The Cigar Journal

Smoking in San Francisco

2009-05-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

Landed in San Francisco and was in search for a cigar bar! I found out that there were only 2 locations in SF due to some law passed awhile ago; "The Occidental Cigar Club"and one I can't remember. So after a great dinner at Aqua, we headed over to Occidental for a smoke and a glass of scotch. The place was small but had great vibe. They have a crap load of different types of scotch along with a good selection of cigars. I sat by the window and lit a nice Mac Vintage 88' and watched people walk by, along with a few homeless looking for handouts! I really enjoyed this place, and would back everytime I come to SF.

First Impressions

2009-05-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I was playing at my home course of Newport Beach County Club (http://www.newportbeachcc.com/), and dug into my traveling humidor only to pull out a El Rey Del Mundo Robusto. At first I was going to toss it due to the fact that I am Graycliff cigar smoker, however I took a chance and was surprised at the results (In the smoke not my game)! This is a good cheap smoke! Nothing special but it burns well and has a good taste. I am not afraid to say I was wrong with my first impression.

Gurkha G5 Avenger Torpedo

2009-05-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

Get ready boys and girls, this stick will light you up! This cigar is well contstructed, dark, well packed -- not too stiff, not too spongy. But beware this stick is a strong, full-bodied cigar. The Gurkha G5 has a super thick smoke, even burn, smooth draw. Now comes the hard facts, you need to EAT before you smoke this big dog. And even with a big meal, this cigar will still over-power you. As a cigar smoker, I would pass on this stick. Sorry K.Hansotia.

Rocky Patel Decade

2009-05-18T13:12:00.000-07:00

Brand: Rocky Patel
Line: Decade
Vitola: Toro 6 1/2 x 52
Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Flavor: Medium
Strength: Medium
Price: $10 Single

Rocky Patel’s ten years of premium cigars is the Decade. Boasted as the best of Patel blends to date, this attractive line is made in Danlí Honduras at the El Paraiso factory. The Decade wears the yellow dual band making it quite clear you’re about to smoke a cigar ten years in the making.

How’s it made: The Decade is lightly box pressed with a dark, oily, chocolate colored Ecuadorian wrapper. After a close inspection revealed some beautiful veins with a solid cap. There was a perfect give as I gently squeezed the length of the cigar without any soft spots. A rich aroma was observed from the wrapper and foot. Draw throughout was excellent, with just a touch of firmness. One small issue that I had was keeping this great stick alive, I did have to torch it three times.

Burn: An even burn line after lighting and ashing. Only minor touches up were necessary for the entire duration of this cigar. Ash was light gray in color and somewhat flaky, holding for nearly 3 inchs and a half before falling. My previous experiences with other Decades sizes had a much lighter color and held more firmly. For those sensitive to cigar odor I found the Decade’s aroma to be quite pleasant.

Flavor: The flavor was great! This cigar started off slightly stronger towards the beginning it quickly leveled becoming just slightly milder and remained cool for the duration of my smoke. The flavors reminded me of the edge series. I found it to be a smooth, rich tobacco taste with some creaminess.

The Journal Says? The cigar is a must for any fans of Rocky Patel’s cigars. I have been hard on most of the Rocky Patel cigars in the past, however I recommend this cigar. If the price point isn’t a deal breaker I would urge you to give them a try. I’ve been fortunate enough to find them from time to time at some online cigar companies and will continue to purchase when in stock.