An aged cigar is always a treat and I was excited to smoke this 2008 Montecristo Edmundo. Slightly larger than a robusto (5-1/3” X 52), I find it a perfect size for those who enjoy a robusto size but wish there was just a little more left.
FIRST HALF
Typical of an aged cigar, it has tightened up a bit but once cut, classic Montecristo flavors come through on the cold draw. Black earth and pencil lead are predominant, with a little back note of pure tobacco. Once lit, my Montecristo Edmundo acted like an aged cigar, coming in light and creamy. As it burned I was looking for a little more complexity, but it stayed light and fresh with a floral note to it and an ever faint citrus finish.
SECOND HALF
My fortunes changed on the second half as I struggled to keep the cigar lit for more than a couple of puffs. I tried to do everything to enhance the draw (de-gassing, using a draw enhancer) but to no avail. I wasn’t getting the smoke I wanted to, making me a very unhappy smoker.
The flavor and strength of the cigar went from mild and creamy to overpoweringly floral, to a point where my wife (who isn’t a cigar smoker) noted that the smoke (what very little I could generate at this point) smelled like soap. I finally conceded defeat, and let Edmundo die its own death.
Now I don’t want to turn you off on this cigar. I’ve had similar experiences with Montecristos, but the majority that I’ve had are on point and classic smokes. Don’t let this review dissuade you from procuring a Monte, or an aged cigar for that matter.
You will be rewarded!
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