Weekend/Memorial Day review; May 24th - 26th, 2008

Great weather for a holiday weekend! Temp's in the 80's and sunny! Typical yardwork was performed. A big THANK YOU to all our military veterans and those who currently serve. Also a huge THANK YOU to all who gave the ultimate sacrifice to secure our freedom.

The weekend saw plenty of cigars smoked, and here is the list of my reviewed cigars:

• CAO Maduro Toro
• Zino Platinum Grand Master
• Torano 1916 Torpedo
• 601 Red Torpedo
• La Flor Dominicana Mysterio

Saturday, May 24, 2008

CAO Maduro Toro (5.5x55)

I was very interested to see how this cigar compared to other CAO stuff that I like. I've had the Brazilia, MX2, and Criollo and really enjoyed them but this one was a little new to me. The cigar is square pressed. The maduro gives the cigar a sweet and spicy flavor. There were hints of pepper. Very consistent cigar. This is a nice tasting maduro cigar. Medium to full bodied. Even burning. The finish is long and satisfying.

Score: 92

Zino Platinum Grand Master (5.5x52)

This cigar had leather undertones initially. There was spice noted. The finish is long. Caramel undertones appear after an inch or so. Medium bodied at best. Balanced cigar; nothing really overpowers. Pricy cigar!

Score: 91

Sunday, May 25th, 2008

Torano 1916 Torpedo (6.5x54)

Light caramel flavor with some spice. Spice intensifies after an inch or so. This cigar is very consistent. Just a please to smoke.

Score: 91

601 Red Torpedo (6.5x52)

Big plug near the initial cut, so I had to cut a little further up! I hated that, but it had to be done. However, not even that could deter this cigar from high ratings! Great flavor! Toasted almonds and caramel overtones. Spicey and peppery! Consistent cigar. Very nice.

Score: 93

Monday, Memorial Day, May 26th, 2008

Only reviewing one cigar today. This is a special occasion cigar:

La Flor Dominicana Mysterio (7x54)

A beautiful, shaped cigar. It has about 3/4" maduro wrapper on either tapered end with a natural wrapper in the middle. The cigar has nice spice with some pepper. Ligero was noted as the cigar has a little "pop" to it. Nice caramel overtones. Medium to Full bodied. Consistent. Great special occasion cigar. Expect to pay around $15 each for these at your local shop!!!!

Score: 93