Vegeuros Especiales #2 - FDO USU

[jjmd]

A very nice cigar, even though it has a reputation for mediocrity. This 5 ¾" x 40 stick with box code FDO USU sports a Colorado wrapper with scattered greenish spots throughout the length of the cigar and minimal veins. Pigtail cap. A soft spot is detected at the junction of the first and middle third, but otherwise good construction with just the right amount of resilience. Easy light. Excellent draw. Even burn. Gray-black flaky ash with TONS of billowy white smoke.

Started with grass and woodsy flavors. In the first third, flavors of freshly-sawed wood, grass, and musty tobacco were evident, mixed with hints of white pepper, floral notes, and a touch of melon. The middle third saw a continuation of floral and wood flavors with a distinct herbal quality, dry cocoa, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. A slight menthol flavor seemed to dance in and out, and by the end of this third, a mild tangy flavor was also noticed. In the last third, the floral, grassy, and herbal profile intensified, and by the very end, bitterness was detectable.

All in all, this one hour medium-bodied smoke was delightful, complex, and rich. Paired well with home roasted organic Antigua black coffee.