Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
mild
Balance
very good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- light gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The Alonso Menendez No. 20, with its Corona format measuring 139.7 mm in length and 17.5 mm in diameter, presents itself with a rustic Brazilian wrapper, typical of its origin. Its slightly veined wrapper and overall knotted appearance testify to a beautiful authenticity. Upon handling, the texture is pleasant, and the overall presentation inspires confidence.
At first contact, the pre-light aromas reveal a fragrant complexity filled with notes of chocolate and coffee, accompanied by a sweet and slightly fruity softness. Once lit, this complexity intensifies, highlighting woody and roasted nuances. The olfactory evolutions are both rich and enticing, captivating the senses from the very first puff.
On the palate, this Brazilian cigar unfolds its flavors gracefully. In the first third, it is creamy and embraces the aromas of chocolate and coffee, while the gradual development introduces a subtle hint of nuts and toasted notes. The fluidity and coherence of the flavors are impressive, culminating in a perfect balance between strength and sweetness, always respectful of the authentic Brazilian aromas.
The finish is marked by a beautiful length and a balanced character. The mouthfeel lingers pleasantly with slightly bitter notes, a pleasing texture, and a hint of residual nuts and wood, bringing elegance to this tasting experience.
For an ideal tasting, savor the Alonso Menendez No. 20 in the late afternoon, accompanied by a coffee or a light beer, to highlight its aromatic profile while enjoying a moment of simple and authentic pleasure.
Community impressions
Cigar enthusiasts highlight its excellent value for money and its aromatic complexity. This Alonso Menendez No. 20 delights with its rich aromas of chocolate and coffee, providing a pleasant smoking experience that is accessible thanks to its perfect draw and quality construction. Ideal for both casual and seasoned smokers, it proves to be a true pleasure with every puff.
How to taste: Alonso Menendez No. 20 (Corona)
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1.The Visual Examination
The Alonso Menendez No. 20 features a very dark, intense maduro wrapper, almost black. Its Robusto format and admirable construction highlight quality craftsmanship, with a length of 139.7 mm and a ring gauge of 44.
The visual examination allows for predicting the upcoming tasting experience — a beautiful construction and rich color often suggest aromatic richness and an even burn.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting the cigar, it is essential to perceive the aromas that emanate from it. In the case of this Corona, notes of chocolate and coffee are present, enveloped in a subtle woody scent.
These pre-light aromas reveal the raw nature of the tobaccos used — anticipating them helps refine attention during tasting and better appreciate the evolution of flavors.
3.The Cut
The standard straight cut, performed just under the cap, must be done carefully to preserve the integrity of the cigar. A precise motion ensures that the draw will be optimal.
A well-executed cut guarantees good airflow — a poorly made cut could compromise the smoking experience by creating difficult or uneven draws.
4.The Cold Draw
The cold draw of the Alonso Menendez No. 20 is perfect, allowing for smooth airflow. This step is crucial before lighting.
An enjoyable draw guarantees a surprise-free smoking experience — a blocked draw might require a re-cut, while an ideal draw anticipates a harmonious tasting.
5.Lighting
During lighting, it is important to toast the foot of the cigar evenly to eliminate any possibility of canoeing. Paying particular attention to the process ensures an even burn.
A good lighting technique avoids the inconveniences of uneven combustion — this allows for fully savoring the aromas from the first draw.
6.First Third
In the first third, the Alonso Menendez No. 20 reveals a gentle strength, giving way to rich aromas of chocolate and coffee, with a medium volume of smoke that envelops the palate.
This relatively gentle start sets the stage for a balanced experience — it is essential to smoke slowly to allow the cigar to thermally adjust.
7.Second Third
As the heat builds, the cigar reveals secondary aromas such as nuts and toasted bread, while maintaining excellent overall balance.
This phase of evolution is often the richest in nuances — it allows for discovering the complexity of the tobaccos and appreciating the mastery of the blend.
8.The Finish
At the end of the tasting, the light gray ash indicates good combustion. The finish is pleasant, leaving slightly bitter and persistent notes.
Observing the ash and the final texture enriches the overall evaluation — good finish is often synonymous with complexity and quality of the tobaccos.