Sunday, July 19, 2020

2012 Barber Pole by Oscar Valladares Box Pressed Toro 6/20/20



Appearance
A candela and San Andres Maduro wrapped barber pole cigar with tightly wrapped seams and a few prominent veins. It has a nice oily sheen. The filler bunch is well packed with no apparent soft spots.

Aroma
Earth, cedar, clove and spice on the wrapper. Cedar, light brown sugar and spice at the foot.

Prelight Draw
Cedar, earth, black licorice, spice.

1st
The initial draws bring notes of cedar, earth and spice. Noticing notes of chocolate mixed with green grass. The draw is a bit snug. The burn has a slight wave. The spice is very mild at this point. The ash is light gray and stacked. Their is a bit of a meaty note joining the profile. The spice is of the cinnamon variety with a pinch of black pepper. The ash held firm and straight until removal.

2nd
The well balanced profile moves into the 2nd/3rd. Strength is medium. There is still a v in the burn on one of the sides which is caused by a tunnel near the binder leaf. The draw has opened up nicely. The blend gives a very dry mouth feel. Smoke production is at the high end of medium range. A few draws into the 2nd/3rd the burn fully self corrects as the tunnel ends. The finish is long with notes of cedar, earth, chocolate, meat and cinnamon/black pepper spice.

Final/3rd
There is a citrus note joining the profile. The blend is now causing more salivation. The well balanced and flavorful profile continues right to the nub.

Overall
The 2012 Barberpole by Oscar Valladares box pressed Toro provides an enjoyable smoking experience. A well balanced and flavorful profile with a great draw(after it opened up) and a mildly erratic burn.
Definitely a cigar to try.


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