Origin : Cuba
Format : Torpedo
Size : 140 x 20.64 mm (6.4 x 42)
Ring : 52
Weight : 12.45 g
Box code : TPG JUN 08
Hand-Made
Price : ~$210 for a box of 25
These cigars were provided for review by CigarsdeCuba.com, a new shop with sales offices in Canada and guaranteed delivery worldwide.
Sancho Panza is not a very famous brand, despite of the fact that it has been one of the most sold in the middle of the 20th century. Created in 1848, it has been sold and re-sold at least five times to finally end up between the hands of El Rey del Mundo house in 1931. A couple of decades after that, the flagship vitolas like Belicosos and Molinos were among the most popular in Europe. Nowadays, for some reason (IMO – due to the Habanos SA marketing practices), these cigars are once again being forgotten.
Appearance : Rating: 
The oily wrapper has some moderate veining and a couple of visible imperfections. It sports a minimalistic band that reminds me of the El Triunfador. The wrapper is pleasantly salty and the pre-draw, comfortable, shows some serious spice and sweetness.
Construction : Rating: 
The Belicoso burned and drawed well, with several corrections required in the last third. It provided moderate amounts of white, concentrated smoke. Beautiful grey ash held for well over one inch.
Flavor : Rating:
After a pleasant and perfectly controlled black pepper hit, the cigar deploys woody flavors. The power is moderate. The first third is essentially woody but other flavors make their way in as soon as I cross the 1.5-inch point. They include earth and roasted coffee; the second third is definitely my favorite part in this cigar. In the last third, the wood is dominating again and as the power increases the Belicoso becomes less obedient. Overall, the cigar is delicious in the middle and just okay in the beginning and near the finish.
Value : Rating:
This is an interesting value considering that the price point is below $10 if bought by box.
Overall Rating : Rating:
I enjoyed this cigar quite a lot. It doesn’t require special attention and provides smooth, tasty flavors, especially in the second third. Has good ageing potential – will probably be in its best shape in a few years.
This post was written by Denis aka Inspector, who founded CigarInspector.com back in 2007. Click here for his latest articles and more information.
