Partagas Salomones - July 2009

[dochowl]

For the last few weeks, I've been hearing a faint call from one of my coolers. It seems the Partagas Salomones that I picked up a while back have decided it is time for them to come out and meet the world.

Let me first say that this box is like a piece of artwork. The cigars look perfect. A nice deep chocolate brown in color. The wrappers are shiny and you can see the oil just trying to make its way out. I have to say I love the bands on these. Not sure if it's the color, the straight-forward appearance or something else, but I really can't stop staring at this box.

Now for the review... and just to preface this, I really should split this up into 5 or 6 3rds. This cigar is huge.

Pre-light: Construction is perfect. Cigars are properly filled. I cut the cap on a slight angle and find that the draw is perfect, even with the almost closed foot of the cigar. Flavor at this point is earthy, damp tobacco. At this point, I can't wait to light this thing up. The cigar is huge, but is easy to smoke given its shape.

Initial thoughts: out the gate, this cigar is pelting me with spice. It's got that earthy, damp flavor that I love. Smoking this thing makes me feel like I am a king. Tons of thick, aromatic smoke is quickly filling up my office. Time to open a door.

First third: Cigar has started at a medium full and continued with the earth and spice. The spice is mellowing out a bit and my mouth is coated with leathery goodness. The flavor is pretty intense, although not all that complex. No worries though, this is fantastic.

Second 3rd: Spice has definitely backed off a bit. The earthiness is still there, but I am starting to pick up hints of a full roast coffee. This is all balanced nicely with a sweetness on my lips. At this point, the burn is quite good, although I have had to do a couple of minor touch-ups. I am amazed at how smooth this cigar is. Considering it is barely a year old, I'm very impressed with what I am seeing.

Final 3rd: Spice is coming back in strides. I can pick up the pepper in my nose as well as in the back of my tongue. Earthiness and coffee are pretty well gone. I guess this is the payoff for the easy going middle portion of this cigar. Worth noting at this point, I haven't yet had to stand up. As I expected, I am starting to feel the effects of this cigar. Lots of nicotine as you get into it. Overall very pleasant. Glad I had a good lunch a few hours ago.

Overall Thoughts: Wow. I love this cigar. For the days when you want to smoke something that really lets you know what a cigar can do, this is the one. The taste lingering in my mouth is fantastic. We have spent the better part of an hour and 45 minutes together and I can truly say I am looking forward to the next time this cigar calls out my name. Maybe then I won't take so long to give it another try. This is truly one of the best cigars I've smoked in months. I would give it a solid 93 with room to get better with some age.

And with that said, it's time for me to lay down and take a nap before dinner.

[MontrealRon]

WOW!!!

Great review of a cigar that has really tempted me,

but I've been hesitating, as previous reviews have been mixed at best.

Perhaps the latest releases are better than the earlier ones.

In any case, you've got me convinced now!

[dochowl]

Yeah, the reviews on this site have been a bit on the mixed side. I think the video review was done 9 or 10 months ago, so maybe the extra time is helping out. Then again, maybe I've just got one of those stellar boxes. Either way, I'm happy.

[Colt45]

Thanks for the review. I hope you'll post a follow up when smoke another.

[Habanos2000]

Nice review! that looks like a monster cigar! I'm glad it lived up to your expectations.

[laficion]

This is truly one of the best cigars I've smoked in months. I would give it a solid 93 with room to get better with some age.

Great review and photos, thanks

Nothing to add on this one, you're spot on,

Great cigar

[anacostiakat]

Yeah, the reviews on this site have been a bit on the mixed side. I think the video review was done 9 or 10 months ago, so maybe the extra time is helping out. Then again, maybe I've just got one of those stellar boxes. Either way, I'm happy.

I have smoked a number of these and while youngish I love them.

I think your comment on the extra time is a good point.

Great review and pics!

[CigarmanTim]

Had one tonight. LRE JUN 09. Best cigar I've had this year. Period.

[ajgagnon]

I've always wanted one of those... what a Jaysus big cigar though.

Thanks for this review, I've heard some mixed things about this one too, but I could only imagine that if anyone could produce a well rolled, tasty salomon, it would be Partagas. Some day I'll try the Cuaba salomon as well (despite the criticisms on that one). I like the old figurado shapes, even if more for the artistry than everyday smoking.

[mazolaman]

Being a fan of the figurado shape,I'll have to try one of these.Great review.

The cuaba salomon is also a good cigar,at least the ones I've had.

[bassman]

I got a box when first released. The couple I've smoked have been much to mild to keep my interest for such a large cigar. Sounds like you got a much better example.

[Quint]

Great review mouth was watering by the end. I've been tempted by these but mixed reviews has made me hold back. This reveiw might just push me over the edge. Thanks

[Jaksen]

I love this cigar! Thanks for the review!