WARPED FUTURO 2015 SELECCION

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Warped Futuro 2015 Review: A Taste of Nicaraguan Heritage

There’s a certain respect due to a cigar that knows its roots, and in the Warped Futuro 2015, you’ve got a smoke that’s pure pedigree. This isn’t some flash-in-the-pan blend; it’s a deliberate, thoughtful collaboration from the folks at Warped and the revered hands of the Fernandez Aganorsa farms in Nicaragua. It speaks to a certain old-world craft, even with its subtly modern name.

The Foundation (Construction & Prelight)

The stick in question is the 5 5/8 x 46 vitola, a classic Corona size often called the Seleccion Suprema—a fitting name for a cigar that presents itself with such quiet confidence. For a price point of roughly $12, you are getting a Nicaraguan Puro, meaning every leaf—wrapper, binder, and filler—hails from that fertile volcanic soil.

The wrapper, a Nicaraguan Corojo ’99, is handsome—often a beautiful golden-brown or light reddish tint, with a fine, oily sheen. Before the flame touches it, the aroma from the foot is a rustic promise: a blend of sweet tobacco, dry earth, and maybe a hint of cedar or clean hay, a scent that reminds you this leaf was grown outdoors, not in a factory. The construction is solid, a testament to its composition, offering a cold draw that hints at leather and spice.

The Burn: Unfurling the Story

Upon lighting, the Med-Full strength immediately makes its presence known, though with a balanced, educated hand, not a belligerent one.

First Third: The initial draws are a hearty handshake. We find only a touch of spice, but it quickly settles, leaving the palate awash in core, refined flavors. It is mostly leather, cedar, and a beautiful creaminess, all underscored by a slight, natural sweetness. This is a smooth opening that speaks to the quality of the aged Corojo and Criollo tobaccos.

Second Third: This is where the Futuro truly earns its stripes, finding its rhythm and easing back from the initial heat. The spice calms significantly, but the leather, cedar, cream, and underlying sweetness continue to stand out with beautiful clarity. A new layer of complexity surfaces with a distinct nuttiness joining the profile—like roasted almonds or pecans—adding a rich, mellow depth. The blend is harmonious, showcasing the Criollo ’98 binder’s work.

Final Third: As the last act begins, the cigar gathers its forces for a powerful finish. All the previous flavors—the rich leather, smooth cedar, and deep cream—come out in full, bold measure. We see a little added spice return to the fold, which gives the end a pleasant lift. Most notably, the sweetness takes on a more specific, delightful character, becoming almost Graham cracker-like—a perfect complement to the nutty and spicy notes. The experience finishes with a clean, earthy tobacco taste, leaving a warm, lasting impression of Nicaraguan complexity and strength.

Final Musings

The Warped Futuro 2015 is, simply put, a masterclass in modern blending built on classic, superior tobacco. It provides a rewarding journey from the creamy, refined start to the bold, Graham cracker-sweet finish. The Med-Full strength is well-matched by the full flavors, making it a perfect smoke for an evening of quiet contemplation or a spirited discussion among friends.

For those who appreciate the genuine, unadulterated taste of Nicaraguan Corojo and Criollo, this cigar is a clear signal that the future of traditional tobacco is in very capable hands. It’s an elegant, satisfying smoke, and one that rightly deserves a permanent spot in a well-curated humidor.

WARPED SARTO

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Hello again, folks. Apologies for the absence, but if you’ve been anywhere in this part of TX, you know the heat has been something fierce. It just doesn’t lend itself to sitting outside and properly enjoying a cigar. But with the weather starting to turn, I was finally able to get out and sit with a new stick—the Warped Sarto.

From the start, this cigar makes its intentions known. The first third presents a slightly earthy profile with notes of toasted oak, and a touch of cocoa powder to round it out.

As you move into the second third, the flavors expand, with the cocoa transforming into a rich, semi-sweet chocolate tobacco. This is complemented by a subtle salty nuttiness that adds a nice complexity.

The final third of the Sarto brings a shift in the flavor dynamics. The sweetness of the chocolate recedes, and the profile becomes a bit more spicy. The chocolate note pulls back down to a mild cocoa powder, while the sweeter tobacco notes fade away almost entirely.

I’d highly recommend pairing this cigar with a good cup of coffee. Whether you’re enjoying it in the morning or as an after-dinner treat, the combination is truly fantastic—in my opinion, it’s even better than chocolate cake. It’s a well-constructed cigar with an enjoyable, evolving profile that makes for a great smoking experience.

THE TRIUNFANTE BY EL MAGO

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Alright, let’s lay it all out for the Triunfante from El Mago. You crack open that box, and right away, you know you’re not dealing with some run-of-the-mill stick. We’re talking Nicaraguan guts bound up in Corojo, and wrapped in Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade. Good composition, mild strength, 6×52 – perfection.

Once lit, with that first third, you’re hit with what I can only describe as the perfect coffee pairing cigar. This is not one of those just “goes with coffee”; this is coffee’s best friend. The smoke? Thick and creamy, like a well-pulled espresso with a dollop of fresh cream. Then, a whisper of cinnamon and spice rolls in, just enough to wake up your palate, not punch it. And that sweetness – it’s there, but it’s so subtle, so understated, you almost have to hunt for it, and then it just lingers, a perfect counterpoint to the richer notes. It’s a fantastic introduction, setting a high bar from the very first puff.

Moving into that second third, here’s the kicker: it was much of the same. And when I say much of the same, I mean that in the best possible way. No wild left turns, no sudden bursts of unexpected flavors that throw you off track. It held its ground, delivering that consistent, enjoyable profile. It’s like a good hunting dog – it sticks to the scent, unwavering in its pursuit of flavor. You get that same creamy smoke, that delightful cinnamon whisper, and that elusive sweetness, all holding true.

And then, you roll into the final third, and guess what? Even more of it. This isn’t a cigar that falls apart on you at the end, getting harsh or losing its charm. It just doubles down on what it does best, reinforcing every positive impression from the previous thirds. That, my friends, is the mark of a truly great, consistent cigar. It burns clean, draws true, and finishes strong, leaving you entirely satisfied.

So, who is this cigar for? It’s simple. This is your go-to for that first cigar of the day with your coffee – the perfect wake-up call that doesn’t punch you in the face. If you’re looking to introduce someone to the cigar world, this Triunfante from El Mago is an absolute winner. It’s mild, approachable, and flavorful without being overwhelming, easing them into the experience. And for you seasoned smokers out there who aren’t looking for a heavy hitter, something that demands your full attention like a grizzly bear, this is your play. It’s a reliable, flavorful stick that just delivers.

El Mago? They’re clearly a company on the rise, doing some truly great things in the cigar world. They’re putting out quality, consistent smokes like this Triunfante, demonstrating a clear understanding of what makes a truly enjoyable cigar. And believe me, I’m looking forward to getting my hands on more of their stuff and telling you all about it. This is a good one, folks. A real good one.

MIL DIAS HABANO BY CROWNED HEADS

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You know the type of stick I’m talking about. Not some fancy, delicate thing you have to baby. This is a cigar built for the long haul, for those moments when you’ve put in the effort and you’re ready to just sit back and take it all in. We’re talking about the Mil Días Habano from Crowned Heads, a substantial 6 x 54 that feels right at home whether you’re unwinding after a day on the job or just watching the sun dip below the horizon.

This one registers as a medium-full strength, meaning it’s got some real character without being overpowering. The wrapper is an Ecuadorian Habano, a leaf known for bringing a rich, complex profile to the table. Beneath that, you’ve got a Nicaraguan binder, and the filler is a blend of Costa Rican, Nicaraguan, and Peruvian tobaccos. It’s all masterfully crafted in Nicaragua, a region that consistently produces some of the finest cigars in the world. And it’s worth noting, this particular line has a track record of earning high marks, often in the 90s, which speaks to its consistent quality.

Now, let’s get down to the experience. The first third of this Mil Días presents a distinct combination of flavors. There’s a clear note of orange zest, bright and fresh, mingled with the earthy scent of dry hay and rich soil. A hint of cedar comes through, reminiscent of fresh-cut wood. And then, a subtle peppery kick emerges, particularly noticeable on the retrohale – a clean, sharp spice that adds an interesting edge.

As you move into the second third, the orange notes become more pronounced, beautifully complemented by a semi-sweet dark chocolate. It’s the kind of dark chocolate that’s satisfyingly rich without being cloying. The earth and cedar notes recede somewhat, taking a backseat, but that pepper? It holds its ground, ensuring the profile remains engaging.

By the last third, the flavor profile remains largely consistent, though that cedar note intensifies slightly, coming back to the forefront with a bit more vigor. It’s a robust and satisfying finish.

Having sampled a few from the Crowned Heads Mil Días line, I can confirm that while each offers a unique experience, they consistently deliver. The construction on this Habano was impeccable, holding together flawlessly from start to finish. And the draw? Smooth and effortless, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable smoke.

So, for anyone seeking a cigar that can cap off a demanding day or simply provide a moment of quiet reflection, the Mil Días Habano is a strong contender. It’s a reliable, flavorful smoke that delivers on its promise.

FERIO TEGO METROPOLITAN MADURO BY QUESADA CIGARS

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Alright, let’s settle in and talk about the less heard of Ferio Tego Metropolitan Maduro in a 5×50 Robusto. This isn’t just another stick; it’s a creation from the skilled hands at Quesada Cigars in the Dominican Republic, featuring a Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper that immediately catches the eye, paired with Dominican binder and filler. It’s a blend that promises depth, and it certainly delivers.

From the very first draw, this cigar offers a generous volume of smoke, a welcome sign of things to come. The initial notes are quite inviting, with a subtle sweetness reminiscent of honey, quickly followed by a robust coffee or espresso character. There’s also a foundational hint of earthy richness that grounds the experience. What’s particularly noteworthy, and something that stays with you throughout the entire smoke, is a distinct saltiness on the wrapper. It brings to mind the satisfying taste of salted peanuts, a unique dimension that adds intrigue.

Moving into the second third, the experience largely maintains the established profile, but with a few nuanced developments. That initial honey sweetness deepens, evolving into something richer, more akin to a smooth caramel. Alongside this, soft whispers of leather begin to emerge, adding another layer of complexity without overpowering the core flavors. It’s a consistent, enjoyable progression.

As you approach the final third, the earthy notes become more prominent, shifting from a general earthiness to a drier, more mineral-like character. Yet, the coffee, the evolved caramel sweetness, and that persistent salty peanut essence from the wrapper all remain, creating a harmonious and satisfying conclusion to the journey.

Now, on the pairing front, I opted for a bourbon and coke with this one. While it wasn’t a bad combination, it felt a bit like a missed opportunity. The sweetness and effervescence of the drink didn’t quite elevate the cigar’s profile as much as I’d hoped. My gut tells me this Metropolitan Maduro would truly shine alongside a good cup of coffee, perhaps with a touch of cream. That creamy texture and the coffee’s inherent bitterness would likely complement the cigar’s rich, earthy, and sweet notes in a far more profound way.

Overall, the Ferio Tego Metropolitan Maduro Robusto is a well-crafted cigar that offers a consistent and engaging flavor profile. It’s a solid choice for those who appreciate a maduro with clear, evolving notes and a distinctive character.

This was another great stick from Standard + Twain. If you are not familiar with them yet, they describe their company as one that allows you to participate in blind tastings and eliminates brand bias, enabling you to evaluate cigars solely on their merit rather than reputation or price. This unbiased approach fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse range of cigars available, empowering you to discover your true favorites without preconceived notions.

Note: We do not recieve any monetary or other contributions from the companies listed or linked above.

UNDERCROWN 10 BY DREW ESTATES REVIEW

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On the Drew Estate Undercrown 10 Robusto: A Decade’s Worth of Smoke

You pick up this Undercrown 10 Robusto, a tidy 5×52, and right away you know it’s got some story behind it. It’s Drew Estate’s nod to ten years in the game with the Undercrown line, rolled down in La Gran Fabrica in Nicaragua. They built this one right: a Mexican San Andrés wrapper, a stout USA Connecticut Broadleaf binder, and Nicaraguan filler. It’s a blend that promises something layered.

Light it up, and the first third comes at you with a smooth, welcoming handshake. You get those clear, unmistakable notes of cocoa and espresso, solid and present, and right there with it, a slight, gentle spice that just touches the palate. It’s not a punch in the face; it’s more like a subtle invitation. This initial profile sets a good, honest tone for what’s to come.

Move into the second third, and those core cocoa and espresso flavors hold their ground, acting like the bedrock of the experience. But things start to shift, subtly. You’ll notice a slight mineral note creeping in—a clean, almost flinty edge—and then a distinct earthy quality joins the party. It’s not a drastic change, but it’s enough to keep you engaged, to make you pay attention to how the flavors are playing off each other. It shows they knew what they were doing with this blend, letting it evolve without getting muddled.

By the final third, the whole thing just builds. Those cocoa and espresso notes, now fully developed, come on with a bit more richness and assertiveness. The mineral and earthy tones from the middle section also deepen, fitting right in with the main profile. What’s key here is that this increased intensity never gets harsh. It keeps that enjoyable, refined character from start to finish, wrapping things up in a consistently satisfying way.

So, the Drew Estate Undercrown 10 Robusto delivers a well-thought-out smoke. It starts with a clear, approachable mix of cocoa, espresso, and that hint of spice, then brings in those earthy and mineral layers, and finishes strong but still smooth. If you appreciate a cigar that tells a consistent, evolving story and stands on solid ground, this one’s definitely worth your time.

PADILLA ARTEFACTO MADURO REVIEW

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The Padilla Artefacto Maduro Torpedo (6×52) is a cigar that merits attention for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted smoking experience. Encased in a dark Nicaragua Artefacto Corojo wrapper, its appearance alone suggests depth and character.

From the initial moments, the construction of this toro stands out. The draw is excellent, remarkably clean, and the overall composition is impressive, providing a consistent and effortless burn from start to finish. This foundational quality allows the smoker to fully focus on the evolving flavors.

The first half of the Artefacto Maduro introduces dominant notes of dark coffee and rich chocolate, forming a deep, satisfying core. This is complemented by a subtle hint of spice, which adds a lively counterpoint without ever becoming overpowering. It’s a bold yet balanced beginning, setting a high expectation for what’s to come.

As the smoke progresses into the second half, the flavor profile gracefully transitions. The intensity of the coffee mellows, transforming into a smoother, more approachable coffee with cream, while the chocolate notes deepen and become more pronounced. This shift creates a richer, almost velvety texture on the palate, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Reaching the last third, the cigar continues to deliver on its promise. The established notes of coffee and chocolate persist, providing a consistent and satisfying conclusion. However, a delicate addition emerges in these final moments: just a whisper of leather. This subtle nuance adds a layer of complexity and a refined finish to an already impressive cigar.

The Padilla Artefacto Maduro Toro is a thoughtfully constructed cigar that offers a compelling and evolving flavor journey. Its exceptional build quality ensures a trouble-free smoking experience, making it a highly recommendable selection for those who appreciate a full-bodied Nicaraguan maduro with a harmonious blend of coffee, chocolate, spice, and a nuanced hint of leather. It’s the kind of cigar that invites you to slow down and truly savor the moment.

SIN COMPROMISO No. 4 – BY DUNBARTON TOBACCO AND TRUST

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If you’re like me, you’ve smoked a fair share of cigars. Some are good, some are forgettable, and then there are the ones that make you pause, the ones that demand your full attention. The Sin Compromiso by Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust, well, that’s one of the latter. And after four sticks from a box of thirteen, I can tell you this isn’t a fluke. This is the real deal.

Now, before we even light it, let’s talk about the presentation. Each cigar is gently soft pressed and sleeved in Spanish cedar. It’s a subtle touch, but it hints at the care that went into crafting these. You get the feeling you’re holding something special, and you are.

First Third: A Creamy Introduction

From the first puff, this cigar makes its intentions clear. The smoke is big and bountiful, coating the palate with a creamy texture that’s immediately inviting. Right on its heels come big, bold notes of cocoa, not a bitter chocolate, but a rich, almost decadent cocoa. Underneath it all, there’s a delicate hint of cedar, a nice little counterpoint to the richness. It’s a damn good start.

Second Third: Can’t Put It Down

As you move into the second third, the experience doesn’t just hold steady; it intensifies. Those initial flavors? They’re still there, but they’ve deepened, becoming even more pronounced. The creaminess, the cocoa, the cedar—it all just seems to meld together even better. This is where you find yourself completely engrossed. You don’t want to set it down. You don’t want to talk. You just want to keep smoking.

Last Third: The Grand Finale

And then comes the final third, and this is where the Sin Compromiso truly sets itself apart. It’s not just “more of the same”; it’s a culmination, an even more refined and satisfying experience. What truly astonishes me with this cigar is its construction. It burns flawlessly, producing a clean, even ash throughout. I’m talking about the cleanest cigar I’ve had to date. And that’s not hyperbole. Four cigars in, and every single one has performed identically, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship.

The Perfect Pairing: Chocolate and Orange

Now, a great cigar often calls for a great pairing, and tonight, I hit a home run. I enjoyed this Sin Compromiso with a cup of Dreamer Tea from Bearded Man Provisions. If you’re not familiar with them, you should be. The Dreamer tea, with its blend of rich vanilla and sweet, crisp orange, proved to be the absolute perfect complement to the cigar’s dominant cocoa notes. It was a classic combination of chocolate and orange, elevated to another level. The flavors just danced together, enhancing both the tea and the cigar in a way that truly made the experience complete.

This isn’t just another cigar to add to the rotation. This is a cigar that has earned a permanent spot in my humidor. I’ll always keep a box of these on hand, though I probably won’t be sharing them unless it’s for the rarest of occasions. If you’re looking for a top-tier smoking experience, do yourself a favor and get your hands on a Sin Compromiso. And while you’re at it, grab some Dreamer tea from Bearded Man Provisions. You won’t regret it.

Bearded Man Provisions – website

CAVILIER GENEVE INNER CIRCLE

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Hey Folks! Let’s get into another one of these. This isn’t just any stick; this is another blind smoke we’ve got in from Standard and Twain. So, no preconceived notions, no fancy labels to distract us, just the pure experience. We’re going to break down the Cavalier Genève Inner Circle 6×52 Toro.

Construction and Components

First off, let’s lay out what this thing’s made of. You’ve got a Habano wrapper and binder, which is a solid foundation, known for its consistent burn and flavor delivery. For the filler, they’ve packed in a blend of Pennsylvania, Jalapa, Broadleaf, and Piloto. That’s a serious combination of tobaccos, suggesting a complex profile that’s designed to unfold as you smoke.

The Sensory Experience

First Third

When you light this cigar, the initial impression is surprisingly gentle. The draw is smooth, and the flavors come through with a notable lightness. You’ll pick up distinct notes of honey, a natural, mellow sweetness that’s not cloying. Alongside that, there’s a clear hint of graham cracker, providing a warm, biscuity undertone. This opening section is bright and inviting, setting a very agreeable tone.

Second Third

As you transition into the middle of the cigar, the profile begins to deepen. A clean earthiness emerges, reminiscent of rich soil, grounding the experience. This is subtly complemented by a mild, almost aromatic touch of hay, adding a fresh, botanical nuance. Then, a soft note of vanilla appears, introducing a creamy sweetness that harmonizes with the developing earthy tones. This segment demonstrates a well-balanced evolution of flavors.

Last Third

Moving into the final portion, the cigar takes on a more robust character. The flavors intensify, presenting a richer, darker profile. Prominent notes of molasses come forward, a deep, sticky sweetness that adds considerable body. This is quickly followed by a strong presence of coffee, akin to a full-bodied, dark roast. The conclusion is impactful and lingering, providing a powerful and satisfying finish.

Final Thoughts

The Cavalier Genève Inner Circle is a well-crafted cigar that delivers a clear and purposeful progression of flavors. It starts with an approachable lightness, transitions into a balanced mid-section with earthy and sweet elements, and concludes with a deep, rich intensity. This isn’t a cigar you just idly burn; it’s one you engage with, appreciating the nuances as they develop. If you’re looking for a smoke with depth and a distinct journey from start to finish, this one’s a strong contender.

MIL DIAS MADURO BY CROWNED HEADS

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Alright, let’s talk about something I appreciate when the day winds down, something that grounds you a bit: a good cigar the Crowned Heads Mil Días Maduro. Now, this isn’t just any stick; it’s a 6×54 medium-strength robusto, hailing from Nicaragua. You can tell right away it’s built solid – a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, a Habano binder, and that Nicaraguan filler all coming together. It feels right in the hand.

First Light: The Initial Read

The moment the flame kissed the foot, and I took that first draw, this Mil Días Maduro didn’t waste any time introducing itself. It wasn’t subtle, but it wasn’t overpowering either. What hit me first was this distinct charred oak. Not burnt, but like wood that’s been in a good, slow fire, giving off a deep, earthy scent. Then, right behind it, a real pleasant molasses sweetness rolled in. It smoothed things out, gave it a bit of a comforting depth. And just as I was settling into those, there was this sharp spike of pepper. Not an aggressive kick, but a lively snap that made you pay attention. The smoke itself? It was like a thick fog, unbelievably creamy, just coating everything.

Into the Heart: Mid-Journey Impressions

As I worked my way through the second third, the cigar really started to open up, showing more of its character. That initial char and pepper eased back, not disappearing entirely, but becoming more of a quiet hum in the background. What took over was this rich, full profile of toasted nuts – a warm, inviting flavor, followed by the unmistakable depth of dark chocolate. It was like unwrapping a really good candy bar, but in smoke form. The sweet tobacco from the start was still there, a constant companion, holding all these new elements together. And yeah, those ghosts of charred oak and cedar would drift back in now and then, a nice little reminder of where this thing came from. The creaminess of the smoke, it just kept on delivering.

The Finish: Bringing it Home

By the time I got to the final third, this Mil Días Maduro was just hitting its stride, bringing everything together for a strong finish. Those toasted nut and dark chocolate notes were still prominent, blending seamlessly with the underlying sweetness. It wasn’t a cigar that changed drastically at the end; instead, it refined the journey. It carried those initial impressions and developed them into a truly satisfying blend. It was a consistent, well-composed experience right down to the last puff, leaving a clear sense of a job well done.

My Takeaway

So, what’s the verdict on the Crowned Heads Mil Días Maduro? It’s a well-built cigar, no question. It delivers a rich, evolving flavor profile that keeps you engaged without overwhelming you. If you’re looking for something with that distinct charred oak, a solid sweetness, a bit of peppery kick, and then evolves into those toasted nut and dark chocolate notes, you’d do well to pick one of these up. It’s a rewarding smoke, from the first draw to the last.