Juan Lopez Seleccion no. 1: ORA DIC 14: Juan Lopez Review Comp 2016

[Shrody234]

For a long while I was curious about the Juan Lopez line and thought of them as an "under the radar" cigar. They don't get the attention other marcas do, but whenever mentioned on the forum they seemed to get high praise. About two-three months ago I was looking for a box of everyday smokes that was on the cheaper side and Rob had put up the Sel. number 1s on 'clearance.' When he stated that there wasn't a better smoking, young corona gorda out there, I jumped in and am very happy I did. I think these are gems of a smoke. One of my current favorites and much more than an everyday cigar. Their flavor is full and in your face.

As mentioned this was a 'Clearance' box and the wrappers are lighter than what I am used to smoking which initially concerned me. I've smoked about 10 of these and I have not had a bad one yet. I love them. This one was especially complex and good.

1st Third: This one started differently than the others. The previous came out in a blaze of sweet black coffee, but this one was full of cream, was sweet (honey possibly), with a orange/citrus finish. All three flavors were big and each puff provided a powerful progression of them. The draw was easy and provided lots of smoke Surprising, yet excellent start.

2nd Third: Burn is tight, no touch ups required, still tons of smoke. The cream has lessened slightly and that familiar sweet, black coffee is setting in. Still not as defined as the previous ones from this box, but absolutely delicious. All finished by that same orange note.

Final Third: Straight sweetened black coffee finished by the citrus. Flavorful and powerful. I would not suggest these to those who enjoy mild-med smokes. On the contrary, if you like full flavored or are transitioning from NCs, I recommend them highly.

Rob mentioned these will age gracefully, but I doubt this box will make it for much longer. If these are this good now, with sub two years on them, I can't imagine what they will turn into 5-7 years down the road. For those who have smoked aged ones, I would love to hear your comments.

Smoking time: 50 mins

Overall: 92/100

-Jimmy

[Danimalia]

Great review, man. Sounds like a really nice cigar. I love the corona gorda vitola. 

[Jimmy_jack]

A great cigar. I'm eagerly waiting on my box from the 24. Regretting that I didn't buy 2. Nice review!

[TheMonk]

Nice review! I tend to prefer the #2, but the #1 hasn't disappointed either.

[JohnS]

Agreed...Juan Lopez is an 'under-the radar' marca. Thank you for your review, I re-visited this cigar myself a few days ago and expected more pepper but was surprised that this wasn't the case. If you've enjoyed the No.1, do yourself a favour and try the No.2 Robusto as these can be more complex from my experience.

[westg]

Nice review ..cheers

[Shrody234]

Thank you gentlemen.

John, I've had a PSP box of the no 2s resting for about 4-5 months now. Going to be a while before I sample them, but definitely looking forward to it as they seem to get better reviews.