Cuban Crafters Cabinet Selection

I must say that, receiving this box of Cuban Crafters Robusto, I had very high expectations for this cigar. Well, I was not disappointed. On the contrary, my expectations were met and surpassed.

This Robusto from the Tabaclera Esteli in Nicaragua is absolutely beautiful to the sight, so the smoking experience began right when I opened my new box. From the texture of the wrapper, to the pigtail cap and the unfinished, carefully tucked foot, you can immediately tell that a lot of attention has gone into ensuring the quality of the tobacco, the blend, and the rolling. Sadly, this is one of those things that is missing from many Cuban brands these days, although the quality control of Cuban cigars is arguably on the rise. At any rate, you don’t have to inspect this baby too much before you realize the kind of smoking experience you are about to embark on.

Cuban Crafters Cabinet Selection

The wrapper is a wonderful dark natural leaf unlike many others. It is very fine and smooth, and almost marbled with slightly different shades.

The pre-smoke smell of this cigar is bold, full, and reminiscent of dark bitter chocolate with some cedar undertones, but with very little spice; which gives it away as a non-Cuban cigar, from the start.

Cuban Crafters Cabinet Selection

I sat out in the garden with a book (Unfinished Tales, by JRR Tolkien) and my cigar, the way I normally do; but I must say that this cigar quickly became the center of attention and before the end I only read one paragraph of my book. Lighting up was quick, and the burn was even; but what really got my attention was the absolutely opulent, thick, rich smoke this cigar began to emit. I can only compare it to the smoke of a Cuban Ramon Allones SSR, although the smoke did not have the spice that is typical of Cuban cigars. None the less, the smoke was rich, and so thick you could almost cut it with a knife. The ash was as solid as I have ever seen, going well past half the length of the cigar before falling off. I was impressed.

Cuban Crafters Cabinet Selection

The first third tasted very strongly of espresso beans, with some chocolate and only a hint of cedar; just delicious. The second third tasted more of cedar with equal notes of chocolate and espresso. The last third was almost exclusively cedar with less chocolate or espresso. The smoke never got harsh, bitter, or dominated by ammonia tastes, unlike other cigars, which I stop smoking at that time. This cigar took me to the very nub with its delightful creamy smoke. The smooth finish was very pleasant indeed.

Cuban Crafters Cabinet Selection

Overall, the only thing I missed in this cigar was a bit of spice. Otherwise, it was truly a delight to all the senses, a real shock and awe of pleasure for anyone who appreciates a full-body smoke.

You can find this cigar by visiting the Cuban Crafters online boutique HERE icon