C.A.O. Italia Gondola Review

[redryno247]

Like every other C.A.O. I've had the pleasure of smoking, this was also a very enjoyable cigar. I've been hard pressed to find a more consistent cigar than a C.A.O. when it comes to the quality of the construction; and the Italia proved to live up to the high expectations. The wrapper was nice and smooth making this a comfortable cigar to hold. It was also nice and firm throughout the length of the cigar, which also added to the overall comfort of holding this cigar. In a word, this cigar was "pretty" in every way. The pre-light aroma was interesting, as I noticed a smell I couldn't quite place. Upon making my cut and testing the draw (which was great; wide open, just how I like), I preceded to light her up. As the flame kissed the first bits of tobacco, I was greeted again by this very distinct aroma. As I made my way through the cigar the flavor was dominated by this one particular taste that I was never able to really identify. Try as I might, I was unable to place it. It was however, enjoyable and I enjoyed this cigar for close to 2 hours, smoking to about the nub. Throughout the smoke the burn was even and cool, moving the smoke along at an enjoyable pace. The ash was firm, but fell off about every inch without help from me. One thing I did notice that was different from other C.A.O. cigars I've smoked is that the Italia didn't put out a heavy amount of smoke. Just enough, rather, to let you know it was still burning. I wouldn't say this was my favorite C.A.O. offering, I would however like to try one again, in the hopes of placing the distinct, intriguing flavor that I can only describe as the flavor of Italy. If you've not tried the C.A.O. Italia, give it a try. I would say it fell into the medium range and would make for a nice afternoon smoke. Thanks for reading.

[renton20]

I tried one of these a few months ago and was not really impressed. The two things you mentioned, loose draw and not a lot of smoke ruined it for me. I like a draw that is a tad on the firm side with billowing clouds of smoke, so this really didn't do it for me. It was only the second CAO I tried, so I might give it another shot. There are so many other smokes in the price range, both ones I have loved and others I want to try, so it is hard for me to justify picking up another one. Good review though, I may end up trying another size in this line. Any recommendations?

[redryno247]

Originally Posted by renton20

I tried one of these a few months ago and was not really impressed. The two things you mentioned, loose draw and not a lot of smoke ruined it for me. I like a draw that is a tad on the firm side with billowing clouds of smoke, so this really didn't do it for me. It was only the second CAO I tried, so I might give it another shot. There are so many other smokes in the price range, both ones I have loved and others I want to try, so it is hard for me to justify picking up another one. Good review though, I may end up trying another size in this line. Any recommendations?

I definatley like other C.A.O. offerings better, particularly the Mx2 and Cx2...give either of those a try.

[Gambit]

I have Italia Positanos and Ciaos in the humidor now and I like them but, not for everyday. Last night, with a sour mash on the rocks, playing NTN trivia, the Positano was good smoke. A 60 gauge cigar is not an everyday smoke to me, though.
Although not 100%, most of my experiences with CAO have been good. Some very good.