Cigar Geeks - Cuban Rounds (by Ventura Cigar) Churchill Maduro

Cigar Geeks Geek Critique

Cuban Rounds (by Ventura Cigar) Churchill Maduro
Written by Cigar Geeks Member: nirab

71
Cigar Geeks Rating

Welcome to another Member sponsored Geek Critique generously sponsored by our member bstessl (Brian). 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 Cuban Rounds (by Ventura Cigar) Churchill Maduro.

The Hype: From beginning to end, Cuban Rounds are a luxurious smoking experience, with blends that highlight the quality of the leaves and layers of flavor that evolves through a slow burn. They aren't meant to be saved for special celebrations, however. Cuban Rounds are the cigars to smoke after dinner, among friends, at work functions, and every summer evening. They're approachable for beginners, complex for enthusiasts, and are sized for anytime enjoyment. Whether you have a little time or a lot of time, there's a Cuban Rounds cigar for you.

Cuban Rounds (by Ventura Cigar) Churchill Maduro

Brand:: Cuban Rounds (by Ventura Cigar)
Name:: Churchill Maduro
Length:: 7
Ring Gauge:: 48
Country of Origin:: Nicaragua
Filler:: Nicaragua
Binder:: Nicaragua
Wrapper:: Nicaragua
Color:: Maduro
Strength:: Medium-Full
Shape:: Churchill

This cigar was enjoyed with Topo Chico

Pre-Light: 9 Points of 10 Possible

Semi oily wrapper that is very smooth, darn near perfect. The cap is well applied, and the cigar is packed firm with a touch of resistance. Straight tobacco smell off of the foot. The cold draw was nice, with a bit of resistance.

Lighting and Burn: 7 Points of 15 Possible

The burn was good to start, but had issues the rest of the way. Tunneling started about an inch in, and continued to be as issue for the remainder of the smoke. Ash held in 1/4" chunks. Burn was inconsistent due to tunneling. Quite a few re-lights were necessary to finish the cigar.

Construction: 20 Points of 30 Possible

The draw was good at first, but then the tunneling showed up, so the draw was all over the place. The wrapper was well applied, and the cap stayed intact after a v-cut. This cigar looked a lot better than it performed.

Flavor and Aroma: 35 Points of 45 Possible

The flavors were tough to distinguish due to the tunneling issues. I did catch bits of bitter coffee, some sweetness here and there, and a dash of pepper, but there was no consistency due to the poor construction. No complexity was possible, and the aftertaste was very bitter. Again, all due to the draw/tunneling issues.

Summary

Well, you can't win 'em all! Hand rolled cigars can sometimes present a real challenge to enjoy, and this was one of those times. I got into the last third of the cigar, hoping to salvage something from this cigar, but it just wasn't meant to be. Disappointed, but, this ain't the first time experiencing construction issues with a cigar! Once I know what cigar this is, I will give it another shot. Thanks to Brian for letting be a part of this GC.