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SanCristobal de La Habana El Principe

DePasta

Stop it! That tickles!
Joined
Jul 23, 2005
Messages
2,673
A little while ago I decided to buy my first box of habanos with some age on them. I came across a decent deal on a box of SCDLH El Principes from 2001. I pulled the trigger. They finally arrives and I could not resist smoking one before putting them away.

Appearance: Their appearance was great, they had darkened with some age and looked delicious. The triple cap was complete and they smelled of the barnyard that we all love. The wrapper was delicately veined, almost no tooth at all.

Pre-Light draw: A clip of the foot of this 4.3 X 42 petite beauty exposed a delicious channel of tobacco with just enough resistance when drawn upon.

The smoke: The cigar burned flawless. I was a little afraid it would be too wet and it would affect the burn but it didn't.

Stage 1: Upon lighting it I was presented with spice, with hints of vanilla, mocha, and maltiness (if that is a flavor). The spice quickly subsided and the creamy mocha and vanilla began to shine. The smoke produced by this baby was substantial considering the size of this cigar. The ash was peppery and flaky with that traditional colored ash we expect from these cigars.

Stage 2: Stage 2 presented some new flavors, including cinnamon, cocoa and some leather but the cigar remained creamy. The smoke continued to be abundant and blue.

Final stage: As I finished this smoke the spice returned, not overpowering but it was there. The cinnamon and cocoa remained and hazelnut presented itself. All these flavors created a symphony that was impossible to put down.

Overall this cigar was full of smooth flavors. I was disappointed that it was over. For one of the few aged specimens that I have had, it is enough to make me want more. This is a spectacular cigar for those that need a quick smoke or a good morning smoke.

Well, that is it for my first review. Unfortunately, I didn't have my camera to document my experience as I plan to in the future.

Thanks,
-D
 
Well done, Dan. You really picked out some signature flavors. I often experience burnt sugar or moleasses in aged La Fuerzas. Never really had an aged Principe but the young ones I've smoked struck me as a bit harsh and unsettled. It's good to see that they develop nicely with a few years. :thumbs:

Wilkey
 
Yep, there was some moleasses there, I am not yet that good at the flavors. I expect to get even better......I will let these sit and acclimate to my desired RH and revisit them.

-D
 
Dan,

Awesome first review. These are amazing cigars, especially with age on them.
 
Well done, Dan. You really picked out some signature flavors. I often experience burnt sugar or moleasses in aged La Fuerzas. Never really had an aged Principe but the young ones I've smoked struck me as a bit harsh and unsettled. It's good to see that they develop nicely with a few years. :thumbs:

Wilkey

Great review Dan!

Wilkey, I might have a few things to give you at the next HH herf... :whistling:
 
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