Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Vitola: No. 2 (6 x 50 figurado)
Purchase Link: Montecristo EPIC Vintage 12 Blue
EPIC VINTAGE 12 REVIEW – CALIFORNIA
Summary: Raisin on the cold draw is so distinct that I wonder if the flavor is infused. Oak, cream, and pepper. The bottom-heavy nature of this "red rocket" vitola causes the cigar to feel as though it's falling out of my mouth. What begins as umami quickly takes a left turn on a red light, as a slightly vinegary component mingles with a chewy mouthfeel (think: Frank's Red Hot Sauce meets and gets schwifty with some Swedish Fish). Thankfully, Frank is a quick shooter, and harmony of flavors restores my sanity.
Herbs and roots start out the second half amaro style. Approaching the tip, baking spices and barnyard have me craving some bourbon. Bourbon time it is.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: 30+ year old roadies.
Pairing Suggestion: Bourbon.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Single.
EPIC VINTAGE 12 REVIEW – WISCONSIN
Summary: This cigar brought notes of walnut, hickory, leather, mushroom, black tea, and earth.
The draw was tight until I cut into it a few times - it needed a deeper cut than I expected. After I got to the right depth, the draw and burn were both right on point.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: A walk in the woods after it rains.
Pairing Suggestion: Rye.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Five pack.
EPIC VINTAGE 12 REVIEW – OREGON
Summary: This is the cigar that based on its shape alone should be a dead giveaway. However, I admittedly shy away from oddly shaped cigars. I really don’t have a good explanation for it, and I swear I am an equal opportunity smoker. Cocoa and mild tobacco off the wrapper. Cherries, hay, and rich tobacco in the cold draw.
Mild wood makes up the general base of the profile but coffee, a hint of pepper and cinnamon all join in the party. There is also a smooth flavor of leather in the finish. This stick sports a sharp burn line and is producing copious levels of smoke.
Into the middle and I’m experiencing a slightly tighter draw. Wood, coffee, leather, and earthy flavors are pretty decent as a combo. In the retro hale I’m tasting a mild spice and a slightly floral finish.
Leather, coffee, almond, and baking spice make for a nice finish on this cigar. It’s still a bit tight on the draw but manages a nice cocoa flavored finish.
If You Like That, You Might Like This: Surprise cigars at the lounge.
Pairing Suggestion: Coffee with a touch of hazelnut.
Purchase Recommendation to a Friend: Five pack.
Participants in this blind review were completely unaware of the cigar they were evaluating until all submissions were received and processed. Each participant was asked to answer a summary paragraph, an if/than statement, a pairing suggestion, and a purchase suggestion. Cigars were provided by Small Batch with only the expectations of candid responses. All pictures, information, and formatting were completed by a Coordinator outside of the reviewing process.
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