Vegas Robaina Famosos.

For those who enjoy Cuban cigars, it’s now well understood that smoking them immediately after acquiring them is no longer advisable. With Cuba currently shipping cigars boxed as recently as April 2024, it goes without saying that these sticks require some time to rest.

It’s truly a shame to indulge in such finely crafted cigars in less-than-ideal conditions. This was precisely the case with this Vegas Robaina Famosos. When I first received the box, the ammonia scent was overwhelming. After allowing it to age for a year, the harsh aroma had faded, and I was finally ready to savor it.

Here are my impressions:
The cigar boasts a rugged yet attractive wrapper, with perfect construction and an excellent draw. The flavor profile offers robust notes of tobacco, black pepper, and earth, accompanied by hints of cedar, cocoa, and a subtle, lingering sweetness that delicately rests on the tongue after each puff. The strength transitions from medium to full-bodied throughout the smoke. It paired wonderfully with a bold Italian espresso, though a spicy rum would also complement it well. For those willing to experiment, a Port wine or an Italian Passito di Pantelleria could provide an intriguing contrast.

This is certainly not a morning cigar—best enjoyed after a hearty dinner. Expect a satisfying smoking experience lasting between 45 minutes to an hour.

Vegas Robaina Famosos

I always had bad experience, I tried it several times and always the same

A really lovely smoke, with a flavour profile that encompassed the best parts of Bolivar, Ramon Allones and Partagas. Cocoa, nuts, spice... this Famosos seemed to have it all. This one came from a 2015 box so the extra age had rounded off all the edges. Unfortunately this needed a few relights, and had a tendency to tunnel at the midway point - but the rich and bold flavours went some way to making up for the construction issues.

This is a delicious cigar. The example I smoked, with two years of age, exhibited a perfect draw and great burn. It was very creamy on the palate, and exhibited flavours of cedar, nuts and baking spices, particularly clove. The aroma of the thick smoke was enchantingly sweet. I nubbed it.