Welcome to another Member sponsored Geek Critique generously sponsored by our member appollo (Stephen). This was done as a blind review so there were no pre-concieved notions about what anyone was smoking. The cigar provided for this round is the http://www.cigargeeks.com/cigardb/default.asp?action=showcig&cigar_id=194160">ADVentura The Royal Return King's Gold Corona.
According to ADVentura: The tobacco used for this blend is quite rare, so we are forced to produce super small batches, and monitor the delicate complexity, flavor, and balance with each step. The flavor profile we strive to achieve with this blend is quite specific, therefore, the tobacco dictates the production.
Beautiful looking cigar, nice oily sheen with a toothy feel and look. Feels like they used the prettiest sandpaper I have ever seen to wrap this cigar. There is one very substantial vein line on one side but it is the only one I can see. The cap has a slight wrinkle on one side but it takes a punch well enough. Cannon is solid and it looks evenly packed at the foot.
Lighting and Burn: 13 Points of 15 Possible
Burn was good as long as you payed attention to it. If you gave it to much time between puffs it would try and go out. Timing was key, to fast and it will get harsh, to slow and she's going out but find the sweet spot and you will be rewarded.
The ash is solid, holds well over an inch and is light grey with occasional spots of darker grey.
The burn was a bit fast for me but the cigar set the pace and I just went along for a hour and 10 minutes. Burn was good, only got a little wavy a couple times but never needed correction.
Construction: 28 Points of 30 Possible
The wrapper was a beautiful, thick leaf, both oily looking and toothy. One that looks packed with flavor. It's rough to the touch and very dark.
The cap was a bit wavy on one side and although it took a punch cut well enough by a little over halfway through the cap came off completely. It didn't effect the cigar, just a minor irritant. The draw was slightly firm but not bad and smoke production was good.
Flavor and Aroma: 39 Points of 45 Possible
Started with just a hint of spice, some wood and a lingering sweet finish but that quickly evolved into toasted malt and a dried berries and the spice becomes a bit bolder as well. I'm noticing this one has a earthy tobacco flavor that comes and goes too. Very good 1st 3rd.
The second third is marked by a heavy wood flavor up front and then some espresso and a sweet finish. Spice is just at a perfect point in the retrohale.
The last third is a earthy tobacco with espresso and still all though the finish seems dryer on the tongue I am still experiencing a sweet finish. Spice is at a good level and everything ties together nicely bringing this one in for a strong finish.
Summary
Very nice smoke. This is one to have in the humidor. Nice complexity and a great flavor profile made this a high scorer for me. I really like the look of the wrapper and this vitola is one of my favorites. Over all a good smoke.