Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
very good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
The Gurkha Cellar Reserve 18 Years Kraken (XO) presents an alluring appearance, with a beautiful texture of the wrapper and golden reflections. In hand, this cigar measuring 152.4 mm (6") with a diameter of 23.8 mm (⅞") exudes an undeniable impression of artisanal quality, already hinting at a refined experience.
From the very first olfactory contact, you will notice intriguing pre-light aromas of dark chocolate and roasted coffee. Upon lighting, these scents evolve into sweeter notes of vanilla, complemented by a spicy touch of cinnamon that makes the beginning of the tasting very engaging. This promises an exciting aromatic exploration.
On the palate, the development of flavors unfolds in three distinct thirds, with a harmonious progression. You will be transported by a rich complexity thanks to the dominant aromas of chocolate and coffee, while nutty notes subtly emerge in the middle of the smoke, offering a beautiful coherence throughout the tasting. The texture remains pleasant, with an easy draw.
In conclusion, the final sensation in the mouth is marked by a beautiful finish that invites you to savor each puff. The length is medium, and the balance between strength and sweetness is very good, making this cigar a unique piece for enthusiasts seeking a refined smoke.
Ideal to enjoy at the end of the day, paired with a strong black coffee to highlight the roasted notes, this cigar lends itself to moments of contemplation and sharing.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its harmonious complexity and easy draw. While they appreciate the pre-light aromas of chocolate and coffee, some lament that the finish could be more enduring. Overall, the quality and balance appeal to the majority of smokers.
How to taste: Gurkha Cellar Reserve 18 Years Kraken (XO)
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1.Visual Examination
The Gurkha Cellar Reserve 18 Years Kraken (XO) features a beautiful light brown, natural, and slightly shiny wrapper. Its construction is of very high quality, and the Toro Gordo format, with its 152.4 mm (6") length and a ring gauge of 60, fits comfortably in hand.
The initial observation of color and construction allows for an assessment of the tobacco quality and the promise of the tasting experience. A beautiful presentation catches the eye and may foreshadow a harmonious experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the cigar emits powerful aromas of chocolate and coffee, with notes of nuts in the background. These pleasant scents testify to the richness of the tobacco used.
This step is essential for anticipating the flavors that will unfold during the tasting, allowing one to mentally prepare for the upcoming gustatory experience.
3.The Cut
The cut is performed standardly under the cap, providing a perfect opening for the draw. The precision of the cut is crucial for a successful tasting.
A well-executed cut ensures an optimal draw, thus avoiding discomfort or irregularities during the smoke that could alter the sensory experience.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw is perfect, allowing for smooth airflow. This step confirms the integrity of the cigar's construction and the quality of the leaves.
A smooth draw indicates a homogeneous burn, reducing the risk of discomfort during the tasting and ensuring a pleasant passage of aromas.
5.Lighting
During lighting, it is essential to evenly toast the foot of the cigar to ensure stable and balanced combustion. Special attention is required at this stage.
A carefully executed lighting helps avoid canoeing issues, where one side burns faster than the other, thus ensuring a homogeneous smoking experience.
6.First Third
The first third offers a medium strength, with dominant aromas of chocolate and coffee fully expressing themselves. The smoke volume is also medium, pleasant, and well-regulated.
This initial phase is often intense and engaging, serving as a reference for the remainder of the tasting and allowing one to appreciate the complexity of the flavors.
7.Second Third
In this second third, the balance of the cigar is very good, with the emergence of secondary aromas such as vanilla and cinnamon, enriching the tasting experience.
It is at this stage that the complexity of the blend reveals itself, offering a richer palette of flavors and allowing one to appreciate the evolution of the cigar as the tasting progresses.
8.The Finish
The ashes are gray, indicating good combustion, and the finish offers a nice persistence with a pleasant lightness. The finish is medium, balanced.
Examining the finish is crucial for evaluating the quality of the blend and the duration of the lingering flavors, thus revealing the craftsmanship that went into creating this cigar.