When a friend first introduced me to the Rocky Patel The Edge Habano, I was only beginning my journey into the world of cigars. Recently, I stumbled upon it again and decided to give it another try. I must admit, my palate seems to have developed a new appreciation for it—I don’t remember it being this good on the first smoke! Construction and Aesthetics The construction of the Rocky Patel Habano is commendable, offering just the right amount of give when squeezed between the fingers. Its appearance is somewhat rustic, with a bumpy texture in places that add to its charm. The seams are tight, adorned with numerous tiny veins, and the wrapper boasts a delightful oily sheen, promising a rich experience. Flavor Notes: Pre-light to Final Third Before lighting, the cigar emits an aroma of cocoa, cedar, and leather, enticing enough to make one eager for the first puff. I opted for a V-cut and upon lighting, the cap revealed its well-crafted structure. The initial flavours were an invit...

 I’ve always heard very mixed reviews about Gurkha cigars. Some people speak highly of them, others say they’re decent at best, and many have outright negative opinions. Intrigued by the polarizing reputation, I decided to dig a little deeper. After reading a few articles about Gurkha’s history and how their reputation took a hit, my curiosity was piqued. So, I swung by my local shop and asked the staff about their thoughts on Gurkha cigars. The gentleman I spoke to echoed the sentiment I’d seen online—mixed reviews. However, he mentioned that the Prize Fighter was one of the few Gurkhas he’d heard positive feedback about. At $15 CAD a stick, I thought, why not give it a shot? First Impressions I had no idea the Gurkha Prize Fighter was considered a budget cigar until after I finished smoking it and looked up some images online. The presentation didn’t scream “budget” to me—in fact, the band was quite impressive. The light shade wrapper paired with a striking blue, white, and gold ...

  In the world of cigars, finding a balance between quality and affordability can often seem like a daunting task. However, every once in a while, a cigar comes along that not only meets but exceeds these expectations without breaking the bank. One such discovery is the Flor de Oliva Torpedo, a cigar that might just redefine your expectations for what a budget-friendly smoke can offer. Appearance and First Impressions The Flor de Oliva Torpedo is immediately striking in its appearance. Wrapped in a cocoa-coloured outer layer, this cigar exudes an air of elegance that belies its modest price point. The Nicaraguan long-fillers and the meticulous aging process contribute to its inviting aesthetic, making it a piece that you're eager to showcase. Upon closer inspection, the wrapper reveals a veiny texture, firm yet pliable to the touch, with a slightly oily sheen that promises a smooth smoke. A gentle sniff brings a slight peppery aroma to the nose, hinting at the robust experience to ...