What Makes It Special
A well-constructed Maduro cigar is an experience all its own, and this one is no exception. From the flawless wrapper to the gradual evolution of flavors, it captivates from start to finish. This isn’t a cigar for rushing; it’s for those who understand the beauty of taking one’s time, appreciating the nuances that unfold with each draw.
Paired with Hard Truth High Road Rye, this cigar becomes even more remarkable. The rye’s complexity and 93-proof smoothness complement the cigar’s sweetness and depth, creating a harmonious duo that’s perfect for a quiet evening or a special occasion.
Don V Maduro
Blended By: Vick Shah
Norwood Royal Cigars
Brand: Oscar Valladares
Vitola: Toro 6×52
Filler: Honduras
Wrapper: Jalapa Maduro, Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Body: Medium Boldness
Price: $12
Visual/Pre-light Draw
The cigar’s visual appeal is evident from the start. Its Maduro wrapper is rich in color, with no visible imperfections or tears in the leaf. Its construction speaks of high craftsmanship, ensuring a smooth smoking experience.
Before lighting, the pre-light draw hints at the journey to come. Subtle notes of hay mix with a touch of sweetness, creating a delicate balance that invites you to dive in.
First Third
From the first puff, the cigar sets a rich tone. A dark leather note dominates, evoking images of a cozy study filled with aged books and polished wood. But this isn’t a single-note smoke; a faint yet distinct hint of hay adds an unexpected layer of complexity. The Maduro wrapper contributes a sweetness that dances in the background, balancing the more robust flavors.
The burn line starts slightly uneven, but the cigar’s quality is clear, and it doesn’t detract from the experience.
Second Third
As you progress into the second third, the cigar truly hits its stride. The Maduro sweetness
becomes more pronounced, enveloping the palate with a satisfying richness. It’s the kind of
sweetness that keeps you engaged, leaving you eager to explore what’s next.
By now, the burn line has corrected itself, reflecting the expert craftsmanship behind this cigar. Each puff offers a smooth draw and consistent flavor, making it difficult to put down.
This middle section is where the cigar’s character shines, tempting you to savor every moment while building anticipation for the final stretch.
Final Third
The final third brings the journey full circle. The sweetness from the second third lingers, but a return of the dark leather notes from the start adds a grounded sense of balance. While the flavor progression isn’t dramatic, the consistency is a testament to the cigar’s craftsmanship and quality.
By this point, the burn line remains precise, ensuring a flawless finish. This cigar offers a long, satisfying smoke that holds its complexity and balance until the very last puff.
The whisky is elevated above its lower proof but the biggest change is that the rye brings a smoked old fashioned flavor on the finish that is really
interesting.
The Perfect Pairing
To truly elevate the experience, pair this cigar with Hard Truth High Road Rye. Known for its approachable yet complex flavor profile, this 93-proof rye whiskey complements the cigar
perfectly. Crafted for quiet nights and meaningful conversations, Hard Truth High Road Rye brings depth and character to the pairing.
● Nose: Sweet and warm with hints of vanilla and caramel, introducing the whiskey’s
inviting nature.
● Body: Silky smooth and viscous, providing a rich mouthfeel that enhances the cigar’s Maduro sweetness.
● Taste: Notes of cinnamon, baked apples, and a subtle touch of rye spice pair beautifully with the cigar’s rich leather and hay flavors.
● Finish: A lingering warmth with hints of oak and vanilla, rounding out the pairing with
finesse. This whiskey doesn’t overpower the cigar but rather complements it, creating a balanced partnership that enhances both.
Cigar to the whisky: The whisky is elevated above its lower proof but the biggest change is that the rye brings a smoked old fashioned flavor on the finish that is really interesting.
Whisky to the cigar: You get a hint of that rye spice on your palate right away but the sweetness of the cigar takes over on the finish.
Cigar smoked whisky: Unfortunately when you smoke the whisky it kind of ruins the pairing so this one is best kept separate in my opinion.
This truly is an amazing complimentary pairing, one to be enjoyed time and time again!
