1950's Garcia y Vega Presidents Clear Havana (FreeJul24)

[teamrandr]

First off this is a remarkably large cigar. Especially for the era it was produced. The most popular sizes were often small. This is a whopping 8 and 1/2 inches long by what I would guess to be a 50-52 ring gauge. The cellophane is dark amber from age but not brittle or dry. This cigar has been stored away in its original coffin in cellophane. There is a slight box press. Upon opening I am stunned with a gorgeous wrapper. It still has a shine to it and still has a nice Colorado brown to it. The cigar gives off a pungent old paper smell. This is pretty typical for a cigar this age. Underneath that is a floral/graham honey note. 

 

The opening draws are a little tight. The flavor is muted. Very light and so far just a light graham, almost bread flavor going on. The smoke is very smooth. It does leave a bit of an after taste that is not welcomed. The draws continue to be tight. The opening 3rd is basically light graham. 

 

Second 3rd, I am getting a slight baking spice on the retrohale. Still a light smooth smoke. Draws have opened a bit. Flavors get a little richer. There is a noticeable tobacco flavor now. Some sort of baking spice and the Graham is pretty much gone. I am getting a bit of a charred bread/salty pretzel. 

Final 3rd, holy cow this thing burns forever. The draws are now much better. Also more robust. The final 3rd is by far the best. Slight chocolate and a wood note enter. Very enjoyable now. Wood, tobacco, Graham, salty burned bread, chocolate,  baking spice. As it approaches the nub it gets to be too hot and that's it.

I give it a rating of 'Enjoyable'. A cigar from yesteryear. It was basically a dud until final 3rd and then it came alive. I am glad to have had the opportunity to smoke this artifact. If only Cuban tobacco could be rolled outside of Cuba today. Imagine the possibilities. 

[Puros Y Vino]

Great review. I've had some good luck with 1920's to 50's Clear Havanas. Never saw one in a coffin before. Very cool.

[teamrandr]

  On 7/27/2024 at 7:25 PM, Puros Y Vino said:

Great review.  I've had some good luck with 1920's to 50's Clear Havanas.  Never saw one in a coffin before.  Very cool 

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Thank you! Yes I have had other Garcia y Vega tubos etc. They have been a treat. Also had double claro wrappers. This one was Colorado and just a behemoth for it's day. Also the coffin is quite cool. I don't remember where I saw this but I recall reading that a lot of the best quality filler was getting shipped to the States. Or I just made that up in my head. Either way it is a fascinating point in history. 

[westg]

Great review and pics 🤙thanks