Quick Smoke: E.P. Carrillo Cardinal 54 Natural

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.”

Few cigar makers have as high a standing here at StogieGuys.com than Ernesto Perez-Carrillo. We’ve reviewed four E.P. Carrillo sticks: two four-stogie ratings, and two at four and a half. In all honesty, this terrific cigar would be right there, but I haven’t smoked enough for a full review. Billed as the strongest addition to its expanding line, the Cardinal Natural features an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper with Nicaraguan filler and binder. The strength doesn’t come at you full bore, but rather evolves as you progress. The flavors are a complex, interwoven mix dominated by an earthy, woody, grassy combination that’s occasionally flecked with spice and sweetness. Pick one up.

Verdict = Buy.

–George E

photo credit: N/A