Welcome back to another edition of cigar reviews on Puff.com. Today we will be taking a look at the Tatuaje TAA 2012 and the Trinidad Reserve Belicoso.

Tatuaje TAA 2012

The TAA 2012 from Tatuaje is a rather recent release that is limited in nature. It’s the second in the TAA series, which are cigars developed for the Tobacconist Association of America. Pete Johnson has dished out popular cigars in the past, and this one is no different. The fact that its distribution is limited to TAA member stores and only 2,500 boxes of 20 are being produced means it’s not exactly the easiest cigar to find, so I feel lucky to have gotten my hands on one. Now let’s get on to the review.

The Tatuaje TAA 2012 measures 6 1/4 x 50. This differs from the 2011 version, and the change supposedly allows the cigar’s flavor to be more concentrated. The TAA 2012’s composition remains the same as that of the 2011 version. It begins with a Nicaraguan filler and binder, and is completed with a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. The TAA 2012’s strength is said to be full-bodied.

When I first lay my eyes on the TAA 2012, I notice its nice box-pressed shape. The shape is done to perfection and is quite rigid in its format. In fact, when you combine the shape with the cigar’s dark brown wrapper, it kind of looks like a slim candy bar. The triple cap is neat, and feeling the cigar I detect just a bit of a give. There are no true soft spots, however. The wrapper has some oil and minor veins. Overall, the construction appears solid. A simple band near the head displays the Tobacconists’ Association of America name and logo along with the year 2012. The white, black, and gold colors aren’t flashy, but give the cigar a distinguished look. Before lighting, I get an aroma and cold taste of pepper.

As far as the burn of the Tatuaje TAA 2012 is concerned, I have no complaints. The cigar lights easily and has a good draw. The ash is light gray and solid. Thick smoke fills the air. There are zero touch-ups or re-lights required. Smoking time is around 90 minutes.