This Geek Critique has been generously sponsored by Deener27 (Dave).
The Cigar: Illusione La Grande Classe Rex
The Specs:
Wrapper: Ecuador (Habano)
Binder: Nicaragua (Jalapa region)
Filler: Nicaragua (Jalapa region)
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium
Size: 4.875" x 40
Shipping: US addresses only
Due Date: March 25, 2025
The Hype: When Dion Giolito (CEO & Master Blender of Illusione Cigars) first introduced Le Grand Classe Rex, it was done in a very quiet fashion. For years, the blend had been a store exclusive at FUMARE, a small cigar shop owned by Illusione Cigars in Reno, NV. Fans of Illusione Cigars converged upon the store to get a few sticks for themselves, often times not being able due to the blend constantly being sold out. After much discussion within Giolioto's ranks, this special hushed blend was made available to a few select retailers across the country. The cigar is a small, unbanded Petit Corona which is typically packaged in gold foil bundles of 25. (There is also a much more uncommon version, called simply "Rex", which is a 4"x 40 cigar and was made and named for Giolito's friend, customer and attorney who requested it in 2013.)
The Reviewers:
Dave has already drafted a couple or reviewers, but we need more. Initially, volunteers should be Veteran status or higher and did not do the March review. This critique will be due by March 25, so please take into account your schedule and the weather and only volunteer if you are prepared to turn it in on time. If you are interested, please indicate so in the forum below and Dave will make the final selection.
1. Otis
2. arrow34
3. ntanner
4. Murphy223
5. ninfiction
Note: A reviewer who posts their review late will receive neutral feedback. A reviewer who does not post at all will receive negative feedback. There are always exceptions to the rule and a reasonable excuse for tardiness or a no show will be respected and thus not counted against the reviewer. Our sponsoring members and our administrators make the choice of who is to participate in any particular Geek Critique and can be better informed of their choices with this initiative in place.
Thanks again to Deener27 for providing the cigar for this critique! And thank you to the reviewers for their time and thoughtful perspective.
