Cohiba Panatela

As family was gathered in my home this week, my wife and I took our dog for a walk in the crisp night air.  For the first time since I began my Christmas break at noon on the 24^th, I was able to enjoy a cigar.  Nothing too big, it was a short walk.

I had been given four cigars back in November, one of them a small Cohiba panatela.  I figured I would enjoy this bit of pleasure as it has been a while since I was able to enjoy a cigar.  I have heard it said that one of the over-hyped brands is Cohiba, and based on this short stick, I would agree.  Fortunately, though, I smoked a Cohiba Maduro 5 Genios this summer and it was sheer beauty.  But this panatela?  One word – disappointing.

Maybe it wasn’t a real Cohiba, I don’t know for sure.  The other reviews I read sang it’s praises.  But mine won’t.

It’s pre-light smell was smooth and woody. – like woodchips – that was good, kind of outdoorsy which was good for a winter’s walk.  The pre-light draw was tight and dry with some woody flavor.  The lit draw was initially tight, but became smooth, however, leaving it unattended for a minute or two required a re-light – and too many is just an annoyance.

The flavor was consistent, but not a pleasure.  It was harsh, not a full, just harsh, like smoking dried grass – and maybe I was.  I couldn’t pick out any distinct flavors, other than pepper.  

As it burned on, it softened and heated.  Quite a contrast from the pre-light feel.

My wife, who is not a cigar smoker and isn’t a fan of the sweet smell of a good cigar, expressed particular disgust at this particular stick.  She told me that it did not have a good smell at all.  I would agree.

Maybe it was too long between cigars, but I did not appreciate this one at all.  I left it unfinished in a snow bank in my yard.

Recommendation – Try one and see what you think.  I’ll try another to be sure this was a real one.  If it was, it was just a disappointment for me.

CT