The Romeo Y Julieta Reserva Real Toro is a testament to the timeless craftsmanship and dedication that has kept the Romeo Y Julieta brand a favorite among cigar aficionados since its inception in 1875. Rolled in the Dominican Republic by Tabacalera De Garcia, Reserva Real is one of the top selling brands in the United States.
The Reserva Real Toro is an impressive sight, wrapped in a hand-selected blonde Connecticut Shade seed wrapper from Ecuador. This wrapper exudes a golden hue with a subtle oily sheen, minimal veins, and a remarkably smooth texture. The cigar feels densely packed and demonstrates solid construction, promising an even and enjoyable burn.
Upon lighting, the cigar greets the smoker with a burst of cedar, mingling with sweet hay and lightly salted nuts. These initial flavors are complemented by a hint of white pepper and a whisper of chocolate, creating a smooth and harmonious beginning. The blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan leaves comes through, providing a well-balanced introduction.
As the cigar progresses into the second third, the white pepper spice persists but remains light, allowing the nuttiness to become more pronounced. The flavor profile evolves to include a creamy sweetness reminiscent of yellow cake, with subtle chocolate notes continuing to weave through the smoke. New leather notes are introduced, while the hay flavors from the first third begin to fade, making room for a touch of clove that adds complexity.
In the final third, the white pepper remains the dominant note, balancing the overall flavor with its subtle spice. The salted nuts, though toned down, still contribute to the profile, while the creamy sweetness retains its presence through the lingering chocolate and yellow cake undertones. The hay flavor makes a slight return, accompanied by an unexpected hint of citrus that adds a refreshing twist to the finish.
The Romeo Y Julieta Reserva Real Toro is an excellent cigar, offering a smooth and rich flavor profile that evolves beautifully through each third. It maintains a solid burn and produces a firm, white ash, indicative of its superior construction. The draw is consistently great, making this cigar a delightful experience from start to finish. It’s a highly recommended choice for beginners due to its mild strength and approachable flavors, yet it remains enjoyable for seasoned smokers seeking a smooth, mild smoke at any time of day.
Overall Score: 90.80 out of 100
Overall Strength Score: 3.55 out of 10
This blind review (Cigar #11-A) was conducted by the Cigar Review Team comprising of: Paul Nabs, Drew Seruya, Scott Treptow, The Scuse, Joe Hallett, Chris LeBoner, Rob, Brett Yannalfo., Stephen Marks, Tom Coleman, Kenny, Dan Johnson, & Lesley Corn
