CyB by Joya de Nicaragua

When I was at the trade show last August, the folks at Drew Estate were talking about a new stick that they had.  It was made at the Joya factory in Esteli.  They called it Cuenca y Blanco after the owner and cigar makers.  Unfortunately, there was a problem with the name.  So, the stick ws renamed CyB by Joya de Nicaragua.  Departing from Joya de Nicaragua’s tradition of crafting only Nicaraguan leaf puros, the CyB has been intricately blended to be a smoke comprised of the finest tobaccos from four separate countries of origin: Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Peru. It is a complex liga of well-balanced tobaccos resulting from nearly a year of incessant experimentation and dedication. Our labor of passion has resulted in a very flavorful, relaxing smoke with a tantalizing taste and aroma. Formerly known as Cuenca y Blanco, CyB is the first cigar creation of the Joya de Nicaragua factory in collaboration with famed cigar maker Jose Blanco since his joining the company in 2011. Available Sizes: Corona Real 5.5 x 46; Robusto Deluxe 5.25 x 50; Lonsdale Club 6.5 x 44; Toro Supremo 6 x 54; Torpedo Especial 6.25 x 52.

When I first looked at this cigar it presented with a nice smooth finish.  It was a beautiful looking stick with a well done cap.  It was a nice dark brown color.  I punched and lit the cigar without a problem.

This construction of this stick was not best.  It burned unevenly and had to be retouched.  However, the draw was fine and the ash was more than reasonable.

From a taste standpoint, I thought it was a little rough.  The first third was earthy with a cedar flavor.  As the cigar progressed it remained mostly the same with the exception of a little bit of spice.  The cigar burned cool throughout and it was a medium bodied or ‘lunch’ cigar.  In the final third the cigar became predominantly spicy with the earth notes receding.  There was a long after taste that left a heaviness in the mouth.

The cigar is priced int he $8 range making it not an inexpensive cigar.  At this price point many would be disappointed with the smoke.  But, if you find some at a better price, you might give them a try.