H. Upmann Petit Palatinos

LGC · May 26, 2012

(box code N.O.S.N., 1991)

This is a cigar that never fails to satisfy. In general, I don't find most of the H. Upmann line to be as complex as other marcas. But when I do long for something that will provide full-flavor intensity, this always ranks at the top of the list.

When I first came upon this specific cigar, it was based upon a recommendation. I ordered a box, but was skeptical based on the price point. After I smoked the first one, I quickly grabbed all the other boxes that were available. Since I was still in school at the time, I felt as giddy as a school girl... since they were extremely affordable. :drool: I had a number of full boxes at one time, but have traded and gifted many since then. With about a 1-1/2 boxes left, I'm hoarding them like gold these days. I've probably smoked about a box worth of these sticks myself.

I chose to pair the cigar with Averna. This is a sweet and herbal liquor produced in Italy. I think of it as an acquired taste; but I find it goes well with fuller flavored cigars.

These cigars are packed solid with tobacco, as seen in the head and foot. They feel like little bricks. I tend to prefer my cigars with a little resistance, rather than be too loose. Despite the small size, I can nurse a good hour out of them since they burn so slowly.

There's something about these silky-smooth, paper-thin corojo wrappers that just gets my juices flowing. It's like rubbing up against a woman.... well, nevermind :wink2:

They ooze with an oily sheen that just speaks to your taste buds.

As with many aged cigars, it starts with what I describe as a slight mustiness... without any prominent flavors. Within the first inch, the cigar lays it all out on the table with "chewy" smoke that coats the palate. The finish just seems to go on and on between puffs. I'm not one that can pick out 20 different flavors in a cigars... but I will say that I get spicy, earthy, leathery, and woodsy flavors that come in and out throughout the smoke. I also find a certain "dirty" or tannic quality in many of the older Upmann's. I equate it with the profile of an "old style" Italian wine. Although the cigar doesn't change too drastically, a slight bitterness (but pleasant) comes through in the latter 1/2... similar to a good espresso. Most of the flavors intensify towards the end. And the aroma... it's what I would describe as a mixture of sweet, baked goods and exotic spices. :hungry: Well after finishing the cigar, I can still taste some lingering flavors. You know you've had a good cigar when you sniff your fingers 1/2 hour later and think to yourself.... ohhhhh yeahhhhh :love: