Cigar Review: Tatuaje Fausto Avion 11 Perfecto Grande

For the first inch of this pressed perfecto, you may wonder whether you’re smoking a cigar or if you accidentally lit up the pepperpot. (Similarly, I couldn’t help but wonder about the band: Is that a cigar with wings or a flying railroad spike?)

While the recently introduced Avion is said to be the same blend of Nicaraguan filler and binder in an Ecuadorian Habano maduro wrapper common to the four other Fausto sizes and shapes, I found it fairly different from the two vitolas I’ve tried. And every bit as enjoyable.

The Avion’s size, varying in ring gauge from 48 to 52 ring gauge along its 6.75-inch tapered length, may help to mitigate the Fausto’s strength somewhat and create a more balanced experience. Don’t get me wrong. It’s still powerful, just not quite a haymaker.

After the pepper began to fade a bit, the more prominent tastes in the second third were wood, nuts, spice, and a tobacco sweetness. In the final third, the strength picked up and the pepper made a comeback. I did find it rather dry, especially by the end, and I‘d recommend liquid accompaniment.

The cigar does not feel particularly heavy in the hand, sometimes a warning of a loose draw and a quick burn. Neither was apparent in the Avion. The draw and the burn were peerless. I like the small foot which can easily be lit without a high-watt flame. Smoke production was first rate and the ash something to behold: tight, fine, and remarkably white.

At $10, the Avion is less expensive for its size than some other high-end Tatuajes. I recommend giving it a try after a meal and with a drink that can stand up to it. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. I give the Tatuaje Avion 11 cigar four stogies out of five.

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

–George E

photo credit: Tatuaje Cigars