Here's a picture of the 2 I got on Tuesday.
Smoked one last night after a steak dinner. Very nice. First inch was very similar to an OpusX Double Corona. Some spiciness, but not overly so. Well-balanced. After that, it changed suddenly to a more Don Carlos-type flavor. Very nice and flavorful finish. The ESG is supposed to be a variation on the VSG blend, but I just don't taste it. In my opinion, it's much closer to the flavor profile of an OpusX than a VSG, especially the first 1-1.5 inches (With less of the "pruny" flavor of an OpusX). After that it's rich and creamy like the DC. Never had the VSG ER so I can't compare it to that unfortunately.
Some minor burn problems, but they self-corrected. Flaky ash which was a little disappointing. Best part of the cigar was definitely after the first inch when it got warmed up.
Strength isn't any more than a VSG or OpusX of comparable size.
Worth the $18? That's debatable. If it's just a limited edition, fine $18 is OK for special occasions. But for a regular line cigar? Ehhh...
I'll have to smoke another and perhaps revise my initial review.