Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
mild
Balance
good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- abundant
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
The Alec Bradley Filthy Hooligan 2023 Shamrock presents itself with a beautiful wrapper in elegant hues, carefully adorned with a wrapper texture that catches the eye. At first glance, its 152.4 mm (6") length and 19.8 mm (¾") diameter give an impression of robustness, promising a memorable tasting experience.
Upon lighting, this cigar invites you on a fascinating olfactory journey. At first contact, the pre-light aromas of wood and earth reveal themselves, enveloped in a subtle sweetness. As you progress, notes of coffee and herbs gracefully join in, promising a complexity that begs to be explored.
On the palate, the development of flavors unfolds across three distinct thirds, where milk and hints of white pepper bring harmony. The first third unveils creamy sensations, while the cigar evolves into a more earthy and toasted character in its final act. It is worth noting that the smoke volume is nothing short of abundant, adding to the generosity of this experience.
The finish is marked by a medium length, where the persistence intertwines with a residual sweetness. The balance between strength and sweetness is remarkable, offering a pleasant encounter for enthusiasts in search of authenticity. What makes this ensemble unique is its well-rounded and balanced aspect, although some may perceive a lack of complexity.
Ideally, this cigar is enjoyed at the end of the day, accompanied by a good whisky or a strong black coffee. The Filthy Hooligan will charm aficionados seeking a warm and comforting experience, without being too intrusive in their flavor profile.
Community impressions
Celebrated by enthusiasts, this cigar stands out for its meticulous construction and easy draw. While it exhibits moderate complexity, its wood and earth aromas combined with a sweet touch make it a commendable choice. The abundant smoke and pleasant finish enhance its appeal, although some aficionados find it slightly below expectations.
How to taste: Alec Bradley Filthy Hooligan 2023 Shamrock
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1.The Visual Examination
The Alec Bradley Filthy Hooligan 2023 Shamrock features a deep brown wrapper with a slightly textured surface, symbolizing excellent craftsmanship. Its construction is impeccable, and its Toro format, measuring 152.4 mm (6") in length with a 50 ring gauge, promises a harmonious tasting experience.
Observing the appearance and construction allows one to gauge the quality of the tobacco and the care taken in the cigar, essential elements for anticipating the aromatic richness and consistency of the burn.
2.Pre-light Aromatics
Before lighting, an olfactory approach reveals aromas of wood, damp earth, and milk, creating a first impression of sweetness. These notes, enriched by a subtle herbal touch and a hint of coffee, contribute to an intriguing aromatic palette.
This essential step provides insight into the natural characteristics of the tobacco, preparing the mind for the complexity that will develop during the tasting.
3.The Cut
The standard straight cut at the cap of the cigar is a fundamental gesture. It must be precise to ensure an adequate opening, allowing for good airflow.
A careful cut is crucial for the easy draw of the cigar, while an imperfect cut could lead to drawing difficulties or uneven combustion.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw on this cigar proves to be perfect, suggesting a pleasant smoking experience ahead. The resistance is optimal, facilitating preparation for lighting.
This step allows for the detection of any potential manufacturing defects before even lighting the cigar, thus ensuring ideal conditions for a successful tasting.
5.Lighting
An even lighting is crucial; it is advisable to rotate the foot of the cigar above the flame to achieve homogeneous combustion from the start.
Taking the time to ensure a good lighting prevents the inconveniences of canoeing, allowing the cigar to develop all its flavors from the very first puff.
6.First Third
From the first puffs, the sweetness of the cigar reveals itself, accompanied by dominant notes of wood and damp earth. The volume of smoke is abundant, creating an enveloping sensation.
This first third is often the most intense phase, where the strength and aromas may seem more pronounced. A slow inhale allows for full enjoyment of this aromatic opening.
7.Second Third
At this stage, secondary aromas assert themselves, particularly coffee and pepper, adding further complexity to the experience. The balance remains good, allowing for a harmonious evolution of flavors.
This moment is crucial for appreciating the evolution of the aromas, revealing the richness of the blend and confirming the expertise of the master torcedor with each puff.
8.The Finish
The gray ash is a testament to effective combustion, while the finish in the mouth proves to be persistent and slightly sweet, with a touch of earth that recalls the initial aromas.
A good ash retention and a pleasant finish are indicators of the quality of the tobacco and the drying process, leaving a lasting impression that crowns the tasting experience.