Initial Thoughts

The Tatuaje Cojonu 2006 is part of Tatuaje’s Cojonu series, known for delivering bold, full-bodied cigars with complexity. The Cojonu series is something that I constantly reach for, at my old B&M location I would also go for at least 2 of the Cojonu series every time I went shopping. This cigar, crafted in the My Father Cigars factory, delivers a rich and balanced experience for those who enjoy Nicaraguan blends. I have very high expectations for this cigar based on all of my experience with the other Cojonu line and the brand’s reputation. I’m eager to see how the Cojonu 2006 stands up, so let’s get into it!

Looks

Visually, the Tatuaje Cojonu 2006 is not that impressive looking from a branding/packaging stand point. It’s very simple and probably overlooked a lot honestly. However, the wrapper and the sheen coming off the wrapper is what makes me stop and admire it. This cigar features a beautiful dark and oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with minimal veins, giving it a smooth and refined appearance. There is a little bit of tooth coming through on the wrapper though which is nice to see. The cigar feels solid in hand, with no soft spots, hopefully, we’ll get a nice even burn. As I mentioned above, the band is understated even the secondary band with the Cojonu 2006. Very simple, and it keeps the focus on the cigar itself.

Pre-Light

Before lighting, I go through my routine. Nosing the body and the foot of the Tatuaje Cojonu 2006. It offers an excellent pre-light experience full of rich leather and deep tobacco notes. I snipped the tip of the torpedo to test the cold draw and it is smooth, with sweet and creamy flavors that hint at the complexity to come. After all the foreplay is over, I’m ready to light this thing up.

First Third

As I lit the Tatuaje Cojonu 2006, the first third immediately delivered bold black pepper on the palate. That kind of signature My Father spice that I always welcome in with open arms! The retrohale reveals a subtle creaminess, balancing the spice, and the nuttiness becomes more apparent in the background. I’m just always impressed with the blending within these cigars. No flavors are overly dramatic, they’re just all blended to play nice with each other. The draw was perfect, quickly creating thick clouds of smoke, and the flavors were in your face but not offputting if that makes any sense. Balance, balance balance that’s what I feel about this first third. Between spice and creaminess, I hope this flavor profile doesn’t change at all!

Second Third

Moving into the second third, the pepper remained and it was joined by a more prominent nuttiness. That nuttiness adds a nice bit of depth and complexity to the overall profile. The draw continued to be effortless which is what I love. I hate having to work to draw through a cigar; it just kills the experience for me. The smoke output continues to be thick and satisfying. There is no wind tonight so it’s just swarming around me which elevates the experience all around. The middle portion of the cigar really delivers a rounded, balanced experience. Similar to the first third with the balance, but a new character has entered the game which I’m ok with! The spice mellows out a bit to allow the cream and nutty notes to shine through. So far, so good, it’s been a smooth smoke that remained balanced in flavor and construction.

Final Third

In the final section of the Tatuaje Cojonu 2006 not much changed from the 2nd third. I was expecting a new flavor addition. Turns out it didn’t need it. The subtle balance of all the flavors came through to the end. The draw stayed perfect and the spice combined with the creaminess and nutty flavors stayed consistent from the second third.

Would I Buy It Again?

Without a doubt.

Is it An Everyday Smoke?

I wish, but then it takes some of the allure out of it.

Would I Buy a Box?

Yes, maybe 5 of them! I’d love to see how these age up.

Where to Buy Tatuaje Cojonu 2006

Average retail: ~$12 per stick. Prices vary by retailer and box size.

Retailer	Price Range	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$12/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$12/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

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Best Bourbon Pairings for the Tatuaje Cojonu 2006

Conclusion

The Tatuaje Cojonu 2006 delivers, that’s all I need to say. I have yet to be disappointed with a Cojonu release. This smoke has a nice balance of flavor, strength, and excellent craftsmanship. From the peppery start to the creamy and nutty development, this cigar offers a full-bodied experience that’s balanced and enjoyable. It’s really hard to beat this cigar honestly, I’ll keep going back to it, over and over again. I’m really excited to pair this with a solid higher proof bourbon and see how it stands up to that overpowering flavor profile.

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Initial Thoughts

The Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare (ALR) has really stood out to everyone in the world of premium cigars. So I finally came across one in my local tobacco shop and decided to pick one up. This unique blend uses tobaccos that have been aged for two years after being rolled. The thought is that this technique allows the flavors to completely develop and offer up a well-rounded smoking experience. Rocky Patel has been in the game for quite awhile and he one created some of my favorite cigars: The Decade. He’s known to produce a wide range of cigars, from every day smokes to the high-end premium side like this one. It’s stated that this ALR was blended for cigar enthusiasts who appreciate rich, layered flavors, being a cigar enthusiast myself, I can’t wait to get it lit up!

Looks

Right off the bat this cigar caught my eye on the shelf in the humidor. My eyes were immediately drawn to its dark, oily Mexican San Andrés wrapper. The smooth texture, alongside the box-pressed shape, gives it nice look and feel. I must be on a box-pressed kick as of late, or that’s just the industry trend now. I feel like my last 5-7 cigars have been a box press. I just love it though! This cigar feels solid and well-constructed with no soft spots. There is a bit of spongyness that I know is going to give a nice solid draw all the way through.

The band on this thing is crazy. I love the upper band with the gold imprint and the RP logo right in the middle. There is a secondary (huge) band that has a small script written on it that tells you everything you need to know about this cigar. I didn’t want to write it word for word, b/c you just have to see it for yourself! Overall, that adds a nice touch of class, emphasizing the premium nature of this smoke. It’s clear from the beginning that this cigar was built with the premium cigar smoker in mind.

Pre-Light

Before lighting up, the Rocky Patel ALR greets me with some nice notes of mocha, a hint of black pepper, and earthy tones. Smells just like a cigar should from the foot. Lots of good flavors and great aroma from the pre-light. My pre-light draw is a nice smooth and easy drag, I can pick up the flavors rolling through the filler and I’m very excited to put some flame to this thing! Overall, there is a slight creaminess that comes through. Alright, that’s enough with the pre-light let’s see how this thing smokes!

First Third

As this Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare starts to burn, the flavors start rolling in, with a mix of cream and spice. Ohh it’s nice! The draw remains effortless, producing nice clouds of smoke, not overly thick as they quickly disappear with the slight gust of wind behind my back. I love when the smoke swirls around, it really enhances the experience to me. There’s a touch of mocha and a soft pepperiness on the palate that hits peaks and valleys of intensity. The retrohale adds a nice subtle floral note that is making the smoke complex without being overwhelming. This is one of my favorite things when you get something that isn’t hitting you right in the face but offers a nice way to round out the overall flavor profile. Well done!

Second Third

Moving into the second third, the flavors start to deepen a bit. That delightful creaminess persists but is now joined by nuttier, woodier notes. I couldn’t place the specific flavor of nut, just an overall nutty type flavor. The spice that was present earlier takes a soft step back, which allows the mocha and nut flavors to take center stage and present their talent. Again, it’s really interesting how these flavors are just dancing and taking turns. It’s something that I haven’t experienced a ton, but it’s fantastic! The retrohale continues to provide a floral and spicy mix, contributing to the cigar’s overall balance and complexity. It’s an enjoyable and consistent smoke so far.

Final Third

The final section of the cigar was very similar to the second third. In fact, I took very few notes on this section nothing new popped out at me. So I just sat back and relaxd and really enjoyed this last section of the Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare!

Would I Buy It Again?

Without a doubt. I’m tempted to go get a box actually.

Is it An Everyday Smoke?

Definitely not. Its something that should be enjoyed on a rare occasion or otherwise I feel like I wouldn’t appreciate it as much.

Would I Buy a Box?

Yes, and I should get one right now!

Where to Buy Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare (ALR)

Average retail: ~$18 per stick. Prices vary by retailer.

Retailer	Price	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$18/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$18/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

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Best Bourbon Pairings for the Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare (ALR)

Conclusion

Man, I’m not sure there is much else to say about this Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare (ALR). It offers an incredibly rich and balanced smoking experience to me personally it highlights the expertise of Rocky Patel’s flavor structuring. From the creamy mocha notes to the subtle spice and wood, this cigar is a treat for any and all cigar enthusiasts. I feel like its ideal for someone who has been smoking for awhile and needs to reset and enjoy something with a bit of complexity. Whether you’re a fan of the brand or simply looking for something special, the Rocky Patel ALR is worth adding to your collection.

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Initial Thoughts

The Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro is one of the top offerings from Aganorsa Leaf, a brand known for its quality Nicaraguan tobaccos. This cigar is one that’ve smoked a few times over the past few months and I was finally able to sit down and review it! I believe this cigar celebrates the company’s commitment to crafting cigars that are rich in flavor and well-made. Wrapped in a dark Nicaraguan Corojo Maduro leaf and filled with Nicaraguan tobaccos, this cigar is designed to be bold and flavorful. It does all of that and more! In my mind it’s going to be appealing to anyone who enjoys a strong, well-balanced smoke.

Looks

The Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro catches mey eye right away when I’m walking through a humidor. Its a beautiful dark and oily wrapper that has a gorgeous sheen to it. I love the box-press shape as you probably know! I think it adds to its appeal, giving it a modern look, plus it doesn’t roll when I lay it down on the fire pit! The band is simple and elegant, with silver and black colors that highlight the brand’s logo. I guess this is technically triple banded? There is a cool secondary medallion type band that has some interesting icons / images depicted on it as well. Then the footer band / parchment paper. They all really tie this packaging together and to me makes it stand out in humidor. This cigar looks as good as it tastes, I promise. So let’s dive into it.

Pre-Light

Before lighting up, I pick up a fantastically rich aroma that hints at leather, earth, and a bit of compost. A little bit of must and leather, mmmm. I know I’m going to enjoy this smoke! The pre-light draw is smooth and offers those same rich flavors on the tongue through the cold draw. This is one of my favorite experiences when smoking a cigar it really sets the stage for a flavorful smoking experience.

First Third

Right from the gate, the Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro delivers. The draw is easy and produces a lot of thick, rich smoke. Similar to a Liga Privada 9 with the intensity of the smoke. There was no wind outside this night so the smoke just engulfed me and it was awesome! The flavors are bold, with a good amount of spice. I picked up a lot white pepper, which adds a nice kick on the overall profile. The retrohale is smooth and brings out even more of that spice. It was just a great overall first third of a cigar. Again, going back to the box-press shape makes the cigar comfortable to hold and adds to the overall smoking pleasure. It also makes it a heck of a lot easier to photograph! So it gains a couple of extra points on that side as well.

Second Third

As I moved into the second third, the cigar continues to be great. The draw stays smooth, and the flavors remain rich and enjoyable. The spice tones down a bit, letting the earthy and leathery notes come to the forefront of the profile. I’m still picking up on the white pepper primarily in the retrohale but it’s noticeable to me. Towards the end of the second third there’s also a subtle sweetness that adds a new dimension to the flavor profile. I love seeing how this Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro is evolving throughout the entire journey.

Final Third

I’m bummed this thing had to come to an end. The flavor profile stayed relatively consistent from the second third to the nub. I did get a kicker of some additional strength on the final third though. Maybe I had too many retrohales and they finally started kicking in. Either way, it sent me off on a good path for the rest of the night and for a great night of sleep!

Would I Buy It Again?

Absolutely, and I have already!

Is it An Everyday Smoke?

I would love for it to be, but I also like variety.

Would I Buy a Box?

Without a doubt, in fact one is on the way!

Where to Buy Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro

Average retail: ~$14 per stick. Prices vary by retailer.

Retailer	Price	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$14/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$14/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

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Best Bourbon Pairings for the Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro

Conclusion

The Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro is a cigar that I truly love! It packs a nice combo of rich, bold flavors. Plus the atmosphere of a nice thick, flavorful smoke to the easy draw. I mean, seriously what else would you want? If you’re a fan of full-bodied cigars and looking for something with depth and character, the Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro is a great choice. It’s a cigar that’s worth trying and one that you’ll likely want to keep in your humidor. I know I’ve been smoking them a lot recently and usually grab at least 2 when I find them. One for me, and one to share with my buddies.

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The Knob Creek 12 Year is a testament to the brand’s commitment to crafting robust, full-bodied bourbons that deliver on flavor. Aged for 12 years, this bourbon promises a depth and complexity that has made it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. Knob Creek has a well-earned reputation for producing some of the best small-batch bourbons, and this expression is no exception. The extra aging time allows the bourbon to develop a richer, more mature profile, setting it apart from the standard offerings. As someone who enjoys a good, well-aged whiskey, I was eager to dive into this bottle and see how it stacks up.

Nose

The nose on the Knob Creek 12 Year is inviting, with a sweet aroma that immediately draws you in. The first notes to hit are rich butterscotch and creamy vanilla, setting the stage for a warm, comforting experience. There’s a hint of cereal grain in the background, which adds a layer of complexity to the sweetness. As you take a deeper inhale, light oak comes through, grounding the sweeter notes with a subtle woodiness that reminds you of the bourbon’s time spent in the barrel. It’s a well-rounded nose that promises a flavorful journey ahead.

Palate

Upon tasting, the 12 Year Knob Creek doesn’t disappoint. The first sip reveals a delicate balance of flavors. Butterscotch and vanilla take center stage, just as they did on the nose, but there’s a pleasant surprise in the form of a subtle berry note that adds a fruity brightness to the mix. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with the sweetness of the butterscotch and vanilla being complemented by the light oak and cereal grain undertones. It’s a complex yet approachable bourbon that’s both satisfying and easy to enjoy.

Finish

The finish on the Knob Creek 12 Year is long and lingering, which is exactly what you want from a well-aged bourbon. There’s a bit of spice that tingles on the tongue, adding a nice contrast to the sweetness that dominated the palate. The spice isn’t overwhelming, though—it’s just enough to leave a lasting impression. As my wife Stacy put it, “It’s not as bad as some of the other stuff,” which, in her world, is a pretty solid endorsement.

Conclusion

The Knob Creek 12 Year is a bourbon that delivers on its promise of depth and complexity. From the sweet, inviting nose to the rich, balanced palate and the lingering finish, it’s a whiskey that offers a satisfying experience from start to finish. Whether you’re a long-time Knob Creek fan or someone new to the brand, this 12-year expression is worth a try. It’s a great example of how extra aging can enhance the character of a bourbon, bringing out richer, more nuanced flavors that make for a memorable drinking experience. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, flavorful bourbon that stands out from the crowd, the Knob Creek 12 Year should definitely be on your radar.

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Initial Thoughts

The La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse is one of the most prestigious offerings from the La Aroma de Cuba line, known for its rich history and high-quality cigars. The Noblesse was introduced as a limited edition, adding to its allure and making it a must-try for aficionados who appreciate the finer things in life. Crafted in Nicaragua under the watchful eye of the legendary Garcia family, this cigar is designed to offer a luxurious smoking experience that reflects the heritage of the La Aroma de Cuba brand.

The Noblesse is blended with a mix of Ecuadorian Habano Rosado wrappers, Nicaraguan binders, and fillers from the Garcia family’s private farms. This combination is intended to deliver a balanced and complex flavor profile that appeals to both seasoned smokers and those exploring the upper echelons of premium cigars. Given its limited production and the prestige of the La Aroma de Cuba brand, the Noblesse has been highly anticipated by cigar enthusiasts worldwide.

Looks

The La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse is a visually striking cigar, exuding elegance and craftsmanship from the moment you see it. The Ecuadorian Habano Rosado wrapper is smooth and oily, with a rich, reddish-brown hue that indicates the quality of the leaf. The wrapper has minimal veins and is expertly applied, showcasing the skill of the rollers at the My Father Cigars factory.

The cigar is solidly constructed, with a slight firmness to the touch that suggests it has been well-packed. The cap is neatly applied, and the overall appearance of the Noblesse is one of refinement. The band is equally impressive, featuring intricate artwork in gold, red, and blue tones, which adds to the cigar’s luxurious feel. The presentation of the Noblesse La Aroma de Cuba is a testament to the attention to detail that goes into creating this premium cigar.

Flavor

The La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse offers a rich and evolving flavor profile that develops as you progress through the cigar. Before lighting, the cold draw is tight but hints at the depth of flavor to come, with notes of mocha and a hint of earthiness.

In the first third, the flavors are present but subtle, with the draw starting a bit stiff. However, as the cigar progresses, the draw loosens up, allowing more of the flavors to shine. Common notes identified across various reviews include leather, rich tobacco, earth, and a touch of sweetness, likely from the mocha-like note detected in the pre-draw.

The second third of the cigar sees these flavors intensify slightly, with the earthiness becoming more pronounced and the leather and tobacco notes deepening. There is also a hint of spice that begins to emerge, adding a layer of complexity to the experience. The cigar’s body remains medium, but the flavor profile is rich and satisfying, making it an enjoyable smoke for those who appreciate a balanced yet complex cigar.

In the final third, the Noblesse La Aroma de Cuba continues to deliver, with the flavors remaining consistent and well-rounded. The draw remains smooth, and the cigar burns evenly, a testament to its construction. The rich leather, tobacco, and earth notes are complemented by a subtle sweetness and spice, creating a harmonious finish that leaves a lasting impression.

Would I Buy It Again?

Without a doubt. Very enjoyable smoke.

Is it An Everyday Smoke?

For me no, but definitely in my rotation.

Would I Buy a Box?

Without a doubt! I’d love to see how these would age up.

Where to Buy La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse

Average retail: ~$16 per stick. Prices vary by retailer.

Retailer	Price	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$16/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$16/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

Stogies on the Rocks may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Best Bourbon Pairings for the La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse

Conclusion

The La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse is a cigar that lives up to its name, offering a luxurious and refined smoking experience. From its impeccable construction to its rich and complex flavor profile, this cigar is a true masterpiece from the Garcia family. The Noblesse is not only a great addition to the La Aroma de Cuba line but also a cigar that stands out in the premium cigar market. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or someone looking to indulge in a top-tier cigar, the La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse is a must-try. Its combination of quality, flavor, and craftsmanship makes it a cigar worth adding to your collection.

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Initial Thoughts

The E.P. Carrillo Pledge is a celebrated addition to the Perez-Carrillo lineup, following the success of the Encore and La Historia series. Crafted by Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, this cigar quickly gained recognition, including being named the #1 Cigar of the Year by Cigar Aficionado in 2020. Made in the Dominican Republic at Tabacalera La Alianza, it features a Connecticut Habano wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, and Nicaraguan fillers, designed to deliver a rich and satisfying smoking experience.

Looks

Visually, the E.P. Carrillo Pledge stands out with its dark, oily Connecticut Habano wrapper that exudes quality. The wrapper is smooth with few veins, indicating expert craftsmanship. The cigar feels firm and well-packed, hinting at a consistent burn. The cap is neatly applied, and the band is striking with its deep blue and gold colors, enhancing its premium look. Overall, the Pledge’s appearance is a testament to the attention to detail in its creation.

Flavor

The E.P. Carrillo Pledge offers a flavorful journey from start to finish. Before lighting, the pre-draw reveals rich leather notes with a hint of grass and an excellent draw. As you begin smoking, the first third presents an easy draw with a slight spice on the retrohale, adding a touch of complexity. The cigar then transitions into the second third, maintaining an enjoyable draw, with the spice continuing subtly on the retrohale. Common flavor notes from other reviews include a mix of earthiness, leather, cocoa, and espresso, with a touch of sweetness and nuttiness, making for a balanced and rich profile. The final third sees these flavors deepen, leaving a lasting impression of richness and satisfaction.

Would I Buy It Again?

Absolutely, without a doubt.

Is it An Everyday Smoke?

I’d love for this to be an everyday smoke. It might just not be affordable to do it.

Would I Buy a Box?

Without thinking twice!

Where to Buy E.P. Carrillo Pledge

Average retail: ~$12 per stick. Prices vary by retailer.

Retailer	Price	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$12/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$12/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

Stogies on the Rocks may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Best Bourbon Pairings for the E.P. Carrillo Pledge

Conclusion

The E.P. Carrillo Pledge is a standout in Ernesto Perez-Carrillo’s lineup, delivering a rich, complex smoking experience from start to finish. Its combination of quality construction, balanced flavors, and consistent performance makes it a cigar worth adding to any enthusiast’s collection. Whether for special occasions or as a notable addition to your humidor, the Pledge is a cigar that delivers in all the right ways.

The post E.P. Carrillo Pledge appeared first on Stogies on the Rocks.

Walking through my local liquor store the other day I noticed a new bottle sitting on the shelf. It was next to some other Wild Turkey bottles, and I thought hmm, this is kind of odd and out of place. After looking at it a little longer, I realized it was a new bottle of Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon!

This new bottle is a far cry from the old bottle in terms of presentation. Honestly I think this bottle better represents the brand. The old bottle looked similar to a bottle of Remy Martin cognac to me. I can see that the old bottle maybe represented the fan of a wild turkey in full strut, but it was just a little far out there for me. I’m not saying the old bottle turned me off from buying it, but I did pick this one up the first time that I saw it. So there ya go.

I’m really excited to crack open this bottle. I’ve started a new process for reviews. On Wednesdays nights I’m getting a group of friends together and we have Whiskey Wednesdays! This was the first one. The plan is to meet at each others house on a rotating schedule and sample new bottles of whiskey, that the host house purchases. Of course we’ll have cigars along the way as well! This is a collective review from that group transcribed by me. I think it gives it a more robust view of what this bourbon has to offer and I hope you enjoy it!

Nose

Right off the bat when you open up this Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon you’re hit with some heat… What I forgot to mention above is that this is a blind review, no one but the host knows what the bottle is, so I feel that it provides a bit more honest review and experience. As I was saying, first off you get the heat in the glass. You can tell it’s pretty stout. We didn’t cut it initially because we wanted the full experience.

You get a lot of spice on the nose, and hints of clove. In fact one reviewer even said he thought it was rye because of the amount of spice coming out of the glass. We swirled it around the glass to look at the legs rolling down the inside of the glass to show the viscosity of the spirit and to help soak in some more notes.

Palate

After we nailed down the aroma of this Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon we moved on to the palate. We picked up on some of the same flavors listed on the company’s website. We took down our initial notes and then compared them to see if we could be master distillers, turns out we’re not.

What we did notice was the clove flavor carried over along with the spice. That was up front on your tongue, but as we we let the bourbon roll down the side of tongues it created a nice sweet flavor profile that eventually appeared as a honey like flavor. With the heat of this bourbon being at 101 it really kept that spice note all the way throughout. The sweetness of the corn didn’t fully appear until we cut it down with some ice. For a second tasting I used a big square ice cube which chilled the Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon without diluting it much and that’s when it really began to open up!

Finish

We know, we’re getting a lot of spice out of this Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon, but how did it finish? A common charaterstic that I have found across all of the Wild Turkey products that I have tried is that hearty finish. The richness of the flavor just sits on your tongue and I was getting a nice butterscotch type finish as if I was sucking on a Werther’s Original candy. It completely coated my mouth and made for a delicious drinking experience.

Conclusion

I really had 3 different experiences with this Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon. The first tasting was neat, and it was a little too much for me out of the gate. I loved the intensity of the flavor but the heat and spice on a 90 degree summer day was a bit much. When I put 2 small ice cubes in there they melted too fast and watered it down to a bottom shelf bourbon. The best experience I had was using the large square ice cube to chill the bourbon and then throwing it out before diluting began. I also made the ice cubes with distilled water to keep it as clean as I could. That to me really gave me the best experience with this Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon.

Overall – This is a great guy, at around $60 for a single barrel I would go back to the well for this. You have to remember though it comes out at 101 and is a bit stronger than some other single barrels on the market. If you haven’t tried it, go pick up a bottle. I bet you won’t be disappointed, I know I wasn’t!

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Initial Thoughts

If you’ve been paying attention to what’s going on in the cigar industry then you’ve definitely noticed Crowned Heads. In fact this year Halfwheel honored them as their Company of the Year. So clearly the industry is taking notice. The Juarez release is a bit of a new path for Crowned Heads. They have been partnering with other established brands throughout all of 2018, but they haven’t really tackled the ‘value lines’. Enter the Juarez release.

According to Jon Huber, of Crowned Heads, this cigar was a collaboration between CH and a small factory in Esteli called Tabacalera Pichardo. The two entities worked together for a special ‘value blend’ that is being distributed solely by Thompson Cigar.

The cigar comes in the traditional parejo shape with 3 vitolas: 4 3/4 x 52, 6 x 54, 5 x 56. Each size is priced under $8!

This Juarez by Crowned Heads utilizes a Mexican San Andres wrapper, with an Ecuadorian Sumatra binder, stuffed with filler from the Dominican & Nicaragua.

For those of you paying close attention you’ve probably already realized that there is a connection with this cigar and another from the Crowned Heads line, the Jericho Hill. Also, according to Jon, he said this about the blend: “The challenge was put forth to us by Thompson Cigar Co. to create a value-conscious alternative to our Jericho Hill brand” from HW.

That’s one thing that I always love about the cigars from the team at Crowned Heads, they have a great story and marketing behind a great product! So let’s dive into it and see what’s going on.

Looks

This Juarez by Crowned Heads has a fairly simple-looking brand. Yet there’s always something more when you start digging into the branding. At first, you’ll notice a big bull right in the middle of the band. On the back leg of the bull there are 5 prison marks, and above the bull’s head is the crown. Now, based on how the rest of the brand lines up with lyrics in the song, I’m going to guess the 5 marks on the bull are a tribute to the line “I thought I was her daddy, but she had 5 more”. Just a guess and we’ll leave it at that. The crown is most likely a tribute to the brand’s name, Crowned Heads.

Once you take in all the branding and actually look at the cigar you’ll see that it’s a great-looking smoke too. The band is a rich light brown. A few veins and some great texture. The construction on it was very well done.

Let’s go ahead and jump into the smoking section light up and start pulling some flavors off of it.

Flavor

The first thing that I notice on this Juarez by Crowned Heads is the note of sweet tobacco and leather on the foot and barrel of the cigar. There were hints of cream and spice on the cold draw which got me really excited to light it up.

Once I brought the torch to the foot of the cigar I was hit with that spice and a nutty note. Throughout the remainder of the smoke, the experience was perfect. I ashed it every inch or so as best I could. The draw was perfect. The flavors danced around some I would get hit with a nice spice note on the retrohale followed by some creamy notes with a hint of leather. It was a really well-balanced cigar all around. Nothing was overpowering and I smoked it in the afternoon after lunch.

Would I Buy It Again?

Absolutely, to me this is a constant repurchase, especially at the price.

Is It an Every Day Smoke?

Easily, when you’re talking $5.95 for a great Robusto cigar. That’s tough to beat by any stretch of the imagination.

Would I Buy a Box?

Well if its an everyday smoke you better buy a couple of boxes right? I just checked on Thompson and they’re selling at $120 a box for 20. That’s tough to beat. If you’re unsure snag a 5 pack and I guarantee you won’t be let down.

Where to Buy Juarez by Crowned Heads

Average retail: ~$6 per stick. Prices vary by retailer.

Retailer	Price	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$6/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$6/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

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Best Bourbon Pairings for the Juarez by Crowned Heads

Conclusion

I think one thing that has kept Crowned Heads consistently showing up in the industry is the ability to adapt to new adventures and still deliver fantastic cigars. The Juarez was a new project for them and I think it delivered. In fact I would stand this cigar up against the rest of the ‘budget’ cigars that CA releases every year and I would be surprised if this wasn’t the best smoke out of all of them! So, do yourself a favor, head on over to Thompson Cigar, and pick yourself up a 5 pack of these things, you won’t be disappointed!

The post Juarez by Crowned Heads appeared first on Stogies on the Rocks.

Initial Thoughts

Looks

Smoking

Flavor

If you’re curious about the flavor of this Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural then I’m glad you’ve held on to the end. The blend started off with prominent notes of tobacco and black pepper. While nosing the barrel and the foot I picked up the exact same thing. So it makes sense that it carried through into the cigar. While smoking the cigar began to shift notes slightly. The pepper backed off and gave way to a bit of a creamy leather flavor with hints of citrus in the background. In the final third I picked up on notes of bread and the citrus remained fairly prominent. With all that said nothing was really in your face in terms of the blend. It all felt very well balanced and I truly enjoyed the time spent with this Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural.

Would I Buy It Again?

Without a doubt.

Is It an Every Day Smoke?

 If I had fat stacks of cash, yes.

Would I Buy a Box?

I should buy a box.

Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is the Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural?

Eric doesn’t call this one a powerhouse — the pepper is present early but backs off, giving way to creamier, more balanced notes as you smoke. It reads as a medium-bodied experience rather than something that’s going to knock you over.

What are the flavor notes of the Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural?

The Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural opens with tobacco and black pepper, then transitions into creamy leather with hints of citrus. The final third brings in notes of bread while the citrus stays fairly prominent throughout — and nothing ever feels out of balance.

Where can I buy the Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural?

Eric picked his up through Holts.com as part of a sampler, which he found to be the most cost-effective way to get a few Padrons for the price of one. That’s a solid starting point if you want to try it without going all-in on a single stick.

How much does the Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural cost?

The Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural runs about $26 per stick on its own. Eric snagged a 5-cigar Padron sampler from Holts.com for around $80, which works out to roughly $16 a stick — better math if you’re on the fence.

What bourbon pairs well with the Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural?

Eric smoked this one alongside bourbon and says it paired well, though he doesn’t name a specific bottle in this review. Given the cigar’s creamy leather and citrus profile, something with complementary character is your best bet.

Where to Buy Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural

Average retail: ~$26 per stick. Prices vary by retailer.

Retailer	Price	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$26/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$26/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

Stogies on the Rocks may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Best Bourbon Pairings for the Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural

As a full-bodied, high-strength Nicaraguan torpedo, the Cojonu 2006 demands a bourbon with presence. Here are our top three pairings based on complementary flavor profiles.

#1 — Knob Creek 9 Year

Knob Creek 9 Year’s caramel richness and subtle oak should complement the creamy leather mid-palate of the 45 Years Natural without steamrolling the cigar’s more delicate citrus notes.

Buy on ReserveBar → Read Our Review →

#2 — Old Forester 1920

Old Forester 1920’s bold baking spice and dark fruit character should play nicely off the early black pepper and hold up through the bread and citrus finish without overpowering the balance Eric loved.

Buy on ReserveBar → Read Our Review →

#3 — Russell’s Reserve

Russell’s Reserve’s smooth, approachable sweetness and vanilla-forward profile should let the 45 Years Natural’s well-balanced, never-in-your-face flavor profile stay front and center while adding a little richness alongside the creamy leather notes.

Buy on ReserveBar → Read Our Review →

Pairing suggestions based on the Stogies on the Rocks flavor profile scoring system. Browse all bourbon reviews →

Conclusion

I mean it’s really hard to argue that Padron cigars are top notch. I’ve yet to have one that has let me down. The Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural is no different. Perfect smoking experience, great flavor, it paired well with my bourbon. What more could you want out of a cigar? Do yourself a favor, go pick one of these up. If you’re hesitant to buy one for $26, do what I did and get a sampler box with a few other Padrons in there as well. I know you won’t regret it!

The post Padron Family Reserve 45 Years Natural appeared first on Stogies on the Rocks.

Initial Thoughts

Looks

Smoking

Flavor

Right from the get-go on the pre-light this Debonaire Daybreak gave a wide range of flavors. Up front I got some traditional notes of oak and cedar. Followed by a musty leather note that was actually very exciting. Once I got the cigar lit that clean smoke was pouring out. I picked up some subtle hints of white pepper as well as a backing note of earth and mineral. Nothing was really right in your face they were all blended together very well. The finish offered a good dose of cream and tobacco flavors that lingered around for awhile.

Would I Buy It Again?

Without a doubt. This Debonaire Daybreak is a little on the higher end of my range but still after smoking one or two you realize that it’s not an everyday smoke, unless you’re in a higher tax bracket. However, I do feel like it’s a smoke that you can reach for every now and again as a ‘Ultra Premium’ smoke.

Is It an Every Day Smoke?

 Not for me, just based on the price. If I had the cash, then yes it would be.

Would I Buy a Box?

I think this is the best way to buy this cigar. I would love to have a box that is sitting and aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is the Debonaire Daybreak?

The Debonaire Daybreak is a medium to full-bodied cigar. Check our full review above for strength and body notes from first light to the nub.

What are the flavor notes of the Debonaire Daybreak?

See the Flavor section above for a full tasting breakdown of the Debonaire Daybreak across all three thirds, including retrohale notes and finish.

Where can I buy the Debonaire Daybreak?

The Debonaire Daybreak is available at Famous Smoke Shop, Cigars International, and Amazon. See the Where to Buy table below for current pricing and availability.

How much does the Debonaire Daybreak cost?

The Debonaire Daybreak retails for approximately $12 per stick depending on the retailer and vitola. Prices may vary by box size.

What bourbon pairs well with the Debonaire Daybreak?

Our top bourbon pairings for the Debonaire Daybreak are Knob Creek 9 Year, Old Forester 1920, Russell’s Reserve, chosen based on complementary flavor profile scoring. See the Pairing section below for details.

Where to Buy Debonaire Daybreak

Average retail: ~$12 per stick. Prices vary by retailer.

Retailer	Price	Availability	Link
Famous Smoke Shop	~$12/stick	In Stock	Shop Now →
Cigars International	~$12/stick	Check Stock	Shop Now →
Amazon (samplers)	Varies	Available	Search Amazon →

Stogies on the Rocks may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Best Bourbon Pairings for the Debonaire Daybreak

As a full-bodied, high-strength Nicaraguan torpedo, the Cojonu 2006 demands a bourbon with presence. Here are our top three pairings based on complementary flavor profiles.

#1 — Knob Creek 9 Year

High-rye character and oak depth complement the earthiness and spice of the Cojonu perfectly.

Buy on ReserveBar → Read Our Review →

#2 — Old Forester 1920

Rich toasted oak and dark fruit lift the nutty, creamy second third beautifully.

Buy on ReserveBar → Read Our Review →

#3 — Russell’s Reserve

A balanced, full-bodied pour with just enough rye spice to match the cigar’s pepper backbone.

Buy on ReserveBar → Read Our Review →

Pairing suggestions based on the Stogies on the Rocks flavor profile scoring system. Browse all bourbon reviews →

Conclusion

Seriously, if I haven’t convinced you to go out and buy a Debonaire Daybreak by now, I’m not sure what else I can say about it. This is a great cigar with a great flavor profile that smokes perfectly. Just go out and try one and I know you won’t be disappointed.

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