Romeo New Life

Romeo y Julieta have been making cigars for well over 100 years. They are, indeed, a very well known Cuban brand. Since the embargo, this brand has been available in the US market made in the Dominican Republic. The brand is currently owned by giant manufacturer Altadis, and they have several sub brands under the R y J label. The newest is quite a departure from the tradition of Romeo y Julieta. Romeo, has a hip new look Romeo Box

and a new flavor profile. Forever, R y J has been know for making a mild cigar, but this new Romeo is anything but mild. Altadis wrote in their April press release ” Robust, full-bodied and rich in complex flavor nuances, Romeo is meticulously crafted at the famed Tabacalera de Garcia in the Dominican Republic by the skilled hands of the factory’s most accomplished artisans, each with decades of expertise, chosen specifically to create this uncommon cigar. The new cigar will be available in four sizes: Churchill, Piramide, Robusto and Toro.”

When I inspected my cigar, the first thing I noticed was the band. It certainly is a very different feel than the traditional bands of the entire Romeo y Julieta line. The cigar punched easily and lit without a problem. The initial aroma of the cigar was earthy.

The cigar is well made. It held a sharp, crisp edge as it burned. While I puffed it smoked cool and stayed evenly lit for the entire smoke.

Flavor wise there is a lot of complexity. The cigar fired strongly, the first few puffs were almost unbearable. But, after a few minutes, the cigar settled down. I was getting a sweetness from the olor tobacco of the binder that presented itself as coffee, chocolate, and vanilla. As I continued to smoke, towards the middle of the stick, the addition of cinnamon or nutmeg provided a spicy counterbalance to the sweet flavors. The longer I smoked the stronger this cigar became. For many I would categorize the cigar as full bodied or a dinner cigar, but I didn’t find the flavor to be heavy or linger the was some of the stronger cigars do.

When I speak of value I look at the price that someone would pay to get one of these sticks. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find anyone who listed them in their catalog. I called a few retailers that I know and they said that they are expecting cigars soon. I liked the stick and would hope to be able to find them so I can add a few to my humidor.