Ramon Allones Small Club Corona JUL 07

[Guest rob]

The Pres made this recommendation to me (he actually made 3 recommendations... and I went with this one) when I was seeking a cigar that met the following criteria:

* It had to be able to be smoked in 20 - 30 mins. (busier days and shorter hours for relaxing has forced my hand)

* I preferred fuller/medium bodied and fuller flavoured. (it needed to satisfy... not leaving me wanting for more)

* Priced well. (I hate small cigars that cost an arm and a leg... I feel like I've just been had when I spend the same amount on a small smoke when I can buy a premium 2 hour smoke for the same price)

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These cigars present themselves beautifully when you open the box. Construction is fantastic with a remarkably high quality, appropriately oily wrapper on a cigar of this lowish pricepoint. The aroma is subtle yet clean. Tobacco with perhaps a hint of cocoa.

After clipping the prelight draw is on the firmer side of perfect. I put this down to the smaller ring guage. Either way, I'm sure it's not going to be a problem. The prelight taste is (to my tastebuds) clean tobacco.

The cigar rested for 3 weeks at 62% - 63% and it takes to a flame very well. I'm actually quite surprised how much smoke comes off the foot even before I draw on the cigar.

The first tastes are firm and full. But not strong. It's exactly what I am looking for in this 30 minute quick smoke.

Throughout the cigar's length, the flavours aren't complex... but they are pleasant and enjoyable.

The burn was great and the smoke volume plentiful. The ash did "cone" more than most cc's... I did find that odd.

I went ahead gladly and lit another 2 hours later

All in all, thoroughly recommended. Well above Cohiba Siglo 1 in my opinion.