Monte #5; FEB 07

[Van55]

Pre-light: Beautiful darkish wrapper and perfect triple cap. No veins or flaws. Draw was a bit tight for my preference, but smokable. Un-lit taste was unremarkable.

First 1/3: The tightish draw negatively impacted the volume of smoke. The ash was solid and medium gray. Nice strength through the nose. Decent, but not complex or interesting flavors.

Second 1/3: More of the same. Uninspiring. For the size, I much prefer and wish I were smoking a RASCC or an El Principe.

Final 1/3: This cigar remained decent, if unremarkable. I was unable to discern any distinct undertones, other than straight-forward Cuban tobacco. In fairness, it was my second cigar of the evening, accompanied by a rather interesting Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Mourvedre.

Conclusion: Three smoke rings. I have had MUCH better Monte #5's than this example. I hope it was just a mediocre cigar from a better box, but I don't predict that with any confidence.

[bassman]

» Conclusion: Three smoke rings. I have had MUCH better Monte #5's than

» this example. I hope it was just a mediocre cigar from a better box, but

» I don't predict that with any confidence.

There's always hope! I recently opened a box of 10 2007 MC#3s. The first out of the box was horrid- harsh & nasty tasting. A week later, the second cigar from the same box was delicious.

[El Presidente]

I have had a few like this Van. You already know it but dry box the next for a few days and see what difference it makes.

Let us know ;-)