While at IPCPR, one cigar that was getting a lot of buzz was the new Pier 28 from Espinosa Cigars. I first heard about the cigar from my friend, Mark Just of Tower Cigars in Sacramento, CA. He gave me a sample of it while we were having lunch at IPCPR. He said he really loved the cigar and, knowing my flavor profile I enjoy in cigars, thought I would love it. That being said, I decided to hold on to it so I could do a review of it when I returned home. These cigars are the baby of the West Coast sales manager for Espinosa Cigars, Tim Wong and are only available in western states. I couldn’t find much information about these cigars, but I did find this information from our friend, William Cooper’s site, Cigar Coop, about the cigar:
The Pier 28 line is a regional offering to Espinosa Cigars West Coast Area Manager Tim Wong’s territory. This consists of five states: California, Arizona, Washington, Oregon, and New Mexico. It is also being offered to Espinosa Cigar lounges.
Cigar Specifications:
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Cafe
- Binder: Nicaraguan
- Filler: Nicaraguan and Dominican
- Size: 5 x 52
Construction
The cigar has a really nice mocha brown wrapper that is velvety smooth. The draw is spot on with that “milkshake” draw that I love. The flavors on the pre-light draw is nutty and leathery.
First Half
The cigar starts off with notes of almond, leather, dried fruits and a sweet creamy note that reminds me of marzipan. It’s a very tasty cigar. I do get a pepper note, but only on the retrohale. I was expecting a touch of it, at least, without retrohaling it as it’s kind of a tale tell sign of Nicaraguan tobacco. So far, off to a great start.
Last Half
The cigar developed more bitterness, but it’s not overwhelming. I still get the almond and leather notes, but now I’m now getting some cedar notes as well. I don’t get the creamy marzipan any more at all. Its smoking quite well with no touch ups at all.
Conclusion
The cigar was very tasty. Mark described it as a cross between Illusione Eperney and a Tatuaje Brown label. I have to say that’s pretty close. I really did enjoy the flavors. I would love to get my hands on more of these and age some. If you are in the western part of the US, check these out because this is a top notch cigar.
