Sancho Panza Belicoso ~2000 (SRWJun25)

[Montezüma]

Its been a while since my last pointy-tipped Cuban. I believe my latest was a Montecristo No. 2, one thing I can be certain of however, is that this Belicoso would be my first ever Sancho Panza. A marca not easy to come by for me and am pleased to finally give one a go. To add to the occasion, this would also be my most vintage cigar at a classy 25 years of age.

Fairly secretive at cold draw, which is consistent with my experience with vintage cigars, albeit a limited one at that. This SP Belicoso proved to be an easy-going smoke upon lighting, plenty of draw signalling credible construction. Pleased to be welcomed by enjoyable flavours in the 1st third of what I found to be an interesting combination of salted chocolate and roasted nuts. No latté though and with its plentiful smoke, a slight dryness of the cigar has come through its channels. Fortunately, zero harshness, none whatsoever, a very smooth smoke.

The 2nd third amplified in intensity. Its complexity began to flourish under the same baseline notes but this time with cream puff and smooth honey, the kind that doesn’t tingle one’s taste buds. I recall a recent exploration of honey profiles here at FOH and I can confirm such tastes can be found in this Belicoso. To my surprise, there was no real notion of leather as the sommelier had initially described during selection.

The final third remains medium-bodied, solid in its ability to maintain consistent strength, one that is almost light-weight. If I may provide an amateur’s observation, I dare say that this SP Belicoso is Montecristo No. 2’s distant cousin. Different surnames, different character but somehow related in DNA. Its Cuban characteristics is very much subdued, not muted but significantly relaxed. Perhaps this is the wisdom of age. I am now very keen on trying a younger Sancho Panza.

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P.S. This cigar was from the year 2000 and my millennium celebration was in a casino in Perth, Australia. Sad, I know. - Where was yours?

[SCgarman]

No "leather" in a SP belicoso. I typically get sea salt, wood, and a bit of coffee/cream. The marca is very polarizing as some worship these cigars and some despise them. I have a few left in a 2020 box. About 5 have been utterly plugged tent poles. The others have been very good. 

[Lucas Buck]

One of my favorites. Thanks for the review!

[teamrandr]

Sommelier....