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Stogie Reviews: Ashton Virgin Sun Grown Sorcerer

22 Feb 2007

Ashton VSGWhen the Ashton Virgin Sun Grow (VSG) line was released in 1999, it was instantly hailed as a success. Cigar Insider even went so far as to say that “connoisseurs are seeking out the Ashton Virgin Sun Grown with a fervor not seen in the industry for years…”

This particular seven inch by 49 ring gauge “Sorcerer” puts the Ashton VSG’s rich flavors in a classic double corona size. The stogie has a rustic, deep brown wrapper and a slight box press. The press – which isn’t as extreme as a Maria Mancini or a Padrón 1926 (a cigar that the Ashton VSG is often compared to) – lets the cigar sit comfortably in your hand.

Prior to being lit, the cigar had rich roasted mocha notes with a fantastic aroma of vanilla flavors. The band’s classic white, black, and gold give it an almost royal appearance.

Fortunately, when lit, the flavors remained just as impressive. Almost immediately rich earth and mocha flavors were apparent. Over time that was complimented by deep roasted notes.

Overall, the Ashton VSG offers dark, luscious flavors without sacrificing its smooth balance, everything you would expect from a cigar developed for Ashton by Carlos Fuente.

The construction was also notable despite a tight draw. And while initially the burn was a bit temperamental, it quickly evened out until it was straight as a razor by the midway point.

Earlier in the review I mentioned that the Ashton VSG line was often compared to the Padron Anniversary line. I must say that the comparison has merit, as both cigars are known for pairing full flavor with smoothness in a way that is uncommon, even for the best handmade cigars in the $8 and up price range.

While the Ashton VSG Sorcerer doesn’t receive the ultra-rare five stogie rating that the Padrón 1926 does, it still earns a very impressive four and 1/2 out of five stogies.

[To read more StogieGuys.com cigar reviews, please click here.]

Patrick S

Tags: cigars

11 Responses to “Stogie Reviews: Ashton Virgin Sun Grown Sorcerer”

  1. Padronnie Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 9:22 am #

    How does this cigar stack up against the Ashton Cabinet?

  2. Patrick A Thursday, February 22, 2007 at 12:35 pm #

    Padronnie,

    While the Ashton VSG line is characterized by deep, chocolate flavors, the Aged Cabinet is a spicier cigar with salty clove notes. In my experience, the physical traits of both are exemplary. You can expect to pay around $8 apiece for both.

  3. Sam Friday, February 23, 2007 at 4:22 am #

    The VSG's are a great smoke. I have never had one that did not burn or draw perfectly. I would give it the five stogies myself. Compare these to the Opus X which are 3-4 times the price and that's if you can find them.

  4. pancho Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at 3:29 pm #

    The ashton vsg is the best cigar for your buck. I havent smoked anything better for the same price. Padron 1926 is the only cigar thats better than the ashton vsg.

    • Bill Monday, August 27, 2012 at 1:43 pm #

      I agree, wholeheartedly. Found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable "smoke to the nub" cigar. I love my Padron 1926's and 1964's, but for the price this one's in my top 5.
      Signed, Porch Sitter

  5. Dave Tuesday, July 16, 2013 at 3:36 pm #

    A great cigar except for one thing… the price. I would smoke these more often if they were cheaper.

    • Bill Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at 9:55 am #

      Couldn't agree more. An excellent smoke, but there are better smokes at the same or better prices. For instance a San Lotano Oval or a Prensado.

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