We have two very solid cigars to review today from a pair of well respected brands. Keep reading to find out if the Arturo Fuente Solaris and the E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut Short Run 2012 Invictos passed the test.

Arturo Fuente Solaris

The Arturo Fuente Solaris is a rather recent release that shipped in May of this year as an exclusive selection for Smoke Inn, a Florida-based retailer. Abe Dababneh, owner of Smoke Inn, asked the Fuente family if they could come up with a special blend to be a part of his Microblend Series. The Fuentes responded with the Solaris, which comes from a small batch of cigars that were originally rolled six years ago.

The Arturo Fuente Solaris comes in a Belicoso format and measures 6 x 49, and it’s the only size offered in this particular line. The composition of the cigar’s filler and binder has not been disclosed at the time of this writing. The wrapper, meanwhile, is of the Ecuadorian Sun Grown variety. In terms of strength, the Solaris seems to be listed as being a soothing smoke that falls into the mild to medium-bodied category.

Like other Arturo Fuente selections I have come upon in the past, the Solaris is a highly attractive stick that appears to have flawless construction. The wrapper has light reddish brown color and an oily sheen. Hardly any veins are present and the cigar feels well-packed and smooth to the touch. The Belicoso shape is nicely done. Two decorative bands add to the cigar’s aesthetic appeal. The top band showcases the Fuente logo in gold, white, and red, with some green thrown in as well. The band right beneath it is black and gold and showcases the Solaris name. Before lighting, the cigar has a mildly spicy flavor and its scent is of cedar.

When finally in action, the Arturo Fuente Solaris’ performance is satisfactory. The draw is easy. The ash is a bit flaky and is light gray in color. The burn stays even on its own without the need of any touch-ups from my lighter. No re-lighting is necessary. Overall, I give the Solaris a passing grade here.