Viaje Rise of Claudenstein SBC Exclusive 2023 MAR 21 (FRCM25)

[Tobaccofanatiko]

Yesterday was the last match of the Rugby Union season here in TX and while Saturday's a Rugby day, Sundays are a smoking day for me! Today, being my first review at the encouragement of good friend @Çnote , I have decided to light up this Viaje he had gifted me some weeks ago.

Immediately, I am greeted by delightful toasted vanilla and subtle nuttiness without a hint of bitterness, reminiscent of unsweetened stoved Burley tobacco. I also decided to pour a nice Añejo and a could hardly of chosen a better pair. After a few minutes, the spice of sweet herbs intermingle with the toasty vanilla to form a very familiar taste that lingers like a cane sugar root beer.

This stays much the same but as I get into the middle third, the vanilla has fades and I get more of a rooibos note akin to Irish breakfast tea and the aftertaste a touch stronger spice but still very much like the dark chocolate version of root beer soda. Still smooth approaching last couple inches and nothing much has changed. Very consistent sweet herbs with the root beer aftertaste has lent itself to a most enjoyable smoke.

Last inch! Nuttiness has traded itself for a light ginger bread and hint of kola nut and semi sweet nutmeg...I don't want this thing to end so precede to insert the prongs of ol' nubby tool.

Solid, flavorful smoke all in all, snubbed it down to last 2cm. Unfortunately, this will likely be the first and last I will get to enjoy this smoke as they are hard to come by being a special release; best cigar I have smoked so far this year and definitely in the top 5% I have ever enjoyed. Big thanks to @Çnote for the pleasure.

[El Presidente]

Jero, fantastic catching up with you and Cody earlier today