Reviewed by: Alan Nye
The cigar I’m reviewing today is one that Jacques deVillier enjoyed but one of his favorite customer’s didn’t care for. Lucky me, I get to be the tie-breaker.
The Cuvee Blanc Robusto cigar is made in the Dominican Republic by the Chiusano family – who also produce the Dominican Cusano Cigars. This Robusto is 5 X 50 appearance is pleasant with a firm construction and a Connecticut wrapper that is nearly flawless.
This cigar had an extra paper band around the foot of the cigar that must be removed before lighting up. I don’t like that extra band for two reasons: one, it’s looks fancy but is just another band to remove when you want to get smoking; and two, if the band has too much glue (as it did with this cigar), part of the wrapper gets peeled off with the band. I hate it when that happens
After cutting the head, and using wooden matches to get it going, the cigar had a very easy draw and burned well. As mentioned, the construction was excellent and the burn was even with a light gray ash. The aroma was mild and quite pleasant. Because of the firm construction, I let the ash expand to nearly two inches before I flicked it off.
The flavor started out mild and creamy, with the middle third tasting a bit more earthy – but still mild. For me, the middle third is when I want a cigar to do something – get more complex, change flavors or intensity – something. This one didn’t. It remained mild and creamy.
The last third of a cigar is when you often can tell a good cigar from a poor one. Average cigars get sharp or too strong at this point. A good cigar can turn bad with an overpowering ending. Excellent cigars change flavor again at this point or show complexity in the last third. This cigar did neither – it simply maintained that mild, creamy texture throughout.
Although I prefer a more medium to full-bodied cigar, this smoke was a satisfying experience that was extremely consistently from start to finish. If you prefer a mild cigar, this is a good choice. It’s also less than $10.00 – always an important consideration. Of a possible 5 stares, this cigar ranks 3 ½ stars – mostly for its excellent construction, even burn, and consistent creamy taste.
Stop by the store and try one of the Cuvee Blanc Robusto cigars or one of the Cusano cigars made by the same family – or simply talk to Jacques about some of the many other brands he offers at The Old Port Wine & Cigar Shoppe.