Ratings & reviews
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
full-bodied
Balance
very good
Draw
slightly tight
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- long
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Gordo, a cigar measuring 152.4 mm (6") in length and 23.8 mm (⅞") in diameter, showcases an alluring Nicaraguan wrapper with a smooth and well-finished appearance. In hand, the texture of the wrapper evokes the quality of its origin, promising a rich and complex smoking experience that will delight enthusiasts.
Upon the first olfactory contact, this cigar reveals pre-light aromas of leather, black pepper, and wood, offering a warm and stimulating introduction. The lighting unveils an initial evolution where notes of nuts and dried fruits emerge, adding a slightly intriguing sweetness that intensifies with each draw.
On the palate, the Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Gordo skillfully evolves through three thirds. In the first third, the aromas of leather and pepper intensify, followed by the warmth of spices and a background of malt that develops pleasantly. The second third unveils a delightful blend of fruity and indulgent notes such as malt and coffee, enhancing the rich character of this cigar. The strength rises further in the final third, with predominant woody notes, yet a subtle sweetness lingers, making each puff enjoyable.
The mouthfeel is marked by an impressive finish and a notable balance between strength and sweetness. This balance, combined with the complex aromatic palette, makes the Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Gordo a centerpiece of Nicaraguan cigars.
To fully appreciate this cigar, the ideal moment is at the end of the day, perhaps accompanied by a good black coffee or a whisky to accentuate its aromatic richness. This cigar will accompany your moments of relaxation with flair.
Community impressions
Celebrated by enthusiasts, this cigar offers a rich and powerful experience. Fans of the Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Gordo highlight its aromatic complexity and the balance between strength and sweetness, making it perfectly suited for refined tasting moments.
How to taste: Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Gordo
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1.The Visual Examination
The Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Gordo measures 152.4 mm (6") and has a ring gauge of 60, presenting a robust impression. Its dark brown wrapper features a slightly irregular texture, while the construction is deemed mediocre, which may influence the smoking experience.
A thorough inspection of the wrapper and construction allows for anticipating any irregularities that could affect the burn and draw during tasting.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting the cigar, take a deep inhale to appreciate the aromas that emerge. The blend of leather, pepper, and nuts is particularly noticeable, while subtle notes of dried fruits and malt add depth.
The pre-light aromas provide insight into the characteristics of the raw tobacco, and this step prepares you for what will develop after lighting.
3.The Cut
The cut is made in a standard straight style just below the cap. This format promotes an adequate draw, although the mediocre construction could become a factor to consider.
A careful cut is essential to ensure optimal airflow, thus avoiding potential draw issues that may arise during tasting.
4.Cold Draw
Perform a cold draw to assess the airflow resistance through the cigar. In this case, the draw proves to be a bit difficult, which may indicate potential complications during the burn.
This test informs you about the state of the cigar's construction and may require a re-cut if the draw is too obstructive, ensuring a smoother smoking experience.
5.Lighting
Carefully light the foot of the cigar, ensuring an even burn. Take the time to observe whether the cigar ignites well and if the heat distributes uniformly.
A proper lighting is crucial to avoid an asymmetrical burn, which can quickly disrupt the balance and flavor of the cigar during tasting.
6.First Third
From the first puffs, the strength of the cigar reveals itself as strong, with dominant aromas of leather, pepper, and nuts manifesting intensely. The smoke volume is medium, complementing the tasting experience.
This initial contact is decisive for establishing your expectations in terms of strength and aromatic complexity, while allowing for some evolution in the subsequent thirds.
7.Second Third
At this stage, the balance remains very good, while secondary aromas of dried fruits and malt begin to emerge, adding new dimensions to the tasting experience.
Observing the evolution of flavors in this third is crucial for appreciating the complexity and richness of the blend, while informing you about how the cigar develops.
8.The Finish
Once the cigar is finished, the gray ash testifies to a correct burn. The finish is notable, with a slight residual sweetness that lingers.
Analyzing the finish allows you to judge the quality of the blend and the aging of the leaves, confirming the overall experience that this cigar has provided.