Arturo Fuente is known for putting out some excellent cigars, so as a tribute, we will review two of the brand's selections today. The Fuente Don Carlos is up first, and it will be followed by the Fuente Rosado Sungrown Magnum R. Will these two live up to the Fuente reputation, or will they disappoint? Keep reading to find out.

Arturo Fuente Don Carlos

The Don Carlos line was named after and created by the Fuente family's patriarch, Don Carlos Fuente, Sr. The line is distributed in very limited quantities. As with other Fuente selections, the Don Carlos has received high ratings from several cigar publications in the past.

For today's review, I will dissect the Double Robusto vitola of the Don Carlos line, which measures 5 3/4 x 52. There are six other sizes in the line, including the 5 1/8 x 43 No. 4, 5 1/4 x 50 Robusto, 5 3/8 x 52 Belicoso, 5 1/2 x 44 No. 3, 6 x 44/55 No. 2, and 6 1/2 x 50 Presidente. The cigar features a vintage Dominican filler that has been aged for ten years. The binder is Dominican as well. Capping off the cigar's composition is a sweet African Cameroon wrapper. The cigar's production takes place in the Dominican Republic at Tabacalera A. Fuente. Strength-wise, the Fuente Don Carlos is said to fall somewhere in between the medium and full-bodied categories.

At first glance, the Don Carlos Double Robusto appears to have solid construction. There are a few medium-sized veins that are visible, and the wrapper has somewhat of a dark wrapper. There's not too much oil on the surface. The red and gold decorative band near the head is a nice touch. It showcases the Arturo Fuente logo and name. The cigar feels firm to the touch, and I do not detect any soft spots. The cold taste is hard to decipher, but if I had to pick a flavor that it resembles, it would be coffee. The pre-light aroma is sweet.

Once lit, it is little surprise that the Don Carlos burns like a charm. I've come to expect solid construction from the Fuente brand, and this particular stick appears to continue that tradition. The draw is good and there is a voluminous amount of smoke that is produced. The light gray ash is tight and holds on for at least an inch. As far as the burn, it stays even without any help from my lighter. Touch-ups and re-lights are unnecessary, and that is always a plus in my book.