In recent years, the Chinese calendar has inspired many manufacturers to release limited editions celebrating the animal of the year. Among the many, VegaFina also proposed its “Year of”, like that of 2018, the year in which the dog was celebrated.
The VegaFina Year of the Dog was offered in a Toro size, in a ten-count box, exclusively for the European market.
The cigar is presented with two bands: the usual one of the brand and the one dedicated to the dog, in very simple but very elegant graphics. It is rolled in a bright Colorado wrapper, with dark reflections. To the touch, it is silky, with medium pronounced veins. However, the weight is striking, which suggests a generous filling that does not affect the draw. The general workmanship is excellent.
- Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
- Size: 54 x 152 mm (6″)
- Wrapper: Habano 2000 (Nicaragua)
- Binder: Dominican Rep., Nicaragua
- Filler: Dominican Rep., Nicaragua
- Price: $ – | € 12,80
VegaFina Year of the Dog:Â the nose captures good aromas of cocoa and spices, noting even a slight balsamic touch.
The opening is characterized by notes of camphor, wood, and earth, all of good intensity, as well as a nuance of coffee. Strength is light (1/5).
In the central section, the aromas evolve slightly: earth and wood are always present, while spicy characters and light nuances of dried fruit are grafted. A sudden increase in strength, that passes from light to medium in only a few puffs (3/5) is surprising.
In the last third, the aromas are expressed with notes of wood and dried fruit, with a slight metallic hint. Strength increases again becoming medium-full (4/5).
Ultimately this VegaFina Year of the Dog proves to be a good smoke. The aromas develop and evolve in a congruent way throughout the smoke, sometimes even giving off an unusual mix of flavors. But what is striking is a balance between flavors and strength a little too far beyond the limit. In the last third, the strength hides the aromas a little. The sudden jump could surprise those who expected a gentle smoke. However, it remains a convincing and intriguing smoke.
Valutazione: 88