Serie Du Connoisseur #3

[raney]

Box Code OSU ABR 03

I am NOT very proficient at reviewing, and have only been smoking habanos for about a year so i would welcome any feedback on my review style. My ability to name what I'm tasting is in its infancy, so please take this review with a grain of salt.

The setting: In-laws are visiting Cez Raney this week, so I've been finding a lot of excuses to take long drives and smoke a cigar. Tonight, it turns out the best place to get take-out for dinner was 30 minutes away (my suggestion - silly me )

The SdC # 3 is not the most beautiful cigar I've ever seen, but the smell is absolutely to die for. I clipped the head and tested the draw - spot on, with just enough resistance. I knew form the moment I toasted the foot that I'd made the right choice.

First third is extremely rich with the classic peppery partagas flavor - I can identify it by the sharp and spicy sensation in the nose. Similar to much of the partagas line, but much subtler and more subdued than, say, a Short or 898V. The first third is characterized mainly by this sensation floating over top of a classic taste of roasted nuts. Just a lovely sensation. Second third settles down a bit more (I speculate that this is due to my tastebuds and sinuses acclimatizing to the smoke, but what do I know?) and opens up into a greater depth of the nutty undertone. I'm admiring the way a cigar can occupy so much of my attention, the flavors dancing around like the equivalent of a laser-light show of aroma.

Then as I get to the final third, out of nowhere (like a bass drum kicking in) comes a wave of pure cocoa that reminds me of a Monte Joyita more than anythign else. It is sublime.

I get home just as I get to the last inch. I consider staying outside to smoke the last bits of the cigar, but decide to quit on a high note instead (there is nothing I hate more than overstaying my welcome, and finishing a great cigar with a mouthful of tarry smoke.

This is a cigar that rewards patience and a relaxed demeanor, and delivers what I smoke habanos for in spades. Just a spectacular cigar, and while I have had better they are few and generally much more expensive.

On a 100 point scale, I'd give it a 92

[SuperT]

Sounds divine! I love the Partagas profile that offers some spice, but seems to end in the manner in which you reviewed.

Mmmmmm, I may have to pick up a box. . .

Thanks Raney!

[Tampa1257]

Very nice review! The Partagás Serie du Connaisseur No.3 is absolutely one of my favorites. It is classical with the sweet Partagás peppery spiciness, richly toned with earth and leather notes, I have tasted a touch of citrus and sea salt it them as well. Complex and a thick chewy volume of smoke that fills your mouth and like you stated, dances on your palate. A stellar cigar that IMHO every Habanos smoker should try. Which reminds me that as soon as possible, I need to acquire another box.

[Colt45]

Nice review!

[shrink]

Tampa wrote: "Which reminds me that as soon as possible, I need to acquire another box."

Yeah, you need to be reminded to get another box of cigars, like my wife needs to be reminded to buy another pair of shoes. Gimmee a break!

I don't like these cigars. They will be the death of me...

[Elric]

The SdC have that "old" Habanos flavor IMO. Not as heavy as the Part corona or Sel. Privada and VERY enjoyable. A must have stick.

[cigarnv]

Very nice review!! This is a cigar I have never tried but it is on the upcoming buy list.... just moved up in priority due to this review!!

[1f1fan]

Very nice review...sounds like a great complex cigar. I've only had a few...need to move these back on top of the list.

[Ginseng]

Wow. I've been hungering after the SdC for some time and now I am even more tantalized. Thanks for the delightful review.

Wilkey

[The Privateer]

Great review....if you like these then try the SdC 2 or 1. They are even better imho, and last longer too

[Mel]

» Great review....if you like these then try the SdC 2 or 1. They are even

» better imho, and last longer too

I am going to smoke a SdC 1 tonight but I should try the other two. Good idea mate.

[Loki]

Raney

Your review makes me want to buy a box. Great review.

As good as most if not better.