First RASS: LRE JUL 09

[beamer]

Like the title says, finally got around to trying a Ramon Allones Specially Selected. (LRE JUL 09)

Good looking wrapper with a few green spots towards the cap. When I removed the band a few pieces of wrapper came with it (This didn't affect the smoke). The foot smelled like sweet barnyard. Punch cut, firm draw (Just about perfect, certainly not on the loose side, but not too tight either)

Opening Third was excellent. Coffee, leather, light black pepper, with a touch of cream. The draw loosened up a bit after the first centimeter.

Second Third was also excellent. The coffee was still present, but subsided and gave way to a milk chocolate with more cream than the first Third.

The Final Third was disappointing. Less chocolate, more pepper. And the cigar became harsh and slightly bitter. I assume another year or two would mellow this out considerably.

I have two left from the same box; Planning to let them sit for a bit. Based on the first two thirds of this cigar I'd definitely keep it in a usual rotation.

[Charltonc]

I was debating buying a box soon. I was thinking Dip 2 or RASS.

[TonyV]

RASS is definitely on the robusto buy list.. nice review

[nonameno]

Hi Beamer,

Great review and pictures! The RASS is one of my go to, favorite cigars that never lets me down (..yet..). I have been going through two boxes of POL NOV 10, which have been very good, with no harshness at all. Maybe yours were just going through another step in the aging process, before they come back around?

Thanks again,

Curtiss