Reinier Lorenzo was born in Havana City in 1985 and his growing up on a farm would lead to his first career. With a love of animals, he obtained a degree in veterinary medicine. In 2008, Reinier would leave his home and travel to the US where he gave up the warm climate of Cuba for the frozen tundra of Wisconsin. His life would change when family in Miami introduced him to Eduardo Fernandez of Aganorsa Leaf and he would later visit the tobacco fields. In 2011, HVC was born and since then it’s been one outstanding cigar after another.
Cigar Review: HVC Hot Cake
Wrapper: Mexican San Andres
Binder: Nicaraguan Corojo ’99 (Jalapa)
Fillers: Nicaragua (Includes 1 Leaf of Corojo 2006 Maduro)
Size: 6″
Ring Gauge: 54
Size: Laguito No. 5 (Toro)
The Look: Packaged in 25 count cabinet style boxes of 5 rows of 5 cigars the HVC features a dark San Andres wrapper with a decent amount of oils visible. The wrapper is nearly flawless with a subtle amount of tooth and the seams of the roll are barely visible. In the hand the cigar is firm with a well packed foot and hefty weight.
The Notes: The cold draw serves up distinct notes of powdered cocoa and a subtle nuttiness while the aroma off the foot sees a subtle powdered cocoa which takes a few sniffs to develop.
Once we toast the foot of the cigar, the initial note is a warm spice that takes a few puffs before I am able to break down those spices which consisted of ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon giving it a similarity to spiced rum. As I continue further into the first third a subtle mint joins the mix with a subtle sweetness on the finish. In short, this is a Dirty Mojito which is made with Sailor Jerry, Simple Syrup and Mint leaves.
The second third sees notes of ginger and nutmeg joined by dark chocolate. The finish sees a touch of leather and espresso along with a dark chocolate that shows itself when I smack my lips. The retrohale which is extremely smooth keeps the spiced rum taste going.
Moving into the final third notes of cocoa briefly emerge giving it some subtle sweetness before notes of espresso, ginger and leather take control of the cigar. The long finish of the cigar is enjoyable with a mix of subtle sweetness and robust spices.
The Finish: Ever since I smoked my first HVC, I have been hooked on the brand. Cigar after cigar has been outstanding, and such is the case with Hot Cake. It’s incredibly flavorful and while utilizing Aganorsa tobacco, the cigars stand on their own and they are a must have for any cigar enthusiasts. A solid smoke in any of the sizes available, it’s safe to say these are selling like Hot Cakes.
Score: 95
Price: $9.19 / $202.99
HVC Hot Cake Laguito No. 5
HVC Hot Cake Laguito No. 5 Foot
HVC Hot Cake Laguito No. 5 Burn
