Saint Luis Rey Pacificos (2009, box code unknown)

[ayedfy]

I'm still rather new to cigars and this is my first review, so take this with a grain of salt!

Saint Luis Rey Pacificos. 2009 Asia Pacific regional release by the Pacific Cigar Company. Box code unknown. Piramide vitola (6.1x52). Paid $33/single.

General observations: Great construction. Oily wrapper, some mild peppery and woody aromas on the foot. Draw is firm but not too tight - perfect. Burned evenly throughout.

First third: Light-to-medium bodied opening with notes of delicate vanilla cream, toffee, and coffee (white, creamy coffee - like a latté or cappuccino). Wood presence of cedar and oak, as well as a biscuit-y note (shredded wheatmeal for me). Surprised by some hints of tropical fruits in the form of mango and banana.

Second third: Easing up to an even medium body. Some sugar cane sweetness and light leather. Latté notes remaining, tying everything together in a creamy balance. Touches of stone fruits with apricot and very slight nectarine.

Final third: A little green towards the end, body dropping just slightly. Fruity notes subsiding while the wood (in particular a bitter oak flavour) coming to the fore. Cocoa beans and a cereal note I'm struggling to identify - perhaps barley or rye.

I very much enjoyed this. I don't like spending much on cigars, but when I do spend $33 on a single, I like it to be this good. I want to pick up a few more of these before they're gone!

92/100

[brazoseagle]

Great Review. I love these things, one of my favorite cigars!

[BostonJRay]

I just got a few of these from Smithys chirstmas sampler (monte 2, SLR pacifico, HU Mag46). This review has me really looking forward to it.

[DeadmansPoint]

I've been on the fence with buying these, but I guess I just need to do it.

[NMJoe]

Great review!

I have been wanting to try this but haven't come across one.

Cheers!

Joe

[mk05]

Nice review, you have a good palate.

[MnMWC]

Nice review. Can't wait to try the singles I have stashed away after reading.

[Charltonc]

I think I am ready for a box of these.

[bassman]

Nice review of a very good cigar. I just smoked one this morning.

[Dimmers]

Awesome! I've a box on ice waiting for some love in 2013!