San Cristobal El Principe (2008)

[qman22]

This is a review of a San Cristobal El Principe that I got from CC recently as a single. So, I don't know the exact box code, but I'm sure it is from very recent production....it sure tasted that way!

Prelight: This cigar had a veiny and toothy EMS shade wrapper. The triple cap was sloppy, but clipped very well, just popping right off without disturbing the filler. The cigar was firm to the touch, which made me nervous that it might have draw problems. It had a nice toasty tobacco prelight smell.

1st Half: This cigar tasted light burnt wood with a definite floral taste mixed in, which was a little bitter. It was also unrefined and had a harsh bite on the finish. The draw was a little tight and the burn was uneven through the 1st half.

2nd Half: The smoke mellowed out some, but was still a little harsh. The flavor profile stayed consistent as the cigar progressed. There wasn't much complexity to this SC and I found it to be rather dull. The burn evened out in the 2nd half.

Overall: I usually don't find cigars with a heavy floral taste real appealing, so this particular stick didn't impress me much. I would probably attribute this cigar's harshness to youth, but I don't know for sure since this was my 1st San Cristobal. Score: 6.5/10

[thechenman]

Thanks for the review.

[El Presidente]

Thank you for the review!

It is a shame this Principe did not live up to its best. I got back froma day in the warehouse yesterday where I selected a range of exceptional cigars across all Marques but I really struggled to come up with many Half Corona's. I looked specifically for Principe but none wowed me.

I feel these cigars have of recent times come off their consistent best. I hope it turns around.