Bandolero Premium Bravos by Selected Tobacco offers a refined and rare experience that lives up to its luxurious pedigree. Handcrafted in Costa Rica and aged for three years in cedar-lined humidors in Madrid, this cigar is the product of extreme attention to detail and old-world patience. This cigar is wrapped in an Ecuadorian Habano 2000 leaf, with a Nicaraguan binder, and a blend of Nicaraguan Ligero and Peruvian fillers.
The wrapper presents a glossy sheen and a silky, butterscotch hue — nearly blonde — that feels as smooth to the touch as it looks. Its dense pack and seamless construction hint at the performance to come.
From the first light, it’s clear this isn’t your typical Ecuadorian-shade smoke. A surprising zing of lemon zest immediately jolts the palate, setting the tone for a flavor profile that’s anything but conventional. The first third delivers a layered mix of vanilla cream, almond nuttiness, and subtle honey sweetness. Light roasted coffee notes and grassy undertones round out this opening act, while citrus hangs quietly in the background like a familiar tune.
Transitioning into the second third, the cigar reveals creamy and woody dimensions. Cashew butter and boysenberry jam on toast make for an unexpected but welcome combination, with a gentle sweetness riding along each draw. A light spice begins to show, tingling the lips without overwhelming the senses. White pepper creeps in, complementing the lingering citrus zest that refuses to completely fade.
In the final third, the strength ticks up a notch. White pepper becomes more prominent, yet the cigar maintains its balance. Notes of sweet cream and amaretto stay in the mix, joined now by caramel and semi-sweet chocolate. Cedar notes persist, while a new thread of black tea develops, pushing the earlier citrus into the background. It’s a smooth evolution, never rushed, and always composed.
Throughout the smoke, performance is flawless. The draw remains effortless from start to finish. A razor-thin combustion line stays straight with no need for touchups. Ash clings tightly “Stacking dimes”—refusing to flake. It’s clear the construction mirrors the blend: clean, consistent, and deliberate. The Bandolero Premium Bravos is ideal for those who prefer a nuanced and approachable cigar without sacrificing depth. Even a reviewer who usually avoids lighter wrappers found this cigar’s complexity and silkiness impossible to resist. It’s a standout smoke—box-worthy and worth every minute of your time.
Overall Score: 92.19 out of 100 (2nd Highest Score So Far in STARS Reviews)
Overall Strength Score: 4.25 out of 10
This blind review (Cigar #23-D) was conducted by the Cigar Review Team comprising of: Sam Frishman, Tyler Ceola, JB Smith, Rob Brown, James Elliott, Bret Curry, Mike Conklin, George Hillman, J. Dwyane Corn, & Esubio G
