Don Lino cigars are made in the Dominican Republic, and are distributed in the United States by the Miami Cigar Company. These cigars are made with Connecticut wrappers and Dominican long filler tobaccos. The Robusto size that I sampled measured five inches in length with a ring gauge of 50.
Flavor
The Don Lino Robusto cigar started off with an initial dry peppery flavor, which lasted for a few minutes before gradually becoming much smoother, creamy and a little bit sweet. After 10-15 minutes into the smoke, a very pleasant caramel flavor emerged, which lasted for the duration of the cigar. The pepper taste had completely faded by this point. The Don Lino Robusto was a mild-to-medium stick, but closer to medium, as the smoke was enjoyably rich without progressing to the point of becoming deeply rich. A very pleasant, enjoyable, and smooth cigar after the first 10-15 minutes.
Draw and Construction
The Don Lino Robusto was very well made and had a great draw. The cigar burned evenly and held a long ash. I only dipped the ash one time during the entire smoke. No relights or touch-ups were needed. It took me 35 minutes to smoke the cigar down to 1½ inches remaining.
Value
I've seen 5-packs of Don Lino Robustos selling online for as little as $15, for an average of only $3 per stick. For a cigar of this quality, that price is a bargain. The taste and smoothness of Don Lino cigars rival other brands that sell for 2 to 3 times the price. Except for their peppery start, and then the gradual 10-15 minute transformation into a smooth and creamy cigar, Don Lino would be another cigar of choice to accompany a bottle of French Champagne. Give them a try, you will not be disappointed (unless you just don't like a long peppery start).
