The Cain Maduro 550 and the Quesada Tributo Alvaro are going under the microscope for today’s reviews. Do they pass the test? Keep reading to find out.

Cain Maduro 550

The Cain Maduro line was introduced back in 2009 along with a Habano-wrapped counterpart. It’s a full-bodied blend with a tagline of “Prestige meets power.” With such a description, you know the cigar wasn’t created with novices in mind. Luckily, I do have some cigar experience under my belt, so that should help me handle this powerful stogie.

The Cain Maduro 550 measures 5 ¾ x 50. The line also comes in four other sizes: the 4 x 60 “4640”, 4 x 64 “464T,” 6 x 54 “654T,” and 6 x 60 “660.” The cigar features a straight Ligero filler. Per the company’s website, the actual breakdown of the filler is as follows: 25 percent Esteli Ligero, 27 percent Condega Ligero, and 30 percent Jalapa Ligero. Some Seco and Viso tobaccos are supposedly in the mix as well. The binder is Nicaraguan, and a Mexican San Andreas Maduro wrapper tops things off. As mentioned earlier, there’s also a Habano version if that’s more your style. The Cain Maduro line is produced in Nicaragua by Tabacalera Oliva.

There are two things that I notice immediately when looking at the Maduro 550. First the placement of the band is at the foot, instead of near the head. The red, white, and gold band is attractive and has the Cain name in the middle. The second thing I notice is the cigar’s very dark wrapper. It’s almost black in color. There’s some oil that’s visible, as well as a few prominent veins. The cigar feels firm to the touch and has no soft spots. A subtle cedar aroma comes through prior to lighting. The cold taste, on the other hand, is spicy.

The Maduro 550 lights with ease. The draw is neither too stiff nor too easy. Some very thick smoke is produced, and the gray ash is solid. The burn acts as if it wants to get out of hand, but quickly corrects itself. No re-lighting is necessary.