Caldwell Eastern Standard Midnight Express Palais Royale (Toro)
9 – 15 €
8 – 15 CHF
Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
good
Draw
slightly tight
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The Caldwell Eastern Standard Midnight Express Palais Royale, in the Toro format with a length of 152.4 mm (6"), invites you from the very first glance with its quality Maduro wrapper. Although the specific wrapper is not detailed, the overall presentation is meticulous, offering a pleasant handfeel that reflects artisanal craftsmanship.
At the first olfactory contact, the aromatic complexity promises surprises. The pre-light aromas reveal slightly floral notes and a subtle sweetness. Upon lighting, the first puff unveils a sweet spice, quickly accompanied by a hint of *salt* and pepper. This engaging start is colored by nuances of cedar, which intensify with each draw.
On the palate, the richness continues to develop through the thirds. The transition to the second third sees the harmony between salt and pepper overshadowing any other presence. The cedar notes remain, while a gentle sweetness lingers in the background. Spicy hints of cinnamon manifest mid-journey, adding a beautiful complexity to the overall experience. The final third reveals nut aromas that integrate with the previous flavors, although requiring more sustained attention due to a sometimes difficult draw.
In the finish, the length of the flavors is medium, offering a pleasant persistence. The coexistence of strength and sweetness is what makes this cigar intriguing. It manages to maintain a good balance, although particular attention is needed to adjust the draw at the last moment.
This cigar will find its perfect place during a moment of relaxation, perhaps at the end of the day with a glass of amber rum to accompany its spicy and woody aromas. A lovely way to appreciate its nuances without getting lost in an overly absent complexity.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight the aromatic complexity that develops throughout the tasting, although the draw sometimes presents difficulties. The combination of pepper, cedar, and nuts creates a pleasant profile, but requires particular attention. Overall, it is appreciated for its balance, even if some find it less inspiring.
How to taste: Caldwell Eastern Standard Midnight Express Palais Royale (Toro)
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1.Visual Examination
The Caldwell Eastern Standard Midnight Express Palais Royale (Toro) features a classic straight format of 152.4 mm (6") with a ring gauge of 52. Although the construction is deemed mediocre, the overall appearance of the cigar deserves special attention during inspection.
This step allows for the assessment of the cigar's overall quality and anticipates any potential defects that could affect the burn or tasting experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the cigar reveals aromas of apple, pepper, and cedar, mingling with more subtle notes of cinnamon, nuts, and white flowers. These fragrances can provide a promising glimpse into the complexity to come.
Identifying the aromas at this stage helps prepare for the transformation of flavors during the burn, while refining the olfactory perception for tasting.
3.Cutting
A standard straight cut just below the cap is recommended for this Toro format. This technique prepares the cigar for an optimal draw experience.
A good cut ensures a consistent draw, thus avoiding the inconveniences of uneven or blocked combustion that could detract from the appreciation of the aromas.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw proves to be somewhat difficult, which may indicate insufficient airflow due to the mediocre construction. This step is crucial for assessing the ease of draw before lighting.
A poorly regulated draw at this stage may require a re-cut and signal potential issues that will affect the comfort of the tasting experience.
5.Lighting
Taking the time to evenly light the foot of the cigar is essential. Poor initial combustion can lead to canoes that will alter the tasting experience from the outset.
A good lighting ensures stable combustion, allowing the aromas to express themselves fully without interference from uneven burning.
6.First Third
The first third offers a medium strength, with dominant aromas of apple and pepper, delivering a smoke volume that remains pleasant. The initial flavors are often intense and striking.
This moment of tasting is crucial for establishing expectations regarding strength and complexity, contributing to the appreciation of the evolution that will follow.
7.Second Third
At this stage, secondary aromas of cinnamon and nuts begin to reveal themselves, bringing a beautiful complexity to the blend. The balance then asserts itself, offering harmony among the different flavors.
Observing this evolution allows for an appreciation of the richness of the blend and how the flavors interact, enriching the overall tasting experience.
8.The Finish
The gray ashes testify to the quality of the drying of the leaves, and a nice finish with a slight residual sweetness concludes the tasting. The finish is rated as medium.
A successful finish is essential for judging the minerality and complexity of the cigar, indicating the quality of the tobaccos used and their ability to leave a lasting impression.