Smoke Inn Blog
The Gurkha 35th Anniversary cigar commemorates the brand’s long-standing presence in the premium cigar industry. Presented in a luxurious, limited-edition humidor containing three vitolas (shapes), this cigar promises a unique smoking experience. Let’s delve into the details and see if it lives up to the hype.
Construction and Presentation (9/10):
The Gurkha 35th Anniversary boasts a beautiful, oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. Its rich, reddish-brown hue is visually appealing, and the wrapper feels smooth to the touch with minimal veins. The Indonesian binder and Nicaraguan Criollo 98 Estelí fillers, expertly crafted by Tabacalera El Artista in the Dominican Republic, promise a complex and flavorful smoke.
Pre-Light Draw (8/10):
The cold draw reveals hints of spice and cedar, a common characteristic of Nicaraguan fillers. The cigar feels firm yet slightly spongy, indicating a proper pack.
First Light and Initial Puffs (8/10):
The Gurkha 35th Anniversary ignites easily, producing a plume of white smoke with a pleasant aroma of earth and cocoa. The initial puffs deliver a medium-bodied profile with a peppery kick on the retrohale (the aftertaste that travels through the nasal cavity).
Flavor Profile (8.5/10):
This is where the Gurkha 35th Anniversary truly shines. The peppery notes from the first puff evolve into a smooth and creamy cocoa flavor, complemented by subtle hints of leather and cedar. As the cigar progresses, the cocoa mellows, giving way to touches of coffee and baking spices. The overall experience is balanced and nuanced, offering a complexity that keeps the smoker engaged throughout the smoking session.
Burn and Smoke Production (8/10):
The Gurkha 35th Anniversary burns evenly with a consistent ash that holds firm for extended periods. The smoke production is plentiful, yet smooth and pleasant on the palate.
Strength and Body (8/10):
This cigar falls into the medium-bodied category. While the initial peppery notes might suggest a stronger smoke, the overall experience settles into a comfortable and enjoyable medium.
Value (7/10):
The Gurkha 35th Anniversary is a premium cigar with a price tag to match. The limited-edition humidor adds to the cost. For casual smokers, the price point might be a deterrent. However, for aficionados seeking a commemorative experience and a complex smoking profile, the value proposition becomes more compelling.
Overall Impression (8.5/10):
The Gurkha 35th Anniversary is a well-constructed and flavorful cigar that celebrates the brand’s heritage. The medium-bodied profile with its nuanced flavors of cocoa, leather, and spice is a delightful journey for the palate. While the price tag might be on the steeper side, the limited-edition humidor and the overall smoking experience hold value for dedicated cigar enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts:
The Gurkha 35th Anniversary is a worthy addition to any humidor, especially for those who appreciate complex and flavorful medium-bodied smokes. If you’re a Gurkha aficionado or simply looking for a special occasion cigar, this limited-edition release is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to invest a bit more for the experience.
