EDRM Kon Tiki Cab #980/1200, LGR SEP (ATWSSRW) 19

[teamrandr]

I try to go into any cigar experience with as little expectations as possible.   It seems to help to be "in the moment."  I will admit I am going into this kind of expecting disappointment.   I love a good rare cigar or a beautiful super aged stick.  However I have had some expensive disappointments.  So with that said here we go.
  Honestly it's not that attractive for the price tag.  The wrapper is average in terms of the eye appeal.    It feels a bit firm and this gives me a bit of anxiety.   All that said it is a beautiful May afternoon in Michigan.  When you get nice weather here you smoke something larger.  
  Aroma at cold is outstanding.   Deep Havana tobacco, some cocoa and baking spices all there. 
Initial draws are tight.  Light cedar with a note of nuts.   Draws have opened up a bitter.  As it progresses I am pleased.   Rich roasted nuts with a bitterness that matches a very good esspresso shot. 
2/3
10/10 for progression of flavor so far.  A broad spectrum is noted.  Cinnamon, clove, roasted nuts, toffee/caramel, slight citrus. Draws are now spot on. The retrohale has bite.  It highlights the bitter esspresso notes.  Touch of black pepper.  The back end leaves a butterscotch/peanut brittle lingering on the palate. 
Half way
Burn line has been less than perfect.  A few touch ups have been required.   A vanilla note appears and is welcomed.   It seems like it almost flows straight into the burned caramel/peanut brittle flavors that are frankly blowing my mind.  As this cigar progresses I appreciate the blend and the way it all works together.  
Final 3rd
Overall the main player is a close to being burned toffee/ caramel note.  The black pepper spice is only noted on the retrohale.  Quite a bit of bite.  Which contrasts to the smooth character of the smoke.  As it moves towards the nub the flavor gets deep.  Super rich espresso notes,  wood, spice, toffee, nuts, vanilla, orange/citrus.
Wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon. 

Score: 95
Marked it down a few points for the burn line and the tight draws in the open. 

I went into this cigar expecting to be let down.  This cigar delivered a wonderful blend of flavors that led to a great cigar experience.    Worth having  a few around in my opinion. 


 

[Islandboy]

Nice review...of a really good cigar imo. Got a fiver when they came out, only have one left because I couldn’t keep my hands off of them.  

[godpheonix]

Good thing a got me self a cab! excellent news indeed!!!

Thanks for the review!

[Walter19]

Nice review!

[ohbob976]

great review. the Tikis ive smoked have also been mind blowing. exceeds the hype and expectations every time.

[Kaptain Karl]

Great review! I hope the Tainos get this good!! I can’t imagine how much these will go for in 5 years 😳