8/13/2014

Cigar: Montecristo Platinum Vintage 1999
Size: Belicoso, 6.1”x52
MSRP: $12.15
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Habano
Origin: Dominican Republic



Prelight: There is a (in)decent sized vein along the length of the back side of this cigar and several small lumps throughout – evidence of more hidden veins. The cigar smells very earthy and is firmly packed. The foot smells faintly woody. The cold draw is fine, and tastes earthy and perhaps some very light pepper.



1/3: The wrapper looks almost Rosado in the sun. The onset is pepper and some other spices, but this quickly fades to make room for sweet cream. There are also hints of nuts and dried fruit. The flavors evolve into an earthy, barnyard taste with cedar. The mouth feel is very dusty. The fruit and pepper seem to be fighting for recognition under the increasing earthiness.



2/3: Cedar really ramps up, and the cream – which had faded some – is attempting a comeback as well. There is a slight grassiness, so I slow my puffing and it fades away and is replaced with dark chocolate. This cigar is pretty dang tasty. The body gets fuller and the profile is Cedar, chocolate and cream by the final third.



3/3: The final third gets harsh…it’s really too bad. I was really enjoying this cigar. The ash was strong and thick, lasting a full third before I tapped it, perfect burn…oh, well. The nub ends with harsh and bitter chocolate and cedar.

Overall: The construction was perfect and two thirds of the cigar are great. Unfortunately, the final third was too harsh to enjoy. Maybe age is a factor; this was purchased off a BOTL, so I don’t know how young/old it is. Perhaps the ambient is a factor, but the weather is nice today. Either way, it’s an OK example of a fuller NC Monte, but I won’t be picking any more up any time soon.