Tatuaje is one of my all time favorite cigar brands. I often enjoy a Havana XI or a Cojonu 2009. On a whole they are exceptional cigars with a spicy kick. This year I had the pleasure of smoking the new monster, The Face, as well as the Verite Vintage 2008 that I was more than happy to review.
The cigar is long with a very smooth wrapper. It smells woody sweet, with a subtle and surprising coconut aroma. The foot smells a little more of earth and spice when compared to the light and sweet profile of the wrapper. The pre light draw is a little tight. It leaves an almost buttery feeling on the tongue. This is not what I expect from a Tatuaje, which is usually spicy even before it is lit.
The first few puffs are very smooth but not without spice. The flavors are rather hard to describe but come together to create a bold and balanced experience. It reminds me very much of the P.G. Gourmet series though a bit more full bodied, sweeter and spicier. It has the same smooth and creamy feel that you would expect from a P.G. with the spice and bold array of flavors that come with a Tatuaje.
I am rather disappointed in my ability to describe the flavor profile of this cigar. In ways it is not unlike the Tatuaje’s I am used to but it is truly bursting at the seams with subtle flavors and nuances that took some effort to put words to. As odd as it may sound, coconut was the most pronounced subtle flavor of the bunch. There is a slightly leathery aroma, adding to the list of similarities it has to the P.G.s.
The over all construction of the cigar is superb. The wrapper is smooth and fairly oily. The color is a beautiful hazel. The burn is exceptionally straight and the initial tightness of the draw loosens almost instantly.
Definitely a special occasion cigar, given then price but well worth it. Expertly balanced and flavorful. Highly recommended.
- Liam Collier
