Origin : Cuba
Format : Short Robusto
Size : 110 x 19.1 mm (4 1/4 x 48)
Ring : 48
Hand-Made
Price : ~$10 each
More info about purchasing H. Upmann cigars...
Among all the 2009 limited editions, this was the cigar I was the most eager to try. Firstly, because it received the highest ratings in all the major publications. Secondly, because I am a big fan of all the Magnum series from H. Upmann - you can check out my reviews of the Magnum 46 and the Magnum 50. The new Magnum 48 is a short robusto, similar in length to the Petit Edmundo, but with a slightly smaller ring gauge.
Appearance : 
This is a short and stout cigar, hard as rock, with a deep brown wrapper. The veins are visible because they are lighter than the wrapper. The Magnum 48 exhales an amazing sour tobacco flavor, with notes of cocoa. It sports a perfect triple cap which, when carefully removed, provides a comfortable pre-draw with some obvious black pepper.
Construction :
I found this cigar to be beautifully constructed with an effortless draw, a straight burn and a very firm ash. I could have used some more smoke, but this is a minor issue, if at all.
Flavor :
The first pulls are surprisingly tender. The spice is barely perceptible and the cedary flavors pleasantly intersect those of cocoa and chocolate.The smoke is round and slightly sweet, medium- to full-bodied. In the second third, the balance is respected despite an evident increase in power. There is still a lot of wood and the sweetness is attenuated as soon as I approach the second band - to reappear half an inch later. The finish is long and soothing, with rich flavors of earth and wood.
Value : 
I think that this cigar deserves a place in the humidor, I wouldn't hesitate to buy a box and see how the Magnum 48 evolves with time.
Overall Rating :
This was an enjoyable experience and I'll make sure to have some at hand, the most difficult part will be not to smoke them all in 2009. The Magnum 48 lives up to the expectations and reaches the same levels of quality as its older and bigger cousins.
This post was written by Denis aka Inspector, who founded CigarInspector.com back in 2007. Click here for his latest articles and more information.
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