2004 CAO eXtreme Trois Diamant Magnum (L’anniversaire)

[jrfoxx]

A 6x52, dark brown, Colorado Maduro, rough, veiny wrapper, with a smooth cap and firm, lumpy bunch.

Perfect draw, ample smoke volume and round, fragrant aroma, with an even burn, flat coal, light grey, typical ash structure and no problems.

Of ample richness, a medium flavor of perfect balance, being of mineral, woody and unique aged taste I often get and can’t really describe.

Mild-medium strength, and a medium, smooth, mellow body.

No sweetness, saltiness or burn on the tongue, and light bitterness and sharpness.

Overall good character and a fair smoke with a final score of 81 out of 100

Being a CAO I was anticipating a little better as I'm a big fan and have always enjoyed their offerings. Never had a fresh one of these to compare to, so they either were never that great or have passed their prime.

I friggin' LOVE cigars

[Ljutic]

I wasn't a fan of the eXtreme line. They weren't gross, but they weren't a cigar worth trying more than a couple times when they first came out. As CAOs early entry into strong cigars, they couldn't hold a candle to bundle buddies CAO maduro and CAO cameroon. The good news is you got through what should be the worst and can look forward to better with the next two cigars.

It will be interesting to see what you think of the eXtreme corona size and if the blend is better in the thinner ring cigar.