Por Larranaga Petit Corona TOS FEB 17 HLRC

[Wailbait]

I’ve ordered XYZ number of boxes from 24 over the years and each has been better than the last.  For whatever reason, I had this one box that I got a couple years back that has always stuck out.  When it was new, it never had the sheen.  It had some green spots on the wrappers.  For whatever reason, this box got smashed with the ugly stick.  I’ll admit, it’s first use was what I handed out to folks who came over who really wanted to try a Cuban cigar but stated they don’t really like cigars ( so sue me - I didn’t fork over the Cohibas).

Here’s the thing.  I had my first from the box at some point last year and I’ll be darned - it was fabulous.  The box still needs time and I would guess there are still about 40 left.  But boy oh boy does it deliver.  Not the prettiest but might mighty tasty.  

First half.  Ignoring the cracked wrapper, this one was actually not the ugliest.  Some small green spots still showing.  Draw is perfect.  The front half of this PLPC has started its turn to caramel city.  There is still plenty of elbow and funk but it’s starting to settle down nicely.  Smoke production is great.

Second half.  This cigar is almost there.  I’d say in one year or 18 months, perfection.  The end has some strength and acridity but that’s to be expected as it’s barely two years old and I generally don’t expect much from these until 3-4.

Paired with a Manhattan.  It was a good pairing because it brought out the caramel sweetness in the first half but a gin martini would have been better in the second, to stand against some of the tannin.  

Right now I’d give the cigar an 88 but in two years it will be a solid 92.  They ain’t much to look at, but Pres knows how to pick the winners.