Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
full-bodied
Balance
excellent
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- long
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- generous
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The Don Pepin Limited Edition Original 20th Anniversary 2023, in its Toro format of 165.1 mm (6½"), showcases an attractive wrapper with a delicate blackish gradient, highlighting exceptional craftsmanship. Its wrapper, slightly oily and finely veined, reflects the meticulous attention given to the selection and preparation of the Nicaraguan tobaccos that comprise it. This high-quality presentation immediately suggests an exceptional tasting experience.
Upon lighting, the pre-light aromas open up to a symphony of roasted coffee, wood, and spices, instantly recognizable. The first draw offers a rich aromatic explosion, with a subtle dominance of piper nigrum, followed by a sweet and pleasant core. The olfactory experience evolves into nuances of chocolate and hazelnut that enrich the initial palette.
On the palate, this experience unfolds in three thirds, each bringing its own complexity. At the beginning, earthy and coffee flavors highlight the character of the Pelo de Oro, followed by sweet and creamy nuances. The second third introduces hints of hazelnut and caramel, while the final third, more full-bodied, reveals toasted and slightly bitter notes. The balance between strength and sweetness is preserved, making each draw a true delight.
The final sensation is marked by an impressive finish, where the persistence of the aromas echoes a tobacco heritage. The ash, with a superb gray hue, attests to the care taken in the rolling and blending of the tobaccos. A harmonious balance among the elements makes this cigar an ideal choice for precious moments.
To fully savor this cigar, opt for a quiet evening, preferably by the fire or during an intimate dinner. A bourbon or a smooth whisky would be the perfect accompaniment, as they highlight the notes of spices and caramel while balancing the strength of the cigar.
Community impressions
Celebrated by enthusiasts, this cigar is a true masterpiece. Its elegant appearance and complex pre-light aromas make the Don Pepin 20th Anniversary an unforgettable experience. Tasters agree that it harmoniously combines strength and smoothness, offering a rich and persistent finish with nuanced flavors.
How to taste: Don Pepin Limited Edition Original 20th Anniversary 2023 (Toro)
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1.Visual Examination
The Don Pepin Limited Edition Original 20th Anniversary 2023 features a dark brown wrapper with a slightly textured surface. Its construction is exquisite, and its Salomón format, measuring 165.1 mm (6½") in length with a 52 ring gauge, immediately catches the eye.
This step is crucial as the color and texture of the wrapper can indicate the quality of the tobacco fermentation, while a meticulous construction often guarantees a smooth and seamless smoking experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting the cigar, take the time to inhale its aromas. You will discern notes of wood, coffee, and spices, accompanied by a hint of damp earth, offering an initial promise of a rich tasting experience.
The aromas perceived at this stage represent the purest and most authentic qualities of the tobacco. They prepare your palate for the transformations that will occur upon lighting.
3.The Cut
Make a standard straight cut just below the cap to open the cigar without damaging it. A clean cut ensures good airflow while preserving the integrity of the aromas.
A precise cut is essential to avoid draw issues. A poorly cut cigar can lead to uneven burn, complicating the tasting experience.
4.Cold Draw
Perform the cold draw to assess the resistance of the airflow. The Don Pepin reveals itself to be perfect at this stage, offering an easy draw that promises a pleasant experience.
This test helps you detect any potential manufacturing defects before lighting. A smooth draw indicates a tasting experience without surprises.
5.Lighting
Proceed to light the cigar, taking care to toast the foot evenly. This ensures a homogeneous burn from the start.
A careful lighting is fundamental to avoid uneven combustion, which could lead to canoeing and require subsequent corrections.
6.First Third
In this initial phase, the cigar reveals notable strength and a generous volume of smoke. The dominant aromas of wood, coffee, and spices express themselves with power.
Paying particular attention at this stage allows you to appreciate the intensity of the initial flavors, which can be misleading and influence expectations for the remainder of the tasting.
7.Second Third
At this stage, secondary aromas of chocolate, hazelnut, and caramel begin to emerge, adding a welcome complexity to the overall profile. The overall balance of the cigar remains excellent.
The evolution of flavors at this moment reveals the quality of the tobacco blend and allows you to observe how the different notes interact to create a harmonious experience.
8.The Finish
At the end of the tasting, the gray ash indicates a good burn. A rich and persistent finish with a slight bitterness completes the experience with notable length.
Analyzing the finish is crucial to appreciate the complexity and quality of the cigar, as a good finish is often indicative of well-selected tobaccos and careful drying.