Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Maduro
Binder: Brazilian mata Fina
Filler: Nicaraguan
Vitola: Corona (5 ½ x 46)
Purchase Link: Highclere Castle Victorian
HIGHCLERE CASTLE VICTORIAN REVIEW – CALIFORNIA
Summary: Cedar and black pepper at first light. Corn and a Tootsie Roll mouth feel have me skeptical that this cigar will be in my wheelhouse. I'm getting a grape flavor somewhere between sweet and bitter, kind of like sweet vermouth.
Chocolaty sweetness turns things around in the second third. Herbs.
The final third is singing to me: more chocolate and herbs (sage/spearmint?). Impeccable burn. Vegetal notes and peanuts sneak in towards the end, and at the finish there's a sharp muskiness that reminds me of cheese; it totally works.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: Streaming a mediocre QB in fantasy and having him go off.
Pairing Suggestion: Rye.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Fiver.
HIGHCLERE CASTLE VICTORIAN REVIEW – WISCONSIN
Summary: This cigar brought a nicely-balanced flavor profile that I enjoyed quite a bit. Ample creaminess, chocolate, oak and cedar flavors were complemented by just a bit of sweetness and a little spice on the tongue. The retro hale added an interesting nuttiness. As the cigar progressed, the chocolate note moved toward more of a coffee note. I found it to be interesting, enjoyable, and balanced.
The draw, burn, rate of combustion - everything to do with the construction - was flawless.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: Hot chocolate with a bit of spice to it.
Pairing Suggestion: Coffee.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Box.
HIGHCLERE CASTLE VICTORIAN REVIEW – OREGON
Summary: Purely on the visual aspects I am pretty stoked about the cigar because corona size is my jam and the wrapper on this cigar is relatively dark and has a fair amount of tooth. Also, the cold draw tastes like untoasted raisin bread. Let’s get this fired up.
Starting with toast, charred wood, raisins, a little cocoa powder and just a nod towards some pepper spice. The retro hale is basically the same flavors but more pronounced and a hint of sweetness is added in. Great start.
Middle section is up and is not disappointing at all. More raisins and toast along with a bit of caramelized sugar flavor, cereal grain and a charred wood finish. Digging this cigar.
Last section... warm wood notes, mild tobacco and the addition of earthy flavors all surrounded by a slight sweetness that makes a fantastic mixture. The retro hale is warm, smooth and has a touch of spicy heat to it. Also, foot to finish, excellent construction and smoke production.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: Carefree days with no demands.
Pairing Suggestion: Coffee and sweet cream in the morning.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Box.
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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