Archive for the ‘Macanudo_Maduro_Vintage_1997’ Category

Macanudo Maduro Vintage 1997

Friday, December 21st, 2012

I picked up the Macanudo Maduro Vintage 1997 from Ed’s shop. Obviously the first thing that caught my eye was the shiny metal band. Besides being a cigar holder, it makes you look cool too. Seriously though, it is claimed that the band can be used to determine the storage condition of the cigar. If it is too tight, the cigar is over humidified. If the band is too loose, the cigar is too dry. Naturally, mine was juuust right.

The Macanudo line has evolved past the traditional golf course, status symbol cigar. I can appreciate their attempts at targeting a broader fan base. As always, I paired this cigar with water. Is this just another mild, boring Macanudo? Read on…

5 Macanudo_Maduro_Vintage_1997 cigars

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Vintage 1997

Binder: Honduras

Filler: Nicaragua, Brazil, Dominican

Size: Perfecto 6 x 49

Price: $8.19

 

Pre-Smoke & Construction:

The wrapper was oily, yet velvety smooth. No flaws were seen, and it looked virtually seamless. I could only detect the smell of hay from the wrapper and foot. Overall, the cigar was consistently packed, with only a small soft spot here and there. The draw had slight resistance, which is right where I like it. The pre-light flavor was wood and coffee.

The ash held for an inch or so, and the burn required a few minor corrections.

1 Macanudo_Maduro_Vintage_1997 cigars

Flavor:

The first third opened up with black coffee, but it wasn’t too bitter. In short order, dark chocolate joined in, along with an easy peppery spice. Wood and earthy notes lingered in the background.

2 Macanudo_Maduro_Vintage_1997 cigars

The second third was dominated by dark, rich chocolate. It clung to the tongue and lips, and left a spicy, creamy tingle. Up next was coffee, with wispy notes of nuts and earthiness.

3 Macanudo_Maduro_Vintage_1997 cigars

The last third took on a drier smoke feel. This allowed the tingly spice to stand out a bit more. It remained sweet, with cocoa and coffee. Woodiness was hiding in the background, and it appeared from time to time.

4 Macanudo_Maduro_Vintage_1997 cigars

Conclusion:

This was a really good medium to full bodied cigar. I really enjoyed the rich, balanced flavor profile. This is easily my favorite Macanudo blend. The price is a little high, and the presentation is gimmicky, but it’s a very solid smoke.

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