In April 2019, Aladino released the Connecticut and an additional size of the Aladino Corojo Reserva. Like the Robusto, the Toro is limited to a certain monthly production. The cigar was released early to a handful of retailers such as 2GuysCigars.com and is slated for a full release at the 2019 IPCPR. It’s a cigar we were eager to light up and we share with you if it met expectations.
Cigar Review: Aladino Corojo Reserva
Wrapper: Honduras (100% Authentic Corojo)
Binder: Honduras (100% Authentic Corojo)
Filler: Honduras (100% Authentic Corojo)
Length: 6″
Ring Gauge: 52
Size: Toro
The Look: Packaged in a wooden box of 20 cigars, the box has a feel to it that is familiar with its convex hexagon shape. Inside the box sits 20 cigars that are sans cello with the lower half wrapped in tissue paper. The stick features two bands with the secondary band denoting Corojo Reserva and the primary band that is reminiscent of the old Camacho bands, with the “C” replaced by an A and the brand name Aladino above it. Wrapped with a rustic looking Honduran Corojo wrapper it is firm to the touch with no soft spots and nicely packed foot.
The Notes: After we cut the cap we like to take a cold draw of the cigar and the Toro version of the Aladino Corojo Reserva reveals notes of cedar, cashews and pumpernickel while the aroma off the foot has a has a floral component along with some subtle cinnamon. Once the cigar is toasted the first draw offer vanilla like sweetness.
Moving into the first third the vanilla note quickly disappear as cedar quickly takes over the palate. As we progress the cedar remains dominant with a cashew note being a close second. In addition there is a touch of ginger and cinnamon reminding me of a Christmas cookie. The aroma serves up some black pepper which is also noticeable on the retrohale with a hint of almond.
The second third sees the cedar note remain as the cigar begins to pick up an earthy component with continued nuttiness and some espresso on the finish. The retrohale of the cigar sees the black pepper begin to intensify but the almond on the retrohale really shines as the strength of the cigar increases.
As we finish this outstanding cigar, the notes of coffee begin to emerge as the dominant flavor profile and a touch of cedar. The retrohale of the cigar sees the black pepper continue to grow in intensity with some earthiness as well on this cigar that has a long enjoyable finish.
The Finish: If I was pressed to what size I like better the Toro would definitely be the winner during the first third of the cigar. For the remaining two-thirds the cigars are practically identical which is a good thing. These cigars are a throwback to the good old days when Eiroa was making cigars that were the signature flavor profile of Honduras. They are well-rounded, well balanced and loaded with goodness. The Toro and Robusto are both box worthy and they both share the same score so it really comes down to personal preference.
Score: 95
Price: $14.19 / $249.99