Hi, welcome to my first posting. I’ve selected the Rocky Patel’s 15th Anniversary cigar series to by my first review.

These cigars made their debut in the United States on July 30, 2010, but my local tobacconist had them a week or so early. The cigar is made in Nicaragua with a blend of Nicaraguan filler tobaccos, Habano Ecuadorian wrapper, and binder from Jalapa (Nicaragua). The cigars will be available in four sizes:

• Corona Gorda, 6 x 46, $9.00 
• Robusto, 5 x 50, $9.50
• Toro, 6½ x 52, $10.50
• Torpedo, 6 1/8 x 52, $10.75

Note: Prices may vary based on location.

These cigars are a box pressed cigar (I prefer the more traditional round shape) and have an excellent construction, very well made. Once lit, the initial taste is full flavor with lots of spice. It is a rather “heady” cigar…I began to get a slight nicotine buzz after only a few minutes of smoking. I’ve smoked the Corona Gorda and Robusto so far. Both cigars burned evenly and did not need any re-lights and maintained a firm, long gray ash. The aroma was very pleasant and even my wife commented that it smelled nice…which she never does when I smoke a cigar. She actually prefers my pipe smoking to the cigars.

I’d have to classify the Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary cigars as a full-bodied and full-strength cigar. It is cigar is really meant for the experienced cigar smoker! It is NOT for the beginner!!

I rate the Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary series a ★★★★ star rating out of 5. Try before you buy! If you like full-bodied cigars, this is a great choice. However, if you prefer medium to mild, this cigar is not for you.

Next time…..I’m going to review some Cuban cigars I received from a friend who lives in the UK.