40-Minute Pepin: Cuban Classic 1979

The Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic 1979 (robusto) is an oddly fast-burning but fine tasting specimen. Upon lighting, I noticed that nearly a half-inch had already burned away. My fear was that this was going to be a hot, bitter cigar.

That fear was unwarranted. Much like mid-priced Padrons, this cigar draws loose and fast but remains acceptably cool. The flavor is peppery and spicy, but not pointedly so. On the whole, a medium bodied, flavor-rich experience.

I was done with this feather-weight stick in 40 minutes. The final inch was too hot to smoke, but every puff to that point had been satisfying. A brief, shining moment, not unlike the Kennedy presidency. Rather on the expensive side, I must say, but the construction and flavor justify it. Think of this cigar as a self-indulgent treat, and you won't be disappointed in how you've spent your hard-earned cash.