Brand: Tatuaje
Line: Black Label
Vitola: 5 5/8 x 46
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Flavor: Full
Strength: Medium
Price: $12 per cigar, $288 per bundle
Description:
I had a wonderful gift sent to me from a fellow BOTL a few weeks ago (thanks Casey). I wanted to let it rest for a couple of months, but the temptation was too much. The Tatuaje Black Label is Pete Johnson’s personal blend. The actual blend is not known; but we do know that it consists of Nicaraguan tobaccos. It was released to a select few in late 2007 and to a wider audience in 2008, it was still a very limited release. All dealers I have seen have a limit on the purchase of these. I believe they will be release again Q2 of 2009.
Construction:
The initial inspection of this cigar is of a very rustic wrapper with the end of the wrapper leaf folded over the foot. It is a solid stick with very little give and one small vein running the length of the cigar. Once the cap was clipped, I noticed a very smooth draw with little resistance.
Burn:
The burn is a little wavy at first, but straightens out on its own. Not touch-ups or re-lights required. It has a solid, light gray ash that required a little persuasion from me to detach. The resting smoke is light with a nice spicy aroma.
Flavor:
To me the Black label is a milder smoke than the Brown labels I have smoked. It fits more in the medium strength category. However, it is a very full-flavored smoke. It started off a little spicy with wood, pepper, leather, and cocoa. A creamy caramel joined the party at the end of the first third and didn’t relent. This is probably one of the creamiest cigars I have ever smoked. I tried to retro hale once. I would advise against trying that with this stick. It was like sniffing Tabasco. Way too much spice through the sinuses for me.
Verdict:
This is my top cigar of 2008. I only wish I had more. Now that I think on it more, this would be a perfect holiday smoke. Very creamy with a little spice. I would highly recommend trying to find one or more to try. I have already started a savings fund for the next release.
Popularity: 23% [?]
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Happy Holidays – thanks for putting in the effort for the reviews. I’m all over Tatuajes – will now try the Black.
Good review Jesse, you are better at getting reviews out around the holidays than I am. =-)
Keep em coming.
Nick
If you liked this one…try to get it in the Robusto size. It might be my favorite cigar EVER!
ChiefHava
havacigar.blogspot.com
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