Hoyo du Gourmet

[alephilmac]

Hoyo du Gourmet

LUB JUN 13

Du to the ring gauge vs. length of this cigar, I am reviewing it in 1/4’s as opposed to 1/3’s.

Unlit aromas of hay, flowers, and bath salts. Beautiful, almost pristine Colorado wrapper, minor veining, but not that noticeable for a thinner ring gauge cigar. Double blade cut leaves a medium-tight draw, which should be perfect for this size of cigar.

First few puffs: Floral, lavender-like aroma, almost sweet (only the smoke, not the wrapper at all, which was an interesting contrast).

1/4: some of the floral notes remained, but a roasted hazelnut, old cedar appeared, melted brown sugar, and a small amount of cocoa is present,

2/4: floral still there, but subsiding even more, roasted nuts have turned more to burnt nuts (in a still pleasant manner), a grassiness has appeared (not altogether unpleasant, but out of balance with the other flavors), the sweetness has subsided

3/4: lavender notes are again more pronounced (I regret not enjoying a gin and tonic with this cigar, as I feel it would pleasantly enhance these floral characteristics and I will remedy that next time), burning almond wood has become the predominate second flavor, with a hint of cold brewed coffee, slightly sharp notes are beginning to make themselves known.

4/4: cereal notes have crept in (almost like throwing cheerios on a fire… if anyone has done that, let me know!), still floral, but less specific, more potpourri than any one varietal, burnt hardwood notes remain, as do coffee notes, maybe a bit of dark cocoa, but not overpowering, the ash doesn’t hold as well as I might have expected, the grassy/sharp notes remain on the end, but have mellowed a bit,

Overall: an extremely pleasant, mild cigar that requires attention to enjoy. You must tend to it or it will go out, or it will burn too hot. I’m sure this isn’t for everyone, but I picture this as an ideal morning cigar with an espresso (or a weekend lunch cigar, with a floral gin and tonic). Overall, an aperitif, I now want a stronger, more “expressive” cigar, but not because this lacked anything. 86pts.

[JohnS]

Thanks for the review. At 170mm (6.7 inches) in length with a 33 ring gauge I can't blame you for making notes on the cigars in quarters!

[Optic101]

Nice review on a very nice cigar.

As you mention, this one need attention and will reward you for it.

[CigarConnectionVietnam]

Thanks, nice review, have you tried San Juan?

[JohnS]

Thanks, nice review, have you tried San Juan?

The San Juan, like the du Gourmet, is one of the 'Le Hoyo' line of HdM cigars, which represent a stronger flavour than your standard mild HdM marcas.

[muzz]

I've only ever had one from the local humi in Perth. A little bit mild for me from memory but it definitely wont be the last time I try these.