Emilio AF2
Tuesday, November 20th, 2012I recently reviewed the AF1 and thoroughly enjoyed it. I planned on waiting a while before trying and reviewing the AF2, but I obviously changed my mind. Like the AF1, this cigar is blended and manufactured by A.J. Fernandez. Thanks goes out to Gary Griffith, owner of Emilio Cigars, for sending me a couple of these to review.
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Size: Toro 6 x 50
Price: Around $7.00
Pre-Smoke & Construction:
The wrapper was shiny and oily, with small veins. It had an aroma of earth, barnyard, and bitterness. The foot had a sweet, spicy aroma. There were some soft spots here and there, but the cigar was rolled well. The draw had some resistance, but it was well within my tolerances. The pre-light flavor was woody and earthy.
The burn required a few minor corrections, and the ash held for around an inch.
Flavor:
The first third started off with earth and cayenne pepper. In short order, the smoke feel became smooth, and bordered on creaminess. Black coffee joined in and became a dominant flavor. Bitter sweetness lingered in the background. Some draws were smooth and sweet, and others had a nice, easy spicy kick.
The second third had a nice quick turn. Cocoa and coffee became dominant flavors. The cayenne pepper died down a bit, but made for an easy, tingly aftertaste. The smoke feel was creamy and smooth. Like before, some draws were dry and crisp, while others were smooth and creamy.
The last third kept the same core flavors. Some draws were espresso, or at least black coffee. Other draws were sweet dark cocoa. The pepper was consistent throughout. The creamy, tingly aftertaste clung to the lips and tongue for quite some time.
Conclusion:
This was a very good medium to full bodied cigar. I enjoyed the smooth flavors and complexities. There was nothing to complain about at all. How does it compare to the AF1? They are similar in a lot of ways, but they are different enough to make it hard to pick a favorite. At this moment, I’d pick the AF1, but that is subject to change. Like the AF1, I’d smoke more of these.