Mighty Mighty’s Little Brother

J.C. Newman Cigars is the only operating cigar manufacturer left in Tampa’s Cigar City and has been there since before the Dodgers left Brooklyn. One of their brands – Brick House – had a 6.25 X 60 maduro released in 2012 that turned out to be quite successful. In fact, I frequently enjoy this large ring gauge cigar. Demand for a smaller Maduro stick lead Newman to issue in 2013 a robusto Maduro in the 5 X 54 size and I was given one at the 2013 IPCPR to review.

Editors note: The FDA is in the process of passing regulations that would close down the factory in Tampa ‘Cigar CIty’. Before it’s too late, contact your U.S. Representative or Senator and tell them to save the cigar factory in Tampa

The Robusto Maduro by Brick House has Nicaraguan binder and fillers with a Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper. Arapiraca is a municipality in Brazil that is growing in fame for its quality tobacco, especially the heavy leaves that can age into Maduro wrappers. This wrapper was very smooth with veins tough to see giving it a nice appearance. The draw was extremely easy and the cigar had a nice ash, common with quality Maduro wrappers. There was an initial sweetness with some cocoa and nutmeg. The smoke volume was very good and creamy in texture.

I spent 50 minutes smoking this fine cigar and I found it to be on the very mild end of full bodied. I located the robusto on the internet for about $5 when purchased in volume. Considering the good appearance and construction, full flavor and very good value I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5. But since I prefer larger ring gauges, I still buy its big brother, the Mighty Mighty.