Eliu's Picks

Eliu
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STRENGTH:Medium to Full
FAVORITE BRANDS

Padron 1926 Serie Maduro

Leaf by Oscar

The Tabernacle

Ashton ESG 22-Year Salute 6" * 52

88
Ashton ESG 22-Year Salute 6 * 52
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The ESG Torpedo begins with a gentle kick of black pepper and a subtle tartness on the tongue. The pepper leads the way early on, especially through the first inch, but never overwhelms. Despite the spice, the smoke is impressively smooth and creamy from the start. It doesn’t take long to realize this cigar has something special — the aroma is rich, multi-layered, and unlike anything else. Hints of cedar and soft florals drift through the nose, both understated and refined. The ambient scent is particularly inviting. As the cigar transitions into the middle third, the profile deepens with earthy tones and a touch of lightly roasted coffee. The floral sweetness in the aroma lingers beautifully, though a dry, tannic finish begins to creep in — something that slightly detracts from the otherwise pleasant experience. The pepper fades into the background while the strength of the cigar subtly ramps up. The final third stays remarkably smooth, keeping its creamy character intact. The bouquet is truly captivating, with delicate notes of lavender or violet that never become overly perfumed. It’s floral, but expertly balanced. That said, the tannic dryness continues to linger on the palate, leaving my mouth feeling parched by the end. Still, the aroma alone makes the hour-long journey worth it. Picked on 07/10/2025

Padron 1926 Serie 80 Years Maduro 6"3/4 * 54

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Padron 1926 Serie 80 Years Maduro 63/4 * 54
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The Padron 80 Years Maduro immediately commands attention with its bold, toothy wrapper and refined presence—clearly a luxury smoke both in look and pedigree. Handcrafted with meticulous care from a proprietary blend of aged Nicaraguan tobaccos, the cigar sets a tone of elegance right from the cold draw. Unlit, it teases the palate with deep notes of cocoa, aged cedar, and warm baking spices, underscored by a subtle cayenne-like kick and a leathery, chewy texture. Igniting the cigar is like uncorking a vintage Bordeaux—rich, profound, and not to be rushed. The flavor delivery is laser-focused and deliberate, coating the tongue in waves of complexity. From the start, it’s evident this cigar was never meant to be average. Expectations aren’t just met—they’re exceeded. The cigar begins with a gentle introduction, thanks to its tapered format. A creamy medley of roasted coffee, toasted nuts, and bittersweet chocolate builds gradually, accentuated by refined spice. Its strength is undeniable, yet the extended aging of its tobaccos ensures an experience devoid of any harshness or sharp edges. The retrohale is irresistibly smooth, offering a new dimension of flavor with every exhale. As you reach the second third, a touch more intensity finds its way into the blend. An elegant mix of cinnamon and cedar blends with the earthy richness of almonds, cashews, and a dash of red pepper. Cocoa undertones remain consistent, adding balance and depth to the cigar’s evolving profile. In its final stretch, the Padron 80 Years Maduro reveals its true craftsmanship. Burn lines remain razor-sharp, and the ash holds with pride. The draw never falters. That excellence isn’t by chance—it’s the result of Padron entrusting only their most skilled artisans with its creation. It’s a testament to what patience, tradition, and expertise can achieve. While it may not be an everyday cigar due to its premium price, the Padron 80 Years Maduro is an indulgence every aficionado owes themselves. On Picked on 07/01/2025

Byron 1850 No. 4 5" * 50

Byron 1850 No. 4 5 * 50
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From the moment the Byron Selección 1850 No. 4 touched flame, it was clear this wasn’t going to be your average smoke—it came out swinging with a rich combo of cocoa, earth, oak, and cedar. The earthy notes quickly muscled their way to the front like a headliner on stage, while the oak and cocoa danced in and out of the spotlight like seasoned backup singers. Meanwhile, on the retro-hale, the cedar and oak teamed up to deliver a subtle but satisfying encore. Just as the first third settled in, a sneaky duo of natural tobacco and red pepper crept into the mix—lurking in the background but adding intrigue like plot twists in a good mystery novel. As the second third rolled in, the earthy and oaky characters stayed firmly in control, while cocoa, cedar, and that touch of sweet natural tobacco played their supporting roles beautifully. The red pepper didn’t shout, but it made sure you knew it was still hanging around, giving the flavor some spicy punctuation. In the final third, the story stayed largely the same—but with a small spike in peppery drama, like a finale with just enough fire to keep things exciting. Flavor-wise, the Byron delivered a smooth, medium-bodied ride, perfectly balanced by medium strength. No surprises here—just consistent, well-calibrated intensity from start to finish. The draw? Near perfect, with just enough resistance to keep you engaged. The burn, however, played hard to get—requiring more touch-ups than a diva before curtain call, and the ash was as perfect. Picked on 05/05/2025

Davidoff Grand Cru Robusto 5"1/4 * 52

Davidoff Grand Cru Robusto 51/4 * 52
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The Davidoff Grand Cru Robusto is wrapped in a silky smooth claro wrapper. It is tightly packed with tobacco and exceedingly nicely rolled when squeezed. There are only a few veins on the roll, and it fits perfectly in your hand. The first few puffs are a little dry on the mouth, with a medium body. The woodly taste hit the top of my mouth first, followed by nutty undertones and cinnamon as the Grand Cru starts rolling. From the retrohale I got deep earthy tones that came through. The wood intensifies, accompanied by secondary notes of nutty and creaminess. At this time, the cigar is producing a lot of smoke, and the body is still medium. The Davidoff Grand Cru Robusto’s smoke has a thick smoke to it as the cigar proceeds, and the foot displays gorgeous white ash. There are a lot of toast and cedar tones running through it. The burn line is quite precise. You’ll sense a brief sweetness taste almost a dried fruit notes that is rapidly overpowered by white pepper. The cigar smokes quickly, but it’s not harsh, and the tobacco appears to burn evenly. The Grand Cru then gains a little more power, edging closer to the medium to full-bodied end of the range. At this point, taste some bitterness on the end, coupled with celery and herbal aromas. Amazing cigar would recommend this to anyone that enjoys a smooth smoke. Picked on 04/27/2025

Padron Family Reserve No. 85 Natural 5"1/4 * 50

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Padron Family Reserve No. 85 Natural 51/4 * 50
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The Padron Family Reserve No. 85 Natural is a well-balanced, flavorful cigar that is perfect for those who appreciate a premium smoke. I would say I got cocoa and espresso notes. It's not overly complex, but it's incredibly satisfying with its combination of rich flavors, smooth smoke, and impeccable construction. This cigar is best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a fine whiskey, which complements its flavors. A great choice for both seasoned cigar enthusiasts and those looking to indulge in a luxurious experience. Picked on 03/30/2025

Foundation Olmec Maduro Grande 6" * 60

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Foundation Olmec Maduro Grande 6 * 60
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The Foundation Olmec Maduro Gordo is a top 5 cigar on my list. It has garnered positive reviews for its rich flavor profile and excellent construction. Crafted with a Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and Nicaraguan fillers, it offers a complex smoking experience. First Third: Upon lighting, the cigar presents notes of dark chocolate, hazelnut, oak, and a subtle spice, creating a dry yet flavorful profile. Second Third: The flavor deepens with the introduction of oak, black pepper spice, and earthiness, occasionally complemented by hints of cocoa and leather. Final Third: The profile intensifies with dominant oak and pepper notes, while cocoa and leather remain in the background. Overall: This cigar is amazing and deserves a try for anyone that loves a rich and smooth smoke. Picked on 02/16/2025

Diamond Crown Julius Caeser Pyramid 6"1/2 * 52

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Diamond Crown Julius Caeser Pyramid 61/2 * 52
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The Diamond Crown Julius Caesar Pyramid (6 1/2" x 52) offers a luxurious smoking experience with a smooth, medium-to-full-bodied profile. Its rich flavors of creamy leather, hints of spice, and subtle notes of cedar provide complexity and depth. The construction is flawless, with a perfect draw and even burn. A refined choice for those seeking sophistication and balance in a premium cigar. This is in my top 5 best cigars I've smoked. Picked on 01/22/2025

Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Toro 6" * 54

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Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Toro 6 * 54
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The Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour this is a premium cigar that is well worth its reputation. Appearance: Dark and Oily wrapper First Third: The draw is smooth and consistent, with a medium-to-full-bodied profile. There is a noticeable presence of spice, though it is well balanced by the sweetness of dried fruit and a slight hint of vanilla. As it progresses, the wood and coffee flavors become more pronounced, leading to a savory, satisfying experience. Second Third: In the second third, the cigar's flavors evolve into deeper, more complex layers. The spice intensifies slightly, but it remains harmonious with the earthy undertones. There is a growing presence of leather and toasted nuts, with the sweetness of dried fruits and cocoa continuing to develop. The smoke is creamy, and the aroma is fragrant, adding to the overall indulgent experience. Final Third: The final third brings a fuller, richer flavor profile, with the addition of some dark chocolate bitterness and an underlying earthy richness. The woodsy and leathery notes continue to dominate, while the subtle spice offers a pleasing finish. The cigar burns evenly throughout, maintaining a cool, smooth draw with no harshness. Final Thoughts: The Late Hour is an impressive offering from Davidoff, delivering a memorable, refined experience. It's a great choice for those who enjoy a cigar with both depth and balance, with flavors that evolve over time. The construction and burn quality are flawless, and the cigar’s smoothness is complemented by its rich, complex flavor profile. It's a perfect companion for a quiet evening or special occasion, and it certainly lives up to the legacy of Winston Churchill. Picked on 12/21/2024

Patoro VA XO Extra Salomones 7" * 58

Patoro VA XO Extra Salomones 7 * 58
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The Patoro VA XO Extra Salomones is a striking cigar with a sleek, smooth, and dark wrapper that is both rich in color and texture. The dark wrapper, often with a slightly oily sheen, complements its large, unique shape. The 7-inch length and 58-ring gauge make it a commanding presence, and the Salomones vitola—tapering at both ends—adds to the aesthetic allure and promises a refined smoking experience. The construction is flawless, with no soft spots and a well-packed filler. The cigar is firm to the touch but still pliable enough to ensure a smooth draw. The cap is expertly applied, which allows for easy clipping. Pre-Light & Cold Draw Upon cold drawing, there are initial notes of tobacco, wood, and hints of earthiness. There’s a slight sweetness too, making it intriguing before even lighting the cigar. The pre-light aroma reveals a combination of cedar, nuts, and subtle spices, which entices the senses. First Third After lighting, the Patoro VA XO Extra Salomones opens with a medium-bodied profile. Flavors of rich, aged tobacco lead the way, accompanied by hints of cedar and a slight nuttiness. There's a faint sweetness in the background, reminiscent of honey or brown sugar, which balances the savory notes well. The draw is smooth and consistent, producing ample smoke with every puff. The burn is even, and the ash holds firm, staying intact for a good length of time before gently falling off. Second Third As the cigar progresses into the second third, it becomes slightly more complex. The medium-bodied flavors evolve, and there's a shift towards a more peppery and leathery profile. There are still notes of wood, but now they're joined by an occasional touch of dark chocolate and roasted coffee. These flavors interweave well, providing an enjoyable depth that keeps the experience interesting. At this point, the body remains consistent, but the intensity builds ever so slightly, keeping the smoking experience full-bodied without becoming overw Picked on 12/01/2024

Padron 1926 Serie No. 9 Maduro 5"1/4 * 56

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Padron 1926 Serie No. 9 Maduro 51/4 * 56
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The Padron 1926 Serie No. 9 Maduro is a standout in the world of premium cigars. With its robust 5¼ x 56 format, it offers a rich and complex smoking experience. The Maduro wrapper brings a deep, chocolatey sweetness that perfectly complements the cigar's earthy and spicy undertones. Upon lighting, expect a smooth draw that delivers notes of cocoa, coffee, and hints of dried fruit. The balance of flavors is impressive, evolving beautifully from start to finish. The construction is impeccable, with a firm ash and a consistent burn. This cigar is full-bodied but remains approachable, making it suitable for both seasoned smokers and those looking to explore deeper flavors. Overall, the Padron 1926 Serie No. 9 Maduro is a luxurious choice that embodies craftsmanship and depth, making it a must-try for enthusiasts. This is be far one of my favorite cigars. Picked on 10/21/2024

Plasencia Alma Fuerte Generacion V Salomon 7" * 58

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Plasencia Alma Fuerte Generacion V Salomon 7 * 58
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Plasencia Alma Fuerte Generacion V Salomon (7" x 58) Appearance and Construction: The Plasencia Alma Fuerte Generacion V Salomon boasts an impressive size, measuring 7 inches with a robust 58 ring gauge. Its dark, oily wrapper is beautifully textured, showcasing a few prominent veins that add character. The triple cap is flawlessly applied, and the overall construction feels solid and well-crafted, promising a satisfying smoking experience. Pre-Light: Upon cutting, the cold draw reveals a rich mix of cocoa and earthy notes, with a hint of spice that tantalizes the palate. The draw is slightly resistant, which is typical for larger ring gauges but still allows for an enjoyable pre-light experience. First Third: As the cigar is lit, it opens with a burst of rich, full-bodied flavors. Earthy notes dominate, accompanied by a velvety cocoa sweetness, plum or dried fruit and a subtle black pepper kick. The smoke is thick and creamy, filling the palate with each puff. There’s a nice balance of strength and complexity that sets the tone for an engaging smoke. Second Third: Moving into the second third, the profile deepens. The initial cocoa sweetness transitions to a more pronounced dark chocolate flavor, while the earthy undertones become more pronounced. Hints of cedar and a slight nuttiness emerge, adding layers to the experience. The strength builds, but it remains approachable, with the retrohale offering a delightful spice that enhances the overall profile. Final Third: In the final third, the Alma Fuerte Salomon hits its peak. The flavors intensify, showcasing a bold mix of dark chocolate, leather, and a robust peppery finish. The construction remains impeccable, with a perfect burn line and a steady draw. The smoke is cool and rich, allowing for a luxurious finish to the experience. Overall Impression: The Plasencia Alma Fuerte Generacion V Salomon is a powerhouse of flavor and strength, perfect for seasoned smokers looking for depth and complexity. Its we Picked on 10/01/2024

Espinosa Las 6 Provincias ZDT 6"1/2 * 48

88
Espinosa Las 6 Provincias ZDT 61/2 * 48
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The Espinosa Las 6 Provincias ZDT is a compelling cigar that offers a sophisticated experience for cigar smokers. it provides a substantial smoking time and a well-balanced profile. The initial draw presents rich notes of leather and cocoa, complemented by a subtle peppery spice. As the cigar progresses, these flavors deepen, revealing hints of coffee and a touch of earthiness. The complexity of the flavor profile is well-matched by the cigar's construction, which boasts a smooth, firm draw and a well-constructed ash. The construction and burn are consistent throughout, with the cigar maintaining a steady, even burn line. The smoke is creamy and full-bodied, offering a satisfying, medium to full strength experience. Overall, the Espinosa Las 6 Provincias ZDT is a refined choice for those seeking a nuanced and engaging cigar, with its well-rounded flavors and excellent build quality. Picked on 08/30/2024

AJ Fernandez Dias de Gloria Brazil Gordo 6"1/2 * 60

92
AJ Fernandez Dias de Gloria Brazil Gordo 61/2 * 60
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AJ Fernandez Dias de Gloria Brazil Gordo: Tasting Notes: Cocoa, espresso, and leather Appearance: The look of the cigar is a dark brown. Origins: the origins are from Brazil and Nicaragua. First Third: From the light I get hints of cocoa and espresso taste. The draw is excellent and it also gives a great amount of smoke off of every hit. The cigar hits the medium mark I’d say. Second third: About 30 minutes in I’m getting the same espresso notes with a kick of leather and some cocoa. Last Third: Going into the last third of the cigar. The cigar kept the cocoa/dark chocolate tasting notes throughout the entire smoke with a bit of espresso. This was a really unique cigar mixing Brazilian and Nicaraguan tobacco together and making an amazing smoke Overall a great smoke I would recommend to anyone that likes AJ Products. Amazing cigar! Picked on 07/12/2024

Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial Robusto 5"1/4 * 52

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Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial Robusto 51/4 * 52
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Jaime Garcia Reserve Especial: Tasting Notes: Cocoa, espresso, nutty, and leather Appearance: The look of the cigar is a dark brown. Origins: the origins are from Nicaragua. First Third: From the light I get hints of cocoa, espresso and a slight bit of nutty taste. The draw is excellent and it also gives a great amount of smoke off of every hit. The cigar hits the medium mark I’d say. Second third: About 30 minutes in I’m getting the same espresso notes with a kick of leather and some cocoa. Last Third: Going into the last third of the cigar. The cigar kept the cocoa/dark chocolate tasting notes throughout the entire smoke with a bit of espresso. Overall a great smoke I would recommend to anyone that loves Connecticut Broadleaf. Amazing cigar! Picked on 06/11/2024

Rocky Patel The Edge Sumatra Torpedo 6" * 52

Rocky Patel The Edge Sumatra Torpedo 6 * 52
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Tasting Notes: leathery, woody, spice Appearance: The look of the cigar is a medium to dark brown wrap Origins: the origins are from Honduras. First Third: Straight from the light I get hints of leather, woody and a slight bit of pepper. The draw is excellent and it also gives a great amount of smoke off of every hit. The cigar hits the medium mark I’d say. Second third: About 30 minutes in I’m getting the same leather notes with a slight hint of pepper and some natural tobacco sweetness. Last Third: Going into the last third of the cigar. The cigar kept the woody tasting notes throughout the entire smoke. Overall a great smoke I would recommend to anyone that wants a consistent and good smoke. Picked on 04/16/2024

Macanudo Inspirado Red Robusto 5" * 50

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Macanudo Inspirado Red Robusto 5 * 50
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Tasting Notes: Bold cigar with leathery and cedar notes Appearance: The look of the cigar is a dark brown with a slight oily finish First Third: Straight from the light I get hints of ceder and earthy tobacco. The draw is excellent but not a thick flow of smoke. The cigar hits the medium mark I’d say. Second third: About 20 minutes in I’m getting the same cedar and leather notes with a slight hint of pepper. Burn is still perfect and has not had to be re-lit once yet. Last Third: Going into the last third of the cigar. The smoke production has gone from light smoke to heavy smoke. It’s kept its consistency through the smoke not a super complex cigar. It has kept the same tasting notes the entire time. Overall a great smoke I would recommend to anyone that wants a consistent and good smoke. Picked on 01/10/2024

Rocky Patel The Edge Maduro Toro 6" * 52

87
Rocky Patel The Edge Maduro Toro 6 * 52
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Notes: Bold pepper/spice and cedar from the light of the cigar Appearance: The look of the cigar is a very dark oily look First Third: Upon lighting up I'm greeted by a mix of dried cedar and maduro sweetness with just a hint of pepper. The draw is excellent, and the cigar is pouring out a ton of dense smoke. The cigar hits the medium-full mark right out of the gate. Second third: About 40 minutes in I’m in the second third I’ve been hit with slight notes of coffee. The spice is still a prevalent flavor in this second third part of the smoke. The smoke is still very dense, and the burn is perfect. This is categorized as a medium body cigar BUT I would put this as a full body cigar. As someone that is a daily cigar smoker this one seems to be a heavy smoke. Last Third: At about 1 hour and 20-minute point I'm at the final third. Spice, espresso, and leather have taken off the flavor profile. The wrapper appearance has stood strong still dark and very oily. The high nicotine content is still present. The cigar begins to get hot and bitter with about an inch left of the smoke. So, I’ll be putting it out now. Total smoke time 2 hours and 10 minutes. Final thoughts, a very good thick smoke. This is cigar you have after a full meal and a smoke that would pair great with a Cabernet Sauvignon or a nice smooth Bourbon. Overall, a great smoke I would recommend to anyone that wants a bold smoke with tons of flavor. Picked on 11/10/2023
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