Gurkha Royal Challenge Grand Robusto Tubo (Toro)
Dominican Republic · Robusto Gordo
8 – 13 €
7.5 – 12.5 CHF
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
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The Gurkha Royal Challenge Grand Robusto Tubo presents itself with an elegant and shiny wrapper, typical of cigars from Ecuador. Its format of 152.4 mm (6") and a diameter of 19.8 mm (¾") give it an imposing stature. Upon handling, the Ecuadorian wrapper reveals a smooth and silky texture, heightening the anticipation of a beautiful smoking experience.
From the very first olfactory contact, this cigar invites you to explore its aromas. Pre-light aromas of wood and green tea emerge, foreshadowing a complex tasting. Upon lighting, this contrast is reinforced with notes of black pepper and a subtle hint of mint, offering a pleasant and promising initial evolution.
On the palate, the development of flavors unfolds in three distinct thirds. The first third is marked by a strong spiciness, gradually giving way to sweeter and softer aromas of earth, while maintaining harmony with the wood notes. As we move into the second third, nuances of cocoa and saffron become apparent, enriching the aromatic palette. Unfortunately, the final third seems to lose some intensity, characterized by a more earthy return and a slight hint of dampness.
The finish is marked by a soft sensation in the mouth, with a medium length and a remarkable balance between strength and the sweetness of the aromas. This cigar is undoubtedly unique in its ability to captivate from the very first moments, despite a slight weakening towards the end.
For an optimal experience, we recommend enjoying the Gurkha Royal Challenge Grand Robusto Tubo during a relaxing evening, paired with a lightly peated whisky that will balance its aromatic complexity.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its elegance and aromatic expression. With notes of wood and black pepper, it stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between strength and smoothness, despite a slight loss of intensity during the final third.
How to taste: Gurkha Royal Challenge Grand Robusto Tubo (Toro)
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1.Visual Examination
The Gurkha Royal Challenge Grand Robusto Tubo features a light brown to golden wrapper, with a natural and silky feel to the touch. Its construction is very beautiful, indicating particular care during its manufacture. The Robusto Gordo format, with a length of 152.4 mm (6") and a ring gauge of 50, ensures a comfortable grip.
The initial observation of the wrapper and construction allows one to assess the quality of craftsmanship and the promise of a pleasant tasting experience. A well-constructed cigar is often synonymous with consistent consumption and satisfaction.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the perceived aromas reveal an interesting palette dominated by notes of wood, pepper, and chocolate. Subtle hints of saffron, mint, and damp earth enrich the olfactory profile.
This step is crucial for identifying the natural characteristics of the tobacco, offering a first perspective on the flavors to come. These initial aromas help prepare for the aromatic evolution during the tasting.
3.The Cut
A standard straight cut is made under the cap to ensure an optimal draw. It is important to ensure a clean cut to fully enjoy the tasting experience.
A carefully executed cut is essential to avoid any risk of blockage. This guarantees an easy draw, which is vital for appreciating the richness of the aromas throughout the tasting.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw is perfect, allowing for a good airflow through the cigar. This step confirms that the construction meets expectations.
An optimal draw signals a hassle-free tasting experience. If the draw were blocked, it would have required adjustments, which could disrupt the experience.
5.Lighting
Lighting must be done carefully to ensure that the foot of the cigar burns evenly. Particular attention should be paid to this step to avoid imperfect combustion.
A balanced lighting prevents canoeing issues, preserving the integrity of the tasting experience. This allows for a harmonious evolution of aromas from the very first puffs.
6.First Third
In the first third, the Gurkha Royal Challenge reveals a medium strength, offering a medium volume of smoke. The dominant aromas of wood, pepper, and chocolate stand out intensely.
This powerful beginning is often indicative of the richness of the blend. A slow approach allows for the discovery of the depth of flavors, facilitating their gradual appreciation.
7.Second Third
The heat accumulated in the second third allows for an evolution of the aromas, where the secondary notes of saffron, mint, and damp earth fully express themselves, while maintaining a very good balance.
It is in this phase that the complexity of the blend unfolds, offering a rich and nuanced tasting experience. Balance is essential to avoid one aroma dominating the others.
8.The Finish
At the end of the tasting, the gray ash testifies to the quality of the burn. A residual sweetness accompanied by a slight persistent salivation completes the experience.
A pleasant finish with a medium finish indicates the quality of the blend and the drying of the leaves, while promising a nice persistence of flavors.