5 out of 5
One of my favorite cigars.
by Joseph G.
on Oct 15, 2017
I think the ‘experts’ rated this fine cigar a ‘93’. The problem is that a 93 rating only suggests a that a cigar is probably worth trying...but I’ve tasted 92 rated cigars I wouldn’t pay $.05 for. The numerical rating is only the beginning of a cigar’s credentials. This Alec Bradley Mundial PL#6 has a full flavor profile, the kind I generally prefer. It has nuances of cedar, some leather, perhaps a touch of dark roast coffee. These are all vague attempts to describe the indescribable, and is dependent on what I had for dinner, my mood, and a host of other considerations unknown to me. I’ve smoked a cigar I absolutely loved one day, and was disappointed in the next. For me, it’s a purely intuitive choice of what I smoke on a particular day. The cigars that really stand out are the ones I select for unclear reasons, and by chance, it seems, find the perfect complement to my day. After a full, heavy meal of beef stew, for example, a bold cigar tastes great. After a salad or quiche however, something lighter is perhaps the best complement. But like fine wine, sometimes I’ve liked a big red from the Bordeaux region with fish, and a tangy White Zinfandel with prime rib. It’s all very confusing when you try to define it, but if you follow your hunches, it works out more often than not. I would recommend you try this excellent cigar after a heavier meal of meat and potatoes, but use your own best judgement. Only you can decide which cigars you like at which time and with which beverages. It takes years to develop your palate, but the journey is the best part. Twenty years ago I preferred Connecticut Shade wrapped cigars, but now I hardly ever smoke those. Don’t pay much attention what other people say, they mean well, but only you can decide what you like and why. If you find a tobacconist who has similar tastes to you, deal with him or her exclusively. This Alec Bradley remains one of my ‘go-to’ cigars. You really want to try it if you like fuller flavored cigars. I rated the one I smoked last night at 95, but tonight I rate it about 91-92.
