Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
mild
Balance
very good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- long
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
The Mata Hari Limited Edition 2024, a cigar with a distinctive character, reveals itself with a seductive and elegant wrapper. Its Toro format of 152.4 mm with a diameter of 20.6 mm offers a comfortable grip and an appealing visual, accentuated by smooth leather and a slight sheen on its Mexican wrapper. When observed, the perfectly fitted bands highlight the quality of its presentation.
From the first olfactory contact, you are charmed by a rich bouquet revealing notes of leather, roasted coffee, and a subtle floral touch. Upon lighting, the initial zest, tinged with generous notes, is enriched by spicy nuances and an unexpected depth. The pre-light aromas entice with an enchanting fragrance, promising a fascinating tasting experience.
On the palate, this Mata Hari unfolds brilliantly, with flavors that progress harmoniously throughout the three thirds. The initial moments are marked by a velvety sweetness, with hazelnut notes intertwining with floral aromas. As you advance in the tasting, a balance between strength and finesse emerges, with dark chocolate and spice notes adding appreciable complexity.
The finish is of remarkable length, with a light salinity and a persistent sweetness. There is a perfect balance between strength and the complexity of the aromas, making this edition so unique. The construction is exemplary, with a consistent burn and gray ash attesting to its craftsmanship.
Ideal for a quiet evening, this Mata Hari pairs perfectly with a glass of peated whisky, enhancing the floral and creamy undertones of the cigar. Consider enjoying it by the fireside, where its intensity can fully flourish.
Community impressions
Praised by enthusiasts, this cigar elicits mixed opinions. Many appreciate its aromatic intensity and meticulous construction, while others note visible imperfections. Its aromatic complexity delights, but some consider its quality-to-price ratio insufficient.
How to taste: Mata Hari Limited Edition 2024
▼
1.The Visual Examination
The Mata Hari Limited Edition 2024 features a dark brown, pronounced maduro wrapper that immediately catches the eye. Its construction is exquisite, reflecting particular care during its creation. With dimensions of 152.4 mm in length and a ring gauge of 52, this Toro format fits comfortably in the hand.
The initial visual assessment allows for a judgment of the craftsmanship quality and the aesthetic appeal of the cigar — a beautiful, flawless wrapper can herald a more enjoyable tasting experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting the Mata Hari, a deep inhalation reveals aromas of leather, coffee, and white flowers emanating from it. These refined scents provide a first sensory approach, promising for what is to come.
Detecting the pre-light aromas helps anticipate the forthcoming flavors — this step allows us to refine our focus on the notes that will develop during the smoke.
3.The Cut
The standard straight cut, made just below the cap, is essential for an even draw. The careful execution of this step ensures the integrity of the wrapper and allows access to the aromas without resistance.
A well-made cut is crucial to avoid uneven burn — it ensures a constant airflow that will promote a smooth smoking experience.
4.Cold Draw
During the cold draw, it is discovered that this cigar offers perfect resistance, allowing air to pass freely. This sensation of lightness is encouraging for the upcoming tasting.
An easy draw indicates that the cigar has been well crafted — this allows you to begin the tasting with confidence, without fearing obstruction issues.
5.Lighting
When lighting, it is crucial to ensure that the foot is evenly toasted for optimal combustion. The Mata Hari ignites easily, already releasing promising aromas.
A good lighting serves to establish the foundation for balanced combustion — paying particular attention here avoids difficult corrections later on.
6.First Third
From the first puffs, the Mata Hari reveals itself to be smooth, with dominant aromas of leather and coffee, accompanied by a medium volume of smoke. The strength seems measured, ideal for a pleasant introduction.
This first third is critical as it sets the stage for the tasting — savoring slowly allows for a proper appreciation of the initial nuances while avoiding palate fatigue.
7.Second Third
As we progress into the second third, secondary aromas such as spices, chocolate, and hazelnut begin to emerge, adding an intriguing complexity to the experience. The balance remains very good, offering a pleasant harmony.
It is at this moment that the richness of the blend reveals itself — paying attention to this evolution allows for an appreciation of the depth of flavors and the progression of the cigar.
8.The Finish
At the end of the Mata Hari, the gray ash testifies to a uniform and controlled burn. The finish is characterized by a slight saltiness, accompanied by a lingering sweetness, offering a remarkable finish.
The color of the ash and the duration of the finish are indicators of the quality of the blend and the drying of the leaves — a memorable final experience indicates a well-crafted cigar.