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In the world of cigars, sometimes the most unassuming sticks can surprise us. Today, we’re diving deep into the Quorum Shade Robusto, a budget-friendly offering that proves the old adage: never judge a book by its cover – or in this case, a cigar by its price tag.
The Basics: Before we delve into the smoking experience, let’s break down the essentials:
- Shape: Robusto
- Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut
- Origin: Nicaragua
- Binder: Sumatra
- Filler: Nicaraguan
First Impressions: At first glance, the Quorum Shade Robusto doesn’t scream luxury. It’s a no-frills cigar that seems to promise a straightforward smoking experience. But as we’ll soon discover, appearances can be deceiving.
The Journey Begins: A Test of Patience
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As I lit up the Quorum Shade Robusto, I was immediately struck by a peculiar contradiction – the aroma was significantly more appealing than the initial taste. This discrepancy set the tone for what would be an intriguing, if somewhat challenging, smoking experience.
Balance (78/100 – Average to Good): The first two-thirds of this cigar presented a dominating vegetal, tannin-like profile that overshadowed other flavors. While occasional hints of more delightful notes peeked through, the overall balance left something to be desired. It felt like watching a movie where the supporting actors steal the show from the lead.
Complexity (90/100 – Great): Despite its balance issues, the Quorum Shade Robusto offers an impressive array of flavors. The profile includes:
- Unsteeped black tea
- Wine-like tannins
- Vegetal sweetness
- Earthy notes reminiscent of freshly turned garden soil
- Youthful characteristics, including borderline ammonia notes
- Raw almonds
Construction and Draw (80/100 and 78/100 respectively – Good to Average): The cigar’s construction showed resilience, recovering decently from an improper lighting, though it ultimately required manual correction. It burned slowly and evenly after the correction, with burn patterns suggesting the presence of ligero tobacco in the center.
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The draw, however, was a different story. Starting off well, it became inconsistent around the midpoint, tightening noticeably. This variability detracted from the overall experience, requiring more effort than one would like for a leisurely smoke.
Finish (78/100 – Average to Good): For most of the cigar, the finish was a letdown. A dry, astringent feeling, often described as “cigar mouth,” lingered unpleasantly. This long-lasting effect was not enjoyable and seemed to overshadow the more subtle flavor notes.
The Plot Twist: A Third Act Revelation
Development (88/100 – Good to Great): Just when I thought I had this cigar figured out, it threw a curveball. The final third of the Quorum Shade Robusto was nothing short of a revelation. All the great flavors that had been merely hinting at their presence in the first two-thirds burst onto the scene in full force. It was as if the cigar had been holding back, saving its best for last.
The flavor profile in this final act included:
- Dark Mexican Vanilla
- Savory sweetness
- Heartwarming toffee
- Smoked meat
- Rich wood notes
This dramatic shift elevated the entire smoking experience, showcasing the blend’s true potential and leaving me with a newfound appreciation for the cigar.
Value Proposition: While the Quorum Shade Robusto may not be a top-shelf choice, it offers decent value for its price point. The journey through the first two-thirds might be challenging for some, but patient smokers will be rewarded with an impressive finale.
Conclusion: The Quorum Shade Robusto is a cigar of contrasts. It struggles with balance and consistency for much of the smoke but redeems itself with a complex flavor profile and an outstanding final third. This cigar teaches us the value of patience in the world of tobacco enjoyment.
Is it worth trying? If you’re a budget-conscious smoker looking for an interesting experience, absolutely. The Quorum Shade Robusto offers an affordable way to explore a range of flavors and train your palate. Just remember – the best is saved for last.
Final Rating: 82/100 (Good)
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While it may not be for everyone, the Quorum Shade Robusto proves that sometimes, in the world of cigars, perseverance pays off. It’s a reminder that every smoke is a journey, and sometimes the destination is worth the wait.