Erik Espinosa has become a name synonymous with well constructed, flavorful cigars. Espinosa Cigars have become renowned over the years as being must have cigars in everyone's personal humidor. Espinosa's newest cigar, the Sumatra, packs a lot of complex flavor in a cigar that is easy on the wallet. Read the review below, and consider adding it to your rotation.
The Sumatra has a regal appearance. Following the motif of some of the other Espinosa Cigars, the Sumatra is presented with a purple and silver band, as well as a silver ribbon foot band. While it appears regal and distinguished on it's own, it can get lost amongst other cigars from Espinosa's catalog. The cigar itself is a beautiful, medium brown. There are virtually no veins protruding, and the cigar is smooth to the touch.
The Sumatra is constructed with Nicaraguan Filler and Binder, and is wrapped in a medium brown Ecuadorian Sumatra Wrapper. The draw is smooth, and just tight enough to force you to smoke it slow and enjoy it. The ash is a light gray, and falls around the one inch mark. While the foot does flake a bit after ashing, it isn't enough to cause a problem. The burn can be jagged at times, but is consistent.
The Sumatra's flavor profile is complex and delicious. While it does pack a bit of a punch, it's a perfect cigar after a meal. The cold draw may present notes of raisins and cedar. At first light, the cigar presents notes of caramel and earth.
The first third of the cigar has strong notes of earth and vanilla. These are accompanied by notes of caramel and black pepper, with a very slight taste of salt. There is also a meaty flavor that lingers throughout the duration of the smoke. The retrohale of the first third may have notes of black pepper, pastry, and burnt sugar.
The second third of the cigar may have strong notes of earth and cocoa powder. Subtle notes of caramel, almond, and white pepper can also be tasted, along with that lingering meaty flavor. The retrohale of the second third may have notes of pastry, cocoa, and roasted coffee.
The final third of the cigar may have a strong note of coffee, with the earthy notes subsiding a bit. There may also be undertones of almond, white pepper, and brown sugar. There may also be a very mild hint of cinnamon. The retrohale of the final third may have aromas of pastry and cocoa.
The Sumatra is priced very reasonably, especially for the amount of flavor you get. A single cigar can go for around $11.50, while a box of 20 can go for around $230.00. At just over $11.00 per cigar, this is a great value.
The flavor profile is where this cigar really shines. There's enough diversity to keep the palate interested, but not so much that it can be overpowering or too busy. This cigar is great for someone who has been smoking for a while. It may not be the best option for a newer smoker, but is perfect for someone who enjoys a bit of a stronger cigar.
GC Rating: 90
Thanks to the Wooden Indian Tobacco Shop for sponsoring this review of the Espinosa Sumatra Toro. If you'd like to try the Espinosa Sumatra, or anything else from the Sumatra catalog, visit woodenindiantobacco.com, or click the picture and use the coupon code for 10% off and free shipping.