601 Maduro Robusto by Espinosa 9/2/18

 Appearance
A dark chocolate colored Maduro wrapper with 1 small thin vein. The seams which are visible due to some mottling are tightly wrapped. The surface of the wrapper leaf is smooth and has an oily feel. The filler bunch is well packed with no apparent soft spots. The cigar is box pressed.

Aroma
Earth, cedar, molasses and a hint of spice on the wrapper. Earth, cedar, molasses and spice at the foot.

Prelight Draw
Earth, cedar, spice

1st
Initial draws bring notes of rich earth and a dash of black pepper spice. The draw is a bit snug. The burn has a slight wave. The ash is salt&pepper gray and stacked. A crack develops in the wrapper across the cigar, 3/4” below the band. The black pepper spice becomes dominant. Strength is at medium+. The ash holds firm till removal.

2nd
The black pepper spice backs off a bit coming into balance with the earth and cedar. The draw opens up nicely. Smoke production is at the high end of medium range. Cayenne pepper notes join the profile in the spice department.

Final/3rd
The strength moves to med/full.
The finish is long with notes of earth, cedar and a nicely balanced mix of cayenne & black pepper spice. Late in the final/3rd the cayenne pepper dominates the profile. A tasty and consistent flavor right to the nub.

Overall
The 601 Maduro Robusto provides a very enjoyable smoking experience. A well balanced and flavorful profile with a good draw and mildly erratic burn.