April 24th, 2017

Vitola: Toro (6 inches long by 52 ring gauge)
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Habano Rosado
Binder: Mexican San Andrés
Filler: Nicaraguan

I am conducting my first review of a cigar. It will be based on the Southern Draw Firethorn. This cigar was developed at the Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez, and blended by Robert Holt. The price point on this cigar is around $10. In my opinion, however, it should be around $8.

When I first took the cigar out of the cellophane, I noticed the subtle scent of a good Habano cigar. The Toro displayed a mocha chocolate-like color with nice light veins. It had a covered foot, and the construction was fantastic.

When I placed the cigar under my nose, the smell was somewhat sweet, mixed with coffee and baking chocolate or cocoa. I then used a V-cut and took a cold draw. The taste was not overwhelming at all. In fact, it was very light – not exactly what I would have expected from the Habano Rosado wrapper. I proceeded to light the cigar, and it started off very nicely.

The first third

The body and strength of the cigar were both a straight medium. I perceived a little bit of spice and rich boldness at first. The draw was fantastic throughout the early stages. I enjoyed the light flavor of black pepper along with the cocoa and creamy flavor of the smoke. The Firethorn showed a hint of sweetness, which blended nicely with the other flavors.

The second third

As I continued onto the second third, the boldness and spice tended to fade, but the cocoa flavor stayed consistent. I now started to get a nice earthy tone, and the draw was amazing. A nice plume of smoke filled my mouth, and was not overpowering. The burn itself was razor sharp. The cigar did not canoe or tunnel, and never needed fixing. As I approached the final third, I could sense the A.J. Fernandez feel to it – much like a New World or San Lotano Habano.

The final third

During the last part of the cigar, the draw was just as great as in the first and second thirds, and the ash was still a nice rich grey color. The notes changed just a little, and became earthier, while the cocoa and hints of sweetness started to fade. I was able to get down to two inches left before the Toro became hot and started to display more of an ashy taste.

Overall, this was a fantastic cigar. My only issue with it remains the price-point. But if I am able to get it for less, I will definitely put some more in my humidor.

Rating scores

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Michael D'Agostino (Stogiemike) resides in the Jacksonville, FL area.