RealFreakinCigarReviews

Ghurka Signature '101' Robusto

Initial Thoughts

Just looking at this cigar makes my mouth water.  The wrapper is nothing less than gorgeous.  A deep, dark maduro with no significant veininess or blemishes.  Physical inspection doesn't reveal any soft spots.  As with the other Ghurkas I've reviewed, physically this is pretty damned close to a work of art.  According to the CI website, this is allegedly Kaizad Hansotia's (owner of Ghurka cigars) personal favorite blend.  The "sniff test" gives me an earthy, sweet smell.

The Smoke

I used my punch cutter on this one, and had no issues with the cap.  I toast the foot, ignite the cigar and take my first puff.  This is DEFINITELY a full flavored cigar.  The site claims medium to full, and I've got to say, I don't see anything medium about it.  In terms of flavor, it is somewhat "earthy" with some spicy flavors thrown in for good measure.  The first portion of the smoke was a little harsh.

At the 1/3 point, the harshness is no longer there.  Burn and draw are excellent.  Flavor continues to be consistent and complex.  LOTS of smoke, and I suspect that if I had started smoking this cigar with company, I'd now be alone.

At the 2/3 point, I'm experiencing a little unevenness with the burn -- nothing requiring any intervention.  Draw is excellent, and the flavor continues to be full and complex.

I've finished the cigar, and with the exception of the uneven burning, this was a great smoke.

The Rating