Note from Cigar Jack: Would everyone please give a warm welcome to our newest reviewer, Clint. I’d also like to thank Clint for bailing me out. I was running behind with work related stuff and did not have a chance to review a manufacturer’s website like I normally do on Friday.
Brand: Arturo Fuente
Line: Don Carlos Series
Vitola: Double Robusto
Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Cameroon
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: Dominican Republic
Body: Medium
Strength: Medium
Box Price: $206.90 (Box of 25)
Description: Although not exactly cheap; The Don Carlos line represents a very fine cigar without the hefty price tag that the Opus line carries. Not nearly as strong as the Opus, but very well constructed with a wonderful flavor profile.
Before snipping and lighting, I noticed that the Cameroon wrapper was beautiful, velvety smooth, and was slightly sweet to the nose.
While toasting, an aroma of caramel and cocoa powder came forth. Almost a palatable sweetness was present in the aroma! Not too sweet, but just unusual and pleasant.
The first third was filled with flavors of cashews, toast, coffee, and a distinct sweetness (thanks to the Cameroon wrapper). The sweet flavors came in the forms of Anise and Sambuca, but faint and subdued. The ash was thick and dense, and the aromas were pleasant. The construction and subsequent draw produced volumes of smoke.
The second third contained notes of dark coffee, earthiness, and dark bread. The ash continued to grow, and the burn line was crisp and sharp; indicating well aged tobacco. No burn problems at all; no need to touch up with the torch. When the ash finally dropped, there was a perfect conical shape left; indicating quality construction.
The last third really showed the accumulation of flavors as the profile got stronger: Walnuts, espresso, licorice, and earthy flavors were abounded. I nubbed this cigar, wishing it was a few inched longer so that I could enjoy it further!
Hard to explain the “sweetness” in this cigar. Certainly not sweet like candy or sugar, but just an element not found in cigars normally. All along the sweet elements were very nicely tapered and subdued by a core of complex, strong flavors.
Verdict: Typical of any Fuente I have smoked, this cigar is top shelf. The burn, flavors, ash, and aroma were all great. A very well constructed cigar, and one that is well worth trying!
Check out our review of the Arturo Fuente Don Carlos #2
Popularity: 15% [?]
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I’m a big fan of Arturo Fuente (they’re definitely worth the price), so this was a nice review to read. I don’t think I’ve tried anything from the Don Carlos series before, so I’ll have to pick up a stick or two and see if I enjoy it.
Welcome Clint, great review. I love the Arturo Fuente line. I prefer the sweetness of the Cameroon wrapper, and anything Arturo Fuente for me is a great smoke!
I come by often for the great reviews – Another hit for Cigar Jack!
Glad to have you on board, Clint!
The Don Carlos Series is probably one of my favorite all time cigars. Thanks for a great review Clint!
I have a double robusto waiting in my humi gifted by a fried and after this review I will have to give it a try here soon!!
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