It's been a while since I have reviewed; partly due the vacation I spent in Hong Kong, but also due to curricular related activities that I've been occupied with in the past months. Nevertheless, recent stogie talk with a few close friends have rekindled my interest and focused my attention to what's really important.
I christened my re-entry into the depths with Storm, a signature cigar from the C.A.O. Black series. This relatively new addition first caught my eye with their striking and contrasty boxes that looked like it was out from a Jackson Pollock painting. Black is actually a rebirth of a classic from 1995 that C.A.O. was proud to bear, now, as a limited edition series, the line would only add praise to C.A.O.'s already well-recognized collection. Storm features an Ecuadorian wrapper with a blend of Nicaraguan, Honduras, and Mexico for the filler, all of which have been aged for over five years. The credentials of this C.A.O. gem offer a sure-fire impression that should not disappoint. And it certainly doesn't.
This cigar is all about presence. The aroma that oozed out this stick is monumental and the wrapper its dressed in was absolutely flawless. Hidden behind the cedar sheet was an oily sheen that gives this cigar its character. As with most C.A.O. cigars, the pinch test revealed a construction that is unparalleled, something that is to be much desired for in Cubans of late. Under the nose, the cigar gave off with scents of cedar, spice, and cream.
A brief draw test became another testament to the superb construction of this cigar; easy draw, with just enough resistance to remind you that you are smoking on a cigar. Lighting the Storm was a breeze, within an instance a glowing ring was visible. After a few draws, the room was filled with velvety smoke that pillowed endlessly. Notes of caramel and spice became rather prominent until it reached halfway. At that point, the bomb dropped as a load of nutty and creamy flavours rushed in. Flavours became slightly more complex towards the end.
Overall, the cigar performed outstandingly. There wasn't an instance where the burn was anything less than perfect; not once did I need to correct it. The cigar delivers an unique and lasting flavour that is medium in strength and lipsmackingly good.
A perfect way to celebrate the end of the hiatus then. C.A.O. Black Storm makes a perfect cigar for anyone who wants to indulge in the natural current of flavours without digging through layers of fluff. The cigar offers just enough complexity for you to mouth on without being overly intense. In every department, the Storm is absolutely remarkable and highly recommendable. With only two left, I wonder how would I survive.
Pictures:
http://theperfecto.blogspot.com/2006...ack-storm.html