A few weeks ago The Cigar Authority had Victor Vitale on the podcast and we were the first to smoke his cigars. This week we found out his cigars were shipping from his distribution warehouse that is literally down the block from the offices of The Cigar Authority. So with news that the cigar was sold out on its initial shipment we decided that we would light one up and review it in an official manner.
Cigar: Tortuga Reserva Connecticut
Size: 7.5 x 56 (Regio)
Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Strength: Mild
Source: Two Guys Smoke Shop
The Look:
The Notes: The prelight draw of the Tortuga reminds me of C & C Cola, though at room temperature. The wrapper of the cigar has a definitive cedar note and the nose of the cigar is cedar and grass. Interesting so far and once the cigar is toasted the initial draw is earthy.
As we smoke the first third of the Connecticut Tortuga the cigar develops caramel after a few puffs and is joined by a buttery smoothness and notes of wheat. There are some subtle butterscotch notes as well through the nose though it is more of an afterthought.
The second third continues to be buttery and has continued notes of wheat and the addition of pecans. The cigar is extremely balanced and smooth, everything you would expect a Connecticut to be.
The final third continues with notes of pecan and for the first time the butter pecan, with some sponge cake notes. This isn’t just a morning cigar, it is also a desert cigar.
The Burn: The burn line of the Tortuga Reserva Connecticut is razor-thin and it reveals a white ash that has some flake to it. The draw is a bit loose for my liking, but it is well within the window of acceptance. The cigar remains lit from first light to last puff.
The Finish: If Websters had a definition for this cigar it would read, elegant, creamy and smooth. It is extremely balanced with a complexity almost unheard of. It’s like a little slice of the south with its flavorful pecan notes over elements of wheat and sponge cake. My favorite offering from Legacy Brands to date.
Score: 92
Price: $8.99 / $246.99
Tortuga Reserva Connecticut
Tortuga Reserva Connecticut Foot
Tortuga Reserva Connecticut Burn
