Illusione *R* Rothschildes Cigar Review

As we wait for some new products to hit the shelves after the IPCPR trade show next week we were at a loss what to smoke today. So with some samples of upcoming releases on our desk we looked for something short with a value price attached to it. The answer was Illusione *R* Rothschildes.

Cigar Review: Illusione Rothschildes
Wrapper: San Andres
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Length: 4.5″
Ring Gauge: 50
Vitola: Rothchilde

The Look:  Packaged in a cedar box containing a wheel of 50 cigars, the Illusione *R* is a dark looking cigar with a rustic looking wrapper. The red white and gold band has an old school feel to it but it also pops off the shelf especially in comparison to the other black and white Illusione cigars. In the hand the cigar is firm with no soft spots and a well packed foot.

The Notes: The aroma off the foot of the cigar is reminiscent cocoa and marshmallow fluff. It’s an interesting and enjoyable combination. With the cap clipped there are notes of sweet chocolate and graham crackers and the cold draw.

Once the cigar is lit, the cocoa notes continue as the cigar provides a mouth-watering experience right for the get go. As the cigar progresses, some nutty notes join the mix with subtle elements of earth. The aroma of the cigar is slightly floral, and the finish is lengthy and enjoyable.

The second third of the cigar continues where the first left off. There isn’t much change and that is a good thing as the notes of cocoa, nuts and earth work together in harmony. Around the halfway point some of the floral notes from the aroma work their way into the palate with a subtle leather on the moderate finish.

In the last third, the cigar becomes exceptionally smooth and creamy as the nutty notes take over center stage. The cocoa transitions to the background, with continued earth and leather on the finish which is slightly salty.

The Finish: It’s been a while since I lit one of these up, and after doing so I am scratching my head as to why I waited so long. The notes of the cigar are right in my wheelhouse, and the price; even more so. The Rothchildes depth and character takes me back to the first time I lit up the illusione 68.

Score: 93
Price: $5.50 / $274.99 (Box of 50)