Wrapper: Mexican San Andres
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan, Peruvian
Vitola: Toro (6 ½ x 50)
Purchase Link: A.C.E. Prime M.X.S. Adrian Gonzalez
M.X.S. ADRIAN GONZALEZ REVIEW – CALIFORNIA
Summary: Oh baby! Spicy chocolate kicks things off. With full confidence, I pocket my lighter because this cigar knows how to burn. Maple sweetness and wheat join the starting lineup. Green pepper peeks in here and there just before the half.
The flavor train keeps on chuggin’ along in the back nine. I feel like raisins has negative connotation attributed to it but let me assure you that this tastes like raisins in a good way. This cigar hits for the cycle with umami richness in its final at-bat. Swanky smoke.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: Michelin star restaurants.
Pairing Suggestion: Stout.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Box.
M.X.S. ADRIAN GONZALEZ REVIEW – WISCONSIN
Summary: This cigar looks a bit odd right out of the gate, with a cap that is much darker than the wrapper. While that's a bit bizarre, it turned out to be one of the only flaws in the cigar.
Flavors begin with cream, pepper, almond, and smoked meat. The aroma is like a campfire. As it moves along, it adds little bit of sourness and a little bit of sweetness for an interesting combination. Continuing along, we take a turn toward cocoa and espresso notes. Brown sugar joins the party.
Construction-wise, the draw was right on point and the burn didn't require any effort to maintain nicely.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: Not judging books based on their cover.
Pairing Suggestion: Rum.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Five pack.
M.X.S. ADRIAN GONZALEZ REVIEW – OREGON
Summary: This is a firmly packed, Toro sized cigar with a smooth wrapper presenting an even, brown tone across the whole surface. Getting a slight vegetal scent from the wrapper. The cold draw is laden with very rich tobacco notes and a smooth nuttiness.
Things are starting off with a little bit of the vegetal note that I smelled on the wrapper as it presents on the palate as well. I am also tasting some cocoa and mild wood notes as well. A bit further in, I’m hit with a mix of mild pepper, oak, some green apple and a hint of baking spices. Unfortunately, this early section is featuring very light smoke and it feels like it’s always on the verge of going out. On the other hand, it’s sporting a proper solid ash!
The middle is, in a word, superb. Mild, sweet wood notes with nuttiness and coffee rounding out the mix. It’s complex, but not overly. It’s straight forward, but not too simple. The smoke production is definitely better, and the burn remains absolutely perfect. The retro hale is also smooth and mild, void of heat or harshness. This could be an entry level cigar you hand to the newbie and I believe they’d thank you.
Say it isn’t so! Tunnel right at the start of the final third which is quickly taking its toll on the flavors. A bit further in and we’re redeemed! Smooth wood notes with a mild pepper finish is complimented with hints of black tea and walnut. Mighty nice.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: Watching a comeback win by your favorite team.
Pairing Suggestion: Iced coffee.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Five pack.
Participants in this blind review were completely unaware of the cigar they were evaluating until all submissions were received and processed. Each participant was asked to answer a summary paragraph, an if/than statement, a pairing suggestion, and a purchase suggestion. Cigars were provided by Small Batch with only the expectations of candid responses. All pictures, information, and formatting were completed by a Coordinator outside of the reviewing process.
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