Origin : Dominican Republic
Format : Robusto
Size : 120 x 20 mm (5 x 50)
Ring : 50
Wrapper : Ecuador Sumatra
Filler : Dominican Republic
Binder : Dominican Republic
Hand-Made
Price : ~$9 each
Pléiades is a relatively new brand (created in 1984) that was discontinued shortly after the 90’s cigar boom. Today, the Altadis protégé is back with a regular line and a special XX Anniversary blend. This blend was a limited edition in the beginning (2004, only the grand robusto vitola was available) but as it has encountered great success, it became a line on its own. Manufactured at La Tabacalera de Garcia in the Dominican Republic under the supervision of José Seijas, they are now available in 4 more classic formats, progressively introduced: petit robusto, corona, robusto and belicoso. In this review, we are looking at the 5 x 50 robusto.
Appearance : Rating: 
The oscuro maduro wrapper, grown in Ecuador, looks tasty and is pleasant to the touch. The vitola is rather heavy and feels like an expensive smoke.
Construction : Rating:
Great construction here. Perfect draw during the pre-light inspection – roasted coffee and black pepper notes. I had no problems whatsoever with the burn or the draw; the lighting was quick and easy. The almost-white ash held for over one inch.
Flavor : Rating:
The first third is surprisingly subtle, I detect an elegant cedary flavor and an unusual taste of cloves. The palette also contains notes of white pepper. It is medium-bodied and complex. Roasted coffee and black pepper notes are added in the second third, making the bouquet truly interesting. It becomes even creamier in the last third, with a hint of sweetness.
Value : Rating: 
It’s a good purchase, IMO. You can also look for the short robusto version, which is even cheaper with a similar flavor profile.
Overall Rating : Rating:
What I liked the most is the fact that it’s hard to think of a similar cigar. Indeed, the XX Anniversary blend is very original and you’re sure to remember it for a long time. It was a very nice change from cigars that I smoke regularly (Party Shorts or Petit Edmundo).
