Stunning, rich toasty aroma. Nosed it unlit for a good ten minutes like a quality whisky.
Opening - Perfect draw after barely removing the cap. Spicy, lush, creamy dense smoke. Laden with sweet spices (cinnamon, hints of nutmeg). Mouthfeel akin to creme brulee. Decadence.
First third - Settles quickly into balanced stride. Spice subsiding to reveal a not unpleasant mustiness with floral lashings. Bang on medium body and strength.
Second third - Woody cedar elements emerge after the first ash falls. Still bang on medium body. Spice now gone. Relatively subdued flavours through the mid way point but totally elegant. Predominantly toasty tobacco yet very captivating. No hints of youthfulness.
Final third - Intensity now stepping up. Burnt toffee/caramel wafts coming in waves. Surfs up and it's cranking! Wow. Honeyed sweetness, too. Still nothing to suggest this puppy was rolled within the last six or so months. Outstanding. Burn has been very good despite moments of slight unevenness.
Who knows what these will become in time. Exceptional now. Best $69 I spent this weekend, or any weekend for that matter. Bravo Pacific Cigar Company.
Destined to be a classic.