Counterfeit Cubans

I've collected some pictures of cigars and cigar bands and have been doing a lot of research regarding counterfeit Cuban cigars. There are a few web sites with some good reference material, but some of it seems to be dated. I hope to write an article, incorporating my pictures, to help people regarding purchasing legitimate cigars. There are a lot of bogus Cuban cigars around and no one should have to smoke them!!

Hoyo De Monterrey Double Corona

I had the chance to smoke a Hoyo De Monterrey Double Corona the other day. It came from a box of 25, and is a 49 x 7 5/8 sized cigar. It was a beautiful looking cigar, with a lighter brown, silky wrapper. It light perfectly, and burned nicely as well, developing a long, even ash. The aroma smelled faintly of gingerbread and had floral undertones. The taste was similar, including a slightly woodsy taste after the first half.

It was a good hour and a half smoke, a great way to pass a lazy winter afternoon. It was a well balanced, mild to medium bodied cigar I would definitely like to try more of these!

La Gloria Cubana

I have been smoking a lot of La Gloria Cubana cigars, the ones rolled in Miami and the Dominica Republic. They are fantastic cigars. Medium to full bodied, with a full tobacco taste. The line of cigars is excellent, with a number of sizes to choose from. All are well constructed, and I have never had one that did not burn properly or taste fantastic. If you get a chance you need to try a few, especially since the price is usually right. I recommend the Wavell (a robusto) for a good afternoon smoke. Enjoy!