Noel Rojas has been a steadily growing name in the cigar world. He's blended some amazing cigars such as the Blue Bonnet and the Unfinished Business. The topic of this review is his newest addition to the Street Tacos Line, the Al Pastor. This cigar has a great flavor profile for a great price. Below, you'll find a full review, and of course, the official GC Rating.
The Al Pastor has a striking appearance compared to the other cigars in the street taco line. The band still has the sugar skull design as the others. Unlike the others, however, it deviates from the green and yellow motif to a subdued red, which really pops next to the others. The bands also have red and gold accents, which add to the striking appearance of this cigar. The cigar itself is a medium brown color. While it is smooth to the touch, there are some veins that look more prominent than others. The cigar also has a semi closed foot, which gives a little added flavor at first light.
The Al Pastor is constructed very well. The Binder and Filler are both Nicaraguan, white the Wrapper is Ecuadorian Habano. The draw is smooth and easy, allowing for an effortless smoking experience. The cigar also provides a very good smoke output, filling the immediate area with the aromas of the Nicaraguan and Habano blend. The burn is a bit inconsistent. While it doesn't effect the flavor of the cigar, the burn may have a tendency to canoe. However, it burns at a decent enough rate that it will either even itself out, or be consistent throughout the smoke. The ash is almost completely white, which shows how well the tobacco has aged. The ash is sturdy, and doesn't fall until halfway through the second third. When it does fall, there is no flaking or ash flying.
The Al Pastor has an exceptional flavor profile. The cold draw may provide notes of cherries and cedar. At first light, the Al Pastor immediately hits the palate with notes of earth, cedar, toast, and slight salty flavor.
The first third may provide strong notes of earth and cedar, keeping in line with the first light. Subtle notes of caramel, espresso, and white pepper may also be tasted. There may also be undertones of dark brown sugar and cream, giving a sweet complexity to the cigar. The retrohale on the first third may have notes of black pepper, earth, and toast.
The second third of the Al Pastor may have strong notes of espresso and toast, hitting the palate almost immediately. These are accompanied by notes of milk chocolate, cream, and almonds. Subtle notes of cinnamon and brown sugar may also be tasted, giving the second third a sweeter flavor profile. The retrohale on the second third may have notes of black pepper, chocolate, and cedar.
The final third of the cigar may have strong notes of toast and white pepper, making the flavor stronger and more savory. These are accompanied with notes of cayenne pepper, earth, and espresso. This added spicy component to the flavor profile make the cigar pop really well. Subtle notes of caramel, dark brown sugar, and cedar may also linger on the palate. The retrohale on the final third may have notes of black pepper, toast, and espresso.
The flavor profile on the Al Pastor is complex to say the least. While it has sweet components to it, the subtle savory flavors add depth to the cigar, keeping the palate interested and wanting more.
The Al Pastor is priced very well. Coming in at around $10.50 per single, and around $262.50 for a box of 25, the Al Pastor is a must try for any budget. Especially these days, where cigar prices are getting higher and higher, a toro with this flavor profile and price is definitely worth a try.
The Al Pastor by Rojas is a great addition to the Street Taco Line. Its flavor profile is complex but enjoyable. The cost is low enough that any smoker can enjoy it without worrying about breaking the bank. While the price is good, this cigar could easily go for $12.00. Visit your local lounge or tobacconist, and try one today.
GC Rating: 90
Thanks to the Wooden Indian Tobacco Shop for sponsoring this review of the Rojas Al Pastor. If you'd like to try the Al Pastor, or anything else from the Rojas catalog, visit woodenindiantobacco.com, or click the picture and use the coupon code.
