West Tampa Tobacco Company Red Gigante
11 – 17 €
10 – 16 CHF
Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
very good
Draw
easy
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- light gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
The West Tampa Tobacco Company Red Gigante presents itself majestically with a San Andrés wrapper that has a slightly sandy texture and an intriguing speckled appearance. Its length of 152.4 mm and diameter of 23.8 mm contribute to a pleasant grip, while its carefully executed finish attests to undeniable craftsmanship.
Pre-light aromas reveal notes of earth and wood that spark increasing curiosity. Once lit, the cigar evolves slowly, offering intense and dry notes of earth, accompanied by a subtle hint of dark chocolate in the background. This delicate progression is characterized by an admirable balance between strength and finesse.
On the palate, the cigar develops its aromatic profile over the course of the thirds. The first third highlights a earthy richness, followed by an increase in leather notes and the sweetness of almond in the second third. You will also perceive nuances of coffee, enhancing the complexity of the blend. As you reach the final third, the flavors stabilize while maintaining a beautiful coating of leather, adding a pleasant depth to your experience.
The finish offers a delicate mouthfeel and a medium length, where bitterness gently gives way to a residual sweetness. The balance between strength and sweetness is very good, making this cigar a truly unique choice for enthusiasts eager to explore complex aromas.
This cigar is best enjoyed at the end of the day, paired with a good black coffee or a peaty whisky, for a moment of relaxation.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its richness in pre-light aromas, blending earth and chocolate, with a beautiful complexity. Although its draw could be improved, it is unanimously praised for its balance and depth, making for a memorable smoking experience.
How to taste: West Tampa Tobacco Company Red Gigante
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1.The Visual Examination
The West Tampa Tobacco Company Red Gigante presents a dark brown, pronounced maduro wrapper and a very fine construction. Its Gigantes format, measuring 152.4 mm in length and with a ring gauge of 60, promises a generous and indulgent experience.
This first impression allows for an assessment of the tobacco quality and the promise of an enjoyable draw, while revealing a rich appearance that catches the eye.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, aromas of damp earth, chocolate, and coffee emerge, offering an initial sensory approach. These rich and earthy notes suggest a complex and flavorful tasting experience ahead.
The aromas perceived at this stage are indicative of the raw nature of the tobacco, setting expectations for the aromatic transformations that will occur with heat.
3.The Cut
A standard straight cut is essential for the draw, ensuring optimal access to the aromas. This well-constructed cigar lends itself ideally to a precise cut that respects its integrity.
A well-executed cut ensures a consistent draw, which is crucial for fully appreciating the aromatic nuances without interruptions.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw reveals an easy draw, allowing for a preview of the mouthfeel sensations. This step enables appreciation of the draw's fluidity, potentially signaling a harmonious burn.
Testing the draw before lighting avoids discomfort during the tasting, ensuring that the cigar expresses itself fully from the first puff.
5.Lighting
When lighting, taking care to evenly toast the foot of the cigar allows for a solid start to the tasting experience. The heat will release the complex aromas that promise to be enticing.
An even burn from the outset prevents combustion issues, ensuring that each third develops in a balanced and enjoyable manner.
6.First Third
In this first third, medium strength asserts itself, accompanied by dominant aromas of damp earth, chocolate, and coffee. The smoke volume, also medium, creates an enveloping atmosphere.
This powerful beginning allows for a quick immersion into the tasting experience, while signaling that the progression will be balanced without being overwhelming.
7.Second Third
As one progresses, secondary aromas such as wood, leather, and almond emerge, enriching the flavor profile. The balance of this cigar remains very good, allowing for a harmonious evolution.
This phase is crucial as it reveals the complexity of the blend, offering a deeper sensory exploration that confirms the quality of the leaves used.
8.The Finish
The light gray ash indicates good combustion, while the finish in the mouth offers a slight bitterness accompanied by a pleasant persistence. The finish is medium, leaving a subtle memory.
A good finish is a sign of a cigar's quality, revealing not only the final aromas but also the technique of drying and fermenting the leaves.