Tatuaje Cabinet Noella

Origin : Miami, FL
Format : Corona
Size : 130 x 19 mm
Ring : 42
Wrapper : Nicaragua
Filler : Nicaragua
Binder : Nicaragua
Hand-Made
Price : ~$8 each
More info about purchasing Tatuaje Noellas cigars...

It was not very easy to find these sticks. Produced in Little Havana, only a limited amount is available (yearly production is around 27.000 as far as I remember) and since Tatuaje's popularity is growing, Cabinet Noellas become hard to get. I wonder whether it has affected the quality; I have smoked some Tatuajes during the last few years and I sincerely felt no significant difference, although I heard others say that the construction today is worse than what is used to be.

Appearance :
Looks a little toothy, but the triple cap is very carefully applied, showing some rolling skills.
 
Construction :
Apart from the burn, that might need a few corrections, I can't say much about the construction. The ash is not extremely firm although it boasts a very pleasant almost snow-white color.

Flavor :
Warning: this cigar might taste young if taken straight out of the box. I'd recommend you age it for at least one month to let things settle down. If properly aged, it provides a very spicy beginning and a full-flavoured smoke with heavy earthy and leathery notes attenuated by creamy chocolate flavors. Someone told me that Tatuaje Cabinet Noella's taste profile came close to Cuban cigars, mentioning for instance Montecristo No. 4, but I wouldn't agree on that. The Monte is, in my opinion, less brutal and has more complexity.

Value :
If only it was a couple dollars cheaper, I'd say it was a good bargain. At $8/stick, however, you can probably find a better deal.

Overall Rating :
The Tatuaje Cabinet Noella is definitely a quality cigar. Those who prefer full-bodied smokes will certainly like it. Remember - one month in the humidor and these boys are ready.