The 2011 IPCPR show was the setting for the unveiling of many new cigars, and today’s reviews focus on two of them: the Rocky Patel Vintage 2003 Cameroon Robusto and the CAO OSA Sol Lot 54.

Rocky Patel Vintage 2003 Cameroon Robusto

Rocky Patel fans will be glad to know that the brand has finally decided to release a Cameroon-wrapped cigar of its own. Dubbed the Vintage 2003 Cameroon, this stogie is the final result of years of hard work. Due to the careful planning, I am sure this will be a special smoke and cannot wait to light it up, especially after reading all of its descriptions.

I’ll be sampling the Robusto format of the Vintage 2003 Cameroon line, which measures 5 ½ x 50. Other formats in the line include the 6 x 60 Sixty, 6 ¼ x 52 Torpedo, 6 ½ x 52 Toro, and the 7 x 48 Churchill. The cigar’s filler consists of tobaccos from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. The binder is Nicaraguan as well. The highlight of the composition is the special Cameroon wrapper, which reportedly took Patel several years to accumulate. Strength-wise, the Vintage 2003 Cameroon is listed as being medium to full-bodied.

If the 2003 Cameroon Robusto’s burn and flavor match its appearance, I will be a lucky guy. In short, it’s a beautiful cigar. The medium-brown wrapper is silky smooth and shimmers with oil. Only a few minor veins are visible. Two decorative bands kick up the appearance ten notches thanks to their blue and white color schemes. The top band displays the Rocky Patel name and logo, while the bottom band showcases the Vintage 2003 Cameroon label. The Robusto feels firm to the touch and has no soft spots. The cold taste is of delicious caramel, and the aroma is of wood.

After lighting, the Vintage 2003 Cameroon exhibits a perfect burn. No touch-ups are required, and it stays lit on its own. The sweet aroma fills the room and is nearly addicting. The draw is just right. Long white ash completes the positive aspects of the cigar’s burn.