Illusione Epernay 2009
Size: 4 1/2" x 44 rg Petite Corona
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Corojo
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium
A couple months ago I decided to stop into a B&M that I used to shop at fairly often prior to moving out of the area, as I happened to be nearby while running around with my buddy Shant. While there, I noticed that the shelves held a few new lines such as Liga Privada, Tatuaje, and Illusione, so naturally I took it as a chance to snatch up a few things I normally didn't have access to outside of ordering online or via phone. One such cigar was the newish Illusione Epernay series that I had read quite a bit about, but had not had the opportunity to sample. I decided on a shorter smoke, and thus chose the Petite Corona. This morning I woke up a little earlier than usual and noticed that the rain hadn't quite come yet, aside from a brief five minute sheer downpour that reminded me of someone turning on a shower head in that it wasn't raining one second, and then the next it was instantly pouring. Once that brief madness had subsided as quickly as it had started, I took that as a chance to make a quick breakfast, brew up a batch of Killer Beans (thanks Jerry!), grab the Epernay and head outside.
Pre-Light
I would have to venture to say that Illusione cigars are among some of the better rolled cigars out there, possibly even reaching the same level as Fuente or DPG's. I imagine in a few more years as the brand matures even further that quality will continue to improve, at least I hope so. The construction is spot on, featuring a beautiful wrapper that has very thin veins throughout, is silky to the touch with plenty of oils, and has a color that reminds me of worn leather. The cap is the one area that is flawed, even if very minor in that it isn't perfect, but hell, this is a hand made product and perfection, while something to strive for, is incredibly difficult to achieve. The foot redeems the cap in that it is perfectly bunched and, along with the nice springy feel in the squeeze test, lends itself to suggest that the draw will be spot on.
Draw & Burn
As suspected, once the head is punched I find a perfect cold draw that has just the right amount of resistance that upon being lit, stays consistent throughout the duration of the smoke. The burn was razor sharp despite the high humidity outside and strong breeze, leaving behind a dark gray, almost Cuban-like ash that held strong until tapped off at the inch mark.
Flavor Profile
The initial cold draw was of delicious tobacco with a subtle sweetness that, once lit, revealed a creamy body with a light tobacco taste complimented by that same subtle sweetness and mild coffee. Once I reached an inch in, the flavors opened up suddenly, kicking the tobacco taste to a full, rich level and brought out the coffee notes nicely. I picked up hints of raw almonds and cedar, altogether providing for a very nice mix of flavors that was very pleasing to the palate.
Overall Impression
As a morning smoke, this cigar excelled as it was a perfect medium strength, full body, and went nicely with a hot mug of great coffee. A wee bit on the pricier side, I still could see myself picking up a 50 cab of these for moments like today that call for a great, short smoke. I do enjoy the Illusione line, and the Epernay is an excellent addition that will only add to its appeal.
Size: 4 1/2" x 44 rg Petite Corona
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Corojo
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium
A couple months ago I decided to stop into a B&M that I used to shop at fairly often prior to moving out of the area, as I happened to be nearby while running around with my buddy Shant. While there, I noticed that the shelves held a few new lines such as Liga Privada, Tatuaje, and Illusione, so naturally I took it as a chance to snatch up a few things I normally didn't have access to outside of ordering online or via phone. One such cigar was the newish Illusione Epernay series that I had read quite a bit about, but had not had the opportunity to sample. I decided on a shorter smoke, and thus chose the Petite Corona. This morning I woke up a little earlier than usual and noticed that the rain hadn't quite come yet, aside from a brief five minute sheer downpour that reminded me of someone turning on a shower head in that it wasn't raining one second, and then the next it was instantly pouring. Once that brief madness had subsided as quickly as it had started, I took that as a chance to make a quick breakfast, brew up a batch of Killer Beans (thanks Jerry!), grab the Epernay and head outside.
Pre-Light
I would have to venture to say that Illusione cigars are among some of the better rolled cigars out there, possibly even reaching the same level as Fuente or DPG's. I imagine in a few more years as the brand matures even further that quality will continue to improve, at least I hope so. The construction is spot on, featuring a beautiful wrapper that has very thin veins throughout, is silky to the touch with plenty of oils, and has a color that reminds me of worn leather. The cap is the one area that is flawed, even if very minor in that it isn't perfect, but hell, this is a hand made product and perfection, while something to strive for, is incredibly difficult to achieve. The foot redeems the cap in that it is perfectly bunched and, along with the nice springy feel in the squeeze test, lends itself to suggest that the draw will be spot on.
Draw & Burn
As suspected, once the head is punched I find a perfect cold draw that has just the right amount of resistance that upon being lit, stays consistent throughout the duration of the smoke. The burn was razor sharp despite the high humidity outside and strong breeze, leaving behind a dark gray, almost Cuban-like ash that held strong until tapped off at the inch mark.
Flavor Profile
The initial cold draw was of delicious tobacco with a subtle sweetness that, once lit, revealed a creamy body with a light tobacco taste complimented by that same subtle sweetness and mild coffee. Once I reached an inch in, the flavors opened up suddenly, kicking the tobacco taste to a full, rich level and brought out the coffee notes nicely. I picked up hints of raw almonds and cedar, altogether providing for a very nice mix of flavors that was very pleasing to the palate.
Overall Impression
As a morning smoke, this cigar excelled as it was a perfect medium strength, full body, and went nicely with a hot mug of great coffee. A wee bit on the pricier side, I still could see myself picking up a 50 cab of these for moments like today that call for a great, short smoke. I do enjoy the Illusione line, and the Epernay is an excellent addition that will only add to its appeal.
