Last week, La Flor Dominicana launched their new TAA cigar at Two Guys Smoke Shop in Seabrook, NH. Those in attendance included legendary brand owner Litto Gomez, Vice President of Sales Jonathan M. Carney, and North Eastern Sales Representative John Gallogly II. The LFD 48th TAA commemorates the Tobacconists Association of America and the band of retailers that are a part of it. This release marks the sixth time they have released a cigar for the association and the second time it has been named after the yearly meeting.
What am I smoking?
Cigar Review: La Flor Dominicana 48th TAA Natural
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Factory: Tabacalera La Flor S.A.
Wrapper: San Andres (Mexico)
Binder: Cameroon
Filler: Dominican Republic
Length: 6 Inches
Ring Gauge: 54
Vitola: Toro
Strength: Medium-Full
Production: Limited Release – 1,000 Boxes of 25
Packaging & Design
This years box is different from their previous packaging design. Instead of small cabinet style boxes, the LFD 48th TAA are delivered in wide 25 count boxes with two rows of cigars. Adorned on the top of the lid is the unmistakable logo of the Tobacconists Association of America insignia along side the LFD script logo burned into the box.
The bands of the cigars are dominantly black, with the LFD logo on one and the TAA logo on the other in gold. On the sides of the secondary band showcase that the cigar you are holding designates the 48th anniversary of the TAA.
Interesting Fact: The size of this cigar was chosen by TAA retailers across the country, who were given three-pack samplers with each cigar being made in a different size. Retailers instructed to place an order on which size they wanted to see become the final product. The choices included a 5.5 x 50 robusto, a 6.25 x 60 gordo, and the winner, a 6 x 54 box pressed toro. The cigar with the most orders became the winner and the 6 x 54 went into production.
First Impressions
Although the box says this cigar has a natural shade wrapper, the LFD 48th TAA is actually very dark in color. This is due to the natural fermentation process of the wrapper from Mexico. There are hardly any seems visible and minimal veins to speak of. There is quite a bit of tooth to the wrapper, giving it a pleasing texture in the hands and on the lips. There are visible oils on the cigar, giving it a nice sheen in the light.
After the cut, the prelight notes included raisins, earth, pepper and leather. A mighty fine combination if you ask me.
The Smoke
After toasting the LFD 48th TAA, bright notes of citrus and black pepper become apparent immediately. The finish lasts well into the next draw and offer subtle complexities of nutmeg and salt. They all seemed to become more concentrated and pronounced as I moved onward to the second third.
Rounding the halfway point, the things are coming together in full force. Rich and meaty notes of black licorice, espresso and brown sugar are taking the lead at this point. The pepper that was present at the beginning is still there, but has mellowed slightly to compliment the overall profile of the smoke.
Finishing up on the LFD 48th TAA, and it has me already wanting another. The TAA 48th has rounded out a bit more, offering a powerfully balanced finish that kept me anticipating every puff. Notes of roasted almonds, dark chocolate and caramel hit all of my taste buds in the right way. Although this was a cigar with a decent amount strength, its complexity was non-stop since the start. To top it off, the construction of this cigar was great, not needing any attention as it burned.
Final Thoughts
Since its launch last week, I’ve smoked almost half a box of the LFD 48th TAA. It has all the kinds of characteristics I look for in a cigar, and I still can’t get enough of it. This was a blend that obviously took time to create, and I can appreciate every minute that went into it. I highly suggest getting a box or two of these while they last. If you’re a fan of full-flavored cigars, this one won’t let you down.
With the FDA regulations getting closer cigars like this will soon disappear and for those of you who wish to sign the petition against the FDA’s regulations on cigars, you can find it HERE.
Score Breakdown
Appearance: 18
Flavor: 19
Balance: 19
Burn: 19
Construction: 19
Rating: 94
Price: $9.39 / $211.99 (Box of 25)
