The Vintage Cameroon Robusto continues to impress as we move into the flavor department. Some sweet flavors kick off the experience, but the familiar cedar from the pre-light soon takes over. Halfway into the cigar some spicy notes appear to wake up the senses. At this point, there's also a little saltiness. Last, but not least, are woody notes that seem to control the final third. Overall, the cigar is very smooth and medium in strength.

H. Upmann cigars are very popular, and with good reason. Their quality is solid, and the Vintage Cameroon Robusto is no exception. The cigar's presentation was impressive, and its lack of any major burn issues was another plus. The flavor was enjoyable, with the cedar notes standing out the most. The cigar should appeal to anyone who enjoys cigars with Cameroon wrappers. H. Upmann fans should also give it a try if they haven't already. It's also smooth enough that beginners should be able to handle it without being overwhelmed. At $5 to $6 per single, The Vintage Cameroon Robusto is a solid value. It also comes in packs of five or boxes of 25. If you are looking for something that is clean, consistent, and flavorful, you really cannot go wrong with this selection from H. Upmann.

The H. Upmann Vintage Cameroon Robusto earns a rating of 3.25 out of four stars.

Macanudo Cru Royale Robusto

Macanudos are quite popular with beginning smokers and lovers of mild cigars, but many seasoned smokers tend to shy away from them. In an attempt to buck that trend, General Cigar created the Cru Royale. To see if the newest line from Macanudo delivers on its promise of more strength, we will be giving one of its Robustos a shot.

The Robusto size from The Cru Royale line measures 5 x 50. The line also offers three more sizes: the 6 x 54 Toro, 6 x 60 Gigante, and 6 1/2 x 42 Lonsdale. The Cru Royale was blended by Benji Menendez, and it has a filler blend that combines Dominican and Nicaraguan Viso tobaccos with that of the Brazilian Mata Fina variety. A proprietary La Vega Especial leaf from the Dominican Republic serves as the binder, and an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper completes the composition. All of the tobaccos used in the Cru Royale are exclusive to General Cigar. The Cru Royale is listed as being medium-bodied in strength.