Cigar Review: E.P. Carrillo Edicion Limitada 2011 Dark Rituals

Pre-light flavor: Earthy, somewhat dark and spicy

Toasting & Light: Took a little longer to light this cigar properly for an even burn, but it lit well and evenly.

First puff: Surprisingly flinty and bitter. I was a little nervous at first. Maybe I over-lit it? By the third puff it rounded right out.

Retrohale: A real tingler!

Base flavors: Dark tobacco, espresso and a hint of semi-sweet dark chocolate.

Aroma: Sweet and spicy

Burn / Ash: Burn was just slightly off after the first inch, but once ashed, evened-out and never presented any further burn issues.

General Observations: This is a LOT of cigar. It is definitely full-bodied, but very smooth and creamy. Though it started-off funky, the base flavors came through shortly after. By the midpoint it turned a little sweeter, more complex, and remained consistent right down to the nub.

Summary: When Ernesto handed me this un-banded cigar in February last year (see photo at right), he said, “Here’s something new for you to try, but it won’t be released until November.” So, I decided to take it home and let it rest until the cigars were released last Fall, but I didn’t smoke it until a few days ago.

On the whole, the Edicion Limitada Dark Rituals offered excellent balance and plenty of flavor. I enjoyed it immensely, and IMO, this cigar is best suited for more experienced cigar smokers who will appreciate the myriad nuances in the blend. There is a lot going on in this cigar. The Brazilian wrapper was not as spicy as I expected. Its ZING comes from the combination of the wrapper and the Nicaraguan ligero, while the sweeter, milder Sumatra binder keeps it from being too overpowering. Overall, a real treat that burned for well over an hour. This is one cigar you don’t want to rush.

See all E.P. Carrillo Cigars.

Rating: ???

Rating scale
? = Fair to Midland
?? = Good
??? = Excellent
???? = Outstanding
????? = Extraordinary