When a smaller manufacturer in the industry produces amazingly flavorful cigars, as a fan, it presents a crossroad. You’re mad that they’re considered boutique and aren’t in every humidor, but you also want to imagine them as your own little secret cigars. @warpedcigars is a brand that has people salivating waiting for his next production. The Grand Reserva was fully released in 2018, and since then, the secret has been out. This puro Nicaraguan is something you need to share with a friend.
This cigar is a true minimalist. From the plain beige band, debossed with a series of numbers and stamped red crown, to the smooth light scent coming from the foot is just a wisp of sweet tobacco. The russet-colored cigar has quite a bit of texture with many veins. I punch the cap, toast the foot, and receive a good volume of smoke on my first few pulls. The flavor, like the scent, comes in just as gentle but with a presence of sweet corn, white wood (let’s say pine), a dash of salt and white pepper, and nutty caramel to boot.
Well, if you don’t love the first half, then you probably love the second because it’s the complete opposite. The cigar grows in its intensity with dark notes such as cedarwood. The salt transitions to an earthy mineral. On top of this, there is a rich buttery leather. I wasn’t expecting so much, and so many flavors layered into the first two portions of this mild-looking cigar. Even the retrohale, which was quite mild early on gives an increasing black pepper flavor.
The earthy mineral saltiness continues through but has gained a little bit of citrus. This is such a tasty smoke. I’m trying to pick up every little note at this point. I’m double pulling, retro haling, French inhaling…anything to explore the flavors of this cigar more. A coffee note also comes in early in this final third. In all, the cigar has a medium body and takes you on a delightful journey with all the complimenting flavors
