Punch Super Robusto PCC Regional Release

[shrink]

I first sampled this cigar in early 2007, and was pleased to find that it was very approachable. In this respect, it was similar to it's PCC stablemate, the Ramon Allones Estupendo. Despite it's youth, it was smooth and had a flavor profile that to me was reminiscent of a mild Royal Seleccion No. 11. It was distinctly Punch in profile, and was obviously constructed of superior tobaccos. I thought at the time it would age well.

Sample No. 2 met it's demise tonight. This is a substantial cigar in girth and length, and the wrapper was already showing the oils that had migrated to the surface. Like it's predecessor, it was a masterpiece of construction. When clipped, it had a sweet, fermented aroma, which whetted my appetite.

It lit easily, and drew magnificently. I can only describe the draws as luxuriously dense, with perfect resistance. The mouthfeel was superb; silky and completely free of any immature or tannic elements. The initial flavor profile was surprising to me. It was mild to medium in body, with a distinct twang and delicate sweetness. However, the Punch flavors were, if anything, too subtle for my taste. It had a slightly grassy quality, and an attractive vanilla note that held my attention. The smoke had an elegant, sophisticated quality that was ideal for nasal exhalation, given the subtle nature of the flavors.

So this is how I smoked it, holding each draw to savor the silky mouthfeel and tangy vanilla, and exhaling it nasally to appreciate the delicate, more aromatic aspects of the profile.

As the cigar progressed into mid-game, I found myself comparing the Super Robusto to a well-aged Cohiba, more than to any regular production Punch. Very smooth, very sophisticated, with a perfect balance between an ethereal sweetness, elegant twang, and those enticing vanilla notes.

Unfortunately, I am too steeped in the Punch marca, since I smoke a variety of mature RS 11's, Churchills, and other aged Punch vitolas on a regular basis. In comparison with these flavorful examples, the Super Robusto simply falls short. Just not enough of those fruity, fermented "Punch" flavors for me.

Still, this is a very, very good cigar. And certainly one that will appeal even to those who don't favor the classic Punch profile. One might say that this is a Punch that will please the Cohiba fancier, in particular people who prefer the Siglo VI. Perhaps in another few years, those twangy, fruity flavors that it displayed in it's youth will return. I, for one, surely hope so.

[Sir Diggamus]

Excellent review shrink!

Reading this makes me want to get a few of these to put away.

[Mr.T]

» It was mild to medium in body, with a

» distinct twang and delicate sweetness. However, the Punch flavors were, if

» anything, too subtle for my taste. It had a slightly grassy quality, and

» an attractive vanilla note that held my attention. The smoke had an

» elegant, sophisticated quality that was ideal for nasal exhalation, given

» the subtle nature of the flavors.

»

Thanks for the great review shrink

I smoked one with my father this weekend up at the cabin and we enjoyed it very much. The construction, burn and draw were absolutely first class. They gave off a great aroma which several people noticed. It was an incredibly smooth smoke. In terms of flavor we too noticed the sweetness, twang and notes of vanilla you experienced as well as a touch of grasiness, but despite the grasiness they were very good.

Thanks again

[Guest rob]

Great write up, Sir.

I always appreciate hearing your thoughts and reviews.

[El Presidente]

Marvellous review mate

I have no doubt that with this cigar we are in round 3 of a 10 round bout. There are so many twists and turns yet to come ;-)