Smoked: H. Upmann Grand Exhibition

This H. Upmann 6 x 50 Toro was my second-of-four Grand Exhibition cigars of the series. Immediately upon light-up, subtle spicy/sweet notes of nutty caramel and fruit greeted my palate. Cedar and leather also were present in both the first and final third. Flavor transitions throughout the cigar provided an interesting interplay flitting in and out from puff to puff. Retrohales were smooth, smoke production was excellent, and the burn required only one minor touch-up in the final third. It was a delightful medium-full strength smoke.

As you can see, there was an issue with the delicate Connecticut wrapper at the head. I noticed that the V-cut required more pressure than normal which resulted in a crack that gradually expanded slightly as the cigar progressed. However, it did not get to the point where it caused any problems. Whatever the reason for the increased pressure of the cut was inconsequential; the draw was perfect throughout.

Next up is the Montecristo Toro followed by the Romeo y Julieta Toro. I’m in for a treat if they are as good as were both the Gispert and this H. Upmann of this Grand Exhibition series. Stay tuned. Cheers!