La Gloria Cubana Liga JD-05

 

The IPCPR is one of the best platforms to launch a new product or test a new concept.  In 2012 La Gloria Cubana presented its Trunk Release cigars – special blends made in small quantities and packed in unique trunk style boxes, at that years IPCPR.  At this years IPCPR La Gloria Cubana launched 3 new Trunk Release Cigars.  I previously tested the 2013 LIGA MG-08 and gave it a very good rating.  Today I am reviewing the LIGA JD-05, a 71/4 X 62 torpedo vitola.

 

The JD-05 (named for Master Blender Jhonys Diaz) has the same limited quantity of only 500 boxes and smokeable band as other Trunk Releases, and will be in a trunk shaped box. Additionally, some die-cut tobacco leaf band styles will also be included in the box.  The intended sales channel for this cigar is internet and catalogue retailers.

 

The JD-05 has a Sumatra wrapper but the blend is proprietary and comprised of tobacco aged 3 to 9 years to enhance the flavors.  The construction of this large stick was fairly firm and the smokeable band was wide with a nice feel to it. Pre-lighting aroma was slightly earthy.  The 71/4 X 62 was fun to light and the draw was smooth and even. The first third had spice and chocolate flavor with some leather in the background.  The chocolate disappeared in the second third with leather growing stronger and the final third was primarily spice and leather.

 

The stick lasted for 1 hour and 15 minutes, never became hot and maintained an even ash in size and shape.  There was a clean finish and very little after taste for such a large, medium to full bodied cigar.  I enjoyed this stick as much as the other Trunk Release, the MG-08. And I also rate the JD-05 as a buy, even at the SRP of $9.45 as this quality, flavorful stick comes with the La Gloria Cubana pedigree, limited production, a unique box and a smokeable band.  I can hardly wait for the 2014 Trunk Release.