Saint Luis Rey Serie A

Origin : Cuba
Format : Corona Gorda
Size : 143 x 18.20 mm
Ring : 46
Weight : 10.86 g
Box code : LPA OCT 08
Hand-Made
Price : ~$8 each
More info about purchasing Saint Luis Rey cigars...

I did a "vintage review" of the Saint Luis Rey Serie A back in November 2008 and promised to get some newer sticks for a proper review. Here we go with a box labeled LPA OCT 08. I will start by telling you that these definitely smoke better.

Appearance :
The cigar looks OK, nothing spectacular though. The wrapper is a bit pale and dry and the band could have more details.
 
Construction :
No specific issues to report here. The burn might seem too slow for some, but overall the construction was excellent in this particular box.

Flavor :
Easily lit, this corona gorda immediately provides round smoke with roasted flavors of coffee and honey. Progressively, the power increases and coffee notes are mixed with strong woody flavors. The aftertaste is long and pleasant. The balance is respected but in the last third the cigar is on the edge of being overwhelming, it's definitely full-bodied.

Value :
At $8 each, it's a good value for a corona gorda, cheaper than most of its competitors.

Overall Rating :
Saint Luis Rey Serie A is a strong challenger to my favorite corona gorda, H. Upmann Magnum 46. Perhaps less elegant, it is as flavorful and slightly cheaper. Give it a try.