El Viejo Continente Mare Nostrum I (140 x 56)
7.5 – 12 €
7 – 11.5 CHF
Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
very good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- long
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The El Viejo Continente Mare Nostrum I reveals itself in a striking appearance, crafted from beautiful Nicaraguan tobacco, offering a smooth texture to the touch and an enticing presentation. Its double band adds a touch of visual elegance, while the shade of the wrapper unfolds in coffee brown tones, promising a refined tasting experience.
From the very first olfactory contact, the cigar reveals a complex bouquet, where earth and coffee intertwine with a slight breeze of black pepper. Upon lighting, these aromas transform into a symphony of toasted and chocolate notes, accompanied by subtle hints of vanilla. This aromatic evolution tantalizes the senses and prepares for a captivating tasting.
On the palate, the experience is marked by a balanced progression through the three thirds. Earthy and spicy flavors persist at the beginning, followed by nuances of cocoa and roasted coffee that subtly intensify. The development of the aromas is harmonious, with a few sweet citrus notes emerging towards the end, enriching the cigar's aromatic profile.
The finish offers a long sensation, with a pleasant persistence and a delightful texture. The combination of strength and sweetness provides a very good balance, while cultivating a depth that makes it unique among contemporary cigars.
This cigar is best enjoyed in a relaxed setting: imagine it during tea time or as an aperitif at sunset, accompanied by a smooth whisky that will envelop its aromas and add an extra dimension to your tasting.
Community impressions
Cigar enthusiasts highlight its excellent construction and value for money. The varied pre-light aromas of earth, coffee, and chocolate create a rich, well-balanced, and enjoyable tasting experience, despite some simple nuances on the finish. A delightful surprise with a pronounced and enticing flavor.
How to taste: El Viejo Continente Mare Nostrum I (140 x 56)
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1.The Visual Examination
The El Viejo Continente Mare Nostrum I presents itself in a deep brown wrapper, adorned with a slightly rough texture. Its construction is very beautiful, reflecting the care taken in its manufacturing. With dimensions of 139.7 mm (5½") and a ring gauge of 56, this cigar captures the eye with its imposing format.
The visual examination is essential for assessing the quality of the wrapper and the construction, two crucial elements for a good burn. A beautiful presentation often signifies a refined tasting experience.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the cigar reveals captivating pre-light aromas of damp earth and coffee, subtly intertwined with notes of pepper. These fragrances provide a promising glimpse of the experience to come.
Pre-light aromas allow one to familiarize themselves with the raw nature of the tobacco, offering a preview of the flavors ahead. Anticipating these aromas enriches the appreciation during the tasting.
3.The Cut
The standard straight cut under the cap ensures a precise and clean opening, suggesting an optimal draw. This gesture, although seemingly simple, is a decisive step for the rest of the experience.
A clean cut promotes a consistent draw and avoids the inconveniences of an irregular burn. Precision in this step is therefore essential to fully enjoy the aromas of the cigar.
4.Cold Draw
Performing a cold draw reveals that the resistance is perfect, allowing for optimal airflow. This simple yet effective step indicates a good development of aromas during the burn.
The cold draw helps detect any potential manufacturing defects before lighting. An easy draw is a sign that the tasting will be smooth and enjoyable.
5.Lighting
When the foot of the cigar ignites, it is crucial to ensure an even toasting. A well-executed lighting guarantees a smooth start and balanced combustion.
Careful lighting prevents the risk of canoeing, where one side burns faster than the other. This step is key to ensuring a harmonious tasting experience from the outset.
6.First Third
From the first puffs, the medium strength of the El Viejo Continente Mare Nostrum I expresses itself with dominant aromas of damp earth and coffee, while offering a medium volume of smoke that envelops the palate.
This first third, often the most powerful, lays the foundation for the sensory experience. The intensity of the aromas highlights the importance of smoking slowly to fully appreciate the evolution of the cigar.
7.Second Third
As the cigar progresses, secondary aromas of chocolate, toasted bread, and vanilla begin to reveal themselves, showcasing increased complexity. The very good balance of this cigar ensures harmony among these flavors.
This second third is often the moment of aromatic revelation, where the complexity of the blend fully manifests. The balance between the different flavors enriches the tasting experience.
8.The Finish
At the end of the tasting, the gray ash testifies to a regular burn, while the finish in the mouth is characterized by a long persistence with a slight sweetness and a pleasant texture.
The color of the ash and the mouthfeel are indicators of the quality of the tobacco and the drying of the leaves. A pleasant finish prolongs the enjoyment and confirms the richness of the experience.