'05 Montecristo Especial #2

[dulaney22]

I received this cigar as a tag-along to another purchase several months back. This afternoon, I had opened the desktop one to many times and passed over this little beauty. This time, I couldn't resist.

The smoke sported a reddish-brown wrapper that was a touch oily and slightly veiny. Feel was firm and there wasn't much by way of pre-light aroma. A quick clip and I was happy to find a pleasing draw and nice earth and woody tastes. Quickly, this became more toasted tobacco and a nice little peppery spice appeared about an inch in. By the end of the first third, notes of vanilla bean appeared, followed closely by coffee flavors that would build in strength for the remainder of the smoke. A touch of sweetness ushered out the second third, where the smoke hit its stride . . . classic Monte flavor profile. There were tastes of fruity/citrus twang, along with rich coffee and vanilla. At times, parched nuts would appear to compliment a toasted tobacco finish.

I wouldn't say that I prefer this vitola to the #2, but it's a dang good smoke in its own right. Draw and burn were perfect and I was quite pleased with the complexity and richness of flavors.

[El Presidente]

The Especial #2 is a favourite cigar when rolled correctly. Its gauge doesn't leave too much room for error. A little too tight or a little too loose and the experience can be frustrating. Rolled just right and it is just as you protray