Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
mild
Balance
good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
subtle
- Bouquet
- simple
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
The Ashton Benchmade Toro features a beautiful Nicaragua-colored wrapper, with a slightly rustic texture to the touch. Measuring 152.4 mm in length and 19.8 mm in diameter, this cigar has a solid and well-constructed appearance that invites tasting. The overall look inspires confidence with a neat finish and discreet veins on the surface.
The first olfactory contact reveals pre-light aromas that are primarily woody and earthy, accompanied by a subtle leather note. Upon lighting, a creamy sweetness manifests, albeit fleetingly, quickly enveloped by more pronounced notes of earth and wood. Gradually, these aromas establish themselves throughout the first third, giving way to a rather simple yet pleasant profile.
On the palate, the tasting begins with sweet notes of wood and leather, developing as the minutes pass. Although the aromas are subtle, a slight progression towards earthier nuances and, at times, a hint of nuts can be felt. However, the complexity remains limited, offering an experience that may prove linear for some smokers. The structure and burn are impeccable, ensuring an easy draw.
The finish is marked by a rather light mouthfeel, where the earthy character predominates with a correct balance between strength and sweetness. The presence of leather and wood notes lingers in the mouth, but without exceptional finish. This cigar may appeal to fans of more subtle tobaccos but could disappoint those in search of rich aromas.
This cigar finds its place in a relaxed afternoon moment, paired with a creamy café au lait, ideal for complementing its medium strength and simple yet enjoyable pre-light aromas.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its solid construction and impeccable burn. Despite a limited aromatic profile, some appreciate its earthy and woody notes, although others lament a lack of complexity. Its value for money remains a frequently noted positive aspect.
How to taste: Ashton Benchmade Toro
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1.The Visual Examination
The Ashton Benchmade Toro, with its dark brown and slightly textured wrapper, catches the eye. Its construction is very beautiful, and the Robusto Gordo format, measuring 152.4 mm with a ring gauge of 50, promises a generous experience.
A careful observation of the appearance and construction allows one to appreciate the quality of the tobacco and the craftsmanship — a beautiful appearance is often a sign of an excellent tasting experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the cold draw reveals aromas of damp earth, wood, and leather. This aromatic palette evokes a richness that promises a beautiful complexity during the tasting.
The aromas perceived at this stage are those of the tobacco in its raw state, offering a glimpse of what awaits upon lighting — this helps prepare the mind for the richness that will develop.
3.The Cut
The standard straight cut at the cap of the cigar ensures a proper opening of the draw. This is essential for optimal access to the aromas throughout the experience.
A carefully executed cut guarantees an even draw, thus avoiding combustion issues and allowing for a full exploration of the cigar's flavors.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw of the Ashton Benchmade Toro is perfect, offering a smooth and pleasant sensation. This step confirms that the construction is solid and that the tobacco is of high quality.
An ideal draw predicts a seamless smoking experience — it allows one to anticipate a harmonious tasting and avoid potential issues from the outset.
5.Lighting
During lighting, it is crucial to ensure that the foot is evenly toasted. This promotes an even burn from the very first puffs.
Paying particular attention to lighting prevents canoes and imbalances, thus establishing the foundation for a successful tasting.
6.First Third
The first third of the Ashton Benchmade Toro is characterized by its smoothness. The dominant aromas of damp earth and wood emerge with a medium volume of smoke, creating a pleasant sensation.
This initial stage allows one to become familiar with the subtle strength of the cigar and appreciate the fundamental flavors that will be developed later.
7.Second Third
During the second third, secondary aromas of nuts and pepper appear, enriching the flavor profile. The balance remains good, and the flavors become more complex.
Observing the evolution of the aromas at this stage offers a deeper understanding of the richness of the blend, revealing the subtleties that make each cigar beautiful.
8.The Finish
The color of the ash is gray, indicating a clean burn. The finish presents an earthy lightness with a medium finish, leaving a pleasant impression without intense persistence.
Evaluating the finish allows one to judge the quality of the tobaccos and the manufacturing process — a successful conclusion often leaves a desire to return to this cigar.