To say that the Cru Royale Robusto does not look like the typical Macanudo would be an understatement. Its wrapper is quite dark and is very oily as well. The decorative band is also a departure from the norm for a Macanudo. Instead of green and white, the Cru Royale's band is a modern mixture of silver, blue, and black. You wouldn't identify the cigar as a Macanudo right off the bat, but it does look good in its new shell. Getting back to the cigar itself, there are no major defects. A few small veins are noticeable, but that is it. A pleasant cedar scent and an earthy cold taste round out the cigar's pre-light characteristics.

The Cru Royale Robusto's burn is impeccable. The draw is perfect, and the ash is white and solid. The burn never strays from the point of being even, and there is no need for any re-lighting.

The cigar's flavor is enjoyable, as there is a good amount of complexity from beginning to end. There is definitely a bit more strength than usual, and that could serve in reeling in some new Macanudo fans. The cigar's first third is marked by earth and rich coffee. The second third offers some tasty nuts and a bit of wood. Strength picks up slightly in the final third when some spice appears. There's zero harshness, however, and the cigar definitely hovers around the medium-bodied mark.

Benji Menendez and General Cigar should be commended for the Cru Royale. It successfully adds some variety to the Macanudo brand that should appeal to smokers seeking something a bit stronger. While Macanudo really needs no help in gaining popularity, this newer release could definitely help it expand its horizons. The Cru Royale's solid presentation, excellent burn, and complexity make it an attractive cigar for medium-bodied fans. Even if you have shied away from Macanudo due to its milder offerings, you should give the Cru Royale a try. A cup of coffee seems like a perfect complement to this quality cigar. You can find a single for approximately $5 to $6. That definitely seems like a fair price. The Cru Royale Robusto is also offered in packs of five or boxes of 20.

The Macanudo Cru Royale Robusto earns a rating of 3.5 out of four stars.