Today’s two reviews are kicking off with a punch thanks to the powerful Tatuaje Fausto FT153. We will simmer things down a bit with a look at the small, yet flavorful Nestor Miranda Dominicano Rosado Coffee Break.

Tatuaje Fausto FT153

Tatuaje definitely has a strong following, as Pete Johnson has been successful in releasing highly sought-after smokes. The Fausto is a newer release from Tatuaje that is said to be based off of the brand’s T-110 cigar. If you take a look at advertisements for the line, you’ll see a slogan that says, “This one goes to 11,” with a small dial set all the way to past 10. I think this is Johnson’s way of telling us to be prepared for a powerful cigar. With that in mind, I made sure I had a nice, full dinner prior to lighting up the FT153.

The Tatuaje Fausto FT153 is a Toro that measures 6 x 50. There are four other sizes in the line as well: the 5 x 54 FT127 (Robusto), 5 ½ x 52 FT140 (Robusto Extra), 6 ½ x 48 FT166 (Short Churchill), and the 6 ¾ x 48/52 Avion 11 (Perfecto Grande). The Avion 11 comes with a unique band of an airplane that differs from the rest of its counterparts in the line. The Fausto has a Nicaraguan filler and binder. Topping it off is an Ecuadorian Habano Maduro wrapper. As I said earlier, this is a powerful cigar, and it is listed as being full-bodied in strength.

The Fausto FT153 may not be the fanciest looking cigar I’ve seen, but it does appear to have solid overall construction. The wrapper is quite dark and has a few oils that are visible on the surface. There are a few minor veins, but no major imperfections. The cigar feels firm to the touch and has no soft spots. A simple black and red band sits near the head that displays the Fausto name with Esteli printed beneath it. The black and red colors do emit a powerful aura, so it’s smart marketing by Tatuaje. Prior to lighting, there’s a spicy aroma that hints towards the cigar’s strength. The cold taste, on the other hand, is earthy.

The solid appearance of the Fausto FT153 translates into a very nice burn. The cigar stays even on its own from start to finish without the help of my lighter. No touch-ups or re-lights are needed. The ash is solid and light gray in color. There’s also plenty of thick smoke that is produced.