The creamiest value in the cigar world

Cigar Reviewed: Espinosa Crema Robusto

Smoked at: Pensacola, Florida

Since Eric Espinosa decided to name this cigar the Crema, you would expect it to deliver a creamy smoke and boy does it ever! I was expecting another mild flavorless Connecticut with vanilla and cedar, a little spice and maybe a slightly creamy mouth feel that would dissipate quickly. man did I ever get that one wrong!

Since my cigar inspections follow a logical flow we will follow that here.

1. Construction - The rolling left something to be desired. there were several deep veins and a small separation or two in the wrapper but none of that affected the feel or mechanics of the smoke.

2. Mechanics - The draw was excellent and the rate and uniformity of the burn was flawless. It produced less smoke than I expected given the overall flavor profile but that could be considered a good thing. It wasn’t a steam engine.

3. Strength - Mild but satisfying. I think an experienced smoker would probably want more. But the average Joe would be pleased.

4. Aroma - Here is where we start to separate from the pack. Let us start with the scent of the wrapper and the cold draw. The wrapper was really deep, woodsy, and earthy. A savory scent I didn’t really expect from a light wrapper but not at all unpleasant. The scent of the foot and the cold draw was a real dream and taste of things to come! There was a scent and oh so sweet flavor of molasses and stewed fruit. The smell of a wonderfully aged and fermented virginia pipe tobacco or pack of chewing tobacco. Very sweet and inviting! I don’t believe I have ever gotten that scent from a cigar filler. Yet when I smoked the cigar the flavor profile from that cold draw did not present itself until about half stick.

5. Flavor - The first half was buttery and sweet, with salt notes outlining the tongue and sweet notes settling in the center of the tongue. A savory, butter and cream mouthfeel that went from salty butter and faded into sweet heavy cream where most Connecticuts usually fall off. This one stays with you for like ever! There is a little spice and a small amount of pepper but cream and butter, honey and salted caramel are the predominate flavors overall. A very balance yet extremely nuanced smoke that will challenge your senses. Give this beauty a try you wont be disappointed.