Review: Burn, Baby, Burn!

I think if I want to do a review, I just need to go to Wal-Mart prior, because woo boy did I NEED another cigar. Plucking another stick from my review box in my wineador (I'll elaborate at some point for those that don't know what a wineador is), I grabbed another stogie that was premiered at the 2012 IPCPR, and one of quite a few new offerings from Rocky Patel. It is named, aptly, for his cigar bar in Naples, Florida, and is a variation of the blend made exclusively for the bar itself. I think he might actually have more blends than any other cigar label out there now. I didn't check or confirm this, but it seems to me that Rocky Patel has a cigar for literally every palate. And it doesn't hurt that his quality control seems to be top notch. For the most part, every Rocky Patel cigar I can recall smoking had great burn, draw, and overall construction. For what its worth, one of my favorite cigars is the Rocky Patel 1961. Anyway, lets get this cigar clipped and lit shall we?

Rocky Patel Burn Naples, FL.
Size: Robusto (5x50)
Origin: Honduran (puro)

Purchased: Don Juan Cigar Company of Metairie, LA (~$7 USD)

Appearance, Construction, and Pre-light: Great clean look and feel to this robusto. With a light squeeze, it has very little give. Firmness confirms an even pack. Tight seams and triple or quadruple cap on this satiny dark chocolate wrapper. The prelight aroma reminds me a lot of cognac brandy. After the cut, the draw is very snug. Not worryingly so, but not easy either.

Burn, Taste, and Strength:

The first third begins with a deep wood note. Exhale is a nice cedary flavor.  No spice at all. Smoke output is okay, though, I feel it would be much better had the draw been optimal. I'm hoping things will open up a little as the cigar heats up. Medium bodied early on. The finish lingers until the next puff. After a few minutes, so earthy notes are thrown into the mix. Aroma remains a heavy wood. Defined flavors. Ash holds on nicely. Draw presenting no issues. Even, thin, and black burn line.

The second third introduces pepper, and lots of it. Not overbearingly so, but its definitely there now. The draw did open up a bit to something a bit more enjoyable. Earthy flavors have been replaced by more of a slightly bitter espresso, but overall things remain very much the same for me. So far this stick has a lot of consistency, something I tend to expect with a RP.

The final third is more of the same. Flavors coming in stronger, hotter, and with slightly more bitterness. Definitely a transition from medium to full bodied. The draw has definitely opened up some more. No real transitions as I decide to put it down. As expected, things get a little more bitter and ending a cigar before it gets to burning your fingers is always a good idea.

Final Impression: I'm always looking forward to trying new releases, and the Naples, FL is no exception. Its got rich woody flavors with a little spice, a little earth, a little coffee. A little bit of everything for everyone. Definitely full bodied. No real strength to speak of, aside from feeling a little lightheaded near the very very end. The initial draw was a little bummer for me, but thankfully it opened up quite nicely. And at 6-7 bucks, it should be on everyone's radar to try, assuming you appreciate fuller, richer sticks. As usual Rocky Patel delivers a great blend at a great price.

Recommendable:Yes