Brickhouse from J.C. Newman

OHRD · 12-28-2009, 07:01 PM

Size: 5×54, Robusto

Wrapper: Havana Subido

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

Price: Box of 25, $108.99

Grade: 9.2

Today we take on another new release from the IPCPR show in New Orleans, the Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Cigars. This Nicaraguan puro has gotten a fair amount of buzz lately. This cigar is a resurrected blend from the J.C. company line, taken on by third generationers Eric and Bobby Newman. This is the second cigar resurrected, the first being the El Baton. The line was originally created by their grandfather, Julius Ceasar Newman, who founded J.C. Newman Cigar Company in 1895. The Brickhouse was originally created to honor Julius’ family history and the house he grew up in—the only bricked house in the neighborhood that doubled as the town tavern. This is definitely a tribute cigar that doesn’t disappoint!

I was shocked to see this one at my local B&M, as I usually have to travel north to Atlanta to find newer cigars. Both my review partner and myself were both pleased by this cigar and we are happy to review it today. So, let’s get this stick toasted!

Pre-light, 1.8:
The label on the Brickhouse is very sharp and classy. Gold, red, and black coloring surround an off-white base with embossed detail throughout. The exterior is rustic abd very leathery with some crisscrossing veins. It is densely packed and firm to the touch with no soft spots. It appears to have a double cap with a perfectly rounded foot. The aroma is sweet and syrupy and very earthy. The Brickhouse has a loose draw which was surprising because of the dense packing. The cold draw possesses some very strong earth notes but no sweetness.

Burn, 1.8:
The Brickhouse toasted very evenly and pulled perfectly. The smoke was thick and filled the garage and had a very sweet smell to it. I gave little attention to the smoke in between puffs as I worked on a Christmas toy for my son. The ash was very flakey and a bit loose throughout but the smoke did not require any touch ups. The ash was nicely colored and the only negatives to speak of were a slight tear in the wrapper at the two inch mark, which only developed after the heat hit it, and a small hole in the center of the ash. However, none of these created problems for the enjoyment of the smoke.

Flavor, 2.7:
The flavor on this Nicaraguan puro was great. The first third was all earth with a slight bit of strength in the back of the throat. I wouldn’t call it smooth to this point; it seems very rustic and takes on some raw and earthy flavors. The second third moved into a sweet creaminess that reminded me of molasses. I would have liked for this flavor profile to remain longer than it did but it quickly returned to the original flavors of earth to round out the final third of the smoke. The transitions on this smoke were very pleasing and the complexity of the smoke, combined with the medium body, made for a very relaxing cigar.

Overall, 2.9:
It is hard to believe this is a $5 smoke when it seems like all the new releases recently have been $8+. I’d have to say this cigar stands very closely to the CAO La Traviata for best value of the year. The heavy and smooth appearance, flawless burn, and very complex and enjoyable flavor profile make this an exceptional cigar at an exceptional value. It had a touch more body than what I prefer in a smoke, but I’d still contemplate making a box purchase on this and letting them rest. If you see these at your local B&M, don’t hesitate—pick up a handful, you’ll be glad you did. You may just find a less expensive version of some of the Nicaraguan Tatuajes.

(Total: 9.2)

Skywalker · 12-29-2009, 09:48 AM

Very nice review!!!

These have been the best surprise this year!!!

I really have been enjoying the Brickhouse cigars!!!

s15driftking · 12-29-2009, 10:12 AM

for 5 bucks, it cant be beat!

roughrider · 12-29-2009, 02:25 PM

Thanks for the review.

MarkinAZ · 12-29-2009, 02:31 PM

Thanks for the nice review Matthew on the Brickhouse Robusto that should be in everyone' rotation

12-29-2009, 04:20 PM

Matthew, thanks for the review!

It's one of my favorites from 2009!

Col. Kurtz · 12-29-2009, 04:34 PM

I just walked by these at my favorite B&M yesterday. I wish I had seen this sooner. Oh well. Now I need an excuse to go back.

Don Fernando · 12-29-2009, 04:35 PM

I need to get some of those. Maybe next month

joeobx · 12-29-2009, 04:52 PM

Nice review....have to give them a try

68TriShield · 12-29-2009, 04:55 PM

The best Newman to date,in my opinion of course

BryanB · 12-29-2009, 05:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 68TriShield

The best Newman to date,in my opinion of course

agreed

longknocker · 12-29-2009, 05:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 68TriShield

The best Newman to date,in my opinion of course

Quote:

Originally Posted by BryanB

agreed

Wow! Guess I Need To Dig My One Stick Out From The Bottom Of The Coolidor!

NCRadioMan · 12-29-2009, 05:25 PM

Everybody I know that had tried these has liked them. I must be strange, I know needless to say, but I don't like these at all and I am a sucker for a Nic puro.

Zanaspus · 12-30-2009, 07:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NCRadioMan

Everybody I know that had tried these has liked them. I must be strange, I know needless to say, but I don't like these at all and I am a sucker for a Nic puro.

CigaSkills9 · 12-29-2009, 05:42 PM

I cant agree with you more!!! I have already gone thru a box of these, yummy little gems. I like that you did the price/value comparison to CAO's La Traviata!!!! Excellents smokes! Great review, dead on!!!!

Subvet642 · 12-29-2009, 05:52 PM

I'v also been through about a box of these, too and they are a staple with me; if I'm out of them, then I'm out of cigars, but I don't let that happen! Great review!

kelmac07 · 12-29-2009, 06:39 PM

Nice review...great stick for $ 5.00!!

SmokinCozy · 12-29-2009, 06:46 PM

Okay, now I know what's next on the list.......and I was taking a break

OHRD · 12-30-2009, 07:07 AM

Glad to hear so many have had great experiences with these, and a couple box purchases! I've had a couple so I think a box is in order...anyone had the El Baton, the other re-release from JC?

bigheadmark · 01-06-2010, 08:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by matthewjmichael

Glad to hear so many have had great experiences with these, and a couple box purchases! I've had a couple so I think a box is in order...anyone had the El Baton, the other re-release from JC?

yes! A powerhouse of a smoke, and one of the best values in a cigar! they are extremely well rolled, with beautiful wrappers and are well packed...they feel heavy in the hand..

12-28-2009, 07:01 PM	#1
OHRD Garage w/ couch & ashtray Join Date: Sep 2009 First Name: Matt Posts: 1,377 Trading: (39)	Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Size: 5×54, Robusto Wrapper: Havana Subido Binder: Nicaraguan Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Medium Price: Box of 25, $108.99 Grade: 9.2 Today we take on another new release from the IPCPR show in New Orleans, the Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Cigars. This Nicaraguan puro has gotten a fair amount of buzz lately. This cigar is a resurrected blend from the J.C. company line, taken on by third generationers Eric and Bobby Newman. This is the second cigar resurrected, the first being the El Baton. The line was originally created by their grandfather, Julius Ceasar Newman, who founded J.C. Newman Cigar Company in 1895. The Brickhouse was originally created to honor Julius’ family history and the house he grew up in—the only bricked house in the neighborhood that doubled as the town tavern. This is definitely a tribute cigar that doesn’t disappoint! I was shocked to see this one at my local B&M, as I usually have to travel north to Atlanta to find newer cigars. Both my review partner and myself were both pleased by this cigar and we are happy to review it today. So, let’s get this stick toasted! Pre-light, 1.8: The label on the Brickhouse is very sharp and classy. Gold, red, and black coloring surround an off-white base with embossed detail throughout. The exterior is rustic abd very leathery with some crisscrossing veins. It is densely packed and firm to the touch with no soft spots. It appears to have a double cap with a perfectly rounded foot. The aroma is sweet and syrupy and very earthy. The Brickhouse has a loose draw which was surprising because of the dense packing. The cold draw possesses some very strong earth notes but no sweetness. Burn, 1.8: The Brickhouse toasted very evenly and pulled perfectly. The smoke was thick and filled the garage and had a very sweet smell to it. I gave little attention to the smoke in between puffs as I worked on a Christmas toy for my son. The ash was very flakey and a bit loose throughout but the smoke did not require any touch ups. The ash was nicely colored and the only negatives to speak of were a slight tear in the wrapper at the two inch mark, which only developed after the heat hit it, and a small hole in the center of the ash. However, none of these created problems for the enjoyment of the smoke. Flavor, 2.7: The flavor on this Nicaraguan puro was great. The first third was all earth with a slight bit of strength in the back of the throat. I wouldn’t call it smooth to this point; it seems very rustic and takes on some raw and earthy flavors. The second third moved into a sweet creaminess that reminded me of molasses. I would have liked for this flavor profile to remain longer than it did but it quickly returned to the original flavors of earth to round out the final third of the smoke. The transitions on this smoke were very pleasing and the complexity of the smoke, combined with the medium body, made for a very relaxing cigar. Overall, 2.9: It is hard to believe this is a $5 smoke when it seems like all the new releases recently have been $8+. I’d have to say this cigar stands very closely to the CAO La Traviata for best value of the year. The heavy and smooth appearance, flawless burn, and very complex and enjoyable flavor profile make this an exceptional cigar at an exceptional value. It had a touch more body than what I prefer in a smoke, but I’d still contemplate making a box purchase on this and letting them rest. If you see these at your local B&M, don’t hesitate—pick up a handful, you’ll be glad you did. You may just find a less expensive version of some of the Nicaraguan Tatuajes. (Total: 9.2) __________________ Did I tell you my garage has a couch and an ashtray? My wife doesn't let me sleep or smoke inside.

12-29-2009, 09:48 AM	#2
Skywalker BABOTL Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Dice Location: Galaxy Far Far Away Posts: 10,168 Trading: (18)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Very nice review!!! These have been the best surprise this year!!! I really have been enjoying the Brickhouse cigars!!! __________________ Smoke what you like!!!

12-29-2009, 10:12 AM	#3
s15driftking Go Browns! Join Date: Nov 2008 First Name: Bobby Location: Columbus Ohio Posts: 2,763 Trading: (16)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman for 5 bucks, it cant be beat! __________________ diamonds/guns

12-29-2009, 02:25 PM	#4
roughrider Feeling at Home Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: SF Bay Area Posts: 835 Trading: (24)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Thanks for the review.

12-29-2009, 02:31 PM	#5
MarkinAZ Formerly MarkinOR Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Mark Location: Sun City West, AZ Posts: 6,221 Trading: (40)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Thanks for the nice review Matthew on the Brickhouse Robusto that should be in everyone' rotation __________________ "Don't worry, God will work out His plan for your life..." Psalm 138 8

12-29-2009, 04:20 PM	#6
SkinsFanLarry Guest Posts: n/a	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Matthew, thanks for the review! It's one of my favorites from 2009!

12-29-2009, 04:34 PM	#7
Col. Kurtz Have My Own Room Join Date: Jan 2009 First Name: Jerry Location: South Appleton Posts: 1,839 Trading: (26)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman I just walked by these at my favorite B&M yesterday. I wish I had seen this sooner. Oh well. Now I need an excuse to go back. __________________ Artillery Lends Dignity to What Would Otherwise Be a Vulgar Brawl

12-29-2009, 04:35 PM	#8
Don Fernando Postwhore Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Ferdinand Location: Singapore Posts: 10,068 Trading: (29)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman I need to get some of those. Maybe next month __________________ check out my reviews on my blog.

12-29-2009, 04:52 PM	#9
joeobx just playing in the storm Join Date: Oct 2009 First Name: Joe Location: Fredericksburg. VA VCM Country Posts: 1,117 Trading: (4)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Nice review....have to give them a try __________________ it's all fun and games till the flying monkeys show up

12-29-2009, 04:55 PM	#10
68TriShield Got Torque? Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Dave Location: Maryland Posts: 7,194 Trading: (40)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman The best Newman to date,in my opinion of course

12-29-2009, 05:25 PM	#13
NCRadioMan Chutney Lovebusciut Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Chutney Location: On the shores of Loch Shiel Posts: 4,277 Trading: (66)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Everybody I know that had tried these has liked them. I must be strange, I know needless to say, but I don't like these at all and I am a sucker for a Nic puro. __________________ The path to loyalty is trust.

12-29-2009, 05:42 PM	#15
CigaSkills9 Formerly Lt. Skills Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Michael Location: Fayetteville,North Carolina Posts: 148 Trading: (1)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman I cant agree with you more!!! I have already gone thru a box of these, yummy little gems. I like that you did the price/value comparison to CAO's La Traviata!!!! Excellents smokes! Great review, dead on!!!! __________________ "What is more important? Time for a great Cigar or Time with a great Woman? I'll take one of each, just to be safe!" M. Summerskill

12-29-2009, 05:52 PM	#16
Subvet642 Bilge Rat Join Date: Nov 2009 First Name: Darren Location: Torpedo Room Bilge Posts: 2,997 Trading: (13)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman I'v also been through about a box of these, too and they are a staple with me; if I'm out of them, then I'm out of cigars, but I don't let that happen! Great review! __________________ *"Man's mind is his basic tool of survival. Life is given to him, survival is not." -John Galt*

12-29-2009, 06:39 PM	#17
kelmac07 Resident Maduro Whore!! Join Date: Apr 2009 First Name: Mac Location: Newport News, VA Posts: 27,322 Trading: (218)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Nice review...great stick for $ 5.00!! __________________ Dom in the MLB thread "I could probably get you to wear a Yankee hat for a Maduro!"

12-29-2009, 06:46 PM	#18
SmokinCozy I don't smoke that Join Date: Oct 2008 First Name: Craig Location: Los Angeles Posts: 562 Trading: (47)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Okay, now I know what's next on the list.......and I was taking a break __________________ And how is education supposed to make me feel smarter? Besides, every time I learn something new, it pushes some old stuff out of my brain..

12-30-2009, 07:07 AM	#19
OHRD Garage w/ couch & ashtray Join Date: Sep 2009 First Name: Matt Posts: 1,377 Trading: (39)	Re: Brickhouse from J.C. Newman Glad to hear so many have had great experiences with these, and a couple box purchases! I've had a couple so I think a box is in order...anyone had the El Baton, the other re-release from JC? __________________ Did I tell you my garage has a couch and an ashtray? My wife doesn't let me sleep or smoke inside.