Back in 2014, Pete Johnson released the Tatuaje Tattoo which was cigar that was a bit more budget friendly then some of his other lines. The cigar is often overlooked even on Tatuaje’s own website where the cigar does not appear. The cigar comes to us from the My Father factory in Esteli, Nicaragua and it is today’s featured review on The Cigar Authority.
Cigar: Tatuaje Tattoo
Wrapper: Ecuador Habano
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua (Esteli, Jalapa)
Length: 6″
Ring Gauge: 50
Size: Universo (Toro)
The Look: The Tatuaje Tattoo comes in 4 differently designed boxes each holding 50 cigars. The Habano Ecuador wrapper has a milk chocolate like look to it with minimal veins and a slight brindle appearance. The cigar is rolled flawlessly with the seams virtually invisible. The band of the cigar features the word Tattoo in white over a black Pete Johnson symbol with a background of red and accents of black, gold and white. In the hand the cigar is balanced with no soft spots and a slightly below average weight.
The Notes: The cold draw of the Tattoo has a molasses note with a hint of hickory and a slight mocha. The foot of the cigar serves up subtle notes of cocoa. Once the cigar is lit, I am surprised that the cigar lacks that classic kick of pepper that is synonymous if products from Garcia owned factories and the first perceived profile is mocha
The first third of the Tatuaje Tattoo sees sweet notes of mocha and some spice through the nose which it isn’t overpowering. The spice can be identified of red pepper note is really enjoyable, while the sweetness of the mocha helps ease the retrohale.
In the second third some cedar notes develop while the mocha fades away. As we move past the midway point some hints of ginger develop with a continued spice on the retrohale.
In the final third of the Tatuaje Tattoo floral note begins to take hold with some continued spice through the nose that seems more potent as the cigar comes to a close with with a length espresso finish with a touch of mocha.
The Finish: While I can’t speak for other parts of the country, it feels like the Tatuaje Tattoo is often forgotten about when it comes to the company. I know I often reach for other lines in the portfolio but I’ve never been disappointed by the Tattoo. It’s consistent, with that classic Nicaragua new school feel to it and it is something I arrive.
Score: 91
Price: $5.69 / $247.99
Tatuaje Tattoo
Tatuaje Tattoo Foot
Tatuaje Tattoo Burn
