As far as the Zulu Zulu’s flavor is concerned, I can’t exactly call it complex, but I can say that it is one smooth cigar. There is an average amount of flavor to be enjoyed, and what is there is tasty. The cigar starts off with a burst of sweetness, nuts, and cream. This mild introduction lasts for the entire first third. As we move into the second third things start to strengthen just a bit, but the cigar is still smooth. Wood, leather, and mild spice are noted here. The final third continues with more spice and nuts. Medium-bodied and pleasant are two terms that fit the Zulu Zulu to a T.

I must admit that I did enjoy smoking the STK Zulu Zulu. Sure, it was a bit lacking in the complexity department, but I did not mind. Now, I would not recommend the Zulu Zulu to anyone expecting a cigar with a kick, as it is probably too mild. If this sounds like you, go for the Red version with the Nicaraguan Habano wrapper. If you want something smooth with your cup of coffee in the morning, this is it. The cigar comes in packs of five or boxes of 20, with a single selling for around $9 each. It is on the pricy side, but remember you are donating to a good cause, so that takes some of the sting out of the price.

The Gran Habano STK Zulu Zulu Lancero earns a rating of 3.5 out of four stars.

Padilla Black Bear

I don’t know why exactly, but I love Padilla’s choice of the Black Bear moniker. Released as the counterpart to the brand’s Golden Bear cigar, the Black Bear is quite large and meant for smokers who have a lot of time on their hands. Luckily, my schedule is rather bare today, no pun intended, so I decided that it would be a perfect time to give the Black Bear a shot.

As mentioned, the Black Bear is a bulky cigar that measures 6 x 60. It’s a Double Toro format and is the only size in the line. The cigar's filler consists of Nicaraguan Cuban Seed tobacco. The binder is also Nicaraguan, while the wrapper is Pennsylvania Broadleaf Maduro. The strength of the Black Bear is listed as medium-bodied.