Surrogates 'Tramp Stamp' Robusto

Surrogates 'Tramp Stamp' Robusto. 5.2x48. Good build, straight lines, some pronounced veins. Toasty dark brown wrap that covers the foot. Cut well and lit well. Could judge the pre-light draw due to the wrapped foot. Post-light, draw was medium-tight in the first third, slightly looser from there.

First half tastes of leather, pepper, hard wood, bitter herbal on the exhale. Second half is cut cedar, strong leaf, ground coffee, harsh spice. Ash is marbled with distinct striping, holding over an inch. Burn was uneven at first but was corrected soon after, though it required a watchful eye to the end.

This is a solid, full-bodied cigar, filled with heavy flavors that pushes the line. A ton of wood and leaf taste coupled with a rising spice make for a bold profile that is miles from mild. Not a Maduro but certainly closer to one than most. If you like peppery smokes, this one's for you. Recommended.

From the company:

"Introducing the next project from L'Atelier cigars, Surrogates. Blended by Pete Johnson, and crafted in Don Pepin's My Father factory in Nicaragua, each Surrogate was masterfully created to serve up four unique and completely different experiences. This time around, their goal was simple. To create a new series of cigars, limited-edition in nature, that would be readily available to the consumer without breaking the bank. Tramp Stamp: Medium-bodied and teetering towards medium to full. Layers of cedar, coffee, nutmeg, leather, and a dash of spice. Featuring: Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro wrapper, Nicaraguan long-fillers, and a covered foot."

[source: cigarsinternational.com]