Welcome to another Member sponsored Geek Critique generously sponsored by our member nirab (Brian). The cigar provided for this round is the Stolen Throne Crook of the Crown Toro.
This was a good looking cigar. It had a nice dark brown wrapper with a toothy feel, almost like leather. Felt tightly packed and had a really nice semi-sweet, chocolatey aroma. I was looking forward to lighting it up.
Lighting and Burn: 15 Points of 15 Possible
I used a straight cut and was really happy with the results. The draw was perfect. It had a slight bit of resistance. The burn was razor sharp. Medium smoke volume and Ash was a light Gray. I was surprised at how long the ash held. (over 2 inches)
Construction: 25 Points of 30 Possible
This stick seemed really well rolled. As mentioned, the wrapper was a dark chocolate brown with a toothy feel. The cap was a bit loose, which was the only knock. And there was a single visible vein. Seemed, to be tightly rolled and packed but it did not affect the outcome. Had a nice firm fell to it.
Flavor and Aroma: 42 Points of 45 Possible
Pre-light draw - Chocolate and Leather
First Third - I got an initial hit of pepper but it settled down very quickly into the chocolate and leather I was expecting.
Second Third - I didn't pick up much change. It held on to the pepper, chocolate and leather profile and I picked up a bit of creaminess in each draw.
Final Third - Definitely more peppery than sweetness as I neared the end. More spice and tobacco but I still enjoyed the finish.
Summary
Thanks (nirab/Brian) for letting me participate. I had not tried any Stolen Throne cigars in the past and was looking forward to this one. I really enjoyed this cigar from start to finish. It was right in my wheelhouse of flavors, burn time, aroma etc. I will definitely be adding a few to the collection.