Noel Rojas, known as the “King of Small Gauge Cigars,” brings a bold statement to the table with his Rojas Statement Toro. Wrapped in a dark San Andres leaf, this cigar is paired with Nicaraguan binder and filler, offering a rich and complex smoking experience.
From the get-go, the Rojas Statement impresses with its aesthetic. The wrapper is dark and oily, reminiscent of rich dark chocolate, with veins that are noticeable but not overbearing. The cigar’s construction is immaculate, suggesting careful craftsmanship, and promises a pleasant smoking experience.
The first few puffs greet you with a peppery kick, balanced by a creamy texture that quickly smooths out the initial spice. Leather notes weave through, accompanied by hints of raisins and pecans, adding an unexpected sweetness. There’s a delicate floral undertone that keeps the flavor profile lively. As you settle in, the flavors round out into a cinnamon spice, and the roasted coffee notes transform into something like a mocha latte – the kind that feels like it was made with extra care by a barista named Simone?? (had to include this one) . It’s a complex but welcoming start, with layers that play off each other beautifully.
As you move into the second third, the raisin and pecan sweetness takes a step back, allowing leather to move to the forefront. Hearty, savory flavors of smoked meats emerge, giving this portion of the cigar a robust and substantial feel. The pepper, still present, becomes more subdued, while creamy coffee remains a constant, only this time intertwined with woodsy cedar notes that add depth. Cherry and chocolate notes create a rich and enjoyable middle segment with excellent balance.
The final stretch is a flavorful ride. Leather and cedar continue to dominate, but the pepper returns with a bang, bringing with it a fiery cinnamon reminiscent of a shot of Fireball—spicy but balanced. Creamy coffee and chocolate notes, while fading, linger just long enough to offer a smooth finish. The smoke production increases significantly in this final third, filling the room with thick clouds that add to the sensory experience. It’s a powerful yet refined finish to a cigar that’s full of character.
The Rojas Statement Toro is an engaging cigar from start to finish. It offers consistent, yet evolving flavor transitions that make for a dynamic smoking experience. The balance between savory, sweet, and spicy notes keeps you intrigued throughout. This cigar pairs perfectly with a strong black coffee, highlighting its creamy and rich elements. The draw and burn were impeccable, further contributing to the enjoyment.
Overall Score: 91.18 out of 100
Overall Strength Score: 6.09 out of 10
This blind review (Cigar #15-A) was conducted by the Cigar Review Team comprising of: Paul Nabs, Scott Treptow, Joe Hallett, Chris LeBoner, Chris Safranski, Brett Yannalfo., Drew Seruya, Rob, Stephen Marks, Tom Coleman, Dan Johnson, Josh Wright & Lesley Corn
