I’ll confess, there’s an ulterior motive for today’s Cigar of the Week.  Whereas usually I pick something that I’ve been smoking lately, today’s pick was selected because it’s something that I’ve previously enjoyed and because I’m in the UK this week. 

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to take full advantage of associating cigars with memories of celebration and location.  Rather than reaching for something extremely limited and rare, I’ve found that celebrating with something accessible allows us to feel that nostalgia over and over again throughout the years with cigars that transport us in time.   

For my first day in the UK, I’m commemorating the moment with Davidoff’s Sir Winston Churchill The Late Hour.  Thankfully, there are plenty of places to enjoy a cigar with coffee or a pint here – a complete 180 degree turnabout from my usual situation.  

I’m pairing today’s cigar with a Highball in honor of one of Sir Winston Churchill’s favorite evening drinks.  If you want to read the press release on this cigar, check it out here to see what all went into the making of Davidoff’s latest SWC brand. 

I’ve finally smoked all three vitolas in The Late Hour, and today I’m smoking the Toro.  There’s plenty to enjoy here with leathers, subtle cedar, dried fruit, and baking spices taking the lead early on.  The finish tastes distinctly like espresso towards the end of the first ash as a creamy texture settles in. 

Each time I smoke this, I bounce back and forth on how much I can taste the Speyside influence. Today, I swear it’s noticeable in those fruity undertones that come in and out of existence so fast that it’s hard to nail down.  

Entering the final third, espresso, charred meat, and dark chocolate move to the forefront.  The previously creamy texture dissipates and makes the flavors more vibrant, rowdy, and equally satisfying in their own right. The texture is gritty now, signifying an ending to the previous segments and a hearty send-off to the rest of the day. 

Recommendations

Personally, I find the Robusto to be my favorite expression of this cigar.  It’s a little more flavor forward than the other two vitolas, and seems to be the most dynamic.  The flavor progression is sharper, seemingly more complex, and ends at just the right time to leave you wanting more.  If you’re in it to win it, I’d highly recommend the Robusto size. 

The Toro and Churchill definitely offer more bang for your buck, but also have a lull in the middle that can put you to sleep if you aren’t pairing it with something interesting. But if you’re a value smoker, these sizes are definitely the play if you don’t mind getting creative with the drink choices – and have the free time. 

If you’re new to the Sir Winston Churchill line, I’ve linked a sampler below to get you started.  In it, you’ll find the limited edition Raconteur as well.  Cheers! 

View The Late Hour