A Cigar Fit for a Viking Princess ... None Other than Freyja by Las Cumbres Tabaco

The Freyja Cigar



It's not often you meet a Viking Princess in a sea of pirates, villains, witches and warriors, but the Freyja cigar,  blended by Emma Viktorsson, co-owner and marketing manager for Las Cumbres Tabaco, stands out in beauty, refinement and strength. From the gorgeously designed band with two scenes (the Goddess Freyja herself and Viking ships), to the flawless caramel color Dominican Criollo wrapper, the Freyja cigar was designed to stand out nicely on the B&M shelves.

Blend:

- Wrapper: Dominican Criollo ’98

- Binder: Mexican San Andrés

- Filler: Dominican Piloto Cubano, Dominican Criollo ’98, Nicaragua Estelí

Vitolas: The names of Freyja´s cigar-line represent her and a few other Viking Gods:

- “Sessrúmnir” is Freyja Heavenly Hall – Sessrúmnir Corona Larga 5 3/4 X 42

- “Valhalla” is the main God Odin´s Heavenly Hall – Valhalla Robusto 5 1/2 X 50

-  Son of Odin, “Thor” – Thor´s Toro 6 X 54

- “Valkyrie” to once again represent this beautiful Goddess – Valkyrie Pyramid 6/2 X 52

"The name Freyja is for me the bridge between my Swedish roots and the Cigar-Countries,” says Emma Viktorsson, a ten-year cigar industry veteran. "Freyja is the main Viking Goddess, Goddess of beauty, love and fertility as well as being the head of the Valkyrie."

Truth be told, I have smoked more than 20 Freyja cigars of various sizes since its release last year, but for this review I smoked 2 Valhalla Robusto cigars. Here is a photo of Freyja at her launch party at Sanji Cigars in Bloomfield, NJ.

Sitting in the comfort of my favorite chair at the Cigar Vault lounge in Staten Island, I guillotine cut the first cigar ( and v-cut the second) and detect molasses, almonds and espresso in the Cold Draw with an earth and spice scent at the Foot.

The first few puffs are very nutty ( peanuts & almonds) joined by a clean white pepper spice that is strong to me but not overwhelming. A little further into the smoking experience, the flavors are joined by sweet hay, wood and espresso. A very good 1st Third with great burn & nicely melded flaves. This is a solid medium at this stage.

While smoking into the 2nd Third my palate is welcomed with caramel and cedar, then chocolate and espresso ! Yum this cigar reminds me of a Caramel Mocha Macchiato ! Pure indulgence on my part as my mind settles down, my shoulders relax and I snuggle into the armchair feeling completely relaxed.

@RobustoBabe 

Just when I  had become complacent with the flavors, the profile changes again challenging my senses-- I love it! In the Final Third, in one cigar the strong espresso and mixed nuts were more prominent. In the second cigar the spicy red pepper was the dominant flavor. But overall I could detect a sumptuous mix of espresso, leather, nuts, spicy pepper with an earth and clove finish.  The Freyja ranges in medium to medium plus in strength but full in flavor all the way through.

The Freyja is a finely blended cigar with complex flavors that tantalizes the tastebuds ! In two words, DELISH™ and Boxworthy !

Freyja has easily become one of my go to cigars and has earned a significant place in my Top 5 Cigars for 2015.

For more information about Freyja, Emma or  Las Cumbres Tabaco, please visit: http://lascumbrestabaco.com/freyja-cigars/ 

For Emma's fabulous Cigar Fantasia blog, please visit http://www.cigarfantasia.com/ 

Wishing you long ashes --

Robusto Cigar Babe

The Luscious Senorial Maduro Is a Flavorful Fix

Funny how a cigar that I dubbed as a top cigar of LAST YEAR consistently stays on my mind and between my fingers this year also! Plus, now Senorial Maduro is available in more B&Ms so wherever I go I can have my Senorial fix.

After loving Senorial for a long time, I waited for the Maduro version. I knew it was going to be love at first scent when I met Senorial Maduro at a smoke-filled lounge on the Upper East Side. Looking luscious, sleek and dark, he had all the looks I enjoy, but it was the cold draw and first puffs that drew me in and held me tightly. Not just a cuddle, I felt seduced, enthralled, and comforted with Senorial Maduro in hand. As I held onto him and admired his appearance, I realized how much I didn't want this union to go away. He's ohhhh soooo good.


The LOOK is a sleek, chocolate color MADURO wrapper.

The COLD DRAW produces a mix of CEDAR and EARTH. It's got a SWEETNESS that you can taste on your lips.

For the FIRST THIRD there is a blast of PEPPER and CEDAR. Then a few puffs in you can easily detect CHOCOLATE and an EARTHINESS with a definite RAISIN sweetness.  Further in you can taste the CHOCOLATE caressing your palate as it moves to the forefront along with the balance of the EARTHY tones. PEPPER is still present and the balance is very good.

The SECOND THIRD brings CHOCOLATE as the main flavor in this profile for a few puffs with EARTH, CEDAR, SPICE, and a hint of sweetness in the background. This is my favorite part of the cigar. Every stick I've smoked is consistent, delicious and balanced. Towards the end of this third, it gets a little more EARTHY, but it's very manageable with all of the other flavors this cigar puts out.

The LAST THIRD eases in with EARTH, CEDAR and PEPPER as the prominent flavors. In the background you can taste CHOCOLATE and a sweet RAISIN. 

I usually look for Senorial Maduro in the afternoon. With a cup of coffee as this cigar is a complete dream. He's bold, reliable and I love the way he smells. Medium in strength, Senorial Maduro is perfect for that afternoon delight when you know you want a little something to carry you through the day. Make no mistake, this is not a quickie cigar -- you will want to savor this beauty -- and completely enjoy everything that Senorial Maduro offers you.  Where have you been all my life Senorial Maduro ... Mmmhmmmm, completely delectable ... and BOXWORTHY too.

Wishing you long ashes,

Robusto Cigar Babe

@RobustoBabe

Robusto Cigar Babe's Top 10 Cigars of 2015

So many cigars, so little time! First off, I'd like to thank all the cigar companies who graciously sent cigar samples to smoke. For the most part, I can find enjoyment in most every cigar I smoke. The best part is even if I don't review the cigars on Twitter or the blog, I talk about every cigar to the Meetup Groups I attend, Cigar Parties I organize, talks at cigar events, etc.

Also a big TY to the managers and owners of all of the cigar lounges I frequent in the TriState area as well as on Twitter: You guys/gals really know what customer service is and I'm so grateful to know you.

If you aren't on Twitter or Instagram or Facebook you are missing a whole world of knowledge and friendships in the cigar world! Just get on and start following people and chatting with them. I've learned so much from all the magazine and professional reviewers online as well as the cigar company owners, sales reps, marketing people, radio shows, cigar lounges, and other bloggers. We started #SundayCigarHerf on Twitter because it's the best place to LEARN how to taste cigars.

Why did I do a Top 25 Cigar List? Overkill, nah, it's just that I have smoked so many good sticks in 2015.  I could go on and on with companies like Camacho, La Aurora, Joya De Nicaragua, Jordon Alexander, Sindicato, Virtuoso, Arturo Fuente, LFD, and so many more ! 

My Top 5 Favorite Cigars: I've smoked more than 20 of each of the cigars. They are consistently my go-to cigars for full flavors & pure satisfaction.

My Top 6-12 Cigars are worth the hunt. These cigars are on my mind & have bewitched my senses.

My Top 13-25 Cigars are delicious sticks that are constantly being replenished in my humi.

My Top 10 Cigars of 2015



1. Oliva Series V Melanio Maduro

Consistently delicious, completely delectable and sumptuous smoking experience. Well, you know how I feel about Melanio Maduro. This is pure luv !

2. Camacho Barrel Aged

I know this will sound weird to my cigar friends but the Barrel Aged cigar flavors are as close as you can get to an infused cigar without it being one. The story I read about how this cigar was blended intrigued me so much, I had to try it. Love the wide dimensions of flavors, smooth and creamy smoking experience with a touch of bourbon-soaked wood taste and smell. Delish! Buy 1 and join us for #SundayCigarHerf in the coming months.

3.  Las Cumbres Tabaco "Senorial Maduro"

The moment I knew I loved the Senorial cigar, I was waiting for the Maduro to appear. It's a really good cigar blended by Jose Blanco whose reputation in the cigar industry speaks volumes. I can't get enough of this cigar and I had the opportunity to introduce it to many friends at lounges and on Twitter. Supremo ! Boxworthy! Tune into #SundayCigarHerf in coming months to herf this LIVE online.

4. Ashton Symmetry

I first became intrigued by the cigar because @cigarzonave store tweeted about it and then I read about it in Cigar Aficionado Magazine. It looked and sounded like it was in my wheelhouse. I'm really high on Ecuador Habano wrappers lately. The Symmetry is beyond great! Loved it so much I bought a box after smoking my first Symmetry. It's underrated in my opinion. I think the ESG gets more play, but this is truly a great smoke. YUMSymmetry !

5. Las Cumbres Tabaco "Freyja"

Simply it's a cigar that continues to change and delight with every puff I take. The range of flavors blended into Freyja makes a great pairing for coffee, whisky, craft beer, and even Coney Island Rootbeer! Completely Delish ! See full review on the site.

6. Oliva Serie V (also Maduro Especial)

I know! How could this NOT be in the Top 5 ! I hear your thoughts believe me. I love it. I really really do. But lately, hmmmmm, I'm just craving a less full strength. Don't get me wrong, Oliva Serie V is still my FIRST TRUE LOVE, and you never forget your first. Absolutely lovely, dark and handsome smoke. Wait ... maybe this should be #5 part 2 ... You know what I'm talking about !

7. Punch Rare Corojo

Such a satisfying smoke. My #SundayCigarHerf co-host @HN_JAD turned me onto it during a planned meetup of co-hosts and Twitter friends during #Houston2015. From the first few puffs, I was hooked. Now every time I go to a lounge I look for it. If I could find it more, it might have ended up in the Top 5. Really, really great stick !

8. American Kick Ass (AKA) Nth Degree Cigar

Another cigar company that @HN_JAD got me to try and love is AKA Cigars. I think last year my fave from AKA was the Hybrid. I still love it, but it's the Nth Degree this year that seems to be the one I reach for. It might be the captivating smoky scent or the complexity of the coffee, chocolate and creaminess that makes me want more. Made in the Davidoff Factory, this cigar is packed with top shelf tobacco. So Damn Good ...

9  MBombay Kesara Nikka

So, here's the deal. Sometimes I want lighter strength but still full flavor. I've been searching a long time for a cigar like this and Nikka just does it for me. I first became intrigued by @CigarzonAve posting pics on Twitter. Then Mel from @Mbombaycigars graciously sent me some to try. I took the Kesara Nikka with me to a party and WOW, everyone wanted to know what smelled so good. Plus, the BAND is so beautiful, I feel it's attractive to women and men!  I love this cigar and really need to buy more of it. This cigar is Container Worthy ! Yes, I would have said Boxworthy but it's sold in these really cool containers. Innovative and delicious!

10.  1502 Ruby

I've loved the Ruby since it was first introduced to me by #SundayCigarHerf co-host @CigarChairman on Twitter. Love it. But sometimes I can't decide whether I want the Ruby or the Black Gold. Different but equally delish. Company owner and blender Enrique is also a crazy cool sort of guy who owns the most colorful wardrobe. That's the way I think of this cigar, as an expression of Enrique's personality -- fun, unique and talented. It's a very satisfying cigar!

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Thanks for reading!

Well, that's all of it. Were you surprised at my Top 10 picks? If you follow me on Twitter, IG or take part in our #SundayCigarHerf, you probably realize what I really enjoy smoking. I look forward to hearing your reactions and tasting notes about these cigars.

Have an amazing 2016 filled with LONG ASHES, delectable CIGARS, lots of FRIENDS on and off line, & a PROFITABLE working year so you can afford all these great sticks !


Robusto Cigar Babe
@RobustoBabe

Robusto Cigar Babe's Top 11-25 Cigar Faves of 2015

So many cigars, so little time!

Why did I do a Top 25 Cigar List?

It's because I have smoked so many good sticks in 2015 and I could go on and on  adding to this list with companies like Camacho, La Aurora, Joya De Nicaragua, Jordon Alexander, Sindicato, Arturo Fuente, LFD, and so many more ! Plus, this list doesn't even include house brands by some of my favorite cigar lounges like Santana Cigars in Lefforts Garden, Brooklyn (great owners!) or Oro Cubano Lounge in Vineland, NJ (a swanky lounge), or the much anticipated Martinez Cigars in New York City.

Here is how My List is separated: 

My Top 5 Favorite Cigars are comprised of sticks that I've smoked more than 20 of each of the cigars. They are consistently my go-to cigars for full flavors & pure satisfaction.  See the Top 10 list next week.

My Top 6-12 Cigars are worth the hunt. These cigars are on my mind & have bewitched my senses.

My Top 13-25 Cigars are delicious sticks that are constantly being replenished in my humi.

Here are my Top 11 - 25 Cigars of 2015

11. Curivari Buenaventura BV560

As you can tell I get a lot of my cigar tips and cravings from friends and reviewers on Twitter. This little yummy is from @HN_JAD. This cigar tastes as close to enjoying a cookie as you can get. The graham cracker taste is very distinct and enjoyable. Who doesn't like Cookies!

12. Davidoff Cigarz on the Avenue 20th Anniversary blend

This cigar was graciously gifted by @CigarzonAve to try along with a Davidoff The Artist, which is also very delicious. But the Cigarz on the Avenue 20th Anniversary blend is smooth and rich in flavors. So good and only available at this shop in Florida. They deliver, but I suggest a road trip anyway!

13. Casa Fernandez Aganorsa Leaf Maduro

Truly the hot chocolate stick, this cigar won my heart immediately and has opened my senses to all of the Casa Fernandez lines. The Aganorsa Leaf Maduro is robust with a San Andres Maduro wrapper blended with Aganorsa fillers and binder tobaccos from Nicaragua. Every stick I've had -- and I buy a box every time I see it -- is a treasure and a treat !

14.  Joseph NicaVana "Mesmerize"

The Mesmerize is a stunner. The blend was introduced to me by @cigarchairman and I really progressed my palate with this cigar. One of four blends created by Alan Fonseca for his new company, the Salamanca Cigar Group (@The_DonFonseca ), Alan was the founding partner of Ezra Zion Cigars. While smoking this cigar, I could actually detect and taste orange peel! It was quite an awakening in my cigar journey. It's a fine cigar that I need to buy more of as of this writing.  Available in AZ and CA right now, but making national distribution in Spring, 2016.

15. Nat Sherman Sterling

In my opinion the Sterling is the most underrated Nat Sherman cigar and probably the best one in their line. The Sterling is a little expensive in NYC, but it's worth every penny. These cigars combine aged Dominican fillers with a Dominican binder and a stunning Ecuador-grown wrapper. It provides a creamy smoke with complex flavors and a long finish. 

16.  Las Cumbres Tabaco "Senorial"

A favorite in my household this cigar is impeccable and flavorful. It's a go-to cigar for when I'm having tea or amaretto. It's an enjoyable smoke any time of the day. Was a favorite in 2014 and it's a wonderful blend for 2015 too. In fact I smoked one yesterday, so it's continues to be freaking awesome any year. Boxworthy!


17.  Acme Cigars "Route 66"

In partnership with AKA Cigars, Acme's Route 66 has a medium to full body, with rich tobacco, sweet and creamy flavors that included cocoa, molasses, coffee, and wood. I can see this cigar becoming a huge seller because it can be smoked in about an hour and is very flavorful. Perfect after dinner smoke. Yumdillicious !

18.  House of Emilio AF2

It's hard to separate my love between AF2 and AF1 but here is the difference: AF2 blended by AJ Fernandez is crafted from rich Nicaraguan fillers with PA Ligero and shows off with a beautiful Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro wrapper. Flaves are caramel, coffee, cream and spice. It's an amazing smoke. I always have several in my humi and you should too!


19. Emilio Cigars Draig Cayuquero

One of my favorite Emilio cigars, I believe it is underrated because of the band which does not photograph well. If you overlook that aspect you will find a flavorful and satisfying smoke with accented red and black pepper. Cayuquero is a Nicaraguan blend with a lighter shade Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper. I buy it at Cigar Federation in 5 packs. Which reminds me I need more!


20. Camacho Ecuador

I loved this cigar from the first time I tried it at Cigar Aficion in Staten Island (thanks Passat). This cigar boasts a gorgeous Ecuadorian Habano wrapper with Honduran and Dominican tobaccos bound in an earthy Brazillian Mata Fina leaf. It's potent but really good with coffee and bourbon.

21. House of Emilio AF1

Yes, I love another Emilio Cigar and it's the brother to the AF2. This cigar is loaded with Nicaraguan tobaccos in the filler, covered with a slow fermented San Andres Maduro wrapper. Flaves are rich with spice and sweetness. In limited production, I sometimes have to wait to buy these beauties.  Buy it on Cigar Federation. Worth the hunt for this one !

22.  Camacho Shellback

A limited release from Camacho, in a line known as the Brotherhood Series. The cigar features an Ecuador Habana wrapper and a binder and filler from Nicaragua. medium to full body, this cigar has an initial pepper kick then it is SMOOTH with nutmeg/cinnamon, cedar and earth with underlying sweetness. Buy a box before this goes away. I have 2 boxes in my humi ... ha ha ... I'm no fool. Might do very well with a little bit of age!

23.  1502 Nicaragua

Enrique teased Twitter with the idea of Nicaragua long before I ever smoked this cigar by the same name as the country, so his marketing genius worked in my opinion. Besides that, the cigar is the perfect addition to the two other 1502 cigars I treasure -- the Ruby and Black Gold!  Nicaragua contains tobaccos from the four main growing regions: Esteli, Jalapa, Condega and Ometepe. It exudes honey and vanilla, with a delicate fruitiness and some nuts. You gotta try this cigar!

24. Ventura Cigars, Psyko Seven

Many people will be surprised that I didn't list the Maduro version in the Top 25, which is unusual given my love for Maduro, but I really find it takes away from the complexity of the original Psyko Seven.  First, I love the mixture of the 7 regions in this cigar. It's a fantastic idea that introduces the great flavors that can be achieved through thoughtful blending. Haven't tried this cigar? You are definitely missing a great smoke. Yep, it's a good one !

25. Nat Sherman Timeless 556 Nicaragua

On twitter I would see @cigarchairman smoking this cigar every weekend. So, I bought a few and tried it out and wasn't impressed at all -- which surprised me because I find the CM and I have similar likes in cigars. Then I realized that I bought the Dominican version by mistake ! The moment I tried THIS cigar I realized how much I love spice ! A Nicaraguan puro, it is rich and full bodied creamy experience. I like to smoke it with an alcoholic beverage and it goes very nicely with Johnny Walker Blue (but really what wouldn't) and a Maker's Mark 46. Everyone should have this stick in their humi!

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Thanks for reading!

I look forward to hearing your reactions and tasting notes about these cigars. Tune in next week to read about my Top 10 cigar picks for 2015.

Don't forget to put your guesses of what you think are my Top 5 Cigars of 2016 below in the comment section before January 10th.

Robusto Cigar Babe
@RobustoBabe

An Afternoon Seduction with the Mild-Mannered Mbombay Cigars - the Kesara Nikka Lancero

I usually go for that stick that catches my eye because of the sleek, dark lusciousness that stands out from the crowd. Those dark wrappers draw me in quickly ...

So I was really surprised when I first saw Mbombay Cigars and was attracted to the light supple wrapper on the Kesara Nikka Lancero. Beautifully decked out with a band admired by both men & women, it seemed like Mbombay designed it just for me. If ever a cigar band was designed with a woman & superb style in mind, the Mbombay cigars win hands down. The matte finish of the Light brown wrapper complimented the band perfectly and the cigar looked like jewelry that drew attention while I held Kesara in my hand. This cigar gave me what I was looking for ... an alternative to what I usually go for ... mild & flavorful in one stick.

 

 

 

 

 

The one cigar I smoked for this review was gifted by Bombay Tobak and featured an Ecuadorian Wrapper with Dominican Binder & Dominican and Peruvian Filler.

 

As I sat outside enjoying the welcome heat of the afternoon sun,  Kesara's matte light brown wrapper with a delicate pigtail cap felt light in my hand. A slight earthy scent can be detected from the wrapper. A delicate and striking, I settled into my porch chair with a glass of filtered water and continued to admire this striking beauty. As I put Kesara to my lips, the cold draw produced a light tobacco taste with some delicate spice.

 

 

As I lit  Kesara, an enticing aromatic cedar and cinnamon spice welcomes me as I savor the smoke in my mouth and sit enjoying the moment. The draw is a bit snug, the burn is fantastic with a mild profile and killer scent. Even in the light wind, the ash holds on thru the entire 1st Third.

 

 

While smoking Kesara into the 2nd Third, the profile moves from mild to medium with a delicate roasted nut that fades in and out with cedar flavors adding an unexpected but distinct flavor in my mouth. In the latter part of this Third the cinnamon transitions to cardamom, with notes of leather & cream. The draw opens up a bit more and as Kesara kisses my lips, a slight honey sweetness adds another level of enticement.

 

Is Kesara trying to seduce me ? I'm thoroughly intrigued.  As Kesara caresses my senses my mind begins to wander.  Have I found that light playfulness in a cigar luvr that I've been looking for ...

Even Rodney The Pug wants some Kesara Nikka !

 

The Final Third brings back the roasted nut flavors again with leather, orange peel with a mild spice. The Kesara cigar is a delicious smoke with a fantastic band designed to attract new smokers. As I'm enjoying the aromas and flavors in Kesara, I really don't want this experience to end.  While the Lancero size is not my go-to, I thoroughly enjoyed this cigar.  I'd love to find similar flavors in a larger ring gauge by Mbombay.

 

 

 

Overall I really enjoyed smoking the Kesara Nikka and look forward to another interlude in the near future. I heartily would recommend this to people who enjoy a milder but flavorful cigar perfect for morning & afternoon  delights.

All about Mbombay Cigars:  http://www.bombaytobak.com/ 

 Wishing you long ashes --

Robusto Cigar Babe

@RobustoBabe 

 

Rolling Around in the Barn with Norteno

Is it ridiculous to try a cigar JUST because you got turned on by the guy holding it? Yes, I have to admit, I have a little teeny tiny crush on Willy Herrera. I don't even recall if Willy was holding the Norteno cigar when I saw the ad in Cigar Aficionada magazine, but in my mind, one late Monday evening, he was speaking directly to me ... "come on Robusto Cigar Babe ... try my luscious Norteno cigar ... you know you want a taste ... "

So, I ran to 4 of my local B & M shops to buy Drew Estate's Norteno, but no one had it. I searched online and bought a few. Then added the cigar to the #SundayCigarHerf lineup and waited patiently for that Sunday to come. Yes, I snuck back into my humidor to look at Nortena seeing only Willy's face on the band. I marveled over the sleekness, matte chocolate color and smooth look to my new hunny. I even ignored my fellow SundayCigarHerfer's private comments to me saying, "Uhhh I don't think you are going to like Norteno" or "I don't think he's gonna be right for you."  I just knew me and Willy ... uh, I mean, Norteno were going to be fast and furious lovers.

 

 

 

Well, we started out just as I imagined. Norteno in hand. The look of tiny veins, powered cocoa finish. My hands sweating a little as I admired his band, drawn in by the national bird of Nicaragua.  The pre-lit scent was earthy like being in the fields after a storm with a strong pepper and lots of wood. In the background, just underneath the earth was a slight sweet aroma that drew my palate in briefly, like a gentle kiss to my senses.

 

Upon lighting, the first few puffs yield strong earth and a mixture of white and black pepper that tickles my nose, but makes sense from the pre lit scents. Each puff in the 1st Third yields stronger pepper, wood, earth and a touch of sweetness that I can only define as hay. On one hand, I'm fulfilling a fantasy of "rolling in the barn" with Willy, but on the other hand, it's not the kinda profile I usually enjoy from my cigar luvrs. I'm beginning to rethink my date with Norteno.

 

 

 

 

The 2nd Third to midway the pepper ramps up and a very slight raisin emerges. Not enough to make this more enjoyable, and the woodiness increases to a point I'm not enjoying the date anymore. The profile moves up a sharp notch to full and that feeling comes over me quite suddenly, I have to make this date end. I start looking at my phone looking for an excuse to leave, with love fading quickly, I just can't go on. The Black pepper is just too prominent for me and the earthiness doesn't provide the balance I was looking for when I first became intrigued with Norteno.

 

The Snub: Sometimes these things happen. You meet a tall dark hunny on the pages of a magazine and you think, "ahhh yes, he could be the one." After getting acquainted, settling in and getting ready to relax in each other's gaze, it all fell apart after the first 20 minutes. You see, I like a little more dimension in my cigar luvrs -- more than a three note cigar -- and while people tell me he was "all that" for them, I just couldn't continue with Norteno.

 

Of course, if Willy wants to smoke the Norteno with me, describe to me his love for the ummm cigar, well I'd be absolutely more than happy to go another round with this attractive cigar ... but I may need a little coaxing from the man himself ...

 

 

 

 

Wishing you long ashes ...

 

 

Robusto Cigar Babe

 

@RobustoBabe

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Robusto Cigar Babe's Top Cigars of 2014

When I think about what the top cigars of 2014 were for me, I have to consider the sticks I gravitated towards over and over again. I call those my "cigar luvrs" and on Twitter or Instagram you will see me refer to them as DELISH !

I do believe Cigar Aficionado magazine got one thing right -- making an Oliva Cigar their top pick. It's a sumptuously delicious line of cigars. The Serie V's are my FAVS, but I wouldn't have picked the Oliva Serie V Melanio as the #1 cigar of 2014. My heart will always go to the Oliva Series V Melanio Maduro. To me, it's pure pleasure and undeniable love.

Ok, so here's the hard part. My favorite part of smoking cigars is trying all the different ones out there. I love trying new boutique brands. I enjoy the legacy brands. To me, enjoying a new cigar every time I want to smoke is the whole reason for smoking. As a good friend and cigar mentor always says, " you gotta try them all !" And @cigarchairman is right. You do. But, when I'm looking for relaxation, comfort, pampering ... I go back to my cigar luvs that drive me crazy and make me want them ... well, all the more ...

Instead of trying to delineate numbers to my Cigar Luvrs, here were my go-to cigars for 2014. Which ones are your faves:

Oliva Serie V Melanio Maduro
Oliva Serie V Robusto
Jose Blanco Senorial
Nat Sherman Sterling
Drew Estate Nica Rustica
Drew Estate Liga Privada No 9
AKA Hybrid
House of Emilio AF2
1502 Ruby
Oro Cubano Lounge in Vineland NJ  Hand Rolled Maduro
Casa Fernandez Aganorsa Leaf Maduro

My extended list of side luvrs:

Nat Sherman Epoca
Bodega Premium Blends Digestivo
La Jugada Prieto
LFD Double Ligero
LFD Ligero
Gurkha Ghost

Seriously I could go on and on ...

What I'd like to point out is that I can usually find something I love in almost every cigar I smoke. What I enjoy is the hunt, the connection, the attraction, the afternoon love ... and of course the midnight surrender. It's those relationships with the cigars in my life. Can you feel my passion?

The year is young ... go out and find the cigar luvs of your life for 2015 ... then go brag on Twitter and tag me.

Wishing You Long Ashes my Friends ...

Robusto Cigar Babe

Go All Out With American Kick Ass Cigars & Give Some Respect

As I continue on my quest to find new cigar luvrs, I am noticing how much my tastes have changed from that very first stick back in Key West. What I thought was the ultimate in flavorful and decadent has changed and I find myself gravitating towards cigars that challenge my senses and deliver a little bit of love in different ways.

That is what I think about American Kick Ass (AKA) Cigars. I've tried the Nth Degree and loved it. The Hybrid is probably my favorite of the line (review to come) and during a recent #SundayCigarHerf, I found a whole lotta luv for Respect 2013 ... prolly because I just love a man in uniform.

The AKA Respect line is a tribute to all branches of our US Military and a percentage of the sales of the Respect cigar go to the Wounded Warrior Project. So when you think about what the US stands for and why we celebrate July 4th -- without bringing politics into this -- when you smoke a Respect cigar you are helping a wounded veteran.

So, while we are gearing up for celebrating my country, I took it upon myself to think of every luscious man in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines who gives his body, mind and soul to our nation. In fact, while I'm paying "respect" to my new cigar luvr, I'm enjoying the feel of the cigar against my lips and totally savoring our every moment together.

Respect started out with a blast of white pepper that seemed to be totally appropriate for this macho cigar. As the pepper subsided a bit, a rich, roasted coffee note emerged in the forefront and mixed in with some wood and earthy-like flavors.

Throughout the first half of the stick, the coffee remained in the forefront of my palate with the pepper distant but still detectable. Then the most delicious sweetness emerged and tasted a bit like cherries to me. That flavor stayed consistent until a scotch-like peat taste emerged and I think that's when I really started to fall in love with the complexities of Respect.

I do need to say that the ash held on for both of the cigars that I smoked for this review. I was way past midpoint when the ash fell and a delectable nut, pepper and sweet coffee flavor emerged and rode with me all the way to the last possible puff.

Burnt fingers all the way here ... ha ha ... I even finished the cigar in my corn cob pipe that my friend Cliff gave me. Politics aside I have developed a deep admiration for my military man ... my cigar that salutes the military and provides me with a lovely way to spend the afternoon with my macho smoke -- Respect .... This could be the BEST thing you bring with you to that BBQ this Summer!  Enjoy

For more information about the Respect 2013 AKA Cigar go to  http://www.AKACigars.com

Wishing you long ashes -- The Robusto Cigar Babe

chat with me on Twitter: @RobustoBabe
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The Moment I Put My Lips on the FHK Cigar I Knew It Was Luv

I suspected that when I met Mr. FHK that we might have a brief affair. His brother Tantrum left me satisfied ... but I was left thinking long and hard how I really wanted more.

So when the Chairman of the board suggested I spend the day with FHK from Ezra Zion ... I jumped at the chance to make his acquaintance. And why not? This sleek and finely crafted cigar caught my eye the moment I was holding him in my hands. I couldn't wait to steal away some time with Mr. FHK ... So I herfed him ... for close to an hour one afternoon in April and then I told all my friends on Twitter about our experience ...

Oh and he looked so good too. I chose the "Inspired" 50 x 5.5 vitolas with the deep chocolate shaded San Andres Maduro wrapper with the exotic Indonesian binder with  Brazilian and Nicaraguan filler . As I admired and manicured my new treat, I could smell a strong earthy scent wafting in the air prior to lighting it. It was a cross between a stinky earth, chocolate and nuts.

Upon lighting I knew right away this cigar was different than his brother Tantrum. As I brought FHK to my lips and took my first few puffs, I could taste strong flavors of cream, oak, leather and cocoa powder. The multi-dimensional in flavors immediately got my attention as the earthy background flavor and a slightly bitter espresso caressed my palate and made me want more ... so much more.

I knew it wasn't my imagination -- this stick had a ton of flavors that I believe would turn on even the most jaded cigar smoker.

As I continued through the 1st third, I picked up a subtle sweet spice that melded perfectly with the oak, leather, cocoa and earth.

One thing I have to mention is the buttery feeling that this cigar leaves in your mouth. You experience in the very beginning and it continues throughout the smoke. It's beyond creaminess, where a thick slippery feeling in your mouth that provides the perfect background for attracting these delectable flavors to hang around and cling to your taste buds.

Working into the 2nd third, I detected similar flavors to the first part of the cigar with an addition of grass, espresso and almonds. These flavors rounded out the profile nicely giving me a flavorful experience with every puff. The best part about this cigar is it teaches you to let the smoke play in your mouth while you detect the variety of flavors. Truly enjoyable third.

When I got Halfway through the FHK  my glorious ash fell and everything changed. I could tell that the FMK was playing with me ... with my senses .... bringing me close to falling in love and then changing the rules with a new flavor profile.  Suddenly a strong tea flavor emerge and the buttery feeling dissipated slightly bringing on a toasty bread sensation. To be honest, the tea was a nice welcome, almost  like a cleansing sensation midway the smoke.  The buttery toast flavor stayed with me for a few more puffs.  I wasn't surprised when my mind began to think of afternoon tea -- and how this cigar would go fabulously with some crumpets!

The Final third ramped up again with a dark chocolate goodness mixed in with espresso and black pepper that carried me all the way to the end. This perfectly conceived creamy and flavorful smoke makes  you wonder where FHK has been all your life ... the flavor melds and perfectly proportioned mild to medium profile makes this cigar an impressive gift for any aficionado.

Maybe it was a girl's instinct or the way that he tantalized my taste buds with his buttery goodness ... I knew this cigar was different from the others. While we enjoyed each other's company for about an hour, I really didn't want it to end. And even a few hours later that afternoon, my mind went back to Mr. FHK. Would I ever see him again and how could I find him for just one more afternoon ... hell, I'll take a long evening with this stick. I truly loved some of this flavorful  goodness

 

Truth be told,  I did go back to FHK. The first time I  smoked Ezra Zion's FMK I was drinking water and my second encounter was with a pear ale. I stayed light with the accompanying drink as I didn't want to overpower the flavor profiles and lose some of what I experienced the first time. It turned out to be a good choice but I imagine you will find countless other pleasures to add to this smoking experience. I hope you will share those with me soon.

 

I just know whether you are a novice smoker or a seasoned pro, you will truly enjoy this flavor bomb that gives you a variety of dimensional flavor in every puff. It might be the perfect cigar to share with your friends or introduce to a family member ... or perhaps, what about dear old mom or dad?  

 

Don't miss this delectable cigar from Ezra Zion ... it's sure to become a go-to pleasure experience for me.

For more information about Ezra Zion FHK Cigar go to  http://www.ezrazion.com/introducing-the-fhk/ 

Wishing you long ashes -- The Robusto Cigar Babe

chat with me on Twitter: @RobustoBabe
share photos with me on Instagram: #RobustoCigarBabe

 

Will the Ruby 1502 Cigar Turn You On Too ?

At least once a week, I will meet an old friend to relax, sit back and enjoy each other's company. It's usually a lunch or late afternoon date at a local lounge, and it leaves me with a  fabulous feeling that stays with me ... long after the cigar smoke has dissipated. I love my smokey daytime interludes. A couple of weeks ago I met Ruby ...

When Gary Griffith of Emilio Cigars sent me the 1502 Ruby to try, little did I realize that this beautifully constructed cigar would become my new old friend. 

The moment I lit the 1502 Ruby I was treated to a mix of sweet grass & pepper that increased prominently as I continued to smoke. And just when I thought I was getting intimate with the early flavors, an undertone of citrus emerged -- tho I can't put my finger on whether it was a tart tangerine or grapefruit, but it made the cigar all the more interesting ... I gazed closer at my new friend. I love surprises and this was unexpected. 

Deep in conversation with my cigar, with pepper, citrus and grass still present I started to detect a slight sweet coffee in the background. And halfway through the earthiness,  a touch of coffee and cocoa emerged, building with a deep tobacco flavor that caught my attention.  

Even though I was relaxed, involved with my new cigar luvr, I could tell everyone at the Stogie Cigar Lounge in Rockville Center was staring at me and my Ruby. And I don't blame them. Ruby was attractive, sleek, gave off a beautiful scent that turned heads. Everyone wanted to have my Ruby, but I refused to share my new luv. I did however talk about Ruby--  shamelessly flaunting him to the guys in the lounge. 

I was getting into the final third of the Ruby when the flavors began to develop and become more earthy & peppery. A little spicy to my palate, but very delish to the last puff. Thank you Gary for introducing me to a new friend. I just know Ruby & I will be seeing each other again, real soon. 

Will 1502 Ruby cigar be your new cigar luvr ? It's pure enjoyment & fun finding out ... Let me know what you think of my new friend. 

A portion  of this review first appeared on the CigarTipsters.com website - http://www.cigartipsters.com/#!1502ruby/c41y

For more information about 1502 Cigars:   http://www.globalpremiumcigars.com/cigars or  go to http://houseofemilio.com to purchase and ask your local B & M to stock these beauties.

Wishing You Long Ashes ... 

Robusto Cigar Babe 

Find me on twitter @RobustoBabe
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