Montecristo A unknown code (OYMRW2)

[dominattorney]

I got 5 of these ages ago. Gave one away. I think the guy I gave it to left it in his garage for 6 days before smoking it. His review was that it burned too fast. Go figure. 

I was excited to finally burn one and a cancelled court appearance on Monday afternoon gave me the perfect opportunity. Unfortunately my phone died in the midst of the review so all I have is the first photograph. 

The draw seemed perfect. Aroma at cold was a bit salty, which usually bodes well for a good smoke. First few inches were very mild with just a few whisps of smoke. Predominant flavor was espresso and cream, with some salt on the retrohale. Enjoyable. Construction was perfect. 

Not too much evolution in this one. Just a steady build up of espresso intensity into the second third when some bitter chocolate entered, slowly transitioned into sweet, yest slightly salty milk chocolate. And then faded back into intense espresso. 

Final third was interesting. Got the hint of bitter dark chocolate that slowly built up until it dominated the flavor profile at 3 inches left on the cigar. Very pleasant indeed. 

Cigar went out at about 2 inches and I decided not to reliant it. Nicotine hit was getting absurd. Total smoking time was 2 hours 30 minutes. 

I enjoyed this smoke, but I must say I wouldn't go deep on them. It must have been 5 6 years since I bought this 5 count box and it was the first opportunity I had to light one up. That being said, it would be a pity to completely run out. 

[Corylax18]

I've got 3 or 4 of these left from a purchase a few years back. I haven't smoked one in a while but I remember them being similar to what you described. You would think a cigar this big would only improve with Age, but I think recent batches are probably most vibrant in before the 5-7 year mark. I need to pull another one out soon.

[dominattorney]

8 minutes ago, Corylax18 said:

I've got 3 or 4 of these left from a purchase a few years back. I haven't smoked one in a while but I remember them being similar to what you described. You would think a cigar this big would only improve with Age, but I think recent batches are probably most vibrant in before the 5-7 year mark. I need to pull another one out soon.

I think that they might be in the sweet spot now. I wanna say mine were 2014 to 2016 thereabouts. It lacked complexity but was fundamentally pleasant the whole way. 

[Corylax18]

1 hour ago, dominattorney said:

I think that they might be in the sweet spot now. I wanna say mine were 2014 to 2016 thereabouts. It lacked complexity but was fundamentally pleasant the whole way. 

Same Here. Agreed.

[BrightonCorgi]

It's a newer one with that band.

[Chas.Alpha]

I bought a 5 coffin box of these a couple of years ago with the self-promise that I wouldn't smoke one until the Vikings are in the Super Bowl. Odd are that these will be one of the oldest cigars on BR come 2047! 

[dominattorney]

1 hour ago, BrightonCorgi said:

It's a newer one with that band.

When did the bands switch? I'm terrible at record keeping. The only reason I think I know the date is because I remember where I was living when I ordered them in 2424.

 

[SCgarman]

1 hour ago, Chas.Alpha said:

I bought a 5 coffin box of these a couple of years ago with the self-promise that I wouldn't smoke one until the Vikings are in the Super Bowl. Odd are that these will be one of the oldest cigars on BR come 2047! 

Yeah, unfortunately your wait for the Vikings will no doubt be a long one. Those will be some well aged cigars!

[Chas.Alpha]

5 hours ago, dominattorney said:

When did the bands switch? I'm terrible at record keeping. The only reason I think I know the date is because I remember where I was living when I ordered them in 2424.

 

I’m certain there will be an expert response, but I seem to remember the glossy bands around 2015-16?

[Corylax18]

5 hours ago, dominattorney said:

When did the bands switch? I'm terrible at record keeping. The only reason I think I know the date is because I remember where I was living when I ordered them in 2424.

 

Most of the transition happened in 12/13, but I've seen the rare box as late as mid 2015. 

[BrightonCorgi]

Finding the 25's with the newer band are pretty rare.  Most were in the coffins at that point. 

[JohnS]

5 minutes ago, BrightonCorgi said:

Finding the 25's with the newer band are pretty rare.  Most were in the coffins at that point. 

True. The 25 count offerings were discontinued in 2010.