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Home > What's New > Connoisseur's Corner, August 2003
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Connoisseur's Corner, August 2003
Posted: Tuesday, September 23, 2003
Reprinted from the August 2003 issue of Cigar Aficionado
To witness how a great cigar can mature, evolve and improve, consider the rating on the H. Upmann Magnum 46, both in this section and in the normal tasting section of the magazine. The older cigar was boxed in 1997, the latter in 2003. The youthful cigar, which scored 92 points, is intense, full bodied and rich, full of promise and energy. The elder Upmann scored 93 points. It retained its full body, but over the years in a humidor, it has taken on a velvety texture and a more mellow character, like a creamy espresso. Connoisseurs who can be patient and age their smokes will be rewarded with a new experience years later.
The aged Upmann was good, but a big Bolivar with nine years of box age was better, scoring a classic 97 points.
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Bolivar Gigantes (1993)
97 This is a super rich cigar with robust flavors and aromas. From a box of 50. Full bodied, with a rich and round texture of tobacco, coffee and chocolate. Like a perfectly prepared Cuban coffee. Almost sweet in its richness.
--James Suckling
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Flor de Farach Palmeras (1958)
93 This 5 1/2 inch by 38 ring gauge short panetela is an excellent cigar. It's got a pleasing aroma, nice cedar notes on the palate, and a hint of cinnamon on the finish. It is on the mild side, but it's a mildness that results from 45 years of box age, which gives it a smooth, almost fresh taste.
--Marvin R. Shanken
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H. Upmann Magnum 46 (1997)
93 Rich and powerful, like an espresso with just the right amount of warm milk. Full bodied, with a fresh and almost velvety texture. A long and delicious finish.
--James Suckling
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Juan Lopez Selección No. 1 (1995)
93 From a cedar cabinet, this is a fresh yet cedary cigar with a pepper and dried herb character. Full bodied, with lots of flavor. Long and interesting. I have smoked a whole box already. Excellent.
--James Suckling
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Partagas Serie Du Connoisseur No. 1 (1988)
92 Like an Indian tea with milk. Rich yet reserved, with a cedary and creamy character. Long and fresh. An elegant and refined smoke.
--James Suckling
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Davidoff No. 1 (1986)
91 This looks as elegant as it tastes. Cedary with honey and creamy tea aromas and flavors. Medium bodied, with a clean and fresh, relaxing finish.
--James Suckling
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