Each Saturday and Sunday we’ll post a Quick Smoke: not quite a full review, just our brief verdict on a single cigar of “buy,” “hold,” or “sell.”

The original Arturo Fuente line, often referred to as the “Gran Reserva” series, sports an affordable portfolio of vitolas in a variety of enticing wrappers. Among my favorites is this Selección Privada No. 1 (6.75 x 44). It combines a Cameroon wrapper with Dominican binder and filler tobaccos to yield a medium-bodied taste of dry wood and spice with a sweet finish. Smooth and aromatic. With good combustion properties, this $5 lonsdale is a trustworthy everyday smoke.

Verdict = Buy.

-Patrick A

photo credit: Stogie Guys