Rocky Patel 2003

One of the first cigars that took me from being a predominantly mild to medium body smoker to a full body smoker was a Rocky Patel 1992.  Ever since then I have always had a soft spot for Rocky Patel products.  And from what I know of Rocky Patel, I like him as a person as well. From Hollywood lawyer, to cigar icon, and a champion for cigar smokers rights.  I had the opportunity recently to try one of his newer lines, a Rocky Patel 2003.

From the initial examination of the cigar, the dark cameroon wrapper was certainly easy on the eyes.  A silky smooth dark wrapper leaf that seemed to suggest a typical Patel medium to full body smoke.  I’ve read that cameroon wrappers are notoriously difficult to roll well, so I was eager to see if the construction of the stick held up to other Patel smokes.  Pre-light, the scent of the cigar wasn’t anything notable either on the wrapper or on the foot.

Upon lighting the cigar, it started off with a little more spice than I expect, but it is a formidable size stick at 6 inches and 58 ring gauge, so it took a bit to light it.  A hot cigar usually burns a bit more spicy, so this wasn’t entirely unexpected.  After letting the cigar cool, and getting down a couple of inches, the spice subsided and flavors exhibited were that of nuts, with a slight hint of dark cherry.  The smoke itself was smooth and enjoyable.

Then disaster struck, and the cigar suddenly emitted a bunch of unexpected smoke, and suddenly extinguished itself.  I examined the foot for any construction flaws, but found no holes or other problems.  I suspect that this surprise came from the leaf being a bit on the younger side – it is after all only eight (8) years old.  After cleaning the foot and relighting, the remainder of the cigar exhibited no further problems.  I smoked it all the way down to the cap.

Overall, this was an enjoyable cigar.  It was surprisingly mild for a Rocky Patel smoke.  It would make a great late afternoon, pre-dinner stick.  Something you could enjoy without having to worry about having anything in your stomach.  Given that the cigar went out on me, I’d suggest picking up a few sticks and stashing them in your humidor for a couple of years.  I imagine that the extra age would really bring out all the characteristics of this cigar.  Notably, I’d hope that the dark cherry I tasted would mature into a more dominant flavor.