Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
excellent
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Tasting notes
The CLE Criollo Toro Gordo, measuring 152.4 mm (6") in length and 23.8 mm (⅞") in diameter, showcases an attractive wrapper from Honduras. The texture of its wrapper is smooth and shiny, providing a pleasant grip and revealing a fine quality of craftsmanship. The overall presentation of this cigar is meticulous, inviting one on a journey from the very first glance.
Upon lighting, a rich and varied olfactory experience unfolds with notes of wood, nuts, and black pepper. The aromatic evolution continues with hints of fruit and leather, embodying great complexity. These scents, both intense and well-integrated, promise a captivating tasting experience.
On the palate, the cigar gradually unfolds, revealing a harmony of flavors across the three thirds. The aromas subtly evolve, transitioning from woody notes accompanied by a creamy texture to spicy nuances, before concluding with an enticing finish. This aromatic development highlights the coherence of the construction and the excellence of the tobacco composition.
The finish is medium, with a sensation of warmth and balance that leaves a delicate imprint. The overall profile displays an excellent balance between strength and sweetness, making this creation a unique piece in the world of cigars. Its solid construction ensures an easy draw and a good burn, supporting a pleasant smoking experience.
Ideal for a moment of contemplation in the evening, this cigar pairs perfectly with a peated whisky, which will enhance the richness of the aromas. There is no doubt that the CLE Criollo Toro Gordo will appeal to both novices and aficionados seeking new authentic sensations.
Community impressions
Cigar enthusiasts highlight its expressive character and remarkable balance. The flavors of wood and nuts, combined with a pleasing texture, provide a highly satisfying smoking experience, accessible to both beginners and experienced smokers.
How to taste: CLE Criollo Toro Gordo (60x6)
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1.The Visual Examination
The CLE Criollo Toro Gordo showcases a medium brown to earthy hue, characteristic of its Honduran origin. Its construction is very beautiful and reflects particular care in the manufacturing process, while its Toro Gordo format, with dimensions of 152.4 mm (6") and a ring gauge of 60, offers a comfortable grip.
This initial observation allows for an assessment of the quality of the construction and the aesthetics of the cigar, essential aspects that influence the tasting experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
During the pre-light aromas assessment, predominant notes of wood, nuts, and pepper are discovered. These notes herald a complexity that will unfold as the tasting progresses.
This step is crucial as it reveals the raw nature of the tobacco, allowing one to anticipate future sensations and prepare for potential aromatic evolutions.
3.The Cut
The standard straight cut made under the cap ensures a clean and precise opening. This simple gesture prepares the cigar for an effective and consistent burn.
A well-executed cut is essential to guarantee an easy draw, thus avoiding inconveniences such as a blocked draw or uneven burn.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw of the CLE Criollo Toro Gordo is perfect, allowing for excellent airflow. This sensation in the mouth foreshadows a pleasant smoking experience.
Checking the cold draw is vital to detect any potential manufacturing defects before lighting, ensuring a tasting experience without unpleasant surprises.
5.Lighting
During lighting, it is important to ensure that the foot is well-toasted to promote an even burn. The aroma released at this moment is often indicative of the aromas to come.
A good lighting technique avoids issues such as canoeing and allows the tasting to start on solid foundations, thus ensuring good aromatic development.
6.First Third
In the first third, the cigar expresses a medium strength with dominant aromas of wood, nuts, and pepper. The smoke volume is also medium, creating a rich and enveloping atmosphere.
This initial phase is often the most intense, and understanding the dominant aromas helps to appreciate the complexity that will develop later.
7.Second Third
As the cigar progresses into its second third, new notes of fruit, leather, and spices begin to emerge, revealing an excellent balance in the blend.
This evolution of flavors is the key moment where complexity asserts itself, demonstrating how the different tobaccos interact to offer a rich and nuanced experience.
8.The Finish
The gray ash indicates a slow and even burn. The finish in the mouth is marked by a slight persistence, a pleasant texture, and a gentle salivation, offering a medium finish.
The quality of the ash and the finish are indicators of the minerality and complexity of the blend, allowing one to judge the work done on the tobacco and appreciate the depth of this experience.