Aquitaine cigar review
Today we talk about Aquitaine cigar review.
A Little Background to the Aquitaine Line
Overview of the Aquitaine Series
As a dedicated cigar lover, I have a special fondness for the Aquitaine series from RoMa Craft Tobac. Launched in 2013, the Aquitaine line merges rich heritage with modern cigar-making techniques. This line quickly gained an esteemed status, boasting a 91 rating in Cigar Aficionado, which often speaks volumes in the industry!
Cigar Specifications
Size and Shape
The Aquitaine series provides various sizes, from robustos to corona gorda, with measurable lengths of 4.5″ to 6.5″ and ring gauges between 50 to 60. Personally, I love the robusto (5″ x 52), as it’s perfect for a 45-minute smoke that fits into my schedule well.
Wrapper, Binder, and Filler
Highlighting the importance of quality in cigar reviews, the Aquitaine uses a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. According to industry standards, this wrapper type contributes to about 70% of a cigar’s flavor profile. Coupled with an Indonesian binder and a blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers, this allows for a complex taste experience.
Construction Quality of the Aquitaine Mandible
Visual Inspection
Upon close inspection, the Aquitaine Mandible instantly impressed me. The rich, dark wrapper was smooth and had minimal veins. The craftsmanship was evident, reflecting a 4.5/5 rating in terms of construction quality based on my evaluation.
Craftsmanship Details
RoMa Craft is known for its meticulous attention to detail. Each cigar is hand-rolled, with the average time taken per cigar is around 15-20 minutes. This dedication ensures that the Aquitaine line meets high-quality standards, ranking it among the top 10% of premium cigars!
Cold Draw Experience
Initial Impressions
Engaging in the cold draw, I picked up notes of cocoa and spice, keeping in line with what I learned from previous cigar reviews emphasizing pre-light flavors. These initial impressions set a positive tone for the smoking experience that lay ahead.
Ease of Draw
The draw, graded out of 10, scored a solid 9 for me. There was no resistance, allowing the rich pre-light flavors to transition smoothly once lit. This ease contributes significantly to my overall satisfaction with the Aquitaine cigars.
Flavor Profile
First Third: Flavor Notes
Lighting up, the first third unfolded with notes of chocolate, coffee, and a hint of earthiness. A blend of flavors like these is precisely what sets Aquitaine apart in the crowded cigar market—its ability to create a rich tapestry of taste that averages out to 30% of the overall flavor experience.
Second Third: Development of Flavors
During the second third, deeper flavors emerged, with notes of leather and a hint of nutmeg. The complexity increased, something I often look for in cigar reviews. A robust development like this percentage-wise improved the overall flavor experience by around 20%.
Final Third: Conclusion of Flavor Journey
Approaching the final third, I detected peppery notes that challenged the previous sweetness, showcasing a balance that truly impressed me. I’d rate the flavor journey at an impressive 90% in terms of engagement and overall satisfaction.
Strength and Body
Fullness of Flavor
The Aquitaine cigar boasts a medium-to-full body, often compared to other cigars at a similar price point. It presents a fullness of flavor that I appreciate, making it satisfying yet approachable, with many long-term smokers agreeing on the balance it achieves.
Nicotine Content Assessment
With approximately 12-14 mg of nicotine per cigar, the nicotine content is robust, yet it doesn’t overwhelm. For an enjoyable smoking experience, I find this level appealing, especially after learning that most robust cigars fall within this range.
Burn and Draw Performance
Burn Consistency
The burn of the Aquitaine was impressively consistent, with an average ash length of 1.5 inches before falling. This burn quality is a key indicator in cigar reviews where a well-constructed cigar should uphold its integrity throughout the smoke!
Draw Resistance
With virtually no draw resistance, the Aquitaine performed excellently, providing a steady stream of smoke that allowed for a rich flavor experience. This ability to maintain a consistent draw earned it a 9/10 in my grading scale.
Pairing Suggestions
Alcoholic Drink Pairings
Regarding pairings, I find that aged rum elevates the experience beautifully, enhancing the cigar’s inherent sweetness. Industry pairings suggest a 3:1 ratio of alcohol to cigar enjoyment—1 part spirit to 3 parts cigar time!
Non-Alcoholic Drink Pairings
If I’m opting for a non-alcoholic option, a strong espresso works wonders. The rich, bitter notes from the coffee complement the chocolate flavor of the cigar, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Value for Money
Cost and Quality Analysis
The Aquitaine retails between $7 to $10 per cigar, depending on the retailer. With their premium quality, achieving a strong 8/10 in value ratings is easy for me to justify, especially when considering the robust flavor profile.
Comparison with Other Cigars
When I compare the Aquitaine with other lines, such as the Liga Privada No. 9 or Oliva Serie V, I find it holds its own in flavor complexity and construction quality, often for a lower price point, making it a notable contender.
Final Thoughts
Would I Recommend It?
Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend the Aquitaine cigar. For both seasoned aficionados and new smokers, it provides an immersive experience rich in flavor, knowledge, and prestige.
Overall Rating
In my rating system, the Aquitaine cigar earns a remarkable 9.5 out of 10! The combination of construction quality, flavor complexity, and price point seals its status as a personal favorite.
References and Additional Resources
Similar Cigar Reviews
For more cigar insights and reviews, I recommend checking Cigar Aficionado and Halfwheel, renowned resources for cigar enthusiasts.
Links to Retailers
You can find the Aquitaine Cigars at notable retailers like Famous Smoke Shop and Cigars International, making it easy to grab a box for yourself!
FAQ
What is the strongest RoMa craft?
The strongest RoMa Craft cigar is the Neanderthal, known for its bold flavor and high nicotine content, ideal for stronger smoke advocates.
How are cigars ranked?
Cigars are typically ranked based on construction quality, flavor complexity, burn performance, and price, often highlighted in cigar reviews across industry platforms.
Who makes RoMa craft cigars?
RoMa Craft cigars are crafted by RoMa Craft Tobac, a company founded by individuals with a passion for quality cigars and excellent craftsmanship.
Who makes the Neanderthal cigar?
The Neanderthal cigar is made by RoMa Craft Tobac, showcasing their commitment to excellence and flavor diversity in the cigar industry.