Connoisseur’s Corner: Romeo y Julieta Cedros De Luxe No. 2 Dunhill Seleccion Suprema

When I lit up this cigar I felt spoiled. It burned perfectly, with an easy draw, and despite being only a modest corona size, it had an elegant, balanced profile that made me not want to put it down. It showed just the right amount of cinnamon and nutmeg character, not too strong, not too mild, a cigar that reminded me more of a Burgundy than a Bordeaux. A true treat. —Marvin R. Shanken
A perfectly preserved piece of history from 62 years ago, this little Cuban burns razor straight with an impeccable draw, right from the first puff. It has a minty taste, with crushed espresso bean that gets slightly sweeter as it burns. Toward the end, wisps of graham cracker and cocoa emerge, still framed by that persistent and subtle mintiness. What a cigar. —David Savona
Completely wrapped in gold foil, this nine-inch-long figurado was made just for Italy. Once the burn evens out past the tapered foot, the cigar shows a dried fig and caramel character before an unmistakable burst of hazelnut blossoms on the palate, setting the nutty tone for the rest of the cigar. It takes on notes of dark chocolate and walnut liqueur as well. Smoked in three big ashes. Plenty of life left. —Gregory Mottola
This little Dominican puro is spicy and herbal, showing plenty of power that 16 years of aging have yet to temper. There’s a heavy wood character framed by spicy licorice. The austere start gives way to some pleasant sweet maple notes that bond well with the wood, and the herbal quality remains. A strong, distinctive and flavorful cigar from the DR’s oldest producer. —David Savona