Cigar Tasting - Clash of The Titans

THE Summer blockbusters are here in the shape of monstrously large cigars.

There's something decadent in the extreme about these tree trunk smokes, and I've set about taste testing a couple this week - both at the same time - all in the name of science. And because I can.

It's the turn of the Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona in one corner and the Partagas Lusitania in the other. How do they shape up against one another? Find out for yourself with this free download, Cigar Tasting - Clash of The Titans.

"Herfing not as manic as last week's Canary Island trip. Monty's taking things slowwwwlyyy..."

Perfect weather for smoking...

AS soft, refreshing rain pattered gently down over the garden, I slept the sleep of the just.

And in the morning, the sun came out warm and joyous and all was well with the world. Over a bracing espresso I was able to ponder the day's events, plan the cigar tasting for later that evening and marvel at how the weather makes such a difference to one's outlook.

Apart from the obvious - nice, sunny days make people a lot happier - these last few golden weeks of Spring have also revived my cigar palate. The heavier, bolshier, ligero-led offerings of Winter are not quite so delicious now, and I find myself reaching for more subtle, understated blends.

And what a delight it is to be able to sit out through a warm afternoon and relax with something tasty; I find Cameroon wrappers particularly suited to afternoon smokes, for some reason. Largely, I suppose, because of the leaf's lightly sweet characteristic, and because Cameroon wrapped cigars tend to be mild to medium and perfect for a post prandial herf.

Anyway, the pleasant weather here in the UK enabled me to do just that last week as I sat out and planned the next few weeks' articles, blogs, tastings and reviews.

I'll be reporting from some great events this summer, with July's Vintage Cigar Auction already shaping up to be a real highlight. I have a couple of other treats up my sleeve, but I'll keep these under (Cameroon) wraps for now.

There's the Guide To Buying Havanas Part 2 to post, and the first tasting reports to file. I am planning a 'Clash of the Titans' with two big Cuban smokes being tested and compared; the mighty Partagas Lusitania and giant creamy companion, the Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona.

So, lots to look forward to this summer - keep dropping by for latest news and follow my Twitter feed on the right for up-to-the-minute reports.

TTFN,

M.

"Herfage to the max. Monty's kicking the arse out of it!"

Summer in the city...

A REFRESHING trip to the jolly old capital yesterday, and the chance to catch up with the Chief Bigwig of The Arbuturian over a spectacular Ramon Allones Specially Selected in the pleasant environs of Casa on Wardour Street.

This dim and inviting little haven used to be the full-blown Casa del Habano, but the blasted smoking ban put paid to that. Now it is simply a small room adjoining Floridita, but it has retained its walk-in humidor, members lockers and 'cigar factory' ambience. I was hoping the roller might still be in attendance as there's nothing quite like a cigar straight 'off the bench', but his little chair at the front of the store was forlornly empty.

But the RASS, and the company, more than made up for it. I'd forgotten what a killer little cigar this can be. Plenty of balls, but not too strong, it's a tasty treat for the concerning cigar man. I always find it smokes in three distinct phases, starting lightly, easing into some power and spice and then tailing off with a nice, sweet, lingering finish.

While I'm on the subject of Casa, what sort of idiotic piece of legislation is it that allows you to drink iced tea with your cigar, but not anything alcoholic?! Moronic in the extreme.

Anyhoo, the good news is that I shall be licking my nib thoughtfully (no smutty jokes please) and putting pen to metaphorical paper for The Arbuturian in no time at all.

Earlier in the day I found an excuse for a meeting at the good old Lanesborough at Grosvenor Square, although being a forgetful plum, I hadn't realised the wonderful Garden Room wasn't open until 4pm. Doh! as Homer might so poignantly put it.

Didn't spoil things though, for while enjoying the sunshine outside, I was treated to my very own changing of the Horse Guards and even an official fly past from a Lancaster bomber. And I wasn't even getting married.


Toodles,

M.

Trip to The Lanesborough on the cards..

Just planning my trip to London tomorrow and I intend to herf at The Garden Room, Lanesborough for at least some of the time. You'll find my Cigar Aficionado report on the venue HERE

A wonderful, classy lounge, filled with interesting people. Last time I was there, I enjoyed a Bolivar Royal Corona and a chat with a record producer who had worked with many of the greats - including Sting and Paul McCartney.

Bar Manager Giuseppe Ruo is a lovely man and a real connosseur of fine Havanas. He also makes a mean vodka Martini :)

If you're in the Big Smoke tomorrow, drop me a line and we'll try to catch up.

Also finalising my first tasting/review sessions for the website. Further details to follow, but the description Big Smoke is apt indeed...

Happy Herfing,

M.

"Maximum herfage over glorious Bank Holiday Weekend. Royal Wedding, big sport, fun with family. Superb."