Rocky Patel's 15th Anniversary cigars are scheduled for nationwide release on July 30, 2010, but some select tobacconists may already have them. The cigar is made in Rocky's boutique factory in Nicaragua with a blend of Nicaraguan filler tobaccos (rolled in scrolls using the Entubar method), Habano Ecuadorian wrapper, and binder from Jalapa (Nicaragua). The cigars will be available in four sizes, which are expected to be priced as follows:
- Corona Gorda, 6 x 46, $9.00
- Robusto, 5 x 50, $9.50
- Toro, 6½ x 52, $10.50
- Torpedo, 6 1/8 x 52, $10.75
First of all, thanks to Nish Patel and Clay Roberts (Marketing VP) for providing me with a couple of Robustos before the official release date. The 15th Anniversary Robusto is a box pressed cigar which appeared to be very well constructed. I must say that the size and shape of the cigar felt pretty good in my hand and mouth. The initial taste upon lighting the cigar was a blast of pepper and spice, not the biggest blast I've ever tasted, but more than I prefer. After about 10 minutes, a leathery flavor predominated. After an additional 10 minutes, the taste was more a combination of leather and spice. At the 30 minute mark, I began to feel a slight nicotine buzz. I had to relight at this point, with about 2½ inches remaining. However, the cigar burned evenly and did not need any touch-up lights, and held a medium-to-long ash. I continued smoking the cigar down to about 2 inches remaining, for a total smoke time of approximately 40 minutes.
I would classify the Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary cigar as a full-bodied/full-strength stick that is appropriate for experienced cigar smokers, only. This is not a cigar for beginners or occasional cigar smokers, and not for those who prefer to avoid getting their butt kicked by a very potent cigar. Good thing I sampled a Robusto, because a larger size may have eventually kicked my butt. In an online video, Rocky Patel describes the 15th Anniversary cigar as being like his RP Decade on steroids. I would have to agree with him on that one. I'm giving this cigar 3 stars, and recommend that experienced smokers try a single (after they come out on July 30), before deciding whether to commit to a box of 20.
Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.
Photo: 2010 © Gary Manelski Licensed to About.com, Inc.
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