Arturo Fuente Opus xXx “Power Ranger”

Origin : Dominican Republic
Format : Belicoso
Size : 4 5/8 x 49
Ring : 49
Wrapper : Dominican Republic
Binder : Dominican Republic
Filler : Dominican Republic
Hand-Made
Price : ~$10 each
More info about purchasing Arturo Fuente Opus X cigars...

Here we have a “Power Ranger” that’s got about 2 years humidor time invested. This little firecracker is known for being a big smoke in a small package. It doesn’t disappoint.

Appearance :
The wrapper is absolutely flawless . . . a beautiful, golden brown that reminds me of the finest Cubans. Of course, it also flaunts the famous band that is truly a spectacle to behold in and of itself. Veins are minimal.

Construction :
The construction of this cigar is perfect. Like most of Fuente’s line, it’s a challenge to find even the remotest flaw in wrapper, draw or burn. This stogie is no exception. The burn was outstanding and the smoke sported a gorgeous white ash. As far as construction, this stick is right up there with the finest of any maker.

Flavor :
Wow!! Right off the bat, you’re slapped in the face with spice. Don’t worry, it’s a good spice. About the fourth draw, I got some nice sweetness that I wasn’t able to identify. For the most part, this sweet, spicy taste predominated the smoke, along with hints of cedar and a nice, earthy aroma reminiscent of fine Cubans. Make no mistake, this is a strong, full-bodied cigar.

Halfway through, the cigar mellowed out a bit and I started to detect hints of nuts and leather that reminded me of the famous Punch profile. At this point, I noticed that my mouth started to water between puffs.

The spice picked up a bit in the latter portions of the smoke. At times, it bordered on being harsh. That’s my only knock on this stick’s flavor. It’s in your face at all times . . . . enjoyable, but relentless. Of course, this cigar is supposed to confront you, but I think the Anejo line sports a little more complex flavor profile, without nearing the harshness threshold. Accordingly, I just couldn’t give it five stars in this category.

Value :
At $10, it’s a steal. I know, it’s not a big stick, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in flavor and pure enjoyment of a classic smoke. This is a cigar that takes you back to years lost and, regardless of its rather short stature, is about an hour and a half smoke.

Overall Rating :
If you haven’t tried an Opus, give this one a go. It is probably the easiest to find at your local B&M and is well worth every penny. It is a truly enjoyable smoke that will give you the strength and flavor championed by Fuente. Aside from a nice Cuban or Anejo, I can’t think of a cigar I would rather smoke in its price range. Oh . . . I almost forgot, get ready for a nic kick!