The West Tampa Black Toro started out promising in the first third, with an interesting combination of flavors. By the second third, it became flat with wood and earth largely defining the profile. The last third was almost entirely defined by earth. There wasn't much here in the flavor combinations that grabbed my attention and would have me seeking out a second experience.
The Tatuaje Cojonú 2015 was another dependable and enjoyable release. The spice level was much more subdued than many other Habano blends I've smoked over the years, and there was enough interesting combination of flavors that kept me engaged through almost the entire review. I would definitely pick up another Cojonú 2015 if I was out, but I can also say that about most Tatuaje releases.
My experience reviewing the Foundation Olmec Claro Double Corona was an overall average flavor experience, with the most complex and engaging combinations coming in the first third. The second and last thirds were too light and not at all engaging. I felt as if I smoked the wrong size for this blend, and although I can't see myself returning to the Double Corona, I'll be giving this a shot in a different vitola.
The Diamond Crown Black Diamond Emerald delivered a dark earth and espresso profile for most of the review, which was interesting and engaging. The last third became more earth forward and not as balanced as the previous two thirds. I would smoke the Diamond Crown Black Diamond Emerald again if I was in the mood for a darker earth forward flavor profile.
The Howard G All Pro Series Ike Taylor’s 1OFAHKINE Connecticut Torpedo kept me engaged for the majority of the review, with more fuller flavors than you'd get with a more classical Connecticut, while still giving some of the core Connecticut components. I would definitely smoke another of these again at my next opportunity.
The ADVentura La Llorona Robusto had ranges of flavor from light to medium-full, but always seemed to be in balance. The first and second thirds delivered the most engaging flavors for me. I would smoke a La Llorona Robusto again if presented the opportunity.
The Quesada Manolo Quesada 75th Anniversary delivered some engaging and nuanced flavor combinations through the first and second thirds. Unfortunately, the last third became harsh and unbalanced, and I can't help but think it was due to the cigar going out. I would definitely smoke the Quesada Manolo Quesada 75th Anniversary again. It's a good representation of the kind of cigars that Quesada can blend.
The Drew Estate Nica Rustica Adobe Robusto had a solid first third with flavors at times reminding me of baked goods like a scone, but it couldn't maintain that level of complexity through the second and last thirds. While not unpleasant, it just didn't manage the same level of engagement. Would I smoke this again? Normally based on the score I'd say no, but the price point is absurdly approachable so I'd likely smoke these again based on price point alone.
The Army of Angel's Connecticut Toro did a great job of marrying some initially intense spice flavors with other nuances of bread, chocolate, hay, creaminess and wood. There were traditional Connecticut elements of bitterness, hay and tannins throughout so I think there's a lot here to please a wide range of cigar smokers. I would definitely reach for another Army of Angel's Connecticut Toro again.
The Tatuaje Havana VI Verocú Blue No. 1 was enjoyable and at times reminded me of baked goods for Christmas time which definitely held my interest. The last third was a stark departure from the rest of the cigar with darker, toasted earth flavors that didn't harmonize with what was being delivered prior to that. I would smoke the Tatuaje Havana VI Verocú Blue No. 1 again, the flavor profile is balanced and right in my wheelhouse.
