San Cristobal Harimau Malaya RAT MAY 21 (SSSRW)

[pohlmad]

I was excited for this weekend’s review because it gave me an excuse to smoke my first San Cristobal de la Habana Harimau Malaya, a Malaysian Regional.  I purchased this box from FOH 24:24.  The size reminds me of the RyJ Wide Churchill and I chose a v-cut.  Upon cold draw it was good flow, not too tight or loose and I was reminded of the candy, Milk Duds.  I paired this with a Great Lakes Hazecraft IPA. 

First 1/3:  Upon lighting it is clear this could use more time to be in its prime.  It starts off bold with plenty of good smoke production.  The smoke is plentiful but a thin smoke.  I got malt chocolate flavors like a chocolate shake.  The burn has started to run a little bit down one side.

Second 1/3:  I’m impressed with the nice white/light gray ash.  Flavors have now started to turn more towards a German chocolate cake.  My IPA pairing Jouve was a bad one.  I would recommend a good porter or stout to pair with this rich cigar.  The running of the burn has corrected itself, however, the cigar started swelling up in a spot.  Thankfully, it didn’t break or explode and I was able to smoke right through it. 
 

Final 1/3: This was by far the best 1/3.  All the youth I tasted earlier has disappeared, the smoke production became more thick and dense.  Also, the flavors changed completely and I kept tasting a bit of chocolate with a salty potato chip.  It was extremely unique and wonderful!  
 

I’m hopeful that with more time, the first two 1/3’s will come around like the last third and am thankful I had such a fun experience.  Very rich cigar with lots of desert flavors.  Great after dinner cigar.  Thanks FOH!!

[KCCubano]

Nice review. From others I have heard needs significantly more down time. My box will sleep for several more years