Principle Cigars Archive Collection Straphanger
République Dominicaine · Marevas
6.5 – 10.5 €
6 – 10 CHF
Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
poor
Draw
slightly tight
Intensity
subtle
- Bouquet
- simple
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
With a wrapper of nuanced brown, the Principle Cigars Archive Collection Straphanger presents a seductive texture to the touch. Its dimensions of 130.2 mm in length and a diameter of 16.7 mm give it a pleasant feel in hand. The smooth and well-applied wrapper offers a subtle sheen that catches the eye, while the overall presentation recalls the stripped-down craftsmanship characteristic of Dominican cigars.
Upon lighting, the first puff reveals predominantly nutty aromas, accompanied by earthy notes that manifest quickly. As the cigar evolves, hints of wood emerge, adding a certain warmth to the olfactory bouquet, although the overall profile remains relatively subtle. The complexity is limited to a simple pleasure, without any real surprises.
On the palate, the cigar develops its flavors but faces a certain uniformity throughout the three thirds. The earthy and woody profile predominates, accompanied by echoes of cocoa and spices in the background. The mouthfeel reveals an almost dry texture, underscored by a slightly difficult draw. However, aficionados will appreciate the stability of the ash, although hints of bitterness may disrupt the finish of the experience.
The finish provides a mixed sensation; the finish is medium, potentially offering an interesting dimension, but at times leaves a bitter taste. The balance between strength and sweetness leaves something to be desired, making the experience less harmonious than hoped. What makes this cigar unique is, in fact, its simplicity, sometimes even too evident.
For those wishing to try the Straphanger, a moment of relaxation at the end of the day could be ideal. A glass of slightly peated whisky could enhance the woody and earthy nuances of this cigar, creating a delicate harmony to explore.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight a lack of complexity and balance, despite interesting pre-light aromas of nuts and earth. Although the construction is consistent, the difficulty of the draw and some flavor imbalances make the experience less convincing. This cigar does not achieve unanimous acclaim among aficionados.
How to taste: Principle Cigars Archive Collection Straphanger
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1.The Visual Examination
The Principle Cigars Archive Collection Straphanger is presented in a Marevas vitola, measuring 130.2 mm with a ring gauge of 42. Its light brown, natural wrapper catches the eye, although the construction is mediocre, which may lead to potential irregularities during the tasting.
Observing the color and construction allows one to infer the quality of the burn and the richness of the pre-light aromas. A well-made and uniform wrapper is often a guarantee of a pleasant tasting experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, it is crucial to pay attention to the aromas emitted by the cigar. Here, scents of nuts, damp earth, and wood are revealed, while some notes of chocolate and spices can also be perceived.
This step allows one to immerse in the intrinsic characteristics of the tobacco, which will be altered by heat. Anticipating these aromas enriches the tasting experience.
3.The Cut
Making a standard straight cut just below the cap is essential to ensure an easy draw. A careful cut will clear the passage of smoke while preserving the integrity of the wrapper.
A proper cut is crucial to avoid difficult combustion and ensure a consistent draw. A poor cut can lead to discomfort during the tasting.
4.Cold Draw
Performing a cold draw, it is observed that it is a bit difficult. This may indicate excessive density or compaction of the tobacco inside the cigar.
This preliminary test helps identify manufacturing defects before lighting. A blocked draw may require a re-cut, thus ensuring a pleasant tasting experience.
5.Lighting
Lighting must be done carefully to ensure an even burn. Taking the time to toast the foot of the cigar helps avoid undesirable canoeing.
Properly lighting the cigar is crucial to prevent imbalances that could detract from the tasting experience during the first thirds.
6.First Third
In this first third, the strength is perceived as medium, with dominant aromas of nuts, damp earth, and wood. The volume of smoke is also medium, offering a pleasant initial experience.
This initial stage is essential for assessing the strength and richness of the aromas, establishing a foundation for the remainder of the tasting.
7.Second Third
During this second third, the cigar evolves and begins to reveal its secondary aromas like chocolate and spices. However, the balance remains mediocre, which may result in a sense of imbalance.
Understanding the evolution of the aromas and the overall balance allows for a better appreciation of the complexity of the blend and anticipation of variations in flavor.
8.The Finish
The color of the ash is gray, and the finish leaves a slight bitterness accompanied by a residual sweetness. The finish appears medium, reflecting a harmonious blend but lacking brilliance.
Evaluating the finish helps judge the quality of the drying of the leaves and understand the persistence of the aromas, crucial elements for a valuable cigar.