PDR Clasico Exclusivo Review

[Laynard]

6/25/2014

Cigar: Pinar del Rio Clasico Exclusivo
Size: Toro, 6.0”x52
MSRP: $5.50
Strength: Medium
Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut
Origin: Dominican Republic



Prelight: It’s been a while since I had a cigar this light in color. The wrapper is smooth with no major veins, but lots of little ones, making it look like an oak leaf on Thanksgiving Day. The bands are simple yet elegant (although I guess the foot band was lost somewhere along its journeys). The wrapper smells of oak and hay, and the foot smells the same with just a hint of cocoa. I punch the nicely laid triple-cap and the draw is perfect, yet very mild (almost no taste – just light tobacco).



1/3: This cigar starts out sweet and creamy, like fruit and whipped cream. There is a woodiness to it, which grows as the third progresses. The Clasico is definitely starting out mild, like a NC Monte or Macanudo. There are some slight spices at the transition and a tad of mocha.



2/3: The second third is nutty and woody, and the burn is OK but not perfect. Same with the ash; it’s hanging tough, but is ugly as sin. There is still just an iota of cocoa during this third.

3/3: Apparently whilst in the chaos of the three dogs circling me like I’m in the center of the Thunder Dome, I forgot to take a final picture. But, the final third is like sucking on an oak tree. Straight wood in my mouth. At the nub, I am getting a bit of hay, but the wood is almost overwhelming.

Overall: I didn’t expect a lot from this cigar, but was pleasantly surprised. Great light flavors at the beginning, and an increase of strength as it went on. This would be a great Saturday morning with a cup of coffee cigar. It reminded me of an NC Monte crossed with Ghurka Beauty. For the price, I’d recommend to give it a try.

[Jordan23]

Excellent as always, Layne.

Thanks for taking the time.