|
It seems like Don Pepin Garcia is everywhere, and the San Cristobal he created for Ashton Cigars is another example of the fabulous tobaccos that he has available to create his blends.
Pre-Smoke
A Nicaraguan puro, this torpedo is smooth, dark and oily. Solid and well balanced, the construction of this stick is impeccable. An earthy, compost scent is noticeable on the wrapper, that upon close inspection has a slight toothiness.
Another cigar that is adorned with a miniature masterpiece of art, we love the beautiful band and box artwork. It shows a definite attention to detail and insistence on quality that defines an Ashton cigar.
A pre-light draw exhibits a proper air flow with a slight resistance and the taste is earthy.
Burn
Easily toasted and lit, this torpedo burns pretty well, self-correcting along the way and producing a tight, light gray ash and volumes of smoke.
The Flavor
A Don Pepin Garcia cigar has that typical peppery start, and the San Cristobal is no different, but it didn't seem as strong in the cigars we tried. They quickly smoothed out into an earthy core flavor with dark espresso, chocolate and nutty accents. Very rich and complex in the first third, and definitely full flavored and full bodied.
Into the middle of the smoke, and the earthiness fades slightly and we picked up some sweet and peppery notes, with a darkening of the chocolate flavors. A little spice kicks in at the end, but overall this is a very rich, dark, smooth smoking experience.
|
Cocoa Java
