Name: Liga Privada H99 Toro
Country: Nicaragua
Shape: Parejo
Size: Toro (6 inches x 52)
Strength: Full

I paired this cigar with espresso and sparkling water and smoked it at Club Mareva Beirut, one of my favorite cigar lounges in Lebanon.

Branding: Unpretentious and good-looking cigar. On the band, there’s the famous Liga Privada signature and, right under it, the name of the cigar: “H99.” Overall, the cigar has this rusty look, which makes it look aged and almost forgotten.

Construction: Near perfect.

Pre-light: The smell of a risk-taker in brown leather shoes, getting ready for a date. Excitement. Tradition. Earthiness.

Cut: Straight cut, as always. I’m only going for the V-cut when I’m absolutely bored.

Burn: It burned quite evenly 90% of the time. I had to fix it once before reaching the second third.

Duration: 90 minutes.

Draw: Excellent.

Smoke: Powdery. Adds a little spiciness when you keep it in your mouth for more than a couple of seconds.

Ash: Good.

Flavors: Notes of chocolate, sourdough bread, pink peppercorn, molasses, leather, cedar.