The Eiroa family knows Corojo and it all started with the original Camacho line prior to the sale to Davidoff. The Eiroa story of Corojo continued in 2012, when Christian started from scratch with a new company, CLE Cigars. The CLE Corojo was part of the initial brands released by Christian Eiroa and in 2017 the brand would get a face lift along with other cigars in the portfolio. The result is a line with better uniformity and visibility.
Cigar Review: CLE Corojo
Wrapper: Honduran Corojo
Binder: Honduras
Fillers: Honduras
Length: 6
Ring Gauge: 48/54/48
Size: 11/18
The Look: Each CLE cigar is covered in tissue paper and in this case that tissue paper features the name Corojo in red. The tissue paper ends just before the red and silver band which showcases the brand name as well. For our review today we offer the iconic size 11/18 which has been synonymous with Christian throughout his career. The size is tapered on both ends with a thicker middle. In the hand the cigar is firm with no soft spots.
The Notes: The cold draw has a wonderfully sweet cedar component with a subtle hint of red pepper in the background. The aroma of the cigar is mimicked on the foot though it is more subtle than the draw. The initial light is loaded with cedar components.
As we smoke the first third, the cedar notes remain dominant where is joined by a honey sweetness and red pepper on the retrohale along with resting aroma of the cigar. As we begin to move into the thicker portion of the 11/18 vitola things begin to become heartier.
As we start the second third the Corojo goodness begins to shine. There are notes of red pepper and nuttiness. The pepper begins to increase in intensity around the half way point where it is joined by a well defined cinnamon that also appears on the retrohale. The finish which grows in duration sees the introduction of espresso alongside some cedar that grows as the cigar begins to taper back in ring gauge.
The final third has notes of sweet cedar along with continued red pepper and nuttiness. The retrohale adds to the red pepper and the long finish of the cigar offers up additional notes nuts and some added coffee beans.
The Finish: The CLE Corojo has it all; aroma, balance, complexity, construction and taste. It’s a cigar that showcases why Eiroa is the first family of Corojo. If you are a fan of Corojo this is a cigar you must add to your repertoire.
Score: 94
Price: $8.79 / $194.99
CLE Corojo 11/18
CLE Corojo 11/18 Foot
CLE Corojo 11/18 Burn
