Thanksgiving is almost here, and we are sending you off into the tasty holiday with a couple of reviews on 2012 releases in the form of the Alec Bradley Connecticut and the A.J. Fernandez Pinolero.

Alec Bradley Connecticut Toro

The Alec Bradley Connecticut is a new release from the brand that was originally unveiled at the 2012 IPCPR show.  It was just one of several Alec Bradley lines introduced at the show.  Others included the It’s a boy/It’s a girl, the Fine and Rare, and the Nica Puro.  The Connecticut does come with some hype behind it, as it was apparently a hit during the show.  I hope it can live up to my expectations and be another great cigar from Alec Bradley that I have smoked.

The Alec Bradley Connecticut Toro measures 6 x 50.  Other sizes in the Connecticut line include the 4 1/4 x 46 Nano, 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 1/8 x 52 Torpedo, and the 7 x 50 Churchill.  The cigar features a filler blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos.  The binder is Honduran, and an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper tops things off.  The strength of the Connecticut is said to hover around the mild to medium-bodied range.

The decorative band is the first thing that pops out regarding the Alec Bradley Connecticut’s appearance.  It features the Alec Bradley Connecticut name over some ornate graphics and a black, gold, red, and white color scheme.  The band is quite large and really adds some flair to the cigar’s look.  The Connecticut’s wrapper is golden brown and has somewhat of an oily sheen.  There are a few minor veins but no major imperfections.  The triple cap is nice and neat, and there are zero soft spots.  The pre-light aroma is of cedar.  The cold taste is mild and sweet.

There are no negative issues to report with regards to the Connecticut’s burn.  It lights with ease and produces thick aromatic smoke.  The burn is razor sharp from beginning to end and requires no touch-ups.  Re-lights are also unnecessary.  The solid ash has a peppery look.