McClelland Christmas Cheer 2006

[Big T]

lol, just kidding, i don't think too highly of OpusX's (flavorless, like cardboard).

I can only conclude that you've been smoking fake Opus

[tedski]

Interesting review. I didn't get any of these flavors out of the small sample I tried. Maybe after a few years in the cellar .....

I also think the OpusX comparison is a bit much as this tobacco is not that strong - although the taste is rather one dimensional to me right now.

[IHT]

Originally Posted by Big T

I can only conclude that you've been smoking fake Opus

lol, nope. someone (who's very well respected on some boards) sent me a handful to prove a point, and they proved my point, not theirs (that OpusX are better than cubans). only one of the 4 or more had any flavor, and it was a very old one... i wouldn't pay $5 for one, but that's me and my tastebuds.

[smokeyscotch]

I agree with you on the cinnamon and nutty flavor. Haven't picked out the fruit flavor, but have noticed it a little in the aroma. Nice review.

[solafid3]

Well, TRicker sent me some along with the Trout Stream I wished for. Opening the jar that I stored it in, the ketchup smell that all McClelland VAs have caught my sense of smell. It wasn't too moist but I decided to dry it out anyways, so it sat under the heat lamp for fifteen minutes till I packed it up. It packed just fine and when I lit it, nice white clouds came up and the light was effortless.

Even though it's been sitting there fore the better part of a year, the smoothness did surprise me. One thing that I noticed while smoking it, is that even though it wasn't an aromatic, this stuff smelled good! There was definitely a sweetness to it, while the spice wasn't as prominent as the FVF and Old Gowrie.

So, the smoke started bothering my gf so I let it sit for about an hour before I picked it up and lit it again. It may have been the bourbon that I've been drinking, but it did benefit just a little bit from having sit for a while.

All in all, the tobacco never smoked too hot, the tongue bite was minimal. And I'd definitely recommend it to anyone gets their hand on it.

P.S. I did notice some 7 y/o Madagascar Vanilla towards the end

[Papichulo]

Originally Posted by IHT

don't doom it with that comment.
lol, just kidding, i don't think too highly of OpusX's (flavorless, like cardboard).

excellent review though, seems that i've been stockpiling some xmas Cheer and have never even had a bowl... i've smelled the tobacco, seen someone smoke it, figured i'd stock up... can't wait to open a tin.

How about a can of Anejo instead

[Mister Moo]

I finally busted open my first can of 2006 Christmas Cheer; I am very glad I bought seven of them. After smoking half the can I see this in my Top 10 of favorite smokes.

This is a rich, slightly tangy blend that offers a gently changing landscape of flavor through a bowl. I am not claiming citrus, cheese or vanilla - just a mixed bag of balanced flavor relying heavily on some fine, sweet VA.

[CigarGal]

Originally Posted by Mister Moo

I finally busted open my first can of 2006 Christmas Cheer; I am very glad I bought seven of them. After smoking half the can I see this in my Top 10 of favorite smokes.

This is a rich, slightly tangy blend that offers a gently changing landscape of flavor through a bowl. I am not claiming citrus, cheese or vanilla - just a mixed bag of balanced flavor relying heavily on some fine, sweet VA.

Dan, have you tried the 2007? The reviews on the TOM thread aren't very favorable.

[IHT]

Originally Posted by CigarGal

Dan, have you tried the 2007? The reviews on the TOM thread aren't very favorable.

it's too young, i think.

[EnyafanJT]

Originally Posted by IHT

it's too young, i think.

i haven't bought any yet but one who has smoked for a good long time should be able to tell if it has potential or not. i have to say my least favorite year was 1992 if you can believe it. i am glad this came up, not every year is going to be a good one. some of my favorite yrs for xmas cheer have been ones that got lower ratings on tobacco reviews. that is the great thing about reading reviews both here and tobaccoreviews. as well as trading and going to herfs. i have picked up a few blends from the hillbilly herf to add, and some not to add.

[Mister Moo]

Originally Posted by CigarGal

Dan, have you tried the 2007? The reviews on the TOM thread aren't very favorable.

No Marianne. I have not tried any '07 but bought a bunch of the '06 based on last years excellent reviews. Without writing another review, I wish I'd bought a case or two instead of just seven cans; it is a particularly satisfying smoke in my book.