WEST TAMPA MADURO ROBUSTO

[jefslat]

For those unaware, Rick Rodriguez has left his position with STG?General as CAO brand manager and started his own company, West Tampa Cigars.

This is a very rich looking cigar with a smooth dark wrapper. Aromas from the foot are light and enticing. The draw is a bit tight. Tonight’s beverage is a Wiseacre Brewing Gotta Get Up to Get Down Coffee Milk Stout.



The initial flavor is coffee notes with a good earthy base. The draw opens to a nice medium pull. The ash is holding good and the burn is very even.



In the first third the flavor profile remains steady with medium to full bodied flavors. The smoke is thick and flavorful. The ash fell relatively early and will need monitoring to keep it out of my lap. The burn remains even. The ale is a lighter bodied stout and is a good pairing.



During the second third the flavor profile continues to be very good. The coffee notes in particular are very tasty. The ash continues to need tapping but the burn remains even.



Approaching the final inch the flavors continue to impress. A small crack has developed in the wrapper, but it’s more a humidity problem than a construction issue.



Overall a very good cigar with excellent flavor complexity and good construction. The retrohale is very smooth. 9.3/10, Joe Bob says check it out.