CA Report: Top New Cigars (Aug 31 2020)
To most of us, at least psychologically, the end of August means the end of summer. Autumn always seems to take back seat, even to spring, and I’m not sure why. The trees look amazing, the nights are cooler, and the fire pits begin burning after sundown. It’s a perfect recipe for cigar enjoyment. Now’s the time to plow through the honey-do list so you can settle down with a new cigar and a glass of spirits to keep your spirit warm.
In this edition of Top New Cigars, we’ve got two sparkly 2020 limited editions – both from Crowned Heads, plus a long-awaited arrival from Macanudo. Check out what you can expect when you smoke them, and if you already have, tell me what you thought in the comments below!
Crowned Heads Four Kicks Mule Kick LE 2020
Wrapper: Nicaragua Jalapa
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
You’re all set for that Labor Day last hurrah when you suddenly realize…you didn’t order cigars! No worries. We wouldn’t want you to send summer packing with just any old stogie anyway. Consider Crowned Heads Four Kicks Mule Kick Limited Edition 2020. It’s got the same binder and filler as the original Mule Kick you’ve come to love. But for this annual special edition, they’ve swapped the wrapper for an oily Nicaraguan Jalapa. Don’t worry, she sticks packs quite a hoof. Loads of pepper and spice, with an extra sweet disposition thanks to that new wrapper we talked about. Unlike some of your buddies, this wingman will keep up well after the buzz kicks in.
Crowned Heads Las Calaveras LE 2020
Wrapper: Ecuador Habano
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Or maybe you wanna trade sweetness for something savory? 2019’s Las Calaveras was hard to beat, but Crowned Heads still managed to do it with the 2020 edition. I’m not surprised. They’ve got a knack for this kind of thing. Spicy, earthy, and with hints of citrus, white peppers, and nuts, this cigar sports the level of full-bodied complexity you’d expect from CH and then some. The only con I can find is that they’ve made 700 less boxes this year, totaling a meager 1000. Some manufacturers just slap “limited edition” on any box. Not Crowned Heads. You’ll never see this cigar again once it sells out. So, if you’re looking for a smoke that exceeds your expectations, I’m willing to bet that this one will.
Macanudo Inspirado Green
Wrapper: Brazil Arapiraca
Binder: Indonesia
Filler: Colombia and Nicaragua
Sometimes you just want a cigar from a name you can trust and a price you’ll love. A cigar that fits those criteria and packs a flavorful punch? That’s a recipe for love at first smoke. Macanudo Inspirado Green is the latest in a line that’s redefined Macanudo for a new generation, and this newbie’s four-country full-bodied blend is keeping the pace. Notes of black pepper, citrus, and a refreshing earthy sweetness rotate through a rollercoaster of complex flavors. I’m a big fan of their Orange Label, and this one is right up there nudging its way right next to it in my humidor. Try it and I think you’ll be in for a treat.