2015 Edicion Regional Libano Ramon Allones Phoenicia 35 (47+RW)

[maverickdrinker]

 

The wrapper is a leathered, deep chestnut hue. Very smooth to the touch. No apparent veins. Construction is a little concerning. Very firm with little give when squeezed. Could lead to draw issues. The rounded triple cap looks good and the foot is very packed. Aromas of barnyard, mocha, earth and mushrooms emanate from the wrapper.

 

A quick twist from my Siglo multi punch and we are ready for action. The draw is firm. The concerns grow about how this will burn. Only one way to find out. Cocoa, earth, leather and a touch of stewed fruit come from the cold draw.

 

First Third

Very rich to start. Expresso, leather, earth and touches of stewed fruit and floral notes start off the journey. Strength is at the upper end of medium bodied.

 

The retrohale is fulsome. Muscular layers of expresso, earth, cedar and leather move assertively through the nasal passages.

 

The after finish is quite robust. Expresso, earth, cedar and leather form the core flavour profile, accented by stewed fruit, floral notes and a touch of oolong tea. Heavy and expansive on the palate. Will smoke this slowly to respect the flavour profile.

 

Second Third

The ash is sturdy as we enter the second third. Eucalyptus sneaks into the flavour profile and the strength level moves into medium bodied level. Cedar, earth, expresso and eucalyptus move seamlessly through the nasal passages.

 

The after finish is cloying and sleek. Cedar, earth, eucalyptus and expresso lead the way. Stewed fruit, leather, floral notes and oolong tea follow suit. Rich and expansive on the palate with good depth of complexity. Long lasting on the palate.

 

Final Third

The ash holds steady into the final third. Only one break point so far. Strength picks up again, bordering on full bodied. The retrohale continues to be lush and rich. Cedar, expresso, eucalyptus and leather move boldly through the nasal passages.

 

The after finish sees floral notes and oolong tea increase its exposure while stewed fruit decides to leave the party early. Cedar, expresso, eucalyptus and earth lead the way. Floral notes, oolong tea and leather fill out the back end. Richer and heavier on the palate. Increase in strength level makes the flavours a little unbearable. Makes a lasting impression before fading away...

 

Final Impressions

This is still very powerful and can benefit from additional time in slumber. Richer flavours dominate while the more delicate flavours need time to become a larger part of the overall flavour profile. Would round out things and lead to a better experience. If you like rich, strong cigars, smoke this now. If you have patience to see a cigar further evolve, give this time to come together...

 

 

 

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