2003 H. Upmann Monarca A/T

[shrink]

A perfect cigar this afternoon. A 2003 Upmann Monarca Tubo. I haven't had one of these in years, but they were calling me. Just sliding this beauty out of the tube, it looked perfect. Smooth, dark tan wrapper, glowing with oil. Perfectly firm. The scent at cold was of aromatic, aged tobacco.

It lit easily with one wooden match, and showed it's stuff right from the jump. Rich, toasty, slightly sweet tobacco. Nothing complex or complicated, just the flavors of well-aged, Upmann tobacco. Throughout, the burn and draw were perfect. Without doubt, it was more flavorful than the 2003 Sir Winstons I've been smoking. The somewhat stronger, more "mongrel" blend of the Monarcas had been transformed into a depth and spice that made every draw worth savoring. The last third was a bit more robust, but still smooth and predictable. It began to show greater sweetness, and a subtle, but distinct essence of maraschino cherry on the finish. Perfect, just perfect.

[mbrody]

Thanks Shrink! Sounds like a great smoke...

[Mr.T]

Great review thanks! I've got a box of 2007 Monarch A/T. I've had four and each one was been fantastic. I'm going to hold off a couple more years before returning to them. Construction is top notch on these. A real shame that they have been discontinued, but a real treat for those how managed to pick some up.

[winelover]

Wonderful review Shrink and thanks for the update on the 07's Mr T. I am very fortunate as a generous BOTL has offered up two of the 07's in a trade. Happy days

[shrink]

Battle of the Kings today while watching Bubba win at Augusta.

The first was a 2001 Punch Monarca A/T. Excellent cigar. Drew and burned well, with those signature Punch flavors.

The second was a 2003 H. Upmann Monarca A/T. It just blew the Punch away. An awesome smoke, just like the one I had last week.

[BonVivant]

Battle of the Kings today while watching Bubba win at Augusta.

The first was a 2001 Punch Monarca A/T. Excellent cigar. Drew and burned well, with those signature Punch flavors.

The second was a 2003 H. Upmann Monarca A/T. It just blew the Punch away. An awesome smoke, just like the one I had last week.

Great entertainment, Sir! Thank you very much! A winner every time!