVERAGE
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: PUT AWAY: 2009 - 2013
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Sancho Panza Belicosos (1997)

Produced: 1997
Made by: Campanas
Size: Belicoso
Ring Gauge: 52
Length: 5 1/2 inches
Purchased: TomTom Cigars, London, UK, 2006.

Date: September 16th, 2006
Time: 8:00 PM Pacific
Location: Pasadero Country Club, Salinas, California
Conditions: Warm and balmy evening, 80 degrees


The Purchase
This is a spare cigar I picked up at TomTom’s when I was in London a couple of months ago. It was from a box that was acquired in Barcelona back in 1998. I had enjoyed these in the past and decided to see how well they have aged.

The Locations
We are on our way back down the peninsula to attend L’s 25th high school reunion in Salinas. We check-in to The Tradewinds Inn in Carmel, a “Balinese” themed studio hotel that welcomes Amber with a cookie and all the creature comforts. Saturday we have lunch with the M-in-law at my favorite casual place, Casanova’s, after which I have a nap in preparation for the big trip back in time.

Class reunions are an eerie study of life’s twists, turns and decisions. There are the winners, the losers, the near misses, the regrets and even the departed. As L met people, some for the first time in 25 years, one could instantly read assessments of how they had faired in the game of life. The performance metrics for men are slightly different for women. With men, it’s all about the hair line, the waist line, the line of credit, and if your mate selection “has legs”. For women, it’s about the lines on your face, the lines of jewels and if the mate selection has been “fruitful”.

To make life interesting, I donated the five-pack below to the silent auction. It managed to reach $300 before the spinach salesman bagged them.

There were all types of characters (and creatures) at the event. Most of which trying to relive the “glory days” that had long gone. There was Mike, the guy that thinks he has done better than everyone else, but really hasn’t. Strutting around like a peacock, he donated more than 90% of the silent auction prizes trying to showcase his net worth in some bizarre display of self-promotion. Then there was Brent the insurance agent that is a straight shooter who was funnier as he became more inebriated and pinned everyone’s name tags on his jacket.

There was the born-again Christian who sang (off-key) some period ballad from 1981, the guy who never got married “hitting on” old class mates, the spinach salesman from Salinas fretting about e-Coli bacteria, the teacher that was staring at any available cleavage, the “business development consultant” looking for pity and handouts, the snobby wife paralyzed with embarrassment when her husband, dressed like Wyatt Earp (with 10 gallon hat and long jacket), told me he would prefer to be in the hills oiling his guns.

It was an unbearably long evening of being the dutiful husband. The salad was limp, the steak was blue and the desert melted… all this for a $100 a seat, what a deal! As I watched ageing, intoxicated, balding, flabby men “making passes” at L, I could only delight in the wrath they would incur from their wives who were also witnessing their Neanderthal slobbering. I decided to make my way to the 18th green to smoke this Habanos.

The Smoke!
This brand does have a fairly long heritage. First registered in 1848 by the same German who registered the El Rey del Mundo, it was named after Don Quixote's faithful servant. The cigar actually dissappeared in 1898, but was revived in the 1920's. After being bought and sold over the years by multiple merchants, by the 1950's it became the most popular brand Spain.

After the revolution, the cigar has lost most of it's popularity. This is mainly due to the fact that they do require ageing to be enjoyed. Sancho's are still popular in Spain, which is where this one came from, but now only 7 models remain.

This Belicosos is renowned for being one of the mildest pyramide shape cigars. This specimen is in excellent condition. Slighly waxy feel to the wrapper, it is well constructed with a particularly sharp point on the cap. I make a traditional cap and it lights up very easily. I immediately taste a very strong grassy flavor and it is almost salty to the taste.

As I smoke my way through, the ash is stiff and white. The woody flavors start to become more pronounced but the draw is uneven. Perhaps this is not as well rolled as I percieved. Inspecting the end (see photo) it appears the layering is somewhat uineven.

The woody flavors are starting to become sweeter now and it seems that with even more ageing, this puro could evolve into a very good smoke. I have to work at keeping this alight as I am standing on the 18th green and the ocean breeze from Monterey Bay is starting to strengthen.

I look back at the club house and L is calling for me to take some photos... oh geez, when will this night end? The belicosos is closing down and even though it was an average smoke, it will definitely get better with more ageing. I turn toward the clubhouse to face the music... not to worry, I have a Cohiba Sublime to sample tomorrow.

Rating: (2) AVERAGE
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: VAULT: 2011 - 2018
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Trinidad Robusto Extra (2004)

Trinidad Robusto Extra (2004)
Produced: 2004
Made by: Laguito
Size: Parejo with pigtail
Ring Gauge: 50
Length: 6 1/8 inches
Purchased: Baranows, Melbourne, Australia, 2006.

Date: September 10th, 2006
Time: Noon Pacific
Location: San Rafael, Marin County, California
Conditions: Clear skies, Warm 80 degrees


The Purchase
This cigar was highly recommended by Ben at Baranow’s. Wal told me he has archived away a number of boxes, as he believes further ageing will produce a classic smoke.

The Locations
It’s going to be a hectic Sunday and I have some “honeydews” (Honey can you do this…. Honey, can you do that…), one of which is a visit to the Bay Area Pet Fair and Adoptathon (don’t bother looking in the dictionary).


I love dogs….but this is a ridiculous display of gratuitous consumption and capitalism at it’s finest. In addition to the adoption agencies there are dog massages, dog psychic readings, organic “Zen” dog treats (which taste pretty good), dog portraits / photographs, and even a Lawyer who will adjust your will because “After you’re gone…. Your doggie still needs you”! What am I going to do, leave my cigars to Amber?

With the all the barking and yelping, side-stepping of dog feaces and urine, the blazing heat in Marin (it must have been 80 degrees) and the endless oodling of “isn’t that dog adorable”, I turn to Leslie and plead to be excused so I can return to the car to smoke my Trinidad.

The Smoke!
As you are probably aware, the Trinidad brand was used as official diplomatic gifts from the Cuban Government to foreign dignitaries and politicians. Interestingly, Castro never used Trinidad’s for his personal gifts, as he always preferred to hand out Cohiba’s. This is his preferred approach that is still practiced today, and as a result, the Trinidad brand has never recovered in playing “second fiddle” to Cohiba…. An unfair designation for such a great cigar.

The Trinidad brand was created in 1969 and had no pre-revolution history. It’s probably the most mysterious brand and was relatively unknown until it was released to the public in 1997. Up until very recently, they were available only in the Laguito No. 1 size (gauge: 38, length: 71/2”). This robusto is part of the new breed of models that were slowly marketed beginning in 1997.

What an incredible piece of art this cigar is. The construction is beautiful and the pigtail on the cap is a sight to behold. It reminds me of the fried won tons that are thrown at you at a Yank Sing dim sum fest Sunday brunch. I would love to witness the rolling as it must require additional origami skill to get the twist just right. I feel somewhat destructive as I cut the cigar with my Zino and snip off the pigtail. I was tempted to use my “cat’s eye”, but became anxious that a misalignment might cause some unraveling.

The cigar has a light tan / chocolate appearance with some plume. There are no visible flaws or veins and has a firm feel but is not hard. I light up and the draw is good and even. The initial taste is sweet and mild and it starts to develop stronger as I progress through. The ash is spotted and stiff.

As I enjoy this smoke I note what a pleasure the gauge and length are. Calling this a Robusto is somewhat a misnomer, as it is more elegant and reminds me of a shorter and more substantial Churchill.

The first set of the 39th US Open is almost over and I need to get back to the big screen before the Swiss guy kills the Yank. It will have to wait, as I cannot bring myself to extinguish this VERY GOOD smoke. At the end, it becomes even sweeter and stronger with no bitterness. It would still benefit from some ageing and I anticipate in 5 years this will become outstanding.

Rating: (3) VERY GOOD
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: PUT AWAY: 2009 - 2013
Smoke Now / Smoke Soon:1–3 Years / Put Away:3–7 Years / Vault:7-12 Years / Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Cuaba Distinguidos Millenium Reserve (1998)

Produced: 1998
Made by: Romeos
Size: Perfecto
Ring Gauge: 52
Length: 6 1/8 inches
Purchased: Vancouver Cigar Company, Vancouver BC, 2006.

Date: September 1st, 2006
Time: Noon Pacific
Location: Salinas, California
Conditions: Clear sunny skies, 70 degrees


The Purchase
This commemorative jar was purchased at Vancouver Cigar Company in Vancouver, BC. It was widely believed that these jars were sold out years ago, but in January 2006, Habanos SA discovered 12 jars that had been overlooked in the back storage area of their distribution facility in Havana. VCC was allocated one of these jars, and my dear friend Trevor gave me first dibs….. Thanks Trev!

The Locations
I’ve recently been livin “high on the hog” and so this Labor Day weekend I’ve decided to bring it down a notch, or three! Due to a violent allergic reaction to Cat saliva, I never stay at the mother-in-laws. As a result, I find myself in the dead of night gingerly approaching the Salinas Courtyard Marriott. It’s conveniently located off the tranquil CA101 next to the Costco, Burger King, Taco Bell, Dunkin Donut, In n Out, Krispy Kreme, Home Depot…. Starting to get the picture?

The Courtyard is the low-end brand for Marriott, the “McDonalds” of the overnight sojourn: 50 thread count sheets, rubberized shower curtains, flakey soap, instant coffee, hermetically sealed toilet seats….such an inviting ambience.


After a sleepless night thanks to the Under 18 year old El Salvador boys soccer team, I have breakfast with Leslie (yes, she and Amber stay at home with Mommy) and we pay a visit to the only cigar store in Salinas, The Cigar Box. The proprietor, Ed Crosby (no relation to Bing), doesn’t exactly welcome us with open arms.

Ed is rather a sad person, and as you can see from the photos, so is his store. I ask him the standard question and he immediately accuses us of being ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms) agents.



I try to warm Ed up by complimenting him on his smoking Indian, or is that a smoking Pharaoh, that is wearing sunglasses and respectfully holding the Stars & Stripes…. ?? He just grimaces and returns to watching a ball game.

It’s my custom to always purchase at least something when I visit a tobacconist. It’s similar to feeling compelled to making that donation during Lent or Yom Kippur when they pass around the collection plate and the guilt or shame really eats at you. In Ed's case, his inventory, or lack thereof, is making this a particulary difficult donation.

Ed has been meticulous in targeting his customer segment: the Agricultural Field Laborer and the Fallen Urban Cowboy. I end up by acquiring a Dominican that I will “re-gift” at some corporate function. We tearfully bid Ed adieu and go for a walk on Carmel beach so that I can enjoy my Cuaba.


The Smoke!
According to Habanos SA, approximately 6,000 porcelain jars were made, with them all being sold out by 2002. I was strongly advised not to open the jar and put these away for at least 10 years. Of course I couldn’t resist, and so I selected a couple to sample now, and have safely deposited the jar in my vault…. See you in 2016.

This is a fascinating looking cigar. It’s tapered and has a very comfortable fit between the fingers. I’d heard that these Cuaba’s were not as good as the other Commemorative Jars, the Cohiba Piramides (previous review) and the Montecristo Robustos. I was to be pleasantly surprised. The wrapper is in excellent condition and has a dark tan color with absolutely no flaws.

A somewhat waxy feel the puro has almost a brilliant sheen. I applied a traditional cut, as the tip is far too tapered for a cats eye. The smoke lights up easily which is deceptive when one surveys the bulbous end, anticipating that it might require a number of attempts.

The first few draws require some work, but after 30 seconds, the experience is flawless. Stronger than the other two jars, this has a distinctive tobacco taste that has hints of wood and leaves. It has a consistent flavor all the way to the end and is really a very nice smoke that will definitely benefit from more ageing. If blogs, web 2.0 or I still exist ten years from now, look for my follow-up review on this Cuaba.

Rating: (3) VERY GOOD
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: VAULT: 2013 - 2016
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Cohiba Siglo V (2001)

Technorati Profile


Produced: 2001
Made by: Dalias
Shape: Parejo
Ring Gauge: 43
Length: 6 3/4 inches

Date: August 31st, 2006
Time: 5:30pm Pacific
Location: Gilroy Caltrain Station and Salinas, California
Conditions: Warm and dry 82 degrees, light breeze
Purchased: Baranows, Melbourne, Australia

The Locations
It’s leading up to Labor Day and this is the first of two excursions for the weekend. I board the 3:07pm

Caltrain in SFO for the 2 ½ hour trip down to Gilroy where Leslie and Amber will pick me up to spend a couple of days in Salinas.

One really gets to see the best and the worst traveling by train. For most of this trip, I am exposed to the “under-belly” of society as the train weaves it’s way down the Peninsula, through the backyards of Silicon Valley and past San Jose to Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World (and the end of the line)! On the train, the wifi and cell reception is awesome and I clear my inboxes in between naps and calls…. I just love seamless connectivity…

I arrive early and wait for Leslie on the deserted platform. As the train is positioned for it’s overnight stay, a number of suspicious shadows emerge from the bushes and start foraging in the trash bins. Hmmm, how can I blend in and not be noticed? I decide to light up this Cohiba…

In 20 minutes Leslie arrives, just as the “locals” start to move in for the kill. I jump in the car and wave nonchalantly to my new friends as we speed away toward Salinas… before we hit the mother-in-laws we stop at Gino’s to pickup some Manecotti and some meat balls. Maria at the front counter is extremely rude but you can’t beat the red sauce. Although know as the "Salad Bowl" of America, Salinas has a scarce number of decent eateries.


The Smoke!
Introduced in November 1992 to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the discovery of the New World by Columbus, the Siglo Series are much milder than the rest of the Cohiba models.

This cigar is well made and the construction has no flaws. There are one or two minor green tinges on the wrapper. I apply a traditional cut and the cigar lights up easily. The smoke is mild with some sweetness to it. There is a subtle tobacco taste coming through and a hint of the herbal / grassy flavor. The draw is satisfactory but is uneven as I make why through.

The ash is not impressive… charcoal grey spots and very loose so it doesn’t hold for more than half an inch. I keep waiting for this puro to develop into the traditional mellow Siglo, but alas, it starts to become bitter about half way through. Never a great poker player, I start to grimace which is taken as an invitation by one of the “locals” to converse.

As I toss the unfinished smoke and jump into the car, I look over my shoulder and notice the “shadows” dive into the trash and start smoking the Cohiba. They seemed to be enjoying it more than me…. Before you invest in these Siglos, I would recommend either the Siglo IV’s or VI’s.

Rating: (2) AVERAGE
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: SMOKE NOW
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Punch Double Corona Cabinet (1997)

Produced: 1997
Made by: Prominentes
Shape: Parejo
Ring Gauge: 49
Length: 7 5/8inches
Purchased: TomTom Cigars, London UK, 2006.


Date: August 25th, 2006
Time: 9:30 pm Pacific
Location: San Francisco, California
Conditions: Fog rolling in from the bay, Cold 53 degrees, freshening breeze


The Purchase
This cigar was purchased at TomTom Cigars, London, UK. To learn more about my buying experience, please refer to this post.


The Location
It’s been a long week in the corporate quagmire…. Slashing heads, kissing babies, slapping backs. I’m looking forward to a quiet Friday evening with Leslie at some intimate restaurant. I arrive home and she announces “I have a surprise reservation that just came on OpenTable”…. Oh dear me thinks, its going to be one of those evenings.

We make our way across town and end up in “The Avenues” to 41st AV where we park outside an establishment that is a cross between a Disney Imagineering façade of ancient Egypt and a fish & chip shop. We have arrived at Al Masri, the best (and only) Egyptian restaurant in San Francisco…. Just what every good Jewish boy is looking forward to on a Friday night, a belly dancer that also does the cooking.

In reality the food was very good and the dancer, Samar, who was introduced as the "best in the world", was incredible....who am I to judge? The owner, Dr. Something is very welcoming and announces that only 8% of his revenues come from the restaurant, the rest comes from the dancing school.... An interesting introduction to the menu? Geez, I'm impressed that he has such visibility and analysis into his revenue stream... wish I could say the same for some corporates.

The Smoke!
Punch has a long Pre-Revolution history and was first registered as a brand in 1840 by a German named Stockmann. As the Punch name suggests, the strength of these cigars is their claim to fame. Production has remained uninterrupted after the Revolution and there has been many changes in the sizes and shapes being offered by the brand over the years.

At first sight, this is an intimidating double corona, it’s long and substantial. This particular artifact is in great condition for being 10 years old. It had been meticulously cared for at TomTom and exhibits no flaws or blemishes.

I have applied a cat’s cut and light this up on the way home. At the beginning it has a wood and earthy taste and starts to get more spices as I smoke through. Near the end it becomes almost sweet pepper and nutmeg…. An unusual combination. The draw is exceptional and it appears that it will not take as long as I would have anticipated to enjoy this smoke.

This is a very strong cigar and is best after the heavy meal I just had at Al Masri. The Cabinets are aged at least 6 years before being released onto the market which makes this a well-aged smoke of at least 16 years.

This smoke lasted about 90 minutes and was very tasty, although, it did take me some time to clear the smoke out from the neighborhood. No question about it, this is a great double corona that ages extremely well.


Rating: (3) VERY GOOD
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: PUT AWAY: 2009-2013
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Bolivar Supremas Churchill (1980)

Produced: 1980
Made by: Julieta 2
Shape: Parejo
Ring Gauge: 47
Length: 7 inches

Date: August 18th, 2006
Time: 4:45 pm Pacific Time
Location: Calistoga Ranch, Calistoga, California
Conditions: Sunny skies, 80 degrees
Purchased: Davidoffs, London, UK, 2006


The Purchase
This was purchased at Davidoff's off St. James in London. I obtained two of these from the back humidor in the store. They were the last two in a box that had been in the store since 1985. Apparently the original box had been acquired at auction.


The Locations
It's the eve of my 6th wedding anniversary and Leslie has made plans for us to spend the weekend in Napa. The three of us (including Amber) jump in the car and head north to Calistoga. On the way we stop at a couple of wineries in Napa.

The best of which is the private tasting at Far Niente. Not only were the wines great, we also wandered amongst the collection of incredible Ferrari's in the barn. At the tasting we sampled the following incredible wines along with some great cheese pairings. Ofcourse it didn't take much to make some acquisitions and waive our tasting fee.

We visited two other wineries: Miner and Sinskey. We were not impressed with either of them. Sinskey's wines are mediocre and tailor to the tourist buses, and our experience at Miner was nothing short of horrific. A young in-experienced sales woman (Salesperson NP) obnoxious, abnoxius and attempted to overcharge us for a half-case of their Pinot. We decided to retreat to our accommodations for the weekend, The Calistoga Ranch. For more on our experience at The Ranch, checkout this special review.

The Smoke!
This was a tubed cigar re-packaged in the UK by the then distributor Joseph Samuel & Son (taken over by HunterÂ’s and Frankau in 1993). It was distributed in a silver tube with Spanish cedar inside.

I have come to expect a spectacular smoke with these older cigars in tubes. And I was not to be disappointed with this one. I unscrewed the tube and the aroma that wafted out was distinct yet subtle, a very woody and aromatic smell. I carefully tipped the tube and the 25 year old Habanos emerged.




As you can see the condition of the cigar is almost flawless. It has a tan brown wrapper with a few bright yellow veins. The cap has a triple ring and is smooth and even. Pressing the tip I notice a fair amount of "give" indicating the draw will be easy. The cigar is firm and somewhat elastic to feel. The wrapper is oily and very smooth to touch.

I apply a traditional cut and light the smoke with a stick of cedar. The first few puffs are effortless and there is no need to relight. The burn starts evenly and the ash is a silver beige. At the beginning, the flavor is distinctly earthy where I can taste leather and even coffee. As I settle back I notice the flavors start to change and become more aromatic and woody. I start to sense cedar and even some pine in this smoke. Within 15 minutes the character and experience has totally changed.

I was reading the latest issue of Baseline magazine, and after 30 minutes with this Bolivar I have laid the magazine to one side entering an almost zen-like trance.

This is an amazing smoking experience. As I reach the last third of the Churchill the taste becomes stronger (but not bitter). I have only lost ash once getting to this point and realize I will be enjoying this right down to the very end.

The sun is starting to set behind the hills of the Napa Valley. As the twilight starts, this beautiful Bolivar comes to an end. Oh well, I now need to get dressed and head down to the Lakehouse for a gourmet dinner with the wife.

Rating: (4) OUTSTANDING
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: SMOKE NOW
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

Ramon Allones Belicosos

Produced: 2005
Made by: Partagas
Size: Belicosos
Ring Gauge: 52
Length: 5 1/2 inches
Purchased: Cigars Unlimited, London UK, 2006.


Date: August 14th, 2006
Time: 4:30 pm GMT
Location: Hayfield Manor, Cork City, Cork, Ireland
Conditions: Clear skies, Warm 75 degrees, light breeze


The Purchase
This cigar was purchased at Cigars Unlimited, London, UK. To learn more about my buying experience, please refer to this post. Adrian strongly recommended this cigar.


The Location
I finally escaped the Hell at Heathrow and arrived in Cork. It seemed like touching down in Heaven when I arrived at the brand new Cork airport. The weather was uncharacteristically sunny, warm and frankly, so un-British and far-away from the security nightmares back in Britain.

After conducting my business meetings I made my way to the Hayfield Manor, a delightful old world establishment near Cork City and tucked away in it’s own secluded garden. It’s a balmy afternoon and sunset will be late this evening…. A perfect opportunity to have a single malt, check my email and….. light up a smoke.

I made my way to this delightful garden setting and was immediately assisted by Ann, a friendly Polish gal who delivered my drink and the largest ashtray on the planet…. I think it doubles as a salad bowl!











The Smoke!
I must warn you that this cigar is NOT aged. In fact, it is rather young. However, I couldn’t wait to try it. It is especially rare and you will have a hard time finding this one outside of the UK. These belicosos were made exclusively for the UK market and Adrian was instrumental in getting them produced when he was last in Cuba. The production has been very limited and is available only in a select number of locations in London.

So why am I reviewing this in the public domain? These cigars are styled after the old world Habanos that the English used to enjoy when the Empire was, well, an Empire (apologies to my Pommie friends).
As I listened to Adrian’s description of these cigars, I realized that these quite possibly are the blend of cigar my maternal grandfather (Sydney Kaufman) used to smoke back in the day. The thought that I could be smoking something that Syd may have enjoyed in his billiard room in the old house in Brighton really peaked my curiosity. They looked very close to a handful of dried out puros my Grandmother gave me after Syd passed away some years ago.

Adrian warns me that these have a subtle taste and one needs to sample a few to really start to appreciate them. The cigar is a dark brown and a very comfortable size somewhat between a Torpedo and a Churchill. I make a traditional cut and light it up. The draw is smooth and the aromas mild, subtle and somewhat eloquent. This cigar has great constructions and balance.

As stated earlier, it is a young habanos and would benefit from some ageing. I plan to acquire a box and put it away for at least 5 years. I enjoy this smoke for approximately 2 hours as I watch a beautiful midsummer sunset in Cork.

Rating: (3) VERY GOOD
(5) Classic, (4) Outstanding, (3) Very Good, (2) Average, (1) Don’t Bother

Humidor: VAULT: 2010-2015
Smoke Now, Smoke Soon:1–3 Years, Put Away:3–7 Years, Vault:7-12 Years, Inheritance Gift:12+ Years

TomTom Cigars, London, UK

Date: August 12, 2006
63 Elizabeth Street
London SW1 W9PP

Before I head over to Cigars Unlimited, I dropped in on this trendy little store near Buckingham Palace.

I enter the store and Mariana, a young, tall and sultry Serbian lass looks up from reading her newspaper…. Oh boy, this is going to be an interesting visit!

I ask the standard question and she indicates they opened in 1997 and their inventory on aged product is limited. I follow her nervously into the humidor and she begins to unlock closets full of boxes of every brand imaginable. Partagas’s, Cohiba’s, Hoyo’s, Bolivar’s, Punch’s, Sancho Panza’s, on and on…. Where is Leslie when I need her??

Mariana proceeds to tell me that she will only sell aged cigars by the box. Being persistent I try to convince her that I am not her normal “fly-by-night” yank tourist, but a serious connoisseur that appreciates fine aged puros. She’s not impressed, but relents and lets me select two boxes from which I can make some limited selections. I dip into some Punch 50 Cabinets (1997) and Sancho Panzas Belicosos (1997).







After I make my purchases, Marianna starts to become very helpful and recommends Cigars Unlimited for aged product. She gets online and prints out directions to a number of other stores for me to consider.

If you are into fresh high quality product, lighters, fountain pens, cases, and, erhhh…. Tall sultry Serbian women, I would recommend Tom Tom’s.

Leslie, honey…. I’ll be home soon!!

+44-020-7730-1790
http://www.tomtom.co.uk/

Cigars Unlimited London, UK

Date: August 12, 2006
129 Walham Green Court
Moore Park Road
London SW6 2DG
Proprietor: Adrian Lesley

It’s raining this morning and I decide to grab a taxi from Mayfair over to this store just off Fulham Road. The sign on the front door says it will be a late opening today because the staff is on vacation. Around 10:55am Adrian, the proprietor, shows up with his cute dog and apologizes for keeping me waiting.

Adrian (and the dog!) welcome me into the store along with another regular. It’s a tidy, contemporary space with a great walk-in humidor. The regular settles himself down in a plush chair as Adrian warms the espresso machine. We exchange pleasantries and I begin with my standing opening line…. Do you have any aged Cubans?

From that one question, what followed was a fascinating education and journey of discovery into aged Habanos. Adrian is not your average tobacconist. He is a passionate aficionado, and is extremely well-connected in the international cigar community. He travels each year to Cuba, is a regular at the auctions and has extensive relationships at all levels of the industry. The store is dotted with photographs of rollers, factories and Adrian standing in tobacco fields in Cuba.

The location of the store is within walking distance of the exclusive Habanos distributor in the UK, Hunters & Frankau.

I was invited into the humidor and he opened up his personal lockers to share what has been maturing over the years. I’m astounded, not just at the age of the cigars, but the quality. He takes the time to demonstrate how he selects the “best of the best”. It’s a fascinating lesson in smell, feel and inspection from cap to tip.

At his recommendation I make some Limited Edition selections as well as a box of Trinidad Robusto Extras. As we are winding up the selections, he asks, “Would you be interested in some pre-revolution cigars…. My jaw drops…. Erhhhh, sure I stutter….

He shows me a collection that are dated from 1945. Punch Inimitables and Hoyo de Monterey Serie C’s. Both are extremely rare and in great condition. Would I be interested in purchasing? Needless to say I will be reviewing these in future reviews if I can acquire them.







I spent an hour and half with Adrian and his dog in this great store. I will definitely keep in contact with him and make future visits as this has been one of my best retail experiences.

+44-207-386-9000
http://www.cigarsunlimited.co.uk/

London Calling!

Heathrow Airport

Date: August 11th, 2006

Time: 3:30 pm GMT

Location: London, UK

Conditions: Overcast, rain threatening, Muggy, 80 degrees

The Situation
Has my passion for finding the best Habanos ever been in doubt?

My plans to attend a Board meeting and conduct some business in Cork Ireland have been in the works for over four months. It made perfect sense back in March to stopover in London to pounce on the "golden quadrangle" of habanos: Sautter's of Mayfair, Davidoffs', JJ Fox of St. James, and Alfred Dunhill's. Little did I know that the UK had turned into a terrorist quagmire.... a five hour departure delay in SFO, followed by the "mashup" of humanity at Heathrow. To give you a flavor of the "Hell at Heathrow", here is what I witnessed outside customs hall today after arriving:

• A small child probably about 6 years old crying hysterically looking for her mother... and nobody stopping to help her;
• A small indian gentleman convulsing on the floor having what appeared to be a cardiac arrest;
• Two women fighting over a trolley cart with luggage contents being spewed everywhere;
• The Pakistani cricket team (or a group looking like them) roughing up a Virgin Airlines luggage assistant.... (probably warranted)....

All I could I do is search for my driver to get me into the city. I did stop to help the little girl. I took her by the hand and left her with a female security guard packin the largest automatic machine gun I have ever seen (I haven't seen that many).

After an hour and a half drive, I finally arrived at the Connaught Hotel (right across the street from Sautter's). I checked in and immediately headed across the street.

John welcomed me in. He said that Desmond had some aged product "in the back" but he needed to have Desmond determine what I could acquire. I love this little establishment. It's a pity that Desmond isn't around that much anymore. Apparently he has "valve issues" and only comes into the store when he is visiting his doctor. I picked up a couple of Cohiba Siglio V's and started to walk down Mount Street toward Davidoff's.

I had better luck at Davidoff's. I scored in finding some pre-1981 Montecritso Especial No. 2's, Gonzalez Corona Extra's and some Bolivar Churchill Tubos... all in great condition and well aged. I moved onto JJ Fox and they had some aged product but Bill would only sell them by the box. He said he would look in storage and get back to me.... I won't hold my breath. Both JJ Fox and Davidoff are catering very much to the tourist trade and frankly, they have lost there appeal to me for aged product. These stores concentrate on higher margin items such as lighters, cases, etc.

I was making my way back to the hotel when I decided to stop into Alfred Dunhill's. It's a good clothing and accessories store and has a wide selection of new recent habanos. They showed me what aged product they had... some tired 1998 Hoyo de Monterey Double Coronas.... I decided to pass.

There was a group of regulars in the lounge enjoying a smoke. I decided to join them. Some young well-to-do turks that were sipping single malt and enjoying some new Cohiba's from their lockers. I spent the next hour chatting about our shared exploits, as well as taking calls from the US.... Apparently there is a worm outbreak and Microsoft has issued their highest alert level ever... looks like everyone will be patching their servers and desktops over the weekend....

It's starting to rain and I head back to the Hotel. I need an early start tomorrow as I have a number of stores I need to hit. I plan to visit the top establishments from the Hunter's & Frankau listing....