Staff Picks

Our hard-working staff is busy smoking dozens of cigars, so you don't have to! Each week, they choose their favorite stick from the bunch.
Marciano Hernandez
TASTE:Chocolate, Espresso, Coffee
HOBBIES:Musician, Watching Soccer, Partying.
STRENGTH:Medium-Full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Padron Series Maduro

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West Tampa Tobacco Company Dark Time Toro 6" * 54

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West Tampa Tobacco Company Dark Time Toro 6 * 54
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The West Tampa Dark Time was a cigar I had been looking forward to ever since it was announced. Rick Rodriguez has built a reputation for making balanced, flavorful cigars, and I was curious to see what his first maduro would bring to the table. Thankfully, it didn't disappoint. From the first few puffs, I was greeted with rich notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and earth, backed by a healthy dose of black pepper. There's definitely more body here than in some of the earlier West Tampa releases, but it never crosses into harsh territory. As the cigar settled into the final third, I started picking up a subtle sweetness reminiscent of molasses, helping tie everything together. The smoke was thick and chewy, the draw was effortless, and the burn stayed razor sharp throughout the entire experience. One of the cooler touches with Dark Time is the presentation. Beyond the obvious play on the word "time," each 10-count box includes a double guillotine cutter designed to resemble a Rolex GMT-Master II. It's a fun addition that fits the theme perfectly and gives collectors a little something extra beyond the cigars themselves. What impressed me most was how approachable Dark Time remained despite its darker profile. It has enough strength and flavor to satisfy experienced smokers, but it's balanced enough that it never feels like a drag. If you're a fan of Maduro cigars or have enjoyed previous West Tampa releases, this one is absolutely worth making time for. Picked on 06/01/2026
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Patricio Olivares
TASTE:Leather, Wood, Nutty, Creamy, Vanilla
HOBBIES:Working on cars, Poker, Video Games, Formula 1, and Film
STRENGTH:Medium, Full
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Rojas Breakfast Tacos Maduro 4"1/2 * 50

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Rojas Breakfast Tacos Maduro 41/2 * 50
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Holy Chimichanga, this cigar was made for me. Just like your lunch from your most trusted taco stand, the Breakfast Taco Maduro is a must-have daily treat! This stick is the perfect cross between an affordable daily smoke and unparalleled earthy maduro notes. Burn's better than butter on Maize, and as tasty as a Modelo on a hot summer day. I wouldn't recommend pouring hot sauce on this one though... Picked on 06/01/2026
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William Lazo
TASTE:Nutty, woody, pepper, cream
HOBBIES:Video games, watching football and MMA,Movie fanatic
STRENGTH:Medium-Full
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La Gloria Cubana Intencion Toro 6" * 52

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La Gloria Cubana Intencion Toro 6 * 52
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From the moment I lit up the La Gloria Cubana Intención Toro, I was bombarded with flavor. Right off the bat, I picked up notes of mixed nuts, subtle woodiness, and a touch of sweetness that immediately had me intrigued and excited to see where this cigar was going to take me. As I moved into the second third, light pepper notes began to emerge in the background. They weren't overpowering at all and actually blended beautifully with the flavors from the first third. The nuttiness, wood, and sweetness remained at the forefront while the pepper added another layer of complexity and balance to the overall profile. Entering the final third, the cigar stayed remarkably consistent with the flavors I had been enjoying throughout the smoke. However, I noticed the strength began to mellow slightly, allowing a sweet honey-like and sugary note to develop. It was a flavor I couldn't quite pinpoint, but it added another dimension to the cigar, making it even more complex and enjoyable. For pairing, I would recommend a quality Scotch during the first half to complement the nutty and woody characteristics. A well-aged rum or a smooth bourbon would also be excellent choices, especially as the sweeter notes begin to shine later in the experience. Overall, the La Gloria Cubana Intención Toro delivers a flavorful, balanced, and evolving smoking experience. With notes of mixed nuts, wood, pepper, and subtle sweetness throughout, this is a cigar I would confidently recommend to anyone who enjoys a solid medium-bodied smoke packed with flavor and complexity. It is approachable enough for the average smoker while offering enough nuance to keep seasoned cigar enthusiasts engaged from start to finish. Picked on 06/01/2026
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Rene Labor
AGE:39
TASTE:Wood, Earth, Leather
HOBBIES:Guitar, Beer, Sarcasm
STRENGTH:Medium/Full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Liga Privada No. 9
Padron 1964 Anniversary Maduro
Tatuaje Miami Seleccion del Cazador
Kristoff GC Signature Series
Eiroa CBT Maduro

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Micallef Purple Robusto 5" * 52

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Micallef Purple Robusto 5 * 52
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I am shocked and appalled that nobody on our roster has reviewed any of the Micallef 'Color' series yet! After becoming a bit of an ambassador for the brand over the last couple of years in-store, I think it's time I let my online friends in on the secret: the Micallef Purple (as well as the White, and Green, and Black, etc...) are all absolute winners in every category. First thing's first - this cigar punches above its weight class. I personally think this cigar could be double the price and it would still make sense. When I read that the wrapper on the Micallef Purple was Mexican San Andres, I was a bit surprised since it appeared much paler than the Mexican wrappers I've always been used to. Regardless, once lit, the Purple instantly sent me to flavor town. Right at the start, I noticed flavors of toasted bread along with sweet tobacco and a subtle milk chocolate. As it progressed, the natural sweetness remained and I encountered a delicious note of cedar that complimented the breadiness very well. The entire time I smoked the Micallef Purple, I enjoyed a wide open draw and generous smoke output that filled the room with chewy aromatic goodness. Perfectly medium-bodied from first puff to last, I still can't believe the price point of this stogie, along with all the rest of the 'Colors' line. Do yourself a favor and try them ALL, none are better than the rest, but everyone I speak to eventually finds their favorite. Trust me - Micallef will find itself to be a mainstay in your humidor before you know it. Thank me later ;) Picked on 05/31/2026
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Angelo Pezzotti
TASTE:Leather, Wood, Chocolate, Earth
HOBBIES:Skateboarding, Music, Anime
STRENGTH:Medium, Medium-Full
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Island Jim Barber Pole #2 Torpedo 6"1/2 * 52

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Island Jim Barber Pole #2 Torpedo 61/2 * 52
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The Island Jim Barber Pole #2 Torpedo looked so cool I had to try it! This is a well balanced cigar that's perfect for when you want something different in your day. It's smooth and creamy, with a lot of nuttiness and a slight cedar note. I thought it was mild to medium in strength, and visually very different than most cigars thanks to the dual barber pole wrapper that combines the Connecticut and Corojo wrappers in a stylish way. Construction was excellent, the ash was super solid, and when passing the halfway point it hits you with some more toasted woody flavors, along with a sharp shot of nicotine before it's over. Overall, the Island Jim's sweet earthy notes make it an experience you need to try for yourself! Picked on 05/31/2026
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Christopher Palma
TASTE:Vanilla, Creamy, Coffee, Cedar, Spice
HOBBIES:Gaming, Running, Playing Guitar, Writing.
STRENGTH:Medium-Full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Arturo Fuente
Tabak Especial Negra
Deadwood Baby Jane
Foundation Olmec Claro

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Tatuaje Cabaiguan Guapos Natural Toro Grande 5"5/8 * 54

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Tatuaje Cabaiguan Guapos Natural Toro Grande 55/8 * 54
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The Cabaiguan Guapos Natural is an incredibly underrated cigar from Tatuaje. This is one that definitely flies under a lot of people’s radar, but it's a creamy, satisfyingly smooth smoke from a brand not typically known for that. Featuring an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper over Nicaraguan tobaccos, a combination sure to give an approachable and satisfying smoking experience for novice or seasoned smoker. From the first third, the cigar offered a mellow profile with notes of wood, cream, and cashew, all presented in a remarkably layered manner. An earthy character remained at the forefront throughout the smoke, while the retrohale introduced a touch of pepper in the second third, adding some complexity without overpowering the overall profile. The final third brought a slight increase in strength and spice, nudging the cigar toward medium-bodied territory while maintaining its balanced nature. Overall, this is an easygoing and flavorful smoke that stands apart from some of Tatuaje's bolder offerings, making it an excellent choice for newer smokers or anyone who enjoys a smooth, earthy cigar. Picked on 05/30/2026
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Erick Morales
AGE:45
TASTE:Chocolate, Sweetness, Creamy, Cocoa, Coffee
HOBBIES:Wildlife, Photography, Cycling, Jogging, hiking
STRENGTH:Medium

FAVORITE BRANDS
Oliva Serie V
Sobremesa Brulee

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AVO Syncro Nicaragua Special Toro 6" * 60

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AVO Syncro Nicaragua Special Toro 6 * 60
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The AVO Syncro Nicaragua Special Toro 6x60 was a really enjoyable smoke. Smooth from start to finish with a nice mix of pepper, wood, cream, and a little natural sweetness. The bigger ring gauge made it burn cool and slow, perfect for just relaxing outside. Had a solid draw and plenty of flavor without being too strong. Definitely a cigar I’d smoke again if you like something smooth but still flavorful. Picked on 05/29/2026
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Gabriel Novas
TASTE:All
HOBBIES:Playing guitar, watching movies, reading
STRENGTH:Medium to Full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Arturo Fuente Don Carlos
Crowned Heads Le Careme
Liga Privada H99
Foundation Olmec Claro

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Alec & Bradley Blind Faith Toro 6" * 52

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Alec & Bradley Blind Faith Toro 6 * 52
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The Alec Bradley Blind Faith is one of those cigars that quietly wins you over. Between the price point and the incredible flavor, it is slowly but surely becoming a staple in my rotation. Right out of the gate, it opens with notes of roasted coffee, wood, and a touch of sweetness, all backed by a creamy smoke texture that keeps the profile smooth and complex. As the cigar develops, notes of roasted nuts and leather begin to emerge, while the retrohale adds layers of campfire wood and a kick of pepper that keep things satisfying. What really stood out during this review was the balance. Blind Faith never tries to overpower the palate, but it still delivers enough strength and flavor to stay engaging from start to finish. The Honduran Habano wrapper and Nicaraguan-heavy core create a medium-bodied experience that feels rich without becoming bitter or harsh, making it an easy cigar to revisit. Construction was excellent across the board, with dense smoke production throughout the session. Handmade at Raíces Cubanas in Honduras and blended by Alec and Bradley Rubin, Blind Faith feels like a more mature, restrained take on the modern full-flavored cigar. I typically enjoy this with coffee on a quiet morning. Picked on 05/11/2026
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RICHARD GARCIA
TASTE:Earthy, Leather, Espresso Bitterness, Dark Chocolate
HOBBIES:Being a Dad, Student of the Leaf.
STRENGTH:Medium/Full
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Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Nicaragua Profundo Toro 6" * 54

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Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Nicaragua Profundo Toro 6 * 54
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If you’ve spent any time with the Reserva Real line, you’ll notice right away that the Nicaraguan version isn’t just a tweak—it’s a different animal. The Profundo, in particular, leans into that richer, fuller side without trying too hard to be a powerhouse. Off the foot, I got that familiar earthy Nicaraguan profile—damp soil, a little cocoa, and a faint cedar sweetness. Once it gets going, the first third settles into a nice balance of toasted nuts, light pepper (nothing aggressive), and a creamy texture that honestly surprised me for a cigar coming out of Nicaragua under the Romeo banner. The retrohale brings a bit more spice, but it’s controlled—not the kind that burns you out. Into the second third, it opens up a bit more. There’s a deeper coffee note that comes in—more espresso than drip—and that nuttiness turns slightly roasted, almost like almonds. Construction-wise, no complaints here. Burn stayed even, ash held strong, and the draw was right where you want it—not too loose, not plugged up. Final third is where it gets a little bolder, but still refined. The pepper picks up just a notch, the earthiness deepens, and there’s a subtle sweetness hanging in the background that keeps it from getting too dry or harsh. It finishes clean, which I always appreciate—no bitter aftertaste, no rough edges. Overall, this is one of those cigars I’d hand to someone who thinks they “know” Romeo y Julieta and wants to see the brand in a different light. It’s not trying to be flashy—it’s just a well-made, flavorful smoke that hits that medium-to-full sweet spot without beating you over the head. Definitely a solid staff pick—especially if you’re in the mood for something dependable with a little more backbone than your usual Connecticut-leaning profile Picked on 05/07/2026
Older Picks
Samuel Pafford
TASTE:Natural tobacco / anything new
HOBBIES:Video games, dogs, documentaries, smoking new cigars
STRENGTH:Medium to full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Oliva Serie V Melanio
ADVentura the Navigator
Crowned Heads Mil Dias

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Matilde Limited Exposure No. 3 Toro 6" * 50

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Matilde Limited Exposure No. 3 Toro 6 * 50
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Matilde’s Limited Exposure series gives the company room to experiment with small-batch blends while staying true to its smooth Dominican character. The Limited Exposure No. 3 Robusto delivers natural sweetness alongside notes of cedar, nuts, earth, and light spice in an easy-smoking medium-bodied profile packed with flavor. The tobacco tastes clean and healthy throughout, finishing smooth without lingering harshness. For smokers looking to branch out from the usual big brands, Matilde is a boutique worth exploring. With just 350 boxes of each vitola made this experience unfortuanitely has a time limit, but theres always the No. 4! Picked on 05/07/2026
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Martin Ruiz
AGE:32
TASTE:All
HOBBIES:Sports, video games, food, good beer
STRENGTH:All

FAVORITE BRANDS
Liga Privada No. 9
Padron 1926 Serie Natural
Arturo Fuente Fuente Opus X
Flor de las Antillas

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Rojas Street Tacos Barbacoa Robusto 5" * 50

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Rojas Street Tacos Barbacoa Robusto 5 * 50
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Neptune just brought in , and the Street Tacos Barbacoa Robusto honestly shocked me with how good it was for the price. From the first few puffs I got a blast of black pepper, smoky earth, dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and a rich savory sweetness that reminded me of charred steak and spices right off the grill. The flavors are bold but incredibly smooth and balanced, with thick clouds of smoke and a finish that keeps getting richer as you go. This is the kind of cigar that makes you stop halfway through and think, “How is this not twice the price?” Easily one of the best bang for your buck cigars I’ve smoked in a long time. It pairs perfectly with a dark roast coffee or an añejo tequila. Picked on 05/07/2026
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Erika Colmenares
TASTE:Creamy, Vanilla
HOBBIES:Traveling, Going to the beach, Music
STRENGTH:Mild-Medium

FAVORITE BRANDS
Montecristo White
La Galera Connecticut
Sobremesa Brulee

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Asylum 867 Zero 50X5 5" * 50

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Asylum 867 Zero 50X5 5 * 50
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I really liked this cigar. It has a very pleasant sweetness from the start, not at all overpowering, which makes it really enjoyable. It’s not a strong cigar, more medium in strength, but still full of character. What caught my attention the most was that explosion of aromas: sweet and aromatic notes that pair perfectly with a coffee. It’s one of those cigars you can smoke in a relaxed way without it overwhelming you, while still keeping you engaged with its flavors. I would definitely smoke it again. Picked on 02/11/2026
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Robert Vallee
TASTE:Coffee, dark chocolate, earth
HOBBIES:Smoking, making music, playing cards
STRENGTH:Medium to Full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Padron 1926 Serie Maduro
The Tabernacle
Punch Diablo

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Ozgener Karatoba Robusto 5" * 52

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Ozgener Karatoba Robusto 5 * 52
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The Karatoba is the newest addition to the Oz Family Cigars line by Tim Ozgener, who is best known for his time with CAO (A company his father started back in the late 60's). The reddish dark brown Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper reminds me a lot of the Oliva Melanio. It looked absolutely flawless and velvety smooth with barely any veins or scuffs at all. You are greeted with some strong spice in the first quarter. Notes of roasted peanuts, baking spice, and a touch of cinnamon sweetness to round it all out. For me, the spice was a little unwelcoming. In the last half of the cigar, the spice is somewhat muted, and you are just in cruise control from there. Super smooth, creamy, but bursting with flavor. The burn and draw were impeccable. One light and I was good to go for the next hour and twenty minutes. This is a very nice medium-plus cigar paired well with coffee or an aged rum. Don't miss out on this one. Picked on 02/10/2026
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Luis Novas
TASTE:Habano, Broadleaf, Mexican San Andres
HOBBIES:Cooking, writing, reading, cigars, cycling
STRENGTH:Medium to Full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Tatuaje Miami Seleccion del Cazador
Crowned Heads Four Kicks Maduro
Sin Compromiso

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La Flor Dominicana 30th Anniversary 6"1/2 * 58

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La Flor Dominicana 30th Anniversary 61/2 * 58
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Just put down the La Flor Dominicana 30th Anniversary, and honestly, that was one of the more memorable sticks I’ve had in a while. From the moment I clipped it, the cold draw teased a mix of cedar, sweet tobacco, and a hint of spice — the kind that makes you want to light it up right away. Construction was excellent. The draw was just right — not too loose, not too tight. Burn was consistent and even, and ash held firm in nice firm chunks. It’s one of those cigars that feels as good as it tastes in your hand. I’d pair this with a rich, dark roast coffee or an aged bourbon — something with its own depth and complexity. The slight sweetness in the bourbon plays nicely against the cigar’s spice, while the coffee brings out that chocolatey earthiness. If you’re more of a beer drinker, a robust porter with roasted malt notes would also be excellent. Picked on 12/26/2025
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George Perez
TASTE:All. Except soft
HOBBIES:Smoking good cigars, watching movies, Jazz music, spending time with family
STRENGTH:Medium , Medium to full, Full

FAVORITE BRANDS
Oliva Serie V
La Flor Dominicana Limited Edition
Espinosa Habano
CAO Flathead
New World
Asylum 13 Ogre
La Galera Habano
CLE Prieto

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La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse Coronation 6" * 52

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La Aroma de Cuba Noblesse Coronation 6 * 52
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The aroma de cuba has always delivered some great cigars. That tradition continues with the Noblesse Coronation. This cigar is packed with some great flavors. This medium body cigar has a great earthy, nutty flavor at the beginning. Some hints of chocolate is introduced also at the beginning. Thge draw is phenominal. It has an easy draw. Can not say that about alot of cigars. The aroma is welcoming too. At the half way point, those flavors at the beginning are still found. Some cigars would of changed a bit at this point. Not this one. The draw is still great. Toward the end of the cigar, I was not surprised that the cigar was still consistent. It did pick up a bit in strength to a medium full. Some hints of spice was also introduced. Not overwhelming. But enough to make the cigar enjoyable. Every flavor was still there. The earthiness, the nutty. The hint of chocolate was not too overwhelming. This is one cigar that you have to try. What I liked about it also, no aftertaste was left in my mouth. Like some cigars tend to do. And if you need to pair it with a nice drink, I would recomend a nice Glenlevit. The oak of the drink compliments it. Enjoy everyone Picked on 09/17/2024
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Adam Stewart
AGE:46
TASTE:All
HOBBIES:Music, Reading, Art, Nature, Craft Beer, Slacking
STRENGTH:All

FAVORITE BRANDS
Arturo Fuente
Liga Privada No. 9
Tatuaje Black Label
Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970

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CAO Cameroon Perfecto 4" * 48

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CAO Cameroon Perfecto 4 * 48
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This little perfecto surprised me. I was not expecting it to be bad by any means, but, being an inexpensive small cigar, I assumed it would be mediocre at best...something to smoke on while taking the dog around the block, etc. In actuality, it was excellent. While not being incredibly complex, it is well constructed and pumped out a decent amount of smoke. it also burned impeccably, and did not require any touch ups or relights, despite the foot starting out nearly as thin as a pencil. The flavor profile was somewhat typical for a Cameroon cigar....sweet, nutty, earthy, with subtle hints of cocoa / coffee. For just over $5.00, it is hard to say no to this little guy. AF Short Story fans seriously need to take note.... if your Short Stories are not available, or if you just feel like saving a couple of bucks.... this stick is for you. Try pairing with a Café con leche morning, noon or night and you will not be dissapointed. Cheers. Picked on 05/02/2023
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