Initial Thoughts:
Today we continue our series of blind cigar reviews, where our goal is to provide you with a totally objective, completely neutral review of a cigar. Ellory went into this review completely blind; that means without knowing what it is, who made it, how much it costs, or what's in it. To see the entire series of blind cigar reviews, click here.
One of the first things I noticed about the Kristoff GC Signature Series Robusto was its rustic but well-marbled wrapper. There was also a pigtail end and a closed foot – all things I often enjoy.
Something that I did notice about the wrapper leaf was how much lighter it was along the stem (timestamp 2:03). Since the moisture drains from stems last, this might be an indication that this leaf was not hung to dry for long enough.
After cutting the pigtail end, the draw was ok. The first flavors weren't terribly impressive and my guess was that this was a budget cigar.
Even after cutting the cigar a second time, the draw was still a little tight but I could get a decent amount of smoke. The flavors were okay and a little sour with hints of wood.
CigarScore:
Brand: Kristoff
Line: GC Signature Series
Size: 5 1/2 X 54
Cut: Guillotine
Light: Torch
Price: $9.74
Wrapper: Brazilian Maduro
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Honduras
Smoke Time: 60 minutes
Through the middle of the cigar, the flavors continued to be just okay. At times they were a little harsh, other times they were a little sour.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the construction of the Kristoff GC Signature Series Robusto was pretty good. I had a decent draw and the burn was mostly even.
Every once in a while, I tasted something that was really good. There were also occasions when I smelled something I liked quite a bit. This cigar could have been good, but it wasn't. I'd say 85-90% of the flavors were mediocre at best.
However, the flavors might be exactly what you're looking for. And, while I don't think this cigar should cost almost $10, that's another value statement that's mostly up to you, so the Kristoff GC Signature Series Robusto earns a generous CigarScore 4. Barely.
