The flavor department is where the Liga Privada Unico Serie L40 really hits a home run. The cigar is medium to full-bodied, but it's also smooth and refined. There’s just the right amount of kick included to let you know it’s there. The L40 begins with some creaminess that is soon joined by coffee and chocolate. There’s also a bit of earth here, making the first third the true highlight of the smoking experience. The coffee continues into the second third and blends with a small burst of spice and leather. The final third combines cedar and more leather for a tasty finish.

When all is said and done, I have to say that I enjoyed the Liga Privada Unico Serie from Drew Estate. The cigar looked good thanks to its elegant format, and the positive impression continued with the flawless burn and flavor. As for the price, a single sells for around $13. It could be considered overpriced, but you are getting a quality cigar in exchange. If price is not an issue, pick one up. Do not hesitate. You won’t be disappointed.

The Liga Privada Unico Serie L40 Lancero earns a rating of 3.75 out of four stars.

Illusione CG4

The Illusione CG4, also known as the White Horse, is another solid smoke from the boutique brand headed by Dion Giolito. Produced at the Raices Cubanas factory in Honduras, Illusione describes the CG4 as being “bold, clean, and bright.” That description has me enticed, so let’s light up the CG4 and see if it follows through.

The Illusione CG4 measures 5 5/8 x 48. The cigar’s components are all Nicaraguan and include Criollo ’98 and Corojo ’99 tobaccos plus a Café Colorado wrapper. Each CG4 is finished off with a triple cap. As far as strength is concerned, Illusione lists the CG4 as full-bodied.