In the cigar world CAO continues to make an impression. In their most recent venture, the CAO Vision line offers cigars boxed in their own humidor. Ever-adept at preening their image they continue to re-invent the brand and now the very way cigars are packaged. Tucked within this flashy evolution there lay the CAO Gold line which lacks the panache of the Soprano’s Edition and the in-your-face spice of the Brazilia.

Not to be confused with their flavored offering the CAO Gold Honey, these sticks showcase a classic look with smooth flavors. This classic styling seems rather appropriate as Gold is generally accepted as bringing CAO into the status of a premium cigar manufacturer; well that and one Michael Jordan’s post-Championship win stogie.

THE RUNDOWN

Preferred Cutting Method: Guillotine
Draw: The draw is somewhat inconsistent, ranging from loose to strenuous. 3 stars out of 5
Burn: The burn evens well. 4.5 Stars out of 5
Time per Smoke: Set aside at least 45 minutes for the torpedo.
Flavor: A creamy medium bodied beginning progresses to a deeper earthier finish, though there is a bit of an off flavor that lingers. 4.0 stars out of 5

THE VERDICT

Final Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars

After one taste you can see how the CAO Gold could have brought a change from a humble company to one with a place in most every tobacconist’s humidor. The label is less of a standout compared to its brethren, but the smoothness they present offer up some of the best flavor found in the CAO line. The creamy base remains a mainstay throughout, developing overtones which move from grassy to deeper peppery notes. While the burn from stick to stick may vary the flavor and its development remain consistent and make CAO Gold a worthwhile addition to any humidor.

• Cary Stolarczyk’s column, “Accidental Smoker,” is published exclusively each month in Lumino Magazine.

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