Happy New Year everyone! a belated one at that… well, you can’t live in Spain and not make good use of the holidays by traveling around. I went way South to the Mediterranean coast, stopped over in Cadiz on the way back—picking up some prized sherry while there, of course—and passed through Granada before finally coming home. One thing is for sure, I’ve had way too many cigars while on vacation, but oh well… life is good.

Even as I drove back, though, I was thinking of the cigar I would review next: the Cumpay Piramide that had been in my humidor since last spring. I have tried other vitolas of the Cumpay brand, like the Robusto, and found them to be quite good. The Piramide did not turn out to be very special after all, though I wouldn’t call it bad; perhaps only a bit one dimensional.

The shape is naturally interesting. I would have expected a good progression of aromas because of it, but in the end it was rather linear, which was a bit surprising. The cigar is very well made. A good bunch, solid feel, and a very nice wrapper were among the stick’s strengths. The pre-light draw was light, grassy, with just the slightest hint of spice and white pepper.

Once lit, the smoke was characteristically Honduran: very creamy in texture, medium bodied, with an initial burst of roasted almonds. For a cigar of such an unusual shape, I’d say that it didn’t burn terribly, though I have to coach it along at times to avoid what I knew would turn into ruined cigar down the line.

After about one third, the notes become more grilled and dark. Though it was not incredibly complex, I got some roasted coffee notes and a steady creamy texture. As far as the progression, the only thing I’d mention is a very welcome increase in smoke volume when it went past the half way mark.

All in all the Cumpay Piramide is a solid cigar with an intriguing shape and consistent notes of roasted coffee beans and creamy nuts throughout.

Now, I know I’m going to get a barrage of emails asking where the Cumpay line can be found. Well, if you don’t mind paying for the delivery charges, I’d recommend checking out an online German shop called Zigarren Bugge. They actually have a rating system for the cigars they sell (which, though I admit having often disagreed with, can still be helpful when deciding to try a new cigar) and even have an option for English. I’ve done business with them in the past and can say they have great service.