Man o war cigar review
Today we talk about Man o war cigar review.
As I delve into the world of cigars, the Man O War cigar always stands out as a bold and intriguing choice nestled in the rich landscape of premium cigars. Known for its robust flavors and quality construction, this cigar has earned its place in many connoisseurs’ humidors. Today, I’m excited to share my personal experience and detailed observations about this famed smoke.
Overview of the Man O War Brand
Launched in 2005 by AJ Fernandez, the Man O War brand quickly gained a reputation for quality. AJ Fernandez, a Cuban expatriate, combined his heritage with Nicaraguan tobacco, creating cigars that have consistently scored above 90 points in major publications. For instance, the Man O War Puro Authentico received a 92 rating from Cigar Aficionado. This blend has become a hallmark of quality, appealing to smokers seeking a true adventure in flavor.
Appearance and Pre-Light Aromas
Visual Characteristics
The Man O War cigar captivates with its striking appearance. The medium to dark wrapper, often called a “Habano” or “Oscuro,” features a smooth finish that is well-oiled. Most sizes, like the robusto, come in at 5 x 50, making it a perfect handheld option. At a glance, I observed the cigar’s firm construction, devoid of any soft spots, indicating a premium quality that I expect from a brand of this caliber.
Aroma Profile Before Lighting
As I brought the Man O War cigar to my nose, the pre-light aroma enveloped me in a blend of leather, cedar, and a hint of cocoa. On a scale of 1-10, I’d rate the sweetness at a 7, which piqued my interest. The aroma alone made me eager to start smoking.
Initial Impressions
First Visual Impressions
Upon lighting the Man O War, the first visual impression was an even, steady burn that produced a creamy smoke. The ash held firmly without flaking, a testament to its construction quality. I was pleased to see the first light showcasing its rich, dark tobacco core.
Cold Draw Experience
The cold draw offered a delightful preview, revealing flavors of spice and earth that hinted at the complexity to come. I’d recommend taking your time with the cold draw, as it sets an anticipatory tone for the smoking experience ahead.
First Third
Taste Notes
In the first third, I was greeted with a robust spice and earthy undertones, reminiscent of leather and toasted nuts. The initial palate was bold, and I’d rate it a solid 8 in strength. The sweetness lingered faintly, balancing the smoke beautifully.
Burn Characteristics
As I progressed, the burn remained even, requiring little maintenance. This consistency is crucial, as it allows the flavors to shine through without interruption. Most Man O War cigars feature a 1-inch ash before needing a gentle tap, further showcasing their excellent construction.
Second Third
Flavor Development
Transitioning into the second third, I noticed a delightful evolution in flavor. The addition of rich cocoa and a nutty profile intensified. I compared it to other popular cigars like the Cohiba and noticed that while they are both flavorful, Man O War brought a unique bolder richness that kept me engaged.
Strength and Complexity
By now, the strength had ramped up to a 9, leaving a lasting impression on my palate. The complexity grew as I savored the interplay of flavors. I could appreciate how the blend¡¯s balance came from various Nicaraguan tobaccos, creating an opaque, rich experience.
Final Third
Lasting Impressions on Flavor
As I neared the final third, the taste transformed beautifully into deep, rich notes of dark chocolate, complemented by a toasty finish. It felt like the cigar reached its full potential, with a lasting flavor that lingered delightfully on my lips¡ªdefinitely a hallmark of a premium Man O War cigar.
Heat and Aromatic Qualities
The final third also revealed aromatic qualities that felt warm and comforting. I noticed a slight sweetness in the smoke that reminded me of caramel, yielding a comforting finish that turned the experience into something special.
Comparative Analysis
Comparisons to Similar Cigars
In comparing Man O War to similar full-bodied cigars, I look at the Punch Diablo and the LFD Double Ligero. While both have their strengths, the Man O War excels in offering a more balanced flavor profile at an average daily smoking price of around $8-$10. This makes it a superb choice for both novices and seasoned smokers.
Market Positioning
Man O War has established itself firmly within the premium cigar market thanks to high scores (often above 90) and a unique offering tailored for robust tobacco lovers. Reports show it consistently outsells many other brands in the same range, effectively positioning itself as a top contender.
Value for Money
Pricing Analysis
The pricing of Man O War cigars ranges from $6 to $12, depending on the specific vitola selected. Given the quality and smoking experience offered, I find this to be an excellent value for the money. Most premium cigars in this range, while good, don’t provide the same depth or complexity that Man O War achieves.
Availability
I’ve found Man O War cigars widely available in brick-and-mortar shops and online marketplaces. Retail sites often have them in stock, and local cigar lounges frequently display them prominently, reflecting their popularity in the industry.
Recommendations
Who This Cigar Is For
The Man O War cigar is ideal for those who appreciate a full-bodied smoke with rich complexity. It’s particularly suited for experienced smokers seeking depth in flavor. If you enjoy bolder blends from brands like Oliva and Padron, this cigar will likely resonate with you.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairing this cigar with a neat glass of Bourbon or a strong coffee really enhances the experience. I’ve personally enjoyed it alongside a rich espresso, where the creaminess of the coffee balanced perfectly with the cigar’s intensity.
Man O¡¯ War Cigar Review ¨C Final Thoughts
Overall Impressions
The journey through the Man O War cigar was genuinely fulfilling. It delivered on its promise of rich, bold flavors, reflected across its construction and performance. With each puff, I felt immersed in an experience that transcended mere enjoyment.
Final Rating and Recommendations
Overall, I’d rate the Man O War cigar a 9 out of 10. Its craftsmanship, flavor complexity, and fair pricing make it a fantastic choice for anyone venturing into a robust cigar experience.
FAQ
Who makes Man of War cigars?
The Man O War cigars are expertly crafted by AJ Fernandez, a respected figure in the cigar industry known for creating premium quality smokes with complex flavor profiles.
What is a 95 rated cigar?
A 95 rated cigar is seen as phenomenal, standing out for exceptional flavor, construction, and overall smoking experience; many Man O War cigars have secured such high ratings.
What is the best God of Fire cigar?
Many enthusiasts have praised the God of Fire by J.C. Newman, often comparing it to the depth found in Man O War cigars, which speak to personal taste preferences.
Is AJ Fernandez a Cuban cigar?
AJ Fernandez himself is Cuban, but his cigars, including Man O War, are produced in Nicaragua, expertly blending traditional Cuban techniques with innovative Nicaraguan tobaccos.
