Among Romeo’s wide array of vitolas, the Exhibicion no.3, and no.4 can be seen as two gradients that fall between the petit corona and robusto size. Just as the exhibitions may be overshadowed by these two benchmark sizes in the Cuban cigar world, their unusual dimensions have earned them a cult following. Following the general trend towards thicker gauge cigars, the 46 x 143mm, Exhibicion no.3 was phased out in 2013 leaving it’s wider gauge sibling, the no.4 in regular production.
On a day with news of an impending global pandemic on the horizon, the only rational response (of course) is to reach for a cigar. Dusting off an old box of Romeo Exhibicion No.3s, it was a good of a time as any, to transport myself sensorially and once again re-acquaint myself with the 2009 crop of the Vuelta Abajo.
Upon opening the box, the standards were set high. The distinct smell of age on the box was profuse, a sweet barnyard aroma melding with hints of mahogany. On the cold draw of a particularly appealing Colorado-maduro Exhibicion no.3, notes of toffee and baking spices were predominant, with a very subtle hint of salt.
First Third: A strong dark espresso texture is front and center upon the first puffs. Notes of leather and cocoa powder accompany a deep flavor that balms your mouth. This full-bodied character is not accompanied by any spice or harshness, and maintains a rounded mouth feel.
Second Third: The baking spice notes hinted at with the cold draw are introduced just past the first third of the cigar. The perceptible sweetness is tangy, a dominant marzipan note that gradually evolved into faint licorice as the cigar started to pick up in strength.
Last Third: With each additional puff, the cigar incrementally gained strength, balancing a roasted nuts and charred cereals feel at the back of the mouth that only intensified following the retro-inhale. The intensity of the last few centimeters of this cigar had to be mitigated by the sweetness of a glass of Calvados in hand.
