The Disciple Packs A Punch

Cigar Reviewed: Rocky Patel Disciple

Smoked at: Pass Christian, Mississippi

Rocky Patel Disciple (Corona 5x50) – Review

Smoked at Pass Cigars, Pass Christian, MS

I lit up a Rocky Patel Disciple yesterday on the front porch of Pass Cigars in beautiful Pass Christian, Mississippi. Good weather, good company, and what I hoped would be a good cigar. I was a little uneasy, though. Fourteen bucks for a corona? It had better impress.

From the very first draw, the Disciple came out swinging. That Mexican San Andrés wrapper delivered a bold, pepper-heavy hit right away. There was no build-up. No slow burn. Just an instant reminder that this stick wasn’t playing games. Honestly, I found myself looking sideways a few times, wondering if the seasoned smokers around me were catching on that I was fighting for control in the first third.

The strength surprised me. Stronger than I expected in this vitola. I had to balance it with a caramel hard candy just to settle things down. I caught a solid nicotine buzz early and had to pace myself. It wasn’t a bad cigar by any means but it was definitely the wrong time. I’d gone in with a Diet Coke and a sweet which is like bringing a paper towel to a knife fight. This cigar begged for a heavy meal beforehand. Steak. Potatoes. Something hearty to stand up to that power.

Flavor-wise it was consistent throughout. After the initial pepper rush, I caught espresso which slowly gave way to darker cocoa and a touch of black licorice toward the end. Not my favorite note but it somehow worked here. Not sweet. Not smooth. Just bold. A little rugged. Maybe even overbearing if you’re not prepared.

By the final third I was holding my own but it wasn’t effortless. I finished strong but I had to work for it. The Disciple is not a laid-back porch cigar. It is a statement piece. Better suited to evenings when you’ve earned it. I’ve got another one resting in the humidor and I’m hoping a little time out of the cellophane will mellow it just enough to let the deeper flavors shine.

Verdict:

A bold, pepper-heavy cigar with some hidden depth. Best reserved for after a full meal. Not one I’d reach for on an empty stomach but when the time is right it’s a ride worth taking.

Final thought:

The Disciple didn’t disappoint but next time I’ll come better prepared.