Click here to check availability. Will ship Internationally or to the USA!
Click here to check availability. Will ship Internationally or to the USA!
Brand History: Quai D’Orsay is a premium Cuban cigar brand that has a storied history dating back to the 1970s. Originally, it was created exclusively for French diplomats, making it a cigar of choice in diplomatic circles. Over the years, it has gained popularity beyond diplomatic circles and is now cherished by cigar enthusiasts around the world. Quai D’Orsay is known for its elegant and mild-to-medium flavor profile, offering a distinct experience within the realm of Cuban cigars.
Vitola Specifications: The Quai D’Orsay No. 54 features a classic robusto vitola, measuring approximately 5.3 inches in length with a ring gauge of 54. Its shape is characterized by a thick, short cigar with a straight sides and rounded head, providing an excellent balance of flavor and smoke output.
Tasting Notes:
First Third: Upon lighting, the Quai D’Orsay No. 54 opens with subtle hints of cedar and toasted nuts. The initial draws are creamy and smooth, teasing the palate with a delicate mix of sweet and earthy flavors. The smoke is light, almost ethereal, and offers a gentle introduction to the cigar’s profile. Typical of the other vitolas within this brand, I find that there is almost no spice or pepper upon lighting up, which is different from most Cuban Cigars of this size.
Second Third: As the cigar progresses into the second third, the flavors evolve into more pronounced notes of coffee and cocoa. The creaminess persists, complemented by a subtle spice that adds complexity to the experience. I also get a lot of hay and toast notes that accentuate the creamy smoke and mouth feel. The retrohale throughout is smooth and buttery. The draw remains effortless, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable smoke.
Final Third: In the final third, the Quai D’Orsay No. 54 continues to build on its flavor profile. The sweetness recedes slightly, allowing bolder woody and leathery undertones to emerge. Transitioning into a smooth earthy flavor with the creaminess towards the backend of the flavor profile. The smoke becomes richer and more textured, leaving a satisfying, lingering finish on the palate. At the end, there is a bit of white pepper through the retrohale and the sweetness does return but in form of more buttery undertone and mouthfeel.
Food and Drink Pairings: The Quai D’Orsay No. 54 pairs exceptionally well with a range of flavors, given its mild-to-medium strength and nuanced profile. Some suggested pairings include:
- Drink: Aged rum with its caramel and oak notes complements the cigar’s sweetness. Alternatively, a well-balanced single malt Scotch can enhance the woody and spicy elements. Alternatively, if you are not a drinker of alcohol, a light roast coffee would pair wonderfully!
- Food: Creamy desserts like crème brûlée or tiramisu align harmoniously with the cigar’s creamy and sweet characteristics. For savory pairings, try smoked salmon or roasted nuts, as they won’t overpower the cigar’s delicate flavors.
Rating out of 100: I would rate the Quai D’Orsay No. 54 Cuban Cigar a solid 90 out of 100. It delivers a refined and enjoyable smoking experience with its elegant blend of flavors, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned aficionados and those looking to explore the world of Cuban cigars. The cigar’s smoothness, balance, and subtle complexity are the hallmarks of the Quai D’Orsay brand, cementing its position as a gem within the realm of Cuban cigars. This would not be a smoke I recommend to a beginner. Although its smaller brother, the no.50 is more flat and creamy mild bodied, this although mild to medium is incredibly delicate and complex. I really enjoyed my 90 minutes savoring this cigar and thankfully found a couple boxes to age and smoke semi regularly. Definitely worth picking up a box if you can find them! My friend has some in stock right now, click on the link in the article to be redirected to his Instagram profile.
Click here to check availability. Will ship Internationally or to the USA!
Click here to check availability. Will ship Internationally or to the USA!