Emilio Cigars to release Mango flavored cigar

House of Emilio Month in Reviews - March, 2015

House of Emilio Reviews - March, 2015

"The Best of the Boutiques"

 

The Sultans of Smoke reviewed the Mia Dora by Emilio Cigars: 
 

"As previously mentioned, this was my first Emilio cigar and I really wasn’t sure what to expect. By the end of the smoke I was left extremely impressed and really enjoyed the experience. In my opinion, this is the type of cigar that fits perfectly into a rotation to serve as a stronger go to smoke. Good price point, damn good cigar, and I definitely recommend giving these a shot"

Full review here

 Ben's Cigars reviewed the Ezra Zion FHK:  

"I am giving the Ezra Zion Honor Series FHK 9 Smoke Rings! This is a real treat, the flavor is fantastic and for the price you cannot compare this to another cigar in it’s price category! Get these, they are amazing, you will not be disappointed if you want flavor and quality."   Full review. 

Stogie Bink reviewed the Emilio Cigars Mia Dora: 

"Two inches in and the ash is still holding on strong!  The draw flavors remain consistent with the spicy/pepper note and a sweet tobacco.  The finish also continues the spicy pepper notes but adds in a baking spice near the end of the finish.  The baking spice stays on the palate the longest and the flavors are still holding strong at a medium body.  The draw remains perfect as did the burn line.  Construction has been excellent."

Full review here

Cigar Memoir reviewed the La Musa Melete Lancero:  "The La Musa Melete Lancero is a lovely cigar with excellent construction and a somewhat unique profile that kept me interested throughout. The high point of the cigar for me was when the salty component made a brief appearance as the cigar hit its apex of sweetness around the middle-point."  Full review here

Blind Man's Puff reviewed the Ezra Zion Tantrum PA:

“Overall, this is a fantastic stick. I loved the progression of flavors with no two parts tasting the same, well constructed in a great size and shape. This is a cigar I will smoke again without a doubt."  Full review here.

The Cigar Authority reviewed the Nomad Cigars S-307: 

"Once we light the cigar there are notes of some pepper and earth. Smoking deeper into the first third, I am rather impressed with the chocolate/caramel like aroma that compliments the sweetness that emerges just before the second third of the cigar.

As we approach the midway point of the Nomad S307 a sweetness forms and is noticeable on the lips. It is reminiscent of a sugar cookie. I enjoy how the cigar has transitioned from a slightly bitter start to a sweet cigar that is medium in body. As the second third comes to a close the aroma of the cigar changes to that of a strong coffee."  Full review here

Casas Fumando reviewed the Guayacan Cigars Sabor de Esteli Maduro:  "Right off the bat the Sabor de Esteli stats off with some potent peppers and spice. Once the black pepper began to fizzle out the spice gained more grand backed by some plum, sweetness, brown sugar, natural tobacco and lots of deep oakiness and a sharp tartness on the finish."  Full review here

Cigar Coop reviewed the Nomad Cigars C-276:  "One thing that sometimes gets overlooked is how different each of Rewey's cigars are from a flavor standpoint. Each cigar in the portfolio has its own identity, and with his four lines, there should be something for everybody to enjoy. As I mentioned, the C-276 Robusto is going to deliver that fuller, but not overpowering cigar."

Full review here

Covering Your Ash reviewed the 1502 Cigars Nicaragua: " Though I’m tempted to recommend the 1502 Nicaragua to novice smokers because of the extremely enjoyable flavors, I’m also hesitant because this cigar is sneaky-strong. And even though I’d only categorize it as medium-plus, you’re paying so much attention to the complexity and flavors that the power of this little stick catches you by surprise. In any case, it’s one that I’d like to have more often, and I think you just might as well."  Full review here

Robusto Cigar Babe reviewed the Emilio Cigars AF1:  

"My love affair with AF1 continues into the Final Third with a rich, chocolate taking center stage with a balanced mix of espresso & spice playing a more dominant role. I love the way AF1 commands attention. Intricate, dimensional, and smooth. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with this cigar."  Full review here

Seth's Humidor reviewed the 1502 Cigars Nicaragua:  

"When I enter into the second third of the cigar I find that the pepper notes continue to play a strong role in the cigar, and it is showing some more walnut flavors with some additional almond qualities. There is a nice french vanilla quality present, and it is pairing with sweet cedar and creamy qualities.

I am in the final third of the cigar now and it is showing a strong peanut flavor at the beginning, and finishes by showing some faint spice and pepper notes with heavy cream qualities. There are some cedar flavors present as well, and there is an herbal and slightly burnt/harsh flavor on the finish."  Full review here

Stogie Cigarski reviewed the 1502 Cigars Ruby:  

"As you progress to about the halfway mark, notes of cocoa and sweet hay intermingle with the pepper and provide a very nice bouquet which tops out at medium bodied.  The flavors culminate in a nice easy finish that had me smoke this cigar down until I was forced to put it down. 

 Great construction, nice evolving flavors, copious  amounts of smoke and a great finish make the 1502 Cigars Ruby a really outstanding cigar. Since smoking the initial cigars for review, I have gone on to purchase a box and would advise you to do the same."  Full review here

 

Stogie Bink reviewed the Emilio Cigars La Musa Melete Lancero:

"The draw flavor now has a creamy leather with a sweet tobacco note, accompanied by the slight pepper flavor and mild tingle sensation.  The finish still has the earthiness and sweet creamy flavor one draw, and the next a nice caramel note comes in a dominates the palate till the next draw.  The flavors are complex and there is a lot going on during the finish.  Every other draw the cigar will have the earth and leather, and completely switch back to the caramel note.  Also, a yeast and bread note comes in and out on the finish as well."   Full review here

The Sultans of Smoke reviewed the Emilio Cigars AF2: "Another solid blend by AJ Fernandez and a good cigar. The AF2 reminded me of other cigars blended by AJ including the Emilio Mia Dora, New World, San Lotano, and some of the Southern Draw offerings. I wouldn’t say the AF2 necessarily was on point taste wise with them, but the shades of AJ’s other blending feats was prevalent during the smoke. The value proposition with these is a factor as well, this is a damn good smoke for $6-7 and that took me from a borderline yes/no on humidor space to a solid yes. If you’re looking for a solid medium-full smoke at a great value, I would not hesitate to give the AF2 a shot"  Full review here 

 

Tiny Tim reviewed the Mia Dora by Emilio Cigars:  "The cigar ended much like the last segment; sweet cedar, brown sugar, roasted nuts, and coffee. The cigar was pretty much medium to full bodied. The black pepper was very good on both ends. The finish was toasted cream with some roasted nuts and lots of lingering black pepper. This has been a complex cigar with lots of changes. Dora should be very proud of the cigar Gary named for her."  Full review here

Stogie Bink reviewed the Nomad Cigars S-307:  

 

"With just over two inches left the flavors transition slightly on the finish.  The black pepper flavor and tingle still dominate the draw but is now being accompanied by a nuttiness.  The finish has the earth and leather and every few draws a slightly bitter bakers chocolate note comes in.  The bakers chocolate is faint, but present, and fades fairly quick as did the almond note in the last inch.  Burn and draw are still perfect and the body is still at a medium to full keeping the flavors on the palate long until the next draw."  Full review here

The Sultans of Smoke reviewed the Ezra Zion Cigars Eminence:

"The Eminence is pure chocolatey goodness. When possible I like to compare to other cigars so our readers have an idea on what to expect. I found the Eminence to be similar to the Crowned Heads Jericho Hill, Sindicato Maduro, and the Roma Craft Cromagnon Blockhead.

 

As I was smoking this cigar, I texted Drew with “Damn dude, this thing is good”. Simply put, this cigar was right up my alley and I really enjoyed it."   Full review here

Tiny Tim reviewed the Epicurean Cigars Carnavale:  "The flavors are, in order of prominence, sweet cedar, dry wood, cinnamon, white chocolate, and coffee. The finish is a toasted cream with a lot of lingering black pepper. The pepper has settled down into only a black. The cigar is medium to full bodied now.

I have enjoyed this cigar a lot. I like a cigar that has numerous changes. The dry wood played a big part in this cigar. The pepper was very good starting with red and black and settling into black."  Full review

Visit our webpage to find a retailer

 

 

 

 

 

Sunrise Coast to host House of Emilio tonight

March 26, 2015

Sunrise Coast Tobacconist in Flint, Michigan will host a House of Emilio cigar event tonight beginning at 6 pm.  House of Emilio representative Calvin Woods will be in attendance to answer all your questions about our brands.

The shop is located in the Valley Plaza

 4225 Miller Rd # 6, Flint, MI 48507

For additional details call 810-720-5554

The House of Emilio lineup includes Emilio Cigars, 1502 Cigars, Epicurean Cigars, Guayacan Cigars, Ezra Zion Cigars, and Nomad Cigars.

Visit the House of Emilio website

Emilio Cigar Event at SRQ Cigars!

Join us on Thursday February 19, 2015 at SRQ Cigars in Sarasota, FL for an Emilio Cigars event, featuring the newly released Mia Dora, and meet Dora herself!

Delaware Cigar Festival 2014 - Be there!

8th Annual Delaware Cigar Festival

September 20, 2014 from noon until 6PM

Delaware Park Racetrack and Casino

777 Delaware Park Blvd

Wilmington, DE

Join us in the beautiful picnic grove at Delaware Park for an amazing afternoon of fun as we once again host one of the best cigar events anywhere, and raise money to fund our art school in Esteli, Nicaragua.

Attendance is limited to 300 people, and the ticket price of $150.00 includes food, beverages, and a great selection of cigars from attending manufacturers.  Since our event occurs each year after the annual industry trade show, the cigars you receive are generally the newest releases.

There are always tons of door prizes and raffle items, and while at the park you can play the slots or bet on the ponies.

To purchase tickets, or for additional information call 302-836-4889

House of Emilio May Newsletter

The Best of the Boutiques

 Cigar Consumer reviewed the Ezra Zion Eminence: "As the cigar continues to burn, the flavors develop with it, carrying over excellent notes of pepper, still a slight earthy flavor I can only compare to hiking in the forest after a rainy night. After a while I began to notice pleasant notes of hay… Which is not a bad thing at all as it lends itself perfectly to the peppery earthiness."  Full review here

Robusto Cigar Babe reviewed the Ezra Zion Cigars FHK: "As I brought FHK to my lips and took my first few puffs, I could taste strong flavors of cream, oak, leather and cocoa powder. The multi-dimensional in flavors immediately got my attention as the earthy background flavor and a slightly bitter espresso caressed my palate and made me want more ... so much more."  Full review here

Cigar Consumer reviewed the Nomad Cigars Connecticut Fuerte: "The flavor is consistent throughout the whole smoking experience, with a peppery taste and a great draw. The construction of this cigar is impeccable.  The Nomad Connecticut Fuerte is definitely a great cigar for anyone who enjoys a full flavored cigar that has a great draw that produces impressive amounts of nice peppery smoke." Full review here

Stogie Bink reviewed the Emilio Cigars AF1: "During the third inch the flavors start to come up in body.  Its now at a full.  The draw flavors are still the black pepper, earth and sweet coco.  The finish has the exact same flavors as the draw but still have a nice creamy leather.  A few more puffs and a molasses note is coming in on the finish and is dominating the other flavors.  Its sweet and creamy, leaving my mouth with a foamy feeling.  Its very good and quite pleasing."

"With around two and a quarter inches left all the draw and finish flavors remain.  A nuttiness is starting to come in on the finish."  Full review here

 Dan Gumm reviewed the Nomad Cigars Connecticut Fuerte: "The first few draws resulted in large mouthfuls of mild bodied smoke with flavors of oak, sugar and earth. After the first few draws the crazy, wild flavor mix kicked in. As the cigar burned on I could sort out flavors of brown sugar, caramel, anise, flora, nuts, sweet cream, coffee and toast in about any combination you can imagine. The cigar finished in the medium body range and was so tasty I smoked it down to a lip burning nub. That’s what crazy good tastes like to me."

"If you like them in the mild to medium body range, but are looking for a bit more flavor and kick, I urge you to give this Nomad Connecticut Fuerte a try."  Review

Ultimate Cigar reviewed the Nomad Cigars S307: "Every time I inhaled her innocence she let out a scream of smoke that echoed throughout my cigar cave like you would not believe. She emitted plumes of thick, white amorous clouds that lustfully lingered about the room waiting to be admired. Her maintenance-free burn left a straight char line that produced a large, firm ash that was light gray with adorable dark black smoke rings layered throughout."

Full review here

Halfwheel reviewed the 1502 Cigars Nicaragua: "A sweet cedar is the first flavor to emerge on the palate. It’s followed by spice, a muted cocoa and freshly chopped walnuts with a peculiar rubber note tone that dissipates after a few minutes. Sweet cedar and salty nuts continue to dominate the first third of the 1502 Nicaragua. A harsh pepper is found, although it’s mild and actually enjoyable as it cuts through the sweet notes. On the finish I get brandy and nuts."

Full review here 

Rictus Cigar reviewed the Emilio Cigars Draig Cayuquero: "The closer I got to the end the more subtle the spice got. At one point the combination of an almost cinnamon like spice along with the molasses and fruity, raisin like flavors reminded me of a Hermit Cookie. Not sure if anyone has had them but I would suggest you go pick one up. As my fingers started to heat up at the end the flavors subsided a bit into an earthy, leathery treat. A nice smooth way to end a fantastic cigar."

"This cigar was amazing, straight up amazing."

Full review here

Tiny Tim reviewed the Bodega Reunion Aperitivo: "The cigar ended with sweet cedar and citrus as your primary flavors. The cocoa notes were faint and an underlying flavor. The coffee was a base. The wood notes disappeared. The finish was still a toasted cream but there was much more lingering black pepper. The cigar ended a touch above medium bodied. This has been a great cigar" Full review here

Fine Tobacco NYC reviewed the Ezra Zion Cigars Eminence: "I’m greeted with a hefty blast of spice, along with notes of cocoa, roasted coffee beans, and a kind of dry, earthy leather note. By about half an inch in, the pepper has backed off considerably, leaving rich notes of earth, cocoa, and coffee. The flavors stay pretty constant until the second half, when the chocolate notes draw back leaving a lot of dry earth, leather, and some subtle sweetness."  Full review

Keeping Your Man Card reviewed the Bodega Reunion Aperitivo: "Flavor wise this cigar hit on all cylinders!  As I cut and took my first draw of the Bodega Reunion Aperitivo I was instantly greeted with some strong earthy flavors.  These flavors developed well throughout the cigar as well as some strong wood notes that developed a few puffs in.  About a quarter of the way through this cigar a sweet citrus like flavor as well as a nuttiness began to appear."  Full review here

Cigar Craig reviewed the Rodrigo Cigars Clasico lancero: "Thursday evening I selected a Rodrigo Habano Clasico Lancero for my evening smoke. I didn’t get to take my walk as I had to sit in on a conference call, but the cigar was stellar. Rodrigo comes from a Pittsburgh guy, George Rodriguez, and is distributed by The House of Emilio.  This is a 7″ x 38 lancero with a  Ecuadorian Habano/Sumatra Hybrid wrapper and Dominican fillers and binder, made in the Dominican Republic. It’s a very nice medium bodied cigar with good balance. It’s got a sweet, nutty flavor and is good to the last puff.  I probably ave had these in the humidor for a couple years, I think George sent these to me before he was involved with House of Emilio, so these had some time to settle.  I have enjoyed what I’ve smoked from Rodrigo, great boutique cigars."  Full review here

Ben's Cigars reviewed the Emilio Cigars Serie H Maduro: "I opened a bottle of white wine, for the hot spring day and made my way to the back 40 for a stroll. The cocoa flavor and pepper spice were a perfect match.

I have never been a big fan of some Ligero Maduros just because they can kill the palate and ruin my flavor of a follow on cigar, but this is not the case with the Series H.

Gary Griffith, you have a piece of Maduro art here!"

Full review here

Fine Tobacco NYC reviewed the La Musa Mousa by Emilio Cigars: "As the cigar progresses into the second third, it picks up on strength and also offers a few more notes, including white pepper and some black pepper on the retrohale. And on and on into the final third, where the strength has picked up considerably and now the primary note is a heavy, fresh ground black pepper. Even up to the nub the cigar picks up more and more, which really proves a point about this cigar: it is not a boring cigar."  Full review here

Catfish Bluezz reviewed the Bodega Reunion Aperitivo: "The Aperitivo starts with a black licorice note that is unlike any cigar I can remember.  The note is distinct through the nose, and the creeps on the finish back of tongue.  Cedar notes hit the retro at times as well.  Cream soda notes began to pop up as well, and a distinct spice I relate to coriander came up.  At times, I swear I tasted coconut through the nose and draw.  Talk about a out of the box, distinct beginning. "

"These guys have created something unique, with a flavor profile unlike anything on the market right now."  Full review here

Dan Gumm reviewed the Emilio Cigars AF Suave: "The burning cigar produced ample amounts of silky smooth, creamy, mild bodied, smoke flavored with brown sugar and rich tobacco. As the cigar burns toward the band, there are notes of cream, sweet tea, fruit, toast, mild black pepper, nuts, and sugar. The final third flavors finished with lots of toast, nuts and sugared coffee with extra cream."

"It’s mild enough for any beginner, but the complexity should make it interesting for a seasoned veteran."

Full review here

Cigar Mayven reviewed the Guayacan by Noel Rojas: "The flavor of this cigar was delightful.  When I first lit it there was a sweetness that reminded me of sweet berries and a vanilla oaky taste.  What I didn’t taste at first light was a heat rush.  The stick started out with a very mellow flavor that changed as we continued the smoke.  The spiciness of pepper along with a toasty vanilla oak was predominant in the middle half of the cigar.  Towards the end of the smoke the oak turned leathery and the spice continued.

Some times when I smoke while driving the cigar misbehaves and needs to be retouched, but this was fine on its own.  The draw was open and the stick produced lots of nice smoke.  It’s ash grew to a respectable 2 inches before gently falling."  Full review here

Cigar Craig reviewed the Bodega Aperitivo and Digestivo: "after dinner I lit up the Aperitivo and we took a walk. This one has a Jalapa Habano wrapper and fillers from Jalapa and Condega. The binder is listed as “proprietary”, so I don’t know if it’s a Nicaraguan puro or not.  Anyway, the cigar burned perfectly, the draw was perfect, and it held an ash very well. It had a nice, medium flavor that was kind of dry on the palate, with some nuttiness.

The Digestivo lit well and started with a very similar  astringent quality to that which the Aperitivo had, a dryness, if you will.  It had the underlying cocoa flavor associated with the San Andrés wrapper, which I liked. It burned dead even and had a very nice draw."  Full review

A Cigar Smoker reviewed the 1502 Cigars Emerald Lancero: "A lancero can be a difficult cigar, a lot of them have issues staying lit due to the size of the cigar being difficult to roll. This might be the best lancero I have ever smoked in terms of construction and how it played into the smoking experience. The ash was firm and held on very well and the draw was fluid with no issues from start to finish

Once you figure in all aspects of the cigar it is easily in the top 3 of lancero smokes that I have had. The cigar is a tad mild for what I like to smoke, but it a great cigar for the first smoke of the day and for the foreseeable future I think this will become that cigar."  Full review here

Blind Man's Puff reviewed the Bodega Reunion Digestivo: "From the first puff I can tell this is going to be something special, I pick up tons of flavors including nuts, espresso, and lots of spices. After a few puffs I start to pick up a very dark wood flavor, almost like charred oak, very nice. The draw is perfect and putting out a ton of smoke, even while it’s sitting. During the rest of this third my palate is tickeled with a multitude of spices, some I could pick out were cloves, cinnamon, and allspice."  Full review here

Ultimate Cigar Party reviewed the 1502 Ruby Lancero: "She held nothing back during the second third of our rendezvous, offering me every ounce of flavor she had inside of her. She revealed those same notes of earth, pepper, cedar, and chocolate, but the earthiness increased to the forefront with the pepper fading a bit. She still provided that delightful creaminess from earlier as well to combine for a very enjoyable affair.  Her strength was a solid medium and I was blown away with her impeccable balance of flavors which I would also classify as medium."  Full review here

Nice Tight Ash reviewed the Ezra Zion Cigars Tantrum: " I really start to notice how strong this cigar is as the ligero is showing itself nicely. Its not a super strong ligero kick, but you can tell its there and not showing any signs of slacking off. Now, the licorice is fading off and a nice rich earthy note  comes into play with the espresso still hanging in in the background"   Full review here

Cigar Coop reviewed the Nomad Cigars Connecticut Fuerte: "In terms of how this stacks up as being "Not Your Father's Connecticut Cigar", I think it depends on how you look at it.  In terms of strength and body,  I found the Connecticut Fuerte to be mild to medium in the first half before progressing to medium for both attributes in the second half.  For the most part, this is in-line of what I expect from a Connecticut Shade cigar.   I think the difference compared to other Connecticut Shade cigars is in that "pepper bite".  Full review

Stogie Bink reviewed the 1502 Cigars Emerald: "Two inches in, the ash drops off.  The creamy earth is still the only draw flavor and black pepper remain on the finish.  So far, there are not to many different flavors coming in.  The flavors that are there are rich and creamy.  The body is still at a medium.  The draw is still producing large amounts of smoke and the burn is wavy but still not an issue.  Some strength is starting to come into play.  Its medium, but is giving me a good head rush."

Full review here

Ultimate Cigar reviewed the Ezra Zion Cigars FHK: "Her construction was typical of an Ezra Zion gal – flawless. The draw was perfect, not too loose like she was giving herself away, but not too tight either where I had to work overtime to taste her flavors. Her burn was cool and consistent creating a razor sharp char line from her foot to the nub. She let out billowing screams of dense white smoke that was rich and delicious. Now let me tell you about this Latina’s ash. It was ‘rumptious’ – thick, tight and white, so tight that it didn’t even flake or crumble when it hit the floor of the ashtray."  Full review here

Dan Gumm reviewed the Emilio Cigars Los Regalos Quetzal: "Once the foot was toasted and burning, the real fun began. Initially there medium bodied flavors of fruit and brown sugar. As the cigar burned on there were other flavors, some subtle, some bold, of nuts, molasses, oak, camp fire, dried fruit, nuts, anise, coffee, cocoa, cream and sugar. Now that’s my idea of a super tasty flavor mix!

As I smoked on, the razor sharp burn line left behind a soft, light gray ash that held on for about two inches and the smoke had a slightly nutty aroma."

Full review here

Rictus Cigars reviewed the 1502 Cigars Ruby:  "As I moved through the first third the spice turned a little more heated than before. In addition there were other spices popping up. Tasted almost like a tour of my spice rack at home, in the best way possible. Moving closer to the finger end of things the flavors concentrated to more of a solid leather, earth, and wood flavor with a still fairly prominent spicy pepper flavor. As good as the first two thirds were, I really love the condensed flavors that came through at the end. The closer I go to cursing the burns on my fingers the more the flavor settled in."

Full review here

Ultimate Cigar reviewed the 1502 Cigars Black Gold Lancero: "It is always a pleasant treat to smoke a cigar with its creator and this meeting was truly an honor. The Black Gold offers an extremely satisfying array of complex flavors that are enhanced that much more in the Lancero vitola. All of the 1502 cigars are of phenomenal construction and draw and this stick was no exception. It was well-balanced, distinctive and truly enjoyable. She is clearly stronger than her sister, Ruby, so if you like strong, flavorful cigars this is the one for you."

Full review here

Dan Gumm reviewed the pre release Carpe Noctem by Emilio Cigars:  "Right out of the gate I could taste flavors of cocoa, fruit and rich tobacco, plus the wrapper left a pronounced semi-sweet chocolate aftertaste on my lips. In my notes I wrote, “absolutely delicious”. As I smoked on, the flavors changed at a fast and furious pace, there one puff, gone the next, then back again. I found other flavor nuances of oak, leather, charcoal, cream, coffee, anise, berries, dried fruit, oat straw, a bit of green hay and some flora. When I hit the two puffs of hay, it tasted green and for some reason I thought to myself that the hay will go away in the aged cigars. Only time will tell about that. I always look forward to the final third in a maduro cigar hoping to find my favorite flavor of burnt mocha and this cigar didn’t disappoint me at all."
Full review here

2 Cigar Guys and a Humidor reviewed the 1502 Cigars Ruby: "I’m usually not a fan strong red pepper flavors in cigars but the balance of the leather, earth, and nuts balanced it out fairly nicely. This is definitely a cigar that I can see appealing to those who love a blast of pepper. The cigar had a nice strength to it and probably climbed on the fuller side of medium. I do see this cigar aging nicely. With some time in the humidor I think the pepper would mellow and really make this cigar much better. The construction was wonderful, I really can’t say anything bad about that aspect."   Full review here

Cigar Craig reviewed the Nomad Cigars Connecticut Fuerte: " The tag line “Not you father’s Connecticut cigar” is a little over used, but in this case, the cigar has some horsepower.   I really enjoyed the contrast of the spice and relative strength of the filler with the creamy and slightly bitterness of the wrapper.  I appreciate the Connecticut wrapper on a cigar, but it’s not one I reach for first, probably because I worry that the cigar will be too mild for my tastes.  This one has enough flavor and strength to be satisfying at any time of the day.  In the Nomad portfolio, while the original Dominican line is good, and the Nicaraguan blends are really good, this one is my new favorite of the line.  It’s different from anything else out there."
Full review here 

Blind Man's Puff reviewed the Nomad Cigars Fugitive 2: "This is one of those cigars that rates higher overall than in any one portion. It was not overly complex, and didn’t even stand out in any one portion besides performance, but when it was done I was sad. I wanted to light another one immediately and continue the experience. That is not something that I say very often. I’m anxious to discover what it was that I smoked so I can get some more. I can’t imagine a better morning smoke, or cigar to introduce a new smoker to. Very enjoyable.”   Full review here

Dan Gumm reviewed the Mia Dora by Emilio Cigars: "Right around the one inch mark, the flavors pulled me right back to reality. I can’t really say that a bold flavor blast hit me, that’s not the case.  The flavor mix hit me more like discovering a new wine that is full of flavor, rewarding and something you just want to savor for hours. While enjoying this Mia Dora Toro, I found flavors of sweet tea, brown sugar, cream, coffee, coffee with extra cream and sugar, caramel, lots of caramel, raisins, molasses, roasting peanuts and even a touch of oak here and there. In fact all the flavors were here and there, here one minute, gone the next, then back a bit later. There were lots of sweet flavors in this cigar, but the sweetness wasn’t over powering like a flavored cigar, they were mild, mellow and satisfying."Full review here

Covering Your Ash reviewed the Cigar Federation Collective by Ezra Zion Cigars: "The Collective kick-starts the review with a blast of pepper, mixed with campfire wood, earth, and dark chocolate. At 2 inches the spice backs way off and leaves behind the wood, but also adds some nuttiness and an underlying sweetness. At about the 4-inch mark we see the reappearance of the dark chocolate, and the spice returns for a bit before tapering off and giving way to a surprisingly smooth finish. Throughout the review the draw is near perfect, the ash is flaky, and the burn line is slightly wavy, but not so much that it needs any touch-ups with the lighter.  Full review here

Stogie Bink reviewed the Emilio Cigars La Musa Melete: "At first light a spice note comes in on the draw with some sweet cedar.  The spice is at a 4 out of 10 on the "zing" scale.  Its more pepper flavor then the actual pepper sensation in the mouth.  The finish is a musty tobacco and cedar that is lasting on the palate until the next draw.  The draw is very good, giving off large amounts of smoke with a little resistance.  The burn line is almost razor sharp.

With around three inches remaining the spice note is dominating the draw.  It does have a bit of cedar with it.  Slight hints of vanilla are on the finish with a fading sweet coffee and earth."  Full review here

Stogie Review gives kudos to the Bodega Premium Blends Reunion Aperitivo: "Still mild at the halfway point of this Reunion Aperitivo with intense flavors of sweet wood, pepper, dark chocolate and nuttiness. Really a flavor bomb. Still continuing with the flavor swapping while hitting a medium body but definite full flavor."

"this cigar was so damn good I can see keeping some around for when I want a super flavor bomb."   Full review here

Tiny Tim reviewed the Emilio Cigars La Musa Mousa: "sweet citrus, subtle wood and cocoa, unsweetened dark chocolate and coffee are holding the base. The red pepper is still good and the black pepper is subtle. The finish is a sweet cream with some cocoa notes and lots of lingering black pepper. The cigar is still medium to full bodied."
Full review here

Cigar Craig gave his thoughts on all three of the 1502 Cigars Lanceros: " I really love the 1502 line, the Black Gold being my favorite,  but all three are exceptional.  I started with the Ruby,  which has an Ecuador Habano wrapper. The Ruby falls in the middle of the strength range of the line, and I decided to start with that as opposed to the Emerald since it was after lunch and I wasn’t ready for a milder cigar. This is a flavorful smoke that burned very well. When you light your first 1502 you find that the foot has the wrapper leaf folded over the end. It’s not fully enclosing the foot, but just framing the filler tobacco. This gives you a little extra blast of wrapper flavor upon lighting."
Full set of reviews here

Bens Cigars reviewed the Guayacan by Noel Rojas: "After a great day on the boat, this was a fantastic cigar to enjoy a few adult beverages with. I was fortunate enough to receive a few samples from Gary Griffith of Emilio cigars and this one really caught my eye and senses.

The aroma from the Guyacan is deep and bold. The flavor profile started mild and quickly grew to full in the first half of the smoke. There was a definite flavor of coffee and spice, which in my opinion resulted in a perfect pairing to my glass of wine.

Full review here

Catfish Bluezz reviewed the Guayacan by Noel Rojas: "Cashews, and a bitter nut finish were the main notes.  The retro added a hint of red pepper as well.  As the Guayacan progressed, I got dried fruit through the nose, and a sugary aspect took over.  I really love it when I get nutty flavors in a cigar, as they challenge my palate to determine where the note may land.

The creamy, nutty, sugar cookie kept going strong.  The finish was long and smooth.  The nutty flavors really took over as I neared the end, with some coffee undertones as well."    Full review here

Seth's Humidor reviewed the Epicurean Cigars Gonzo Santeria: "The burn line was always perfect and it showed a nice charcoal ash along with that. It was producing a solid medium to medium full body and strength level throughout and it was a cigar that was a classic maduro that showed wonderful rich flavors. I had a lot of complexity and transitioning from third to third, and the second third was simply incredible. I think this is the best stick that Steve has put out with Epicurean and it is a limited edition that will smoke great now and I believe age wonderfully."
Full review here

Toasted Foot reviewed the Bodega Cigars Reunion Aperitivo: "I had heard great things about the Bodega Reunion, and the cigar did not disappoint. This cigar has some complex flavors including cherries, plums, oak and leather. The almost red wine like quality to this cigar is unlike anything I’ve experienced in another cigar. An even burn and a good draw (after the first inch) makes the Bodega Reunion Apertivo an pleasure to smoke. For those looking for a medium to medium-full bodied cigar that is different from anything they’ve had in the past, the Bodega Reunion is the perfect choice."   Full review here

Cigar Mayven reviewed the Rodrigo Cigars Boutique Blend: "George Rodriguez began Rodrigo Cigars a short time ago in the Dominican Republic where he linked up with William Ventura, past master blender for Davidoff. All Rodrigo cigars are made in Tamboril, a municipality of Santiago in the Dominican Republic.

The wrapper was a nice dark shade with a slightly oily sheen

Smoke output was above average and the flavor started as spice/cedar but this changed into a strong nutty taste with some sweetness in the background. The flavors increased as the stick got smaller."   Full review here

Cigar Crook reviewed the Epicurean Cigars Gonzo Santeria: "The first third provided flavours of creamy sweet coffee, leather and a faint bitter sweet chocolate and pepper zing on the draw. The finish consisted of continuing flavours of creamy sweet coffee notes from the draw. The ash was bright white in colour with a razor sharp burn. Nearing the halfway point, the body dropped to a solid medium with draw flavour of creamy cedar and leather flavours on the draw. The finish consisted of cedar, black coffee and a faint pepper zing"  Full review here

Cigar Coop reviewed a pre release sample of Emilio Cigars Carpe Noctem: " I loved the flavors, it had some great construction, and it offered a nice full strength, full-bodied experience. This is a cigar that delivers plenty of spice, but at the same time it offers other flavors to satisfy.  It's a cigar that can satisfy now and my gut tells me there is still plenty of good things to come"   Full review here

Cigar NewB reviewed the 1502 Cigars Black Gold lancero: "The super dark brown maduro wrapper has a nice spicy and sweet scent to it. I get a slight hint of pepper from the cold draw. The foot has a partially closed tip which is unique, as I have never seen the foot presented this way before.

Overall a fantastic smoking cigar that is definitely made for the seasoned smoker out there. The pepper is the main component used throughout this cigar but the cocoa really hits your sweet tooth."
Full review here

Ultimate Cigar Party reviewed the Bodega Cigars Reunion Digestivo: "As I inched my way closer to her, I soaked in every nuance of her rich pre-lighted perfume that smelled sweet and spicy. Her cold draw was just as intoxicating – a nice herbal spice that was sweet and a bit fruity. Her foot emitted strong scents of rich tobacco, sweet bread and plenty of herbal spice. She is truly a unique blend.

Her kisses remained silky on the tongue and her full-bodied finish was now long-lasting. I guess she realized our night was coming to an end, so she wanted to send me off with a mouth full of her flavors when we departed. I still tasted a lot of herbal tea notes and earth on her breath coupled with dark chocolate and molasses – a sweet and savory digestif for sure."   Full review here 

Keeping Your Man Card reviewed the Epicurean Cigars Gonzo Santeria: "There is just something that age does to tobacco that makes it taste so damn good.  Much like many of Epicureans other lines, the flavor of the Gonzo Santeria is off the charts.  Upon first light the primary flavors that greeted me were that of nuts, cocoa, earthiness, and a unique raisin flavor.  Also notable is that this cigar is an extremely creamy smoke."   Full review here

Cigar NewB reviewed the Nomad Cigars Connecticut Fuerte: "After the serious start, it clears the way for a creamy buttery smoke. Still has hints of cedar and pepper, along with a slight cashew nutty taste. This cigar should be nicknamed Margarine, it’s so buttery, probably butter infused for a month in a vault.
You may be thinking to yourself going into the cigar, like I did, “Oh its just another Connecticut, its going to be a boring smoke.” WRONG!! Its not boring. Nomad Cigars took what could have been a portfolio filler cigar and flipped it upside down, making a cigar that stands out above the rest. "  Full review here

Space Coast Cigars reviewed the 1502 Cigars Emerald: "I fired it up,  and from the first puff to the nub there was rich creamy smoke throughout. Early spice that quickly melted into hints of coffee and cocoa and an overall sweetness.  The retrohale was smooth and not overly spicy, which of course made this quite an enjoyable cigar. The sweetness continued through the 2nd half and then gave way to a resurgence of spice and a touch of earth which ended the stick down at the nub.
I will be smoking more of these for sure. I rate this a solid 92."
 
Full review here

Stogie Review smoked the Bodega Cigars Reunion Digestivo: "At halfway of this Reunion Digestivo and there is still some sweet coffee with a salty spice and a woody base. Power still has not ramped up like the other size I smoked. Full flavor but still low medium power. Ash has held on nicely and no touch ups have been needed as of yet. My prediction has come true with the wood taste taking over the coffee. Some of the salty taste has died down but is still present." Full review

Tiny Tim reviewed the Nomad Cigars Connecticut Fuerte: "About 1 inch in the flavors settled down into citrus with some sweetness, graham cracker, a dash of cocoa, and white pepper which has intensified to an 8. I especially notice it when I retro haled. The finish is a toasted cream with lingering white pepper. The cigar comes across as medium bodied."  Full review here 

Ben's Cigars reviewed the 1502 Cigars Emerald: "The 1502 by Emilio cigars. Nothing but perfection. This robusto is exquisitely made, the burn sharp, and the flavor intensive.

Tiny Tim reviewed the Ezra Zion Cigars FHK: "In a nutshell, this is a mild to medium cigar with lighter notes except for the earth tones. The sweetness of the cream and cocoa was elevated after the midpoint. The cigar consists of notes of cream, cocoa, roasted nuts, earth, and coffee, with white pepper.  Full review here


Up in Smoke reviewed the Emilio Cigars La Musa Melete: "Burn:
Fucking fantastic! Burns straight, ash holds well produces good amount of smoke when smoked, but not while idle and the draw is comfortable. If I had more cigars that burned like the Mousa, I would be a happy, happy boy. That is the number one standout about this stick for me. The flavors were good and strong."  Full review here

Stogie Bink reviewed the Epicurean Cigars Gonzo Santeria: "The second inch is producing more of the same flavors.  Lots of pepper and coffee on the draw and coco and earth notes on the finish.  The flavors are becoming more full bodied and are very delicious.  The burn is absolutely razor sharp and the draw continues to produce large amounts of smoke.

On the finish the coco and earth notes are still present but a sweet leather starts to take over near the end of the finish.  The flavors are lasting on the palate all the way until the next draw now and are full in body.  Burn is still razor sharp and draw is excellent."  Full review here 

Dan Gumm reviewed the Bodega Cigars Reunion Aperitivo: "With the first few draws I found a mild bodied, spicy blend of cedar and brown sugar with a sweet, lingering aftertaste. The flavor mix wasn’t super complex, but it sure was tasty. As I smoked on, there were other flavor nuances of tea, tree fruit, sweet tea, oak, toasted nuts, toast, more brown sugar, white pepper, sweet cream and even a splash of coffee."  Full review here

Stogie Review quick look at the 1502 Cigars Black Gold Perfecto: "I’m impressed with 1502. I’ve really enjoyed each one I’ve had and this cigar was no different. The Black Gold tasted of really rich earth, roasted nuts, coffee and pepper with a sweetness that ranged from vanilla to butterscotch. And of course some of what Dogwatch Dale likes to describe as the “Nicaraguan zing”. If you haven’t tried a 1502, you really should. If you’re not sure which to pick, Jerry favors the Emerald, but really you’ll be well served by any of them."

Full review here

Cigar Memoir reviewed the Epicurean Cigars AG Azul: "Underneath, floral tones came back at a higher capacity than they were during the first third. Another noticeable change was that the white pepper switched back to red pepper, losing a touch of intensity. The caramel from the first third developed into toffee, while the cream stayed the same. A basic bread note made an appearance, accentuating how balanced this cigar had become. Undertones of chocolate, paprika and citrus were sprinkled throughout the entirety of the final third."   Full review here

Bourbon and Broadleaf reviewed the Bodega Cigars Reunion Digestivo: "The Bodega Reunion Digestivo was a very well-blended cigar for my taste. It was medium-full to full in strength and body and definitely full flavored with nice complexity. The flavor profile of earth, wood, pepper, and subtle sweetness would make it a great pairing for brandy, whiskey, or ports. Craft beer lovers would be rewarded with a strong scotch ale or a barleywine pairing. I paired mine with Glenmorangie The Quinta Ruban."

Full review here 

Casas Fumando reviewed the Emilio Cigars La Musa Melete: "From the first draw, my mouth filled with wildly chewy, flavorful smoke that had an impressive amount of balance all at the same time. The soft cedar notes were more prevalent in the smoke than on the cold draw, accompanied by some unique sweetness, possibly brown sugar.

The La Musa Melete was an interesting and intriguing smoke. The subtleties in the profile and the change-ups kept me engaged and desiring more. I will definitely be hunting more of these down and I hope I can still get my hands on the Lancero."
Full review here

2 Cigar Guys and a Humidor reviewed the Ezra Zion Cigars Reagan: "The sweet tobacco and nutmeg taste on my palate so far has been amazing.  The spice is not over bearing in anyway and the cigar reminds me of eating a ginger bread man cookie.
The very first thing that came to my head was why in the hell did I wait so long to try one of these cigars.  Ezra Zion Reagan Honor Series is everything you want from a cigar with a presidential theme. "  Full review here

Tiny Tim reviewed the Epicurean Cigars Gonzo Santeria: "2 1/2 inches in the flavors have separated a bit. There are a lot more wood notes and the espresso notes are very pronounced. The cocoa notes are diminished. The cedar is still there with some of the cream notes, which are faint. The wood and espresso are quite dominant. The finish is a combination of cream and wood notes. The cigar is medium to full bodied."   Full review here

All photos courtesy the originating reviewer

Video and Podcast Reviews for May

Poolside Cigars reviewed the 1502 Cigars Emerald

Stick Review smoked the Emilio Cigars La Musa Mousa

Triple play review of the Emilio Cigars AF1!

Desert Smokes review of the Emilio Cigars La Musa Melete 

Cigar Review TV Smoked the Epicurean Cigars Gonzo 

Calypso Cigar reviews smoked the Nomad Cigars Navigator

Desert Smokes reviewed the Emilio Cigars AF1

Sticks and Whiskey reviewed the 1502 Cigars Ruby

Stick Review rated the Collective by Ezra Zion Cigars a 93

Sticks and Whiskey reviewed the Emilio Cigars Los Regalos Quetzal

Calypso Cigars reviews the Guayacan by Noel Rojas 

Honest Cigar reviews smoked the Bodega Reunion Digestivo

Stogie Geeks reviewed the Emilio Cigars Carpe Noctem 

Desert Smokes reviewed the Emilio Cigars Draig Cayuquero