Chris Khatsch smoking an EP Carillo Pledge cigar at Mareva, Lebanon.

Have a Cigar: EP Carrillo Pledge Sojourn

Chris Khatsch1 Comment

Name: EP Carrillo Pledge Sojourn

Country: Dominican Republic

Shape: Box-Pressed

Size: Toro (6 inches x 52)

Strength: Full

A masterpiece. I smoked it until my fingers burned. EP Carrillo’s Pledge Sojourn had an excellent draw, and it produced enough smoke to form a whole cloud in the sky. I paired it with espresso and sparkling water.

The Pledge Sojourn is a potent cigar. Very powerful, as powerful as an epic poem. When I closed my eyes, I saw Achilles, I saw Beowulf, and I saw the daredevils of Sassoun. It was as if the smoke had summoned them.

I got a harmony of notes: wood, burnt caramel, black pepper, earth, and red roses on fire.

I loved this cigar.

La Aroma Del Caribe Pasión Encanto

Have a Cigar: La Aroma Del Caribe Pasión Encanto

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Name: La Aroma Del Caribe Pasión Encanto

Country: Nicaragua

Shape: Parejo

Size: Double Toro / Gordo (6 inches x 60)

Strength: Medium

Cayenne and black pepper from the get-go. I thought there was something wrong with it or with the lighter, but it all ended up alright. It was an enjoyable smoke. It burned evenly even though it was a windy evening in Byblos. Excellent draw.

Overall, the Pasión Encanto is a well-constructed and flavorsome cigar that is big enough to keep you company for a long time. I’d smoke it again.

May 15, 2023: I Saw My Father in My Dream Last Night

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I saw my father in my dream last night.

His presence, his face.
The warm feeling of having a father
again,
of having roots.

I don’t remember the dream,
but I do know that I miss the man.
I was happy to see him.

Hands that knew
how to build a fire,
how to oil and clean a rifle,
how to use a hammer,
and how to make the guitar sing.

I listened to some of his old songs this morning,
and I cried.

It’s been more than 5 years now,
and I still miss the man,
my father.

A hard-working man,
a simple man,
a man whose son I’m proud to be.