Cigar: Viaje WLP Claudenstein
Size: 5×50 Robusto
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Claro
Binder: Nicaragua (Aganorsa)
Filler: Nicaragua (Aganorsa)
MSRP: $59.99 per five pack from Small Batch Cigar
Coupon code ‘leafenthusiast’ used to save a few dollars on the purchase
Viaje Cigars takes a different approach to the creation of their cigars. That approach can be summed up in two words: Small Batch. Quality over quantity is a phrase that would certainly resonate throughout their company halls. And this could be why I haven’t found them in my local shops. Finding today’s review while perusing our friends at Small Batch Cigar (the name of the cigar caught my eye), I was more than happy to take a shot in the dark on this cigar and give it a proper review.
No construction issues found on the fifth and final cigar from the pack. The pre-light aromas emanating from the cigar were a modest amount of wood and toasted nuts while the cold draw found a faint hint of wood and spices. After a V cut from the guillotine and light, I was welcomed with an open draw, medium starting strength and immediate bright spices upon the palette followed with wood and light nuts. 11 minutes in and the flavor palette more or less went into a sudden change: The reduction of spice was dramatic, moving quickly into the background of the palette, while the nutty notes came upon the forefront. From there, the flavor profile held firm for another 16 minutes. It was at this point where the woody notes took over, followed by hints of mild coffee. The spice and nuts, while faint and muted, still held onto the palette. The final smoking time for the Viaje WLP Claudenstein was a quick 47 minutes.
A couple of times throughout the life of the cigar, I had to correct and re-even the burn. Barring that, it was smooth sailing with the Viaje WLP Claudenstein.
By-The-Numbers
Pre-light: 2/2
Construction: 2/2
Flavor: 4/5
Value: 1/1
Total: 9/10
To recap the Viaje WLP Claudenstein:
- The cigar represents Viaje well and brings another great choice to the crowded medium bodied market. Good flavor and well balanced to the strength of the cigar.
- All levels of cigar smokers could enjoy this cigar without getting scared away by the strength.
- It’s on the high side of my wallet but the value for what you are getting is worth it in my opinion. The coupon code mentioned above can certainly help.
- These will be getting a purchase again very soon.
Keep an eye out for the announcement for this year’s NFL Pick’em League coming next week. Thank you so much for reading. I look forward to the next time I can share my thoughts with you.
