Rocky Patel Winter Collection 2012
While browsing Tampa Humidor a couple weeks ago, I ran across the RP Winter Collection 2012. I didn’t even realize the blend existed, and figured it died with the 2009 version. I recall being fond of that cigar, so I snatched up a few smokes. One thing about the blend. It’s quite different from the 2009. I was anxious to smoke these, so time to stop blabbing…
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Maduro
Binder: Costa Rican and San Andres
Filler: Nicaraguan and Panamanian
Size: Robusto 5.5 x 50
Price: Around $6.75
Pre-Smoke & Construction:
The wrapper looked velvety smooth, with no flaws to speak of. It was very pretty. There, I said it. The smell was earth (think rich planting soil), hay, and slight barnyard. Overall, the cigar was evenly packed, and a little squishy when squeezed. The draw had slight resistance, and a simple dark earthy flavor.
The burn did not require any corrections, and the ash held for just about an inch.
Flavor:
The first third started off with cayenne pepper. It left a nice, easy zing in the nose and back of the throat. Black coffee, wood, and sweet cinnamon spice followed. The sweetness eventually developed into something similar to mocha. Earthy and leathery notes were in the background. Nothing was really blended together. Admittedly, this made reviewing much easier.
The second third increased in strength, but remained lower full to full bodied. Coffee and bitter cocoa were the dominant flavors. The cayenne pepper took on a black peppery zing. Like before, wood, earth, leather, and cinnamon followed behind. The finish left a sweet tingle on the lips and top of the mouth.
The last third kept pace with the second third. What did change was the body and strength, which increased slightly. A nice spicy cooling effect took over the aftertaste. It wasn’t quite like menthol, but it reminded me of it.
Conclusion:
This was a very good medium to full bodied cigar. How does it compare to the 2009? It’s been so long, I can’t really say. I am sure that I’ll grab some of these whenever I get the chance. I think you fuller bodied smokers will like this one.
This entry was posted on Friday, February 1st, 2013 at 12:00 am and is filed under Cigar Reviews. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
vulture February 1st, 2013 at 3:25 pm
damn Tom… I’m glad to see a new post from ya! Was beginning to think that you got caught up in the military drills ran in Miami.
I re-read your 09 review and it seems like both are winners!