Punch Super Selection No. 1

[Zaphod42]

Now that summer is here, I can actually relax and enjoy a good cigar from time to time. Cab of Punch SS1 from the czar, box code OEB ABR 07. I have only had a handful from this cab as I like to try one a year to see how they are coming along.

Appearance and Construction

A deep brown wrapper, a bit veiny. Overall, not the prettiest cigar from the cab. Somewhat oily and rough texture but a fairly typical example when compared to the rest of the cab. It wouldn't win any beauty contests but that doesn't always mean much.

Aroma and Initial Impression

Lovely smell coming from this cigar and the cab in general, very rich, full tobacco and barn yard aroma. Almost salivating from the smell alone and I couldn't wait to get started. Initial taste is straight forward, rich tobacco. There is not much complexity at the beginning as it is just a straight up rich flavor that coats the mouth.

2/3 of the cigar

Woody notes start to dominate the palate and the taste is essentially consistent throughout the rest of the smoke. There are lingering hints of some spice and leather but it is all in the background as it cannot breakthrough and make its presence felt. While the woody flavor is medium bodied and pleasant, a big part of me wanted those other background flavors to really breakout but it never happened. The cigar essentially stayed one note throughout and just left me with a little to be desired. The makings are there for an excellent cigar but this one was muted and never fully evolved into something special.

Final Thoughts

With over 5 years of age I really thought these would be ready by now. I will leave the cabinet alone for at least another few months to see how they grow and change. Hopefully with time time all of the potential flavors will mix together and they will reach their potential but as of now these aren't ready for prime time. Some burn problems were noted, had to be relit on several occasions although that may be due to being over humidified a tad, note to myself to dry box one for a day or two prior to smoking next time.