Illusione ECCJ corona gorda (XNYRC)

[JoeyBones777]

For those who have seen a number of my posts you know that I am an Illusione fan, particularly Epernay. From my understanding, the eccj is what started Epernay. Epernay is a lighter version eccj void of ligero tobacco and I imagine an additional tweak or two.

First 3rd and the draw is perfect. It is very savory with cedar, pepper, earth and a distinct peaty finish. Not much sweetness to speak of and the smoke is almost a bit dry.

Second 3rd and it is much the same except the scotch like finish has turned to more of a Indian curry finish. It's like a mix of exotic spices, all savory. Still no sweetness. 

Final 3rd it has lost some complexity and is mostly wood, earth and pepper. A hint of floral came and went a couple times.

I wouldn't buy this cigar for myself again tho I found it interesting. The scotch flavor was mouth watering and I imagine where the leather in the Epernay blend comes from. It was less sweet and floral than I was expecting given those being predominate in Epernay. I would rate it an 88. It is well constructed and has some transitions and complexity but I wasn't a fan of the blend as a whole. A little sweetness would have helped quite a bit to heighten the scotch, round out the Indian spices and liven up the final 3rd.

[JoeyBones777]

15 hours ago, VKUTT said:

I agree. I love the Eperney with its delicious sweetness, and was a bit disappointed w this one. There are other Illusiones I like better than this one as well. 

Epernay is my favorite NC blend but I'm a huge fan of Haut 10, Singulare Miserere, Original Documents, Grande Classe and Rothschilds from Illusione.