LGC Tainos LRE DIC 09 (XNYRC)

[PrairieSmoke]

Decided it was appropriate to burn this cigar on NYE as it just turned 10. 

This is the first Tainos I've had the pleasure of smoking. I received it from a BOTL here on FoH. 

 

After a quick straight cut of the cap the cold draw reveals that thus thing is tight -- like golf ball through a hose tight. I just about threw it back in the humidor to try something else but after a little massage it was clear that the plug was just in the head of the cigar. I grabbed the Perfec Draw to pulled out enough tobacco to get a reasonable draw.

First Third

The cigar lit up beautifully, but I just couldn't get the smoke I wanted. I'd watch the cherry light up, but it just didn't translate to much smoke in the mouth. I must confess I was a little bummed at this point, but I was having a nice time drinking champagne and chatting with my wife on the porch so I decided to power through. I couldn't really describe much in this first third because it was so hard to get enough smoke on the palate.

Second Third
Magically, right around the end of the first third/beginning of the second third the cigar opens up. Smoke production is up and i'm getting buttered popcorn toffee/caramel. I can honestly say I've never had a cigar that were this forward on those tasting notes, but it was delicious. 

Final Third

The flavor profile didn't change much into the second third, just more velvety delivery of that buttery popcorn/toffee/caramel. I'm so glad I didn't toss this cigar. I still don't know why the smoke wasn't coming through in that first third, but it redeemed itself down to the nub.

Happy New Years!