This one is known as their powerhouse blend and since I'm a big fan of Camacho and their full bodied smokes, I have been looking forward to this one. As is usual for the Camacho brand, the wrapper, binder, and filler are all made from Jamastran Valley Honduran tobaccos. I bought a super toro for $7.50. Length is 6 inches, ring is size 52.The wrapper feels somewhat dry but the stick still looks like it's in good condition. The cut is a little hard but it doesn't leave any frayed edges so I'm at least not worried about the cigar holding together.
The foot toasts surprisingly well releasing a nice tobacco odor and lights just as easily. However, within the first few puffs, I immediately identify the biggest downfall of this cigar. The draw. It's loose. Really loose. Frankly, I'm not even puffing on this thing. I'm just holding it to my lips and breathing. At the same time though, the smoke is still very full. I'm getting mouthfuls of thick smoke, not air, despite the unusually loose draw. But I'm still not sure I like it.
The stick needs a little help to burn evenly, but after a few minutes, its settles down and burns well for the rest of the smoke. The ash also stays on well, not falling off until at least 2 inches are still on.
As for the taste, one word describes this cigar: Overpowering. Right from the first puff of smoke, the only way I can describe the boldness of this cigar is by comparing it to getting repeatedly punched in the face. The flavors are very dark, very bitter, and even have a strong tar like taste. The nicotine also makes itself well known in this cigar. After smoking for a mere 5 minutes, I'm already feeling a bit lightheaded.
After a while, the nicotine presence backs off a little, giving me time to focus on the flavors. The problem is that the intensity of the smoke is making it difficult to distinguish between different tastes. Everything just tastes burnt. I think I can pick up on some coffee, but it's more like espresso that was left on the burner too long.
Time to suggest a drink pairing with this cigar. I think the only logical choice would be a straight shot of Bacardi 151.
As I get into the second half of the stick, things seem to calm down a little. Either that, or I'm just getting used to the boldness. I'm able to pick up on some nicer flavors, particularly roasted coffee and leather. I actually enjoy the rest of the smoke with these two primary tastes working together until the cigar finishes with a predictably intense ending.
I had some mixed feelings on how to rate this one. On the one hand, the draw was ridiculously loose. On the other hand, the smoke was still thick and full. On the one hand, everything was too bold even for my taste (I typically lean more towards the full bodied cigars). On the other hand, while the flavors were overpowering and a little burnt, they weren't exactly bad. This wasn't a poorly made cigar. I think it was exactly what the rollers had in mind and they figured there must be people out there who enjoy such an intense smoke. Would I smoke it again? Probably not. But would I encourage others to give it a try? Yes.
Overall Rating: 72
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