Napoleon Casdagli: A Cigar Review Fit for an Emperor
Welcome, cigar aficionados, to another exciting evaluation of a premium cigar! Today, I'm thrilled to share my experience with the esteemed Casdagli Brothers of the Sabre—a cigar that promises to be a legendary smoke for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.
Introduction to Casdagli and the Brave Robusto
As many of you know, Jeremy Casdagli is a renowned name in the world of cigars. His creations are considered treasures among enthusiasts, and today,Rocky Patel I’m focusing on the Brave Robusto 5x50. This cigar pays homage to Marshall Michel Ney, a distinguished figure who served under Napoleon. Ney was honored with the title “Le Brave” for his valor. The cigar itself is a tribute to such bravery and is wrapped in a band that signifies this storied past.
Flavor Profile and Construction
Right from the start, this robusto delivers enticing notes of cedar, oak, toast, and hazelnut with a creamy richness in the retrohale—providing a deeply satisfying smoking experience. The smooth Ecuadorian wrapper majestically enfolds the Dominican binder and filler, offering an exquisite construction noted for its natural beauty.
Notably, Casdagli cigars are ideal for those seeking a premium smoke that steps away from mainstream brands such as Plasencia and Oliva. Personally, I adore the spiciness that opposes the smoother profiles of Rocky Patel or other well-promoted brands out there.
The Smoking Experience
This isn't your ordinary morning smoke. Instead, it fits perfectly into a leisurely afternoon or a relaxed evening. The robusto shape and ring gauge of 50 give you a substantial smoke, which can last from 45 minutes to an hour—and even up to an hour and 20 minutes, depending on your smoking pace.
Upon lighting the cigar, you're immediately welcomed with an oaky taste that dominates the tobacco, effortlessly enhancing the smoking experience. Undertones of spicy white pepper kick in, invigorating your palette before settling into a quieter harmony of flavors. These insights come to the forefront during the first third, which we’ll explore together.
Delving Deeper into the Cigar
Around 15-20 minutes in, the nuances truly start to shine. The blend crafted by Hendrik Kelner, JR at the KBF Factory, comprises a delightful mix of Dominican fillers, binder, and an Ecuadorian wrapper, resulting in creamy and nutty flavors after the initial spice. The ash remains consistent and strong—hallmarks of quality and a reminder of why retrohaling can be so rewarding. While this smoke stands remarkably well on its own, pairing it with a Venezuelan or Jamaican rum can elevate its slightly sharp nuttiness and oakiness.
As we reach the second third of this robusto, the ash remains enduring , and the flavors evolve into a melody of creamy and nutty harmony. A richly embroidered Casdagli family crest adorns the cigar, listing historic battles such as Leipzig, Waterloo, Ligny, Bautzen, Jena, and Paris, perhaps as a nod to Napoleon's legacy.
Transitions and Conclusion
The transition from the spicy nuttiness of the beginning to the smoother, rounder leaf characteristics creates intrigue, inviting you deeper into the story the cigar tells. By the last third, the spice has mellowed into a comforting coffee profile with mild Indian spices—a journey in flavor.
Remarkably, I didn’t have to relight the cigar once—that speaks volumes for its construction quality. Nearly one hour in, the journey draws to a close, leaving only a lingering respect for its makers and a craving for another.
Final Thoughts and Rating
This smoke truly earns a rating of at least 9 out of 10 in my book, with nuances peaking around 9.2 or 9.3. Although I’m particular about my cigars, I find the Casdagli Brothers of the Sabre Robusto to be exceptional, especially fit for a vacation in a warm locale or a pleasant walk on a windy day. Thanks to Casdagli for crafting a smoke that not only delivers consistent and robust flavors but also a commemorative experience.
Thank you for joining me on this cigar journey. Until next time, happy smoking!
