E.P. Carillo Long History- New Cigar

Ernie Carillo has a long history in the cigar business.  His father, made cigars for many years after coming to this country form Cuba after the revolution and Ernie after a stint as a Jazz musician returned to the family busines – making La Gloria Cubana cigars many years ago.  After a very successful run at the helm of this cigar company he sold out.  Shortly thereafter he founded EP Carillo cigars which he now runs with his grown children.  His children Ernie and Lisette, had, like their father before them, pursued other career paths, Ernie in finance and Lisette as a attorney.  But they too, are now in the cigar business and representing a wonderful line that they have created.

EP Carillo cigars come in four different lines, each with a different taste profile.  Today we are reviewing the ‘Core Natural’ line.  When I first unwrap the cigar it has a beautiful look and feel.  It is firm but pliable with a coffee color.  The veining is light and the cap generous.  I prefer to punch my cigars and it lights easily.

The first few puffs are pleasant and noncommittal.  It doesn’t start harshly, but gets off to a mellow beginning.  The predominant flavor is creaminess and a vanilla coffee flavor.

After about fifteen minutes the flavors are still there and very consistent.  But as I approach the two thirds mark I get a more full flavor, more like an espresso.  I think of the cigar as a medium or ‘Lunch’ cigar and these flavors are consistent with that feeling.

The cigar is well constructed and burns evenly with a nice ash for the entire smoke.  Even a few minutes of inattention doesn’t do it any harm and I resume smoking without any bitterness or relight.

At around $6.50 this cigar is a moderate value.  It’s a good cigar and very enjoyable.  If you are looking for a nice medium bodied stick, with coffee and cream flavors this will provide a nice smoke.