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Accidental Smoker: The Java I |
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Written by CARY STOLARCZYK
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Monday, 08 January 2007 |
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Perhaps you have seen a commercial by thetruth.com where they wander out to a park and yell out cigarette flavors as children come running with thoughts of sweet treats. The inference we are then supposed to make is that tobacco companies are aiming at children, but this ignores that fact that women are actually the largest contingent of new smokers.
While their focus is on cigarettes, women cigar smokers are increasing their numbers as well. From post-feminist leanings to sheer sex appeal, the explanations for this are varied. Tobacconists are keeping up with these trends and stocking more of those flavored sticks, which this newfound base are said to enjoy. Do not be fooled, the flavored realm is not a girl’s club. Whether for a night away from the daily smoke or for their less forceful aromas, the flavored cigar is finding its way into more agendas.
No one is more prominent in the flavored cigar market than the Drew Estate. Their Acid line is one of the more vibrant in the aromatic end of the humidor. Their lively wrappers and their scent similar to incense seem to set them apart. Look down from them and you will probably find their less audacious sibling, the Java. Its unassuming presentation belies its affiliation with the ubiquitous cigar magnate Rocky Patel. First time I ran across the Java I almost mistook it for a Rocky Patel Vintage. Associations aside, the Java stands on its own as a solid contender in a burgeoning realm.
Straight from the humidor you will note the vigorous chocolate nose to the cigar. Put a match to it and the same will find your palate. As the smoke progresses one cannot help but wonder how the designation Java came about. Going strictly by the name, one would expect a strong coffee presence. A bit of patience and the headliner will ease its way into the mix as the tobacco begins to contribute. If you are looking for that coffee shop flavor, you may want to pour yourself a cup.
THE RUNDOWN
PREFERRED CUTTING METHOD: While with the blunt end the punch seems a perfect choice, a guillotine allows for an improved draw.
DRAW: Medium effort is required for this box-pressed stick. 3.5 stars
BURN: The burn was occasionally uneven. 3.5 Stars
TIME PER SMOKE: You should find forty minutes to an hour about the right fit for the toro.
FLAVOR: At its peak it is among the best flavored sticks out there, but it can be somewhat inconsistent from one cigar to the next. 3.0 stars
THE VERDICT
Final Rating: 3 stars
The saccharine chocolate flavors develop themselves slowly to a dazzling peak. The payoff takes time and stays far too briefly for this to be any more than an average smoke. This is not to say that it cannot be enjoyed by a veteran smoker, but instead to imply that it has a flavor that is a bit unbalanced. If you are in search of a sweet chocolate pursuit; pick one up. If you are in search of a replacement for that morning mocha; you will still have to pick up that cup of coffee.
• Cary Stolarczyk’s column, “Accidental Smoker,” is published exclusively each month in Lumino Magazine. Powered by AkoComment 2.0! |
