They hype says this is a small batch offering from Pete Johnson to be made "in small quantities here and there". Currently only available in a pig-tail ancero, this has been a somewhat HTF stick. It appears that vendors are starting to get a better supply, but when I wanted to try them I couldn't find them anywhere. However, I was able to obtain a few from StinkiMonki, who has been my source of a number of cigars that have become my favorites, such as the Illusione line and several of the Padilla's.
The pre-draw was easy and inspection of the foot showed a tight (but not too tight) construction. The aroma of the unlit cigar was wheat-like and once lit the smoke was rich but not overpowering.
I usually prefer a larger gauge cigar, so I was a bit apprehensive about the lancero size thinking it might burn too hot for my taste. I have to say the El Triunfador burned relatively cool from start to finish and maintained a nice slow and even burn. The light gray ash dropped off about every 3/4 inch or so. There was a bit of a bergomet-like taste (the slightly perfumey spice that's in Earl Grey tea), but the flavor suited me just fine and had nary a hint of bitterness or harshness. It stayed constant throughout, which was OK..although I prefer the subtle flavor transitions of cigars such as the Illusione line and was hoping the El Triunfador might offer a similar journey. No matter. It was still a pleasant smoke that I took down to the nub in about an hour's time.
Based on my first experience with the lancero, I'm hoping Pete will expand the line into other sizes. It was definitely a quality smoke and one that I might even be inclined to buy by the box to put into my regular rotation.
The pre-draw was easy and inspection of the foot showed a tight (but not too tight) construction. The aroma of the unlit cigar was wheat-like and once lit the smoke was rich but not overpowering.
I usually prefer a larger gauge cigar, so I was a bit apprehensive about the lancero size thinking it might burn too hot for my taste. I have to say the El Triunfador burned relatively cool from start to finish and maintained a nice slow and even burn. The light gray ash dropped off about every 3/4 inch or so. There was a bit of a bergomet-like taste (the slightly perfumey spice that's in Earl Grey tea), but the flavor suited me just fine and had nary a hint of bitterness or harshness. It stayed constant throughout, which was OK..although I prefer the subtle flavor transitions of cigars such as the Illusione line and was hoping the El Triunfador might offer a similar journey. No matter. It was still a pleasant smoke that I took down to the nub in about an hour's time.
Based on my first experience with the lancero, I'm hoping Pete will expand the line into other sizes. It was definitely a quality smoke and one that I might even be inclined to buy by the box to put into my regular rotation.
