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Welcome, fellow cigar aficionados, to another exciting review! Today, we delve into the world of Cuban cigars with the illustrious San Cristobal El Principe. Known as a newer brand within the Habanos brand- this is a brand that is heavily promoted within the portfolio of Habonos brands. San Cristobal cigars have earned a special place in the hearts of connoisseurs worldwide for their beautiful milk chocolate appearance and the unique flavor profiles that accentuate chocolate, molasses, and coffee undertones. Join me as we explore the flavors, aromas, and pairings of the exquisite San Cristobal El Principe.
Vitola Specifications:
- Brand: San Cristobal
- Vitola: El Principe
- Size: 4 3/8 x 42 (110 mm x 16.67 mm)
- Wrapper: Cuban
- Binder: Cuban
- Filler: Cuban
Appearance: The San Cristobal El Principe boasts an elegant and inviting appearance. Its oily, Colorado Claro wrapper is seamless and smooth to the touch. The cigar feels well-constructed, showcasing expert craftsmanship. The band, adorned with the iconic San Cristobal emblem, adds a touch of regality to the overall presentation. For such a small cigar, the construction is seamless.
Pre-light Experience: Upon inspection, the San Cristobal El Principe exudes enticing aromas of earth, cedar, and a delicate hint of cocoa. The pre-light draw is effortless, offering notes of sweet tobacco, dried fruits, and a faint suggestion of leather. The draw is ideal, indicating a promising smoking experience to come.
First Third: The initial puffs greet the palate with a burst of creamy nuttiness, accompanied by hints of toasted almonds and a touch of caramel. As the smoke develops, subtle undertones of cedar and toast emerge, providing a delightful complexity. The flavors are well-balanced and harmonious, leaving a pleasant, lingering sweetness on the finish.
Second Third: Moving into the second third, the San Cristobal El Principe evolves gracefully. The nutty character intensifies, blending seamlessly with flavors of toast or bread notes and a touch of espresso and dark chocolate. The cigar’s medium-bodied profile continues to impress, delivering a smooth and refined smoking experience. The toast notes persist, adding depth and sophistication to each draw.
Final Third: The last portion of the San Cristobal El Principe reveals a crescendo of flavors. The nuttiness remains dominant, intermingling with undertones of leather and a subtle spice that ends in a creamy sweetness. The complexity of the smoke continues to captivate, keeping the palate engaged until the final draw. The finish is satisfyingly long, leaving a pleasant aftertaste of roasted nuts. An incredible flavor profile for such a small cigar. The overall burn and construction was perfect. I have smoked a box and a half of these over the past 6 months and the consistency is impeccable.
Food and Drink Pairings: To enhance the enjoyment of this remarkable cigar, consider pairing it with the following:
- Beverage: Aged Single Malt Scotch – The smoky, peaty notes of a well-aged single malt Scotch complement the cigar’s richness and enhance the nutty and cocoa flavors.
- Food: Dark Chocolate – Indulge in a piece of high-quality dark chocolate to accentuate the cigar’s nuances of chocolate and espresso, creating a delectable harmony of flavors.
- Beverage: Black Coffee – The robust flavors of black coffee provide a perfect contrast to the San Cristobal El Principe, cleansing the palate between draws and allowing the cigar’s intricate flavors to shine.
Overall Experience and Rating: The San Cristobal El Principe is a testament to the excellence of Cuban tobacco blending. From its surprisingly, flawless construction to the rich and complex flavors, this cigar offers a truly indulgent smoking experience. With its medium body, it caters to a wide range of palates, making it suitable for both novice and seasoned enthusiasts.
Rating: 92/100
The San Cristobal El Principe is a regal cigar that showcases the artistry and passion of Cuban cigar makers. Its harmonious blend of flavors and impeccable construction make it a must-try for any aficionado seeking a refined and pleasurable smoking experience. This vitola is without a doubt, top 3 for its size. Arguably, the best small Cuban cigar out there next Por Larranaga’s Petit Corona. So, sit back, relax, and let the San Cristobal El Principe transport you to a world of sensory delight. Cheers and happy smoking!
Click here to check availability. Will ship Internationally or to the USA!
