Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
Be the first
Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
good
Draw
slightly tight
Intensity
subtle
- Bouquet
- simple
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
The Dona Flor Mata Fina Corona presents itself with a Brazilian wrapper that has a rustic and slightly dark texture, adorned with a beautiful band that catches the eye. Holding this cigar, you can sense the nuances of its appearance, a blend of sophistication and simplicity, heralding a unique tasting experience.
At first olfactory contact, the pre-light aromas reveal a subtle mix of chocolate, honey, and stone fruit, typically Brazilian. Upon lighting, the cigar emits charming and slightly spicy notes, accompanied by a hint of sweetness that invites aromatic exploration. This initial contact is promising, gently awakening the senses.
On the palate, the development of flavors unfolds across three distinct thirds. The first half is marked by notes of wood, followed by a transition to richer and more complex aromas in the middle. The aromatic progression is continuous, though sometimes a bit subtle, providing a certain coherence while allowing for a slight complexity. As the draws continue, a mild bitterness settles in towards the end of the tasting.
The finish offers a medium length, with a mouthfeel that oscillates between a slight bitterness and a residual sweetness. The balance between strength and sweetness is good, giving this cigar a unique character. What makes it memorable is its typically Brazilian approach, combining traditional aromas with a refined execution.
For an optimal experience, consider enjoying this vitola in the late afternoon, paired with a lightly sweetened coffee or a peaty whisky, to contrast its flavor and elevate its sweet and chocolatey aromas.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its distinctly Brazilian character, with a first half rich in flavors of chocolate and honey. While some find the draw a bit challenging and the bitterness on the finish perplexing, its complexity and balance are appreciated by many aficionados.
How to taste: Dona Flor Mata Fina Corona
▼
1.The Visual Examination
The Dona Flor Mata Fina Corona features a very dark, almost black wrapper, indicative of extensive aging. Its straight format, measuring 139.7 mm (5½") with a ring gauge of 44, offers a pleasant grip, although the construction is mediocre, which may affect the overall experience.
A careful visual examination provides an initial idea of the cigar's aromatic potential and helps detect any manufacturing defects even before lighting.
2.Pre-light Aromas
During the pre-light aromas assessment, notes of chocolate and honey emerge, accompanied by woody and spicy hints. This aromatic palette indicates the richness of the tobaccos used.
The aromas perceived at this stage are a good indicator of the surprises to come — they allow for adjusting expectations and preparing for a tasting rich in flavors.
3.The Cut
A standard straight cut is recommended for this format, allowing access to the filler without compromising the integrity of the wrapper. Be sure to make a clean cut to ensure good airflow.
A well-executed cut promotes an easy draw, essential for fully enjoying the aromas developed during the tasting.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw proves to be somewhat difficult with this cigar, which may indicate a certain density of the filler. This test is crucial for anticipating the proper progression of the burn.
A draw that is too tight may require a re-cut, while a satisfactory draw signals a smoother and more enjoyable tasting experience.
5.Lighting
When lighting the Dona Flor Mata Fina Corona, it is crucial to ensure an even burn at the foot. A careful lighting guarantees a balanced smoking experience.
Poor preparation for lighting can lead to canoeing, an uneven burn that would alter the tasting and the development of the aromas.
6.First Third
From the outset, this cigar presents a medium strength, with dominant aromas of chocolate and honey. The smoke volume is also medium, allowing for a good appreciation of the flavors.
This first third is crucial for judging the quality of the blend and allows for adjusting the smoking pace based on the intensity felt.
7.Second Third
As we progress into the second third, an evolution of aromas is observed, with woody and spicy notes developing harmoniously. The overall balance of the cigar remains good.
This stage is often one of revelation, where the complexity of flavors fully manifests, and evaluating the balance allows for appreciating the construction of the blend.
8.The Finish
The color of the gray ash and the slight bitterness at the end of the tasting testify to a beautiful burn. The residual sweetness and finish remain medium.
Analyzing the finish allows for drawing conclusions about the quality of the blend, the leaf drying technique, and the overall experience of the cigar.