Ring Gauge: 39 (110mm x 15.87mm)
Factory Shape: Secretos
Appearance: 8 (a very toothy, very dark wrapper)
Construction: 10 (typical perfectly rolled Cohiba)
Flavor: 10
Value: 8 (very expensive for this sized cigar)
Experience: 10
The wrappers have been aged for 5 years before rolling. These have been in my humidor since 2008. I smoked one the day they arrived and didn't think too much of it. I tucked them away until last year when I stumbled on them looking around the humidor. I was pleased with how it had matured. The draw was flawless and the flavor second to none.
Fast forward to last Saturday. A couple of the guys at the local B&M were discussing the Secretos and the comments weren't complimentary. I added my two cents regarding the benefit of aging these gems. The primary complaint was the draw. This was similar to my observation when I had my first one.
Yesterday, while watching the Daytona Shootout I decided I should try another one to see if it was consistent with my last one a year ago. Simply put this is the best tasting cigar I have ever had the pleasure of smoking. A great draw and very robust. I think the flavor profile of cigars is very subjective and everyone has their preference. For me it's chocolate and coffee and this stick abounds with those notes.
I recently parted with five of them, but I still have plenty left for now. I need to get another box to set aside. If you get the chance and have the patience to let them age, I recommend this gem as part of your special occasion stash.
