H Upmann Half Corona UBM FEB 19 (HURW)

[Akela3rd]

A wet and windy day as a storm by the name of Dennis whistles through on its way to Northern Europe so a short smoke is just the thing under a large patio umbrella. These are the shortest cigars I have. Having said that the two I've had from this box already have been neatly and tightly packed, though drawing well, giving almost an hour of smoking time.

Cold draw is firm on this example too, giving hints of biscuit and coffee. On lighting both these flavours are there, with a very slightly astringent feel on the tongue. This soon dissipates and the cigar settles nicely into an under medium and gently flavoursome groove. Milky coffee, biscuit and a slight nuttiness.

Burn goes a bit wonky early on but I keep an eye on it and it doesn't get too unruly. Burning nice and slow now and smoothing beautifully. Lots of sweet nut flavours - pistachio springs to mind - with an undercurrent of coffee. I had half a dozen Upmann Robustos from '08 last year and I'm reminded of them, there's a hint of that leather handbag in this too.

Into the second half and it went out on me, quick relight and back on track. More smoke output and a noticeable increase in strength - must have hit a tight spot. Lovely nutty coffee continues. Hint of spice in the last inch, just a tickle in the tongue. For a small cigar this has certainly kept me interested throughout. A bit more rest (these are on about the 50 day mark) and better weather will certainly help but all in all a very enjoyable - checks watch - 52 minutes.

7/10 arbitrarily.

 

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