I have a box of 898 from '08. Probably my favorite smoke this year so far. Perfect construction, lovely aroma, great burn and flawless from beginning to end. I have like 9 left, so I am going into rationing mode.
On the other hand, I have not yet had an Especial, but I just scored a box of '24 Especials, so I won't know which I like better for a few years. If it's even possible to do such a thing.
If I could get my hands on more 8-9-8 I would be willing to- continue to drive my jalopy, defer fixing my deck, buy supermarket brand cereal, or possibly even try Vegemite.
I abstain, and yield my remaining time to the gentleman from Mississippi.