Candela- The forgotten wrapper?

[Emjaysmash]

Started This thread at the other place, but figured it could get a good deal of discussion here as well.

I was wondering if anyone still smokes these cigars? I recently got a small sampler pack from a friend, and have started to review them. Here's the first.




Cigar: Camacho Candela Monarca
Size: 5 x 50
Wrapper: Candela
Binder: Honduran
Filler: Honduran
Body: Mild-Med.
Appearence: This jolly green giant has a silky smooth wrapper that is very well constructed. Very few veins can be seen and its all topped off with a bright green cap. Other than the color (which reminds me of brussel sprouts) this is a beautifully made cigar.
Pre-light: I used a punch cut on this guy; I found the draw to be extremely loose. I know I would have to smoke this thing slowly in order to prevent “hot boxing” it. The dry taste was that of parsley.
Flavors: To sum it up in a word: bitter. The honduran tobacco ( which, to my taste is a slightly mted tobacco flavor and tends to be a bit boring) was over powered by the taste of a bitter, leafy sort of flavor. Reminded me of eating grass or leaves (don’t ask.) Honestly, it tasted like this cigar was picked too early from it’s blossoming cigar tree. (Ah if only cigars grew on trees…)
Overall: It being my first Candela cigar, the Camacho Monarca didn’t go over that well. Unless you like eating fresh leaves, grass, and happen to be a goat, then this cigar is probably not for you.



SO What do you guys think? Have you tried any candelas? what did you think? LEts get some banter on this!
-MJ