United Cigar Create Your Own Sampler

I have been blown away by almost everything from Selected Tobacco. The Bandoleros are all excellent, especially for the price. I think the T is my favorite, medium strength and body but with tons of flavor – cedar, almonds, cinnamon, bakers spice. The Clandestinos is also fantastic, a little mellower but still immensely satisfying. Adventurous is bolder, a little harsher with more bite, but sometimes that’s exactly what I’m after. I’ve smoked them all now many times, and every specimen I’ve had has been extremely well packed, with a perfect draw and burn. That kind of consistency will keep me coming back.

As for Atabey, I find every one I’ve smoked to be delicious if slightly one note. That one note is mostly sweet cherry and vanilla, white pepper and baking spices, from start to finish. There are few transitions as you smoke, but if you love that mellow Connecticut flavor it is hard to beat this. For me however, this is the weakest link in the line up, because of the price. There are really good comparable cigars out there for half the price; the Numero Uno from Joya de Nicaragua, J. London, or Sakas Sobremesa Brûlée Blue to name a few.

The real winner for me though is Byron. When I want a real treat I smoke a Byron Poemas 19th Century, and I’m burning my fingers by the end every time. Tons of chocolate, a smooth cedar core, and creamy coffee. The flavors are outstanding, as is the construction. It’s one of those cigars that I find myself looking at after every puff, wondering how they made something this full flavored and delicious be this refined and smooth. For me it is hard to justify buying something over $20 but I make an exception for Byron, it really is that good.