NOVEMBER 2003

Torpedo

4 ½" x 54

If starting small and having modest goals is the definition of a boutique brand, then Cupido Cigars - based in Florida and production facilities in Nicaragua - certainly fits the bill. Cupido debuted in 1996 with an initial production run of 66,000 boxes with a single shape in its line - a Churchill. Cupido has expanded slowly, with two additional sizes made in limited runs - a box-pressed robusto and the "Torpito." Immediately note a medium-dark, rich and oily wrapper with very few noticeable veins. This expertly rolled cigar feels hefty in your hand and offers both a slow, even burn and perfect draw. Look for loads of flavor hinting towards nuts, cocoa beans and a pleasant cedar woody character. We found the finish to be dry and have a lingering cedar taste. Consider pairing this unique smoke with a nutty Brown Ale or a Single Malt Scotch.

Strenth:  7
Panel Rating:  91

Torpedo

6" x 50

We can think of several reasons why H. Upmann has been around for almost 160 years. But to net it out for you…They make some of the best cigars in the world today. Herman Upmann, a German banker, founded H. Upmann Cigars back in 1844. He distributed these cigars to his best customers as a promotion, but eventually they became one of the most popular Cuban brands smoked in the world. This brand is still currently manufactured in Cuba and the Dominican Republic as well. Unfortunately we can't send you the Cuban brand, but we think that the Dominican brand is just as good, if not better. The Torpedo featured this month is rolled using a blend of Olor and Cuban seed Piloto Cubano tobaccos and is wrapped in a silky, Indonesian shade-grown leaf. While overall it is a medium-bodied cigar, the taste is full, smooth, and mellow. A touch of sweetness on the lips and in the aroma makes it a great cigar to pair with your favorite dessert.

Strenth:  5
Panel Rating:  93

Churchill

7 ¼" x 54

If you're looking for a sweet, yet robust, smoke, then this is the cigar for you. This world famous Punch cigar brand is handmade from Cuban seed tobaccos in Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic. Look for an aroma filled with earthy, herbal tones. This is a medium to full-bodied smoke with cocoa, roasted coffee, and peppery flavors with hints of leather and sweet spices and a sweet finish. Consider pairing it with a semi-sweet, woody port or robust, roasted Porter.

Strenth:  6
Panel Rating:  92

Corona Gorda

6" x 45

This brand originated in Cuba way back in 1837. It is now crafted under the supervision of cigar master Daniel Nunez. The Original Dominican version is a medium-to-heavy flavored cigar and was manufactured in the same Santiago, Dominican Republic factory which produces Partagas cigars. The Dominican-grown wrapper is a delightful leaf produced specifically for this cigar. Complemented by the Connecticut broadleaf binder and Nicaraguan Ligero and Piloto Cubano filler blend, this is a tremendous cigar with an unusually rich flavor. Look for an earthy, spicy, and somewhat nutty character in both the aroma and flavor of this pleasurable Dominican. Consider smoking it with a Pale Ale or heavy lager.

Strenth:  6
Panel Rating:  90

Robusto

5" x 50

Introduced at Le Cigar Noir in California back on May 1st, 1996, this Honduran version of an old Cuban brand was an immediate hit with everyone who tried it. Full-bodied and offering an impeccably smooth draw, these smokes blend plenty of flavor with a slow-burning cadre of Honduran-grown, Cuban-seed tobaccos. Handmade in Danli, Honduras, the line is truly one of the finer Honduran products on the market. Note a smooth, oily wrapper encasing this aesthetically pleasing cigar. Look for a flavor packed smoking experience including pronounced cocoa beans and roasted hazelnuts. We found this medium-to-full-bodied cigar to offer a leathery finish and most of the panel smoked it to the nub! Overall, a great cigar. Tons of flavor and great construction. Try smoking it with a peaty single malt scotch.

Strenth:  7
Panel Rating:  89