Cigar Name: Romeo Y Julieta Reserva Real Porta Real (7 x 36)

Cigar Description: Ecuadorian Connecticut Maduro wrapper  around a Cameroon binder and encapsulating Dominican long fillers

Cigar Strength: Medium

Review of the Cigar itself: I’m in Alexandria, VA this week and to get here I took the Acela Express train to D.C. The Acela is a tube-like train (you can see a video here from Amtrak’s website). It’s a really nice train and a nice alternative to the plane. The amount of time between flying and taking the train is about the same (when you consider the joy of going through airport security and such). The bonus is the ability to stretch out more on the train and walk around. Additionally, far less turbulence. So in honor of the train, I thought I’d give a try to the Porta Real that a friend sent me.

The long slender tube nestled the rich tobacco scent of the pantela cigar. As I drew it out of the tube and since it was such a small gauge it was very easy to light. One of the things that is easy to notice is the even burn. And I mean, even. I almost could use it as a mini-level. The ash is a charcoal-gray and black mosaic that is rather solid even if narrow. The scent is very reminiscent of some Cuban cigars I’ve had when back home in Canada: a gentle spicyness.  It’s nice to be able to enjoy this cigar without having to suffer in the sweltering heat of the outdoors. The Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites in Alexandria, VA has a wing set off with smoking rooms. Opening the window let in a bit of warm air but it was nice to let some circulation to come through.

While the flavour wasn’t too complex it was still nice. As I went through the long cigar (almost twice the length of some others), I tried to amuse myself by blowing some cigar smoke rings. It was easy to do given the amount of smoke generated by this cigar. The flavour was a plain leather with hints of almonds and a sweet earth taste. In some ways, not being complex was a nice change from more complex cigars and helped to unwind from a long day of traveling. This wouldn’t be necessarily something I’d use all the time but if one wants simple that will let time pass at a slow rate, this is definitely it.

Enjoyed with: Yuengling Lager and a small bottle of water

Smoke time: approximately 90 minutes

Final Review Rating: 8/10

Tidbit: Although Porta Real would potentially translate to regal door, I think one could that this is the doorway to the Regal RyJ and good flavour.

Tidbit #2: Things seem to be thawing between Cuba and the US. Cigars next?

Watching: Family Guy (Victory is mine!)