Brand: EO 601
Line: Maduro (Blue)
Vitola: Toro 6.25 x 52
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Maduro
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Full
Box Price: $188 (Box of 20) Buy it now.
Description: I will not deny that I’m a huge fan of the EO 601 Cigars. I’ve reviewed the EO 601 Oscuro Green and EO 601 Habano Red in the past and really enjoyed both of them. The entire EO 601 line is blended by Pepin Garcia for United Tobacco Inc. Construction of this one, the EO 601 Blue, was firm and heavy and about as close to perfection as you’ll get in a hand made product. The draw was easy with just a touch of resistance. Enough with the idle chatter though, I’m lighting this baby up!
The first few puffs produce copious amounts of white smoke and a smooth, almost creamy, texture. The cigar is a consistent blend of cocoa and roasted nuts. I didn’t pick up any major flavor changes until the final third where at that point it picked up some spice. Other than that it stayed steady with that creamy cocoa and nutty flavor, of which I would describe as either almond or walnut. The light gray ash held firm and only a small touch up or two were needed throughout.
Verdict: The EO 601 Maduro Blue is one of my first choices for a Friday evening smoke after a large meal. This is a cigar you take your time smoking or it will sneak up on you. It is probably one of the strongest cigars I’ve smoked and I’ll admit that more than once I’ve had to lay down after smoking it too fast. The smooth texture makes it easy to smoke, but adds some deception around its strength.
Similar Cigars: This cigar reminds me of the Padron 1964 Anniversary Maduro with the rich cocoa flavor, while the strength is equal to that of the La Dominicana Double Ligero. I also recommend you try the EO 601 Oscuro which has a fuller flavor profile.
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{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Man I’m looking forward to trying these out. I think there’s some coming my way. When they arrive, I guess the wife and I will have to make the pilgrimage up to my favorite steak place so I can smoke it! (I’ve been looking for an excuse…)
I absolutely love the EO 601 cigars and the flavor profile of the Blue is fantastic. The steak is a good idea… always a good idea. :)
These are definitely great cigars. These maduros have been my fav of the line since they came out. Good review, Jesse.
I think I’ll be making these my next box purchase. :) I have a chunk of extra cash coming to me this month so I’m considering the EO 601′s as a purchase.
I definitely think that’s a good choice, Jesse. I’ve got a box of the toros at home now and I’m almost done with a box of the robustos.
If I’m not mistaken, this is the first maduro by Jose Pepin Garcia. And what a maduro debut! Nice review of my absolute favorite EO 601. I’m definitely buying you a beer on this one!
Based on Jerry’s fine review (The Stogie Review) and my subsequent purchase of a box, I’m looking forward to Pepin’s second stab at maduro – the DPG Serie JJ Maduro. Think I’m going to have to review that one as well!
My local shop had the JJ’s but I thought I’d review a few other things besides Pepin Cigars for awhile so I passed them up for the time being.
Great review. Had my first one Saturday. Absolutely loved it! I will be back for many, many more. Thanks!
Thanks for the info on this cigar. Being a fan of maduros and already liking the Green label I ordered up some of the Blue Robustos.
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