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 Foundation Cigar Co. El Gueguense The Wise Man Robusto Maduro.
The Wise Man Maduro is an extension on the El Güegüense line that adds a whole new layer of complexity via the simple change of wrapping it in a San Andres wrapper. This dark and oily wrapper creates a bolder, fuller bodied cigar that shows off all the greatness of the original in a brand new way.
Foundation Cigar Co. El Gueguense The Wise Man Robusto Maduro
Brand:
Foundation Cigar Co.
Name:
El Gueguense The Wise Man Robusto Maduro
Length:
5.5
Ring Gauge:
50
Country of Origin:
Nicaragua
Filler:
Nicaragua
Binder:
Nicaragua
Wrapper:
Mexico
Color:
Maduro
Strength:
Medium-Full
Shape:
Robusto
Average Member Rating:
(1 Review(s))
Pre-Light: 10 Points of 10 Possible
This cigar had a rustic appearance with a beautiful dark brown wrapper. The wrapper was a bit rough, not oily. The lack of a band added an air of mystery to the experience so I wasn't sure what I'd be getting. Before lighting up, I picked up scents of earthy tobacco, leather and chocolate.
Lighting and Burn: 13 Points of 15 Possible
Once lit, I was surprised at the lack of any spice. Not sure what I was expecting but it was smooth from the start. The cigar had a very consistent burn with lots of blue-gray smoke. The ash held firm. I used a V-cut and the draw was perfect The burn got a little wonky towards the end of the final third but it didn't impact my overall enjoyment.
Construction: 25 Points of 30 Possible
No visible seems, nice cap. The cigar felt well-constructed in my hand. Not too firmly rolled. Nice cap and v-cut with no issues. As mentioned above, wrapper was beautiful dark brown and slightly rough to the touch.
Flavor and Aroma: 43 Points of 45 Possible
The initial draw for me was best described as earthy. Hints of hay, leather and I didn't pick up any of the chocolate at first. Actually had a bit of creaminess throughout the first third.
For the second third, the cigar maintained its earthy foundation, but this is where I picked up some of the cocoa / chocolate I was hoping for. Still not overly strong and quite enjoyable.
In the final third, the cigar intensified a bit. While the other flavors remained consistent, It definitely got slightly spicier along the way, but not overpowering. It maintained the leathery, chocolate notes.
Summary
Thanks to Apollo for sponsoring. I love Blind Reviews, especially when they are enjoyable cigars. This was definitely enjoyable. It provided a delightful smoking experience with its well balanced flavors With no band, it's rustic appearance and impressive performance, I am really looking forward to knowing what this was so I can add it to my humidor.