Happy Tuesday, amigos! If you haven’t read our interview with Sean Dorsey of Civil Pleasures, here’s some light reading to catch up on at your convenience.
We met Sean at what was essentially the new Circle Bar (not really, but functionally the same) at the PCA tradeshow in Vegas. It was approximately midnight local time and I had swore up and down that I was going to bed by 9pm several hours earlier (my midnight since I live on the East Coast.) But when Andrew suggests one last drink, one does not easily refuse. He even somehow convinced the hotel to let us leave with a house champagne flute to enjoy at another establishment – and that’s a whole ‘nother story in and of itself!
So, one of my friendly neighborhood cigar reps happened to be at the bar as I was saying goodbyes and settling up. She introduced me to Sean and said that he has a story unlike any other brand hitting the market. I smiled, shook his hand, and heard his story. Even in my jet-lagged and woefully under-caffeinated state, I could see that she was right.
I explained that I’m not the decision maker for Small Batch and asked for a few samples for our Head Cigar Smoker Andrew to try. Before I had even finished explaining the community and atmosphere that Civil Pleasures was curating from LA to NYC, Andrew wanted to meet Sean as well. The rest, as they say, is history.
The Cigar
First things first: I love a good box-pressed cigar! I love it so much that I don’t even mind that I can never figure out when to hyphenate it or not (limited editions fall into the same category.) Even though today’s CP1 is a bit tighter than my previous experiences, the box-pressed vitola is forgiving enough that I am still satisfied with today’s choice another another small cut off the top.
My first few sensations are of peppercorn (the flavor, not the heat), creamy mocha, a touch of earth, and a finish that reminds me of savory spices that I can’t quite pinpoint. This blend also leaves a nice oiliness on the palate that I find charming like a cappuccino. The retro hale adds a leather and toasted coconut combination that is much gentler than I would have assumed. I remember ordering a Blue Suede latte from a coffee shop in Tennessee, once, and the retro teleports me back to that small town instantly.
With about an inch and a half of ash, I’m able to taste the marzipan notes from Civil Pleasure’s provided description. It’s almondy, sweet, and perfectly contrasted by what is now very dark chocolate with a finish that reminds me of espresso. After dropping the ash at practically the midway point, a pumpernickel sensation makes an appearance. It isn’t sharp and bright, but neither is it muted.
I brought a few different pairings out this morning to see if I have a preference, and so far it’s between Freixenet Cava and High West’s Bourbon. Side note: I’ve enjoyed High West’s rye blends for years but somehow missed their Bourbon blend. It’s quite good for the price.
I’m going to withdraw and enjoy the last half in solitude, but I’d love to hear your thoughts! If you’ve also smoked Civil Pleasures’ CP1, what did you think?
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