Romeo y Julieta
“Robusto” Selection

Short Churchill (124mm x Ring 50); Exhibicion No.4 (127mm x Ring 48);
Escudos Edición Limitada (140mm x Ring 50);

This selection comprises three variations on the classic Robusto, all from the same marque. The Short Churchill is the classic Robusto size, so popular over many years. The Exhibicion No.4 is slightly longer and thinner. These two cigars are part of the normal Romeo y Julieta range.
The Escudos Limited Edition is something quite different.
In the Habanos 2007 Newsletter we have: “The Limited Edition distinguishes itself for the inclusion of sizes which are not part of the usual range of the brand, and is characterised by a special manufacture. The careful selection of the two-year aged wrapper from the upper level of the plant grants it a darker color and turns this product into something unique. Binder and filler leaves used for the making of the Limited Edition cigars have been aged for two years as well turning these smokes into something far more great.”
While we may not agree with the grammar, we certainly applaud the sentiment and the results.
Colin Wesley

Because there are several things to compare, you may have to budget for more than one pack:
• The Short Churchill is a classic Robusto size – compare with the Escudos which is16mm longer. Other than the length of time needed to smoke it, does this length affect the smoking experience? Smoother? Cooler?

• The Exhibicion No.4 and the Short Churchill are two examples of the traditional short thick cigars, exemplified for South Africans in the Upmann Connoisseur No.1 (127mm x 48) and Hoyo Epicure No.2 (124mm x 50), and each size has its devotees. Now you can test the two sizes from the same brand - do you have a preference?

• The Short Churchill in this selection was boxed Oct.2007 – that’s the same cigar that was awarded 92 points (third highest) in a preview of the blind tasting for Cigar Aficionado June 2008. The description reads: A subtly pressed robusto with a gleaming wrapper. The draw is a bit firm, but manages to impart a complex flavor profile of leather, cocoa bean and wood punctuated by an orange peel note and a long, tobacco finish. How many of those flavours can you identify??

• James Suckling says that the Escudos reminds him of the Short Churchill in flavour – What do you think?

What’s more, you can use the “Tasting Form” enclosed with the selection to rate each cigar.
That should give you plenty to do over the long weekend!

Hint: On a thicker cigar, try cutting a small hole (off a “corner”) -  you can always make it bigger.

Read Rudman’s “Complete Pocket Guide to Cigars”.