Cohiba Extra Vigoroso
Tuesday, February 1st, 2011This is a first impression review that was given to me by Ed from St. Pete Cigar. While I normally smoke multiple samples before doing a review, this is an exception. And for the price of $15.00, I would expect consistency within the line. These are said to be full bodied and have complex flavors. As always, I paired with water and offer you my first impression of the Cohiba Extra Vigoroso.
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Connecticut
Filler: Nicaraguan & Piloto Cubano ligero
Size: 6 x 60
Price: Around $15.00
Pre-Smoke & Construction:
The wrapper was nice and dark, a little toothy, and overall very nice and rugged looking. The scent coming off of the wrapper and foot was barnyard. Basically a mild shit (this sometimes can mean a nice smoke is in store, don’t be discouraged). When squeezing the cigar, there were a few hard spots, but nothing of concern. The pre-light draw was free, and had a woody, earthy, natural tobacco flavor.
The burn required a couple touch-up’s, and the ash held for just over an inch.
Flavor:
The first third didn’t have a lot going on. The dominant flavor was wood with hints of earthiness. Through the nose, I got some peppery notes. It was simple, but not bad.
The second third again had a dominant woody flavor. The smoke feel became smoother and creamier. The aftertaste became sweet and lingered for awhile. It left a tingle on the lips similar to cinnamon. At around the halfway point, the sweetness mingled with the woody notes quite nicely. The peppery spice didn’t go anywhere, and had a little punch.
Like before, the last third kept the dominant woody flavor. The other things taking place around it is what kept my interest. The immense smoke volume, creaminess, cinnimony tingle, and sweet peppery spice made it all worth while. They sort of swirled around that core woodiness. The earthy notes became a distant memory. Basically, I wish the whole cigar could have been like this third.
Conclusion:
This was a good medium to full bodied cigar. It started off kind of “Meh…” but built into full bodied goodness. The price is was will deter me from ever buying this cigar. If it were in the $8.00 range, sure I’d try more. But for $15.00, I have a hard time justifying it. If price is no object, I’d have to recommend this cigar. Thanks Ed for letting me try the Cohiba Extra Vigoroso!
