Room 101 Brand 4.5x52 (from 2019 IPCPR) 5/10/20

Appearance

A dark brown wrapper with some mottling and a few prominent veins. The seams are tightly wrapped. There is an oily sheen in spots but it has a matte finish over most of the wrapper. The filler bunch is well packed with no apparent soft spots.

Aroma

Earthy, barnyard, sweetness and a hint of spice on the wrapper. Cedar, earth and spice at the foot.

Prelight Draw

Earthy, cedar, raisin, dates and a faint cinnamon spice

1st

The initial draws bring notes of very earthy cedar and a hint of cinnamon spice. The draw is a tick snug. The burn has a little wave on one side. Strength is medium+. There is a very faint dried fruit note. The ash is light gray and tight with a few stack lines. Cocoa powder notes join the profile. The ash holds firm and straight until removal.

2nd

Dark espresso notes start the 2nd/3rd alongside the heavy earthy notes. Smoke production increased to the medium range as the draw opened up. Strength moves to med/full. The finish is long with notes of earthy cedar, dark espresso, faint dried fruit, cocoa powder and warm cinnamon spice. Right in my wheelhouse.

Final/3rd

The well balanced and flavorful profile continues into the final/3rd. The profile remains consistent right to the nub.

Overall

The Room 101 Brand 4.5x52 provides a very enjoyable smoking experience. A well balanced and flavorful profile with a good draw and mildly erratic burn.