It’s the holidays and everything and everywhere seems to be getting a little crazy. People are doing last minute shopping, fighting over parking spaces, tearing each other’s hair out for the last Furby… it’s like 1998 all over again. After it’s all said and done, most of us will probably feel like we need to be in an Asylum.
Which perfectly segways into this review of the Asylum 13 Fifty.
What am I smoking?
Cigar: Asylum 13 Fifty
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Length: 5 inches
Ring Gauge: 50
Power: 6 / 10
Packaging & Design
In this size, the Asylum 13 come in boxes of 50 cigars. They’re rather plain looking with the brand logo on the lid and size / blend designations on the side and seal. The bands are black in color with the Asylum skull with the number ’13’ in the middle along with holographic skulls that surround it.
First Impressions
At first glance, the wrapper on this cigar is remarkably good looking. There’s a slight sheen of oil and small veins present. In the construction department, this is a very evenly packed cigar that, once cut, offers an easy and open draw. There’s also a slight bit of tooth on the wrapper that give it some nice texture.
The Smoke
After sparking up with a triple jet Colibri, the smoke starts producing rich notes of earthy and leathery flavors. On the back end, nuances of black pepper and cedar take hold making for a solid start.
Moving onto the second third and those same notes of leather and earth are still working hard. The power starts to build and the finish becomes more peppery. Considering this is a Nicaraguan puro, it’s complexity is a nice surprise.
As the Asylum 13 comes to a close, the tasting notes change up only slightly, showing off some toasted almond and a citrusy zest on the finish. The burn needed a quick touch up in the last couple inches to keep it straight, but other than that, it was constructed with obvious care.
Final Thoughts
These are an excellent choice for an every day smoke at the price they are at, especially at the box level. The Asylum 13 utilizes all Nicaraguan tobacco in a crafty way that balances taste and power. If you’ve been feeling a little crazy lately, I think it’s time you check into the Asylum.
Rating: 90
Price: $6.79 / $272.99 (Box of 50)
Here is this weeks Cigar Spotlight video to go with this review!
