Illusione Epernay

[Ringo]

Some of you may have read my recent review of a Cabaiguan maduro, which I enjoyed very much. This review is based on that one, as the cigars share many of the same characteristics.

The Epernay had the same type of earthy flavors that the Cabaiguan did, but in an even milder cigar; consequently the flavors take longer to develop. The cigar started out very mild. There was no trace of harshness, even from the very first draw. The earthy tobacco flavor developed very slowly. At the halfway point I started getting some nice floral notes, not nearly as much as the Cabaiguan, but very pleasant. Soon after that I got some fresh baked bread notes, which, for me, is the mark of a great cigar. The floral notes continued too, but never stated their case emphatically. I continued to get a mix of earth, floral notes and fresh baked bread all the way to the nub, and I was sorry that this ride had to end!

The Illusione Epernay is mild by design, but fans of stronger cigars might like it anyway as the flavors and overall smoking experience are so pleasant. I think of it as Cabaiguan's little brother, as it mirrored that cigar in many ways, just in smaller proportions. The construction, burn and draw are all first rate too. I would recommend this cigar to anyone - it may be mild, but there is enough going on here to keep just about any smoker interested.