Review Notes: The Cubao Brand is a relatively new cigar blended by Pepin Garcia, I found a 5 pack on line for about $4/each for the #4 which was rated a 91 in a recent CA review. Upon arrival I opened my purchase of the Cubao #4 and found a natural looking cigar with a few veins, solid in construction, with a nice layered cap, and a simple band. The pre-smoke had a semi-tight draw, and the taste was of chocolate and spice with a nice earthy smell. After the light, there was a huge hit of cocoa and coffee which were soon softened by some hints of nuts and cedar in the background, but above all was the richness of the tobacco which was light on the pallet, but full in the sinuses. There was also a hint of sweetness which overlay the rich savor. These flavors continued in this mild bodied cigar until the second part where I tasted some woodsy flavors, reminding me of oak and some light birch, but with an ever present flavor of the dominate mocha/coffee. The body soon matured and there was a stout quality about this cigar as some hits of spices emerged. Rich, medium body, and creamy with the previous flavors described are the best depiction up until now, and I was definitely enjoying the simple looking cigar. The burn wasn’t exacting, but was acceptable and didn’t need any correction during the experience. The smoke was large and the draw was a little tight, but acceptable. During the final stage, some spices emerged along with woods and a slight earthiness appeared. However, in the background there was still the coffee and cream which defines this cigar. This was a steady but fairly complex cigar. The changes are subtle, but the flavors are bold and yet gentle in their transition. It’s smooth, long lasting finish along with its reasonable price makes it a needed addition to any humidor.