We have two high quality sticks on the menu for today's reviews. First up is the tasty Montecristo Reserva Negra Robusto, to be followed by the rare, expensive, and exclusive Arturo Fuente Opus X Petit Lancero.

Montecristo Reserva Negra Robusto

Montecristo is no stranger to producing high quality cigars. The Negra Reserva line maintains this tradition. Negra translated to English means black, and the very dark wrappers used to make the Reserva Negra line reflect such a moniker.

The Reserva Negra measures 5 x 54 in its Robusto size. The line is also offered in other sizes: the 5 x 44 Corona, the 6 x 54 Toro, the 6 1/8x 52 Belicoso, and the 7 x 56 Churchill. The cigar has a filler blend of tobaccos from Honduras and Nicaragua. The binder is Nicaraguan as well, and it is finished off with a Mexican San Andres Morron wrapper. The cigar is box pressed, and is considered to fall in the category of medium-bodied. The Reserva Negra line is handmade in the Dominican Republic at the Tabacalera de Garcia factory.

Taking a look at the Reserva Negra Robusto reveals a nice, dark wrapper. It has some oil that is visible on the surface, and there are a few veins running throughout the body. Patting the cigar down gives a feel of plenty of firmness. It has a nice square shape due to being box-pressed in the manufacturing process. A classy decorative band in gold and black lies near the head. The band shows the Montecristo name and logo, as well as the Reserva Negra title. Before lighting it up, the cigar has a cold taste and scent that both resemble earth.

After striking it with a lighter, the Reserva Negra Robusto burns like a charm. The burn stays even throughout the stick. No re-lighting is necessary, and the same holds true for any touching up. The draw is great, and the ash produced is solid and light in color.