Viva La Vida by AJF Wrapper: Habano Oscuro 2000
Binder: Corojo 99
Filler: Criollo 98

Size: Diadema 52 x 6 1/2

This size is packaged with a full sleeve with cool artwork, once its off nice veins are revealed. Decent teeth on the wrapper.

The cold draw yielded hints of dark fruit, sweet leather, and coffee. On the tapered foot the light/burn was even. The first third starts off with a tighter draw, I found myself double puffing to reveal a crisp spice that didn’t overpower the earthy tones. The construction of the cigar was impressive. It held up against an ample cut on the torpedo. The burn was straight as an arrow and I found the flavor to be light to medium for the first third.

The second third gave a little more complexity, the spice turned to pepper and cedar. It had a pleasant, oily, and sweet finish. Lingering nuances of apricot and dark fruit complimented the pepper nicely. The ash was sturdy and had a nice grey to white transition. On the retrohale I found it to be medium to full bodied.

Once at the final third, the pepper and spice almost completely dissipate. Cedar and oily coffee notes linger. The construction holds up nicely and the strength comes in as medium. Even with just a nub-to-go the ash isn’t flakey or brittle.In conclusion I was a fan of this cigar. The long figurado shape delivered a nice flavor change. The construction was perfect, the draw opened up after the first 5 minutes. I was also impressed that absolutely no aftertaste lingered on my palette. A very clean cigar, well aged for sure.