New habano 2017 : Quai d’Orsay N° 50

Quai d’Orsay

N° 50

Puro

Made in Cuba

Wrapper, binder, filler: Cuba

Robusto

110 mm × 50 (19.84 mm)

Price: €9.50

Appearance: Attractive light and silky but veined wrapper. Hard to the touch. Well filled.

Flavors before lighting: Notes of game, wet earth and black pepper. Excellent draw.

FLAVORS AFTER LIGHTING:

First third: A bold and virile start. Impressive amounts of smoke carry notes of fresh cocoa and toasted hazelnut with wet earth in the background. Tasty and full-bodied.

Second third: Precious wood (red cedar) and old tanned leather are gradually added to the flavor profile. The cigar maintains its aggressive attitude and is perturbed by hints of bitterness.

Final third: A powerful, balsamic, earthy and spicy finish. Unfortunately, the bitterness is overly present (maybe a failing of youth?). The last puffs are hearty.

Comments from the panel: “A great smoke!”; “Good strength and plenty of conviction: virile!”; “The balance of strength and flavor is off. Unwelcome bitterness.”

When to smoke it: After lunch.

The Amateur’s Conclusion: This great little robusto has real potential: good aftertaste and intense flavor. With a few adjustments, it could reach the top.

Strength: 7/10

Flavor: 6/10

Aftertaste: 8/10

4/5