Right off the bat, the 5 Vegas Cask-Strength II impresses with its presentation. The box-pressed shape looks great, as does the chocolate colored wrapper. The wrapper is oily and has some medium veins running throughout. There are two decorative bands on the cigar, and both incorporate gold, white, and maroon into their color schemes that seem to blend in perfectly with the wrapper's color. The top band displays the 5 Vegas logo and the Cask-Strength name. The band at the foot also displays the Cask-Strength name in elegant font. The cigar is mostly firm but does have a little give when pressed. As for the pre-light aroma, some tobacco comes to mind. The cold taste, on the other hand, is on the sweet side.

Once the Cask-Strength II is lit, it exhibits impressive burn qualities. The draw is easy and there's plenty of smoke. The gray ash is solid and holds on for over an inch. The burn is even for the most part and only requires a couple of minor touch-ups. No re-lights are necessary.

The flavor of the 5 Vegas Cask-Strength II is not bad by any means. There's some nice variety to be enjoyed, and it begins in the first third with some spicy pepper and cedar. The spiciness continues into the second third, and it is joined by some tobacco notes and sweetness. The final third caps things off with more sweetness, as well as some oak and toast. The cigar seems to pick up in boldness as time passes, but it never gets too strong. Medium to full-bodied seems like a perfect description here.

When all was said and done, I was impressed with the Cask-Strength II. The cigar hooked me from the start with its construction and presentation, and the burn was solid too. The flavors may not be right up my alley, but it's hard to complain. This is especially true considering the variety. I'd recommend the Cask-Strength II to someone looking for a cigar with a kick that won't bowl them over. Beginners should probably shy away, as the cigar might be too much to handle. A single sells for around $5 to $6, and it also comes in attractive mini barrels of 20. Overall, it seems like a good value at that price point.

The 5 Vegas Cask-Strength II earns a rating of 3.5 out of four stars.