Cuenca y Blanco



Cuenca y Blanco

• Semi Squishy
• Nice even coloration
• Simple band
• Minimal veins
• Espresso hints in cold draw
• Peru & Nicaraguan filler
• Dominican Republic Piloto Cubanao binder
• Ecuadorian Habano wrapper

Background: "Cuenca y Blanco cigars hail from the legendary Joya de Nicaragua factory located in the Esteli-based JdN factory. These exquisite cigars are a labor of love, and a collaborative effort of two amazing minds: Joya de Nicaragua President Dr. Alejandro Martínez Cuenca and José Blanco, formerly of Aurora fame. Cuenca y Blanco, a uniquely complex cigar showcasing a wide range of satisfying flavors within a refreshing, medium-bodied profile. Something to be enjoyed early and often, and something to make some time for....and savor the blending talents of two top-notch minds in the industry (Cigarinternational.com)."

First Third: Before the initial light the cold draw was excellent. Hints of oak and coffee bean really enveloped my tongue. When I lit up and finally began the smoke, it was initially amazing. The smoke flowed smoothly into my mouth with noticeable notes of espresso and earth. Finer notes during this third included light, and scattered, notes of cedar. Moreover, sweet notes could be tasted at times. So far this cigar has excellent complexity and the burn is very even. Furthermore, the ash has nice coloration and seems strong.

Second Third: This third seems to be dominated by flavor notes of oak and leather. Now don't get me wrong I noticed all the same flavors as I did in the first third, however, they were just not as strong or prevalent. Moreover, the cigar really mellowed out. Didn't have so much intensity, however, this is not really a bad thing. Small notes still include espresso, however, the sweetness has taken even a lesser role in the last few puffs. The cigar still burns even and the ash finally fell off as I set it down to write this thirds review.

Final Third: Even more mellow during this third. However, I still received semi-strong notes of the leather. The oak and cedar notes seemed to switch in prominence. Tiny hints of sweetness can still be noticed, although lacking in the previously present cafe notes. Burned well until the nub, never burned hot on my fingers.

Final Thoughts: This is a good solid cigar. With no doubt this is an above average cigar, however, not by any means exceptional. This has a good, smooth smoke but not necessarily extra creamy which I found myself longing for throughout the smoke. The flavor complexity seemed to dwindle which I did not like as much. Overall a 6.3/10, I liken to a solid CAO cigar. Maybe on PAR with the CAO Concert.