Yesterday on The Cigar Authority podcast which is embedded just below we smoked the Byron Distinguido on our Christmas show. We paired the cigar with Ron Zaya rum which made for a phenomenal pairing and helped bring out some of the subtle vanilla notes in the cigar.
Cigar Review: Byron Serie Siglo XXI
Size: 6 x 55 (Distinguido)
Wrapper: Unknown
Binder: Unknown
Filler: Unknown
Strength: Medium-Full
The Look: The Byron Distinguido features a simpler band then the regular Byron line. Instead of an image of Lord Byron and a cigar that feels very turn of the century, the simple black and gold logo gives the cigar a more modern feel to it. I get that this cigar is a representation of the 21st century, and thus a more modern look versus the classic look. The primary band looks like two separate bands but it is one cleverly design band. The foot of the cigar is covered in a cedar wrapping and a band that denotes Selected Tobacco.
The Notes: The cold draw of the cigar has notes of vanila and raisins with definitive cedar notes as well. The aroma off the foot of the cigar reminds me of fresh cedar shaving on a wood floor and a subtle amount of sweetness.
As we smoke the first third of the cigar there is a subtle spice through with a graham cracker like aroma. The cigar develops an abundance of cedar with elements of roasted nuts as the cigar transitions into the second third of the cigar. In the background there is a hint of vanilla that really comes out when paired with a nice sipping rum.
In the second third of the Byron Distinguido the roasted nuts become front and center with a hint of licorice while some wisps of vanilla remain. The cigar is ridiculously smooth and the notes of cedar come and go. The focal point on the cigar remains the roasted nuts but what really gets your attention is the aroma.
The last third of the cigar brings to a close an extraordinary smoking experience. The notes are of roasted nuts, but there is also a sweetness with some subtle spices. I smoked this cigar until I could not hold it anymore and there was less than a half-inch remaining.
The Finish: The Byron Distinguido is one of the best cigars I have ever smoked. This morning on the way into work I lit up a Ramon Allones Specially Selected cuban cigar which happens to be my favorite Cuban cigar. Quite simply, this cigar blows that away in terms of its well defined flavors and smooth nature. It’s different then anything on the American market which is why I mention that Cuban cigar. The best Cuban cigar I have ever smoked was an early release of a Cohiba Behike and that too fails in comparison. I mention these Cuban brands as this cigar is blended to compare with a Cuban cigar, as brand owner Nelson Alfoson is from the island nation.
Score: 99
Price: $33.oo / $329.99
Byron Distinguido
Byron Distinguido Foot
Byron Distinguido Burn
