On this weeks episode we welcomed Zev Kaminetsky from Royal Agio to he show. Royal Agio is the maker of the Balmoral Anejo XO and it was part of the June Care Package. As has become custom we offer this in-depth review of the cigar we featured on the number 1 cigar podcast on the internet, The Cigar Authority.
Cigar Review: Balmoral Anejo XO
Wrapper: Brazil Arapiraca Sun-Grown
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: Brazil, Dominican Republic & Nicaragua
Length: 6″
Ring Gauge: 52
Size: Gran Toro
The Look: The cigar comes packaged in 20 count boxes for this vitola in a nice dress box of muted gray coloring. The cigars inside feature a grey, gold and white band and a B reminds me a bit of Bentley. There is also a secondary foot band that denotes Anejo XO. The cigar that features a veiny looking Brazilian wrapper is firm to the touch with no soft spots and a well packed foo.
The Notes: The cold draw of the Balmoral Anejo XO Gran Toro reminds me of Bavarian pretzels complete with salty components. In the background there is molasses like sweetness that also exists on the foot. After toasting the cigar the initial note is a burst of pepper.
As the pepper pulls back considerably some notes of maple begin to develop. The maple provides of a base note and is also notable on the aroma. It’s not alone on the palate though as there are also touches of sea salt.
Entering the second third of the cigar there is still a component of sea salt with hints of wheat and a touch of moss in the sense that it would pair well with a nice peaty scotch. As the cigar moves on to the half-way point a hint of clove begins to emerge. The aroma of the cigar is woodsy as is the finish that is enhanced on the retrohale.
As we finish up the Balmoral Anejo XO notes of oak dominate the cigar on all aspects such as the mouthfeel, retrohale and aroma. There is continues hints of clove present as well with a slightly earth finish.
The Finish: The Balmoral is one of those cigars I would of probably looked past if it wasn’t for The Cigar Authority care package. It was an enjoyable cigar from Royal Agio and something I would pick up again. Curious to those who are in the Care Package and what there take was.
Score: 90
Price: $13.49 / $119.99
