Cigar Review: Tatuaje Havana VI

Posted by toasted on May 24, 2010 in Reviews | 5 comments

Size: 5×50, Nobles

Wrapper: Nicaraguan (Corojo ‘99)

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaragua

Strength: Medium

Price: Box of 25, $151.25

Grade: 9.0

When deciding what to review this week, we were both amazed that we had only sat down to review one cigar from Mr. Pete Johnson, the newly released El Triunfador – so, for today’s review we are taking on the Tatuaje Havana VI.

This Nicaraguan puro is of course produced under the watchful eye of Pepin Garcia at his Tabacalera Cubana factory in Esteli, Nicaragua and is one of the more limited production sticks from Pete’s standard lines. Utilizing the entubado method, which bunches the filler, the Havana VI is known for having excellent construction and burn.

Released in October of 2006, the Havana VI is sold in boxes of 25 and available in six sizes: Hermosos (5.6×46), Angeles (4.6×42), Victorias (6×38), Artistas (6.2×52), Nobles (5×50), and Almirante (7×47). The name Havana VI was chosen because of the six vitolas, which are made in the traditional Havana style, and together form the acronym Havana.

We are big fans of Pepin’s blends and have enjoyed the Tatuaje line of cigars as well. So, let’s get right to the toast.

Pre-light, 1.7:
The medium brown wrapper on this Pete Johnson creation is in good shape with minimal veins and a very well constructed triple cap. The wrapper is well packed with no soft spots and the bright red label compliments the smoke nicely. The pre-light aroma is of rich tobacco with a nice, warm, peppery spice at the foot. The cold draw produces a blast of spicy tobacco with a long finish.

Burn, 1.8:
The Noble cut, toasted, and fired up like a champ. Looking it over, I almost hated to cut the beautiful triple cap. The draw is a little tight but opens up about an inch in with a consistent medium to light gray ash that holds well. The smoke temperature is excellent throughout and the cigar requires no touch ups or re-lights.

Flavor, 2.7:
As expected, the first puff produces notes of spicy tobacco, which is really heady on the palate. The first third smoothes out a bit with notes of solid tobacco and hints of wood and presents an elongated and heavy finish on the palate. The second third sees an increase in the spice, which leans toward black pepper. I also pick up some sweet notes here and there. The last third is fuller than the beginning and adds a new flavor –caramel. Overall the smoke is spicy and rustic with a long, heavy finish.

Overall, 2.8:
As with most Pete Johnson smokes, I took this one to the nub and if I had time I would have fired another one up immediately. The cigar is not super complex but it really fit the profile I like, which is a good full tobacco flavor with spice and a long finish. This smoke is not as strong as other Johnson smokes, but it is a solid medium. At around six bucks a stick this is a solid value.

(Total: 9.0)

Question of the Day: I spent the weekend in the yard and enjoyed some nice smokes. What are your favorite yard-gars?