Bobrow Brothers Bold Invincibles, 1932

[lenguamor]

The tax stamp on these fivers tells a story of a cigar made in or before 1932 by the Bobrow Brothers factory at 220 South 5th St, Philadelphia. With the Great Depression in full stride, these were still 25¢ a pack, so they were not scrimping on quality

As the name of the cigar implies, it was manufactured (very likely from Cuban filler, almost certainly with a Sumatra wrapper) to be a stronger cigar than was the norm in those times, when most cigars were advertised as "mild." Even 80 years later, it delivers.

The construction is solid and the cigar holds together remarkably well. Clipping just a quarter-inch from the non-punched head reveals a pre-light draw of sweetness and dried fruit. The narrow foot takes little flame to light.

Right off, the distinct background of dried fruit asserts itself; currant, apricot. The real surprise with these is always the strength; 80 years and this stick still delivers a full, bold, almost peppery flavor. Little nicotine, naturally. But what flavor!

Around the middle and to the end, the flavor of dark berries weaves in and out; the flavor and strength intensifies but the mild pepper mellows and you're left with a little flavor bomb to nub enthusiastically.

A beautiful way to start 2012; I wish I had a thousand or so of these.