Origin : Cuba
Format : Robusto
Size : 4.8 x 50
Ring : 50
Hand-Made
Price : ~$13-15 each
Trinidad Robusto T was introduced in 2009 to finally offer a robusto vitola within the Trinidad line. As soon as some lucky ones started getting their hands on these sticks, positive reviews flooded the cigar press. At the same time, Montecristo Open were getting high marks in cigar publications all over the world, to be literally destroyed both in the blogosphere and on cigar forums a couple of weeks later. So, is this another “Open” or a true success?
Appearance : Rating:
This Trinidad looks fantastic. The light brown wrapper has elegant thin veins running all over it. The triple cap with an accurate pig-tail is easily removed, opening an easy, peppery pre-draw. The cigar exhales a delicate aroma with a touch of sweetness.
Construction : Rating:
The Robusto T is well-packed, has a perfect weight in hand and feels good in the mouth after the gigantic 54 ring-gauge RyJ Duke. It produces excellent amounts of smoke thanks to a comfortable draw with a little resistance. The burn was razor-sharp in the first third but required a couple of corrections after that. The ash easily held for over 2 inches and I was very reluctant to let it go.
Flavor : Rating:
The very first pulls show that the tobacco is perfectly mature – there is no greenness at all. The first third is characterized by flavors of black pepper and cedar, with nutmeg as a secondary flavor. Despite an obvious power, the retro-haling reveals some sweetness. The smoke, abundant, has an exquisite toasted aroma and feels profound and smooth. In the second third, the flavors evolve, some bitter chocolate is added to the bouquet. Smooth, smooth, smooth. As I approach the last third, I reach what I called in my notes the ‘critical point’. In fact, for a few minutes the cigar appeared to lose its creaminess and I sadly noticed some obvious harshness in it. Fortunately, this didn’t last long and the smoke became even more delicious than before, thick, full-bodied and velvety. The bouquet is extremely deep and complex with the already mentioned flavors plus some animal notes. Make sure you slow down a little near the finish. Needless to say, I smoked this cigar until my fingers burned.
Value : Rating:
It’s hard to judge the value of such a great cigar. Yes, it’s probably the most expensive robusto of the moment, but it’s also one of the best ones.
Overall Rating : Rating:
A solid box purchase for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and will make sure to stock up on these. Trinidad Robusto T is a serious candidate for the #1 Cuban cigar I smoked this year, despite the fact that the RASS, last year’s winner, continues to show great performance. This will be a tough decision!