Smoke Inn Blog
The Espinosa Sumatra: A Nutty Delight with a Spicy Edge
The Espinosa Sumatra, a recent addition to Erik Espinosa’s ever-expanding portfolio, carves out a unique space for itself. This Nicaraguan masterpiece boasts an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a first for Espinosa’s La Zona factory. This review delves into the construction, burn, flavor profile, and overall experience of the Espinosa Sumatra.
Construction and Appearance:
The Espinosa Sumatra is a well-constructed cigar. The Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper boasts a light golden brown hue with a slight sheen. The veins are minimal, and the cigar feels firm to the touch without being overly packed.
Pre-light Draw:
The cold draw reveals hints of cedar, nuts, and a touch of spice. The draw itself is slightly open, suggesting a good burn and ample smoke production.
First Light and Smoke:
The Espinosa Sumatra lights easily and settles into a smooth, even burn. The initial puffs deliver a wave of sweetness, reminiscent of brown sugar, followed by a gentle nuttiness and a subtle peppery spice. The smoke is medium-bodied and creamy, coating the palate without overwhelming it.
Flavor Profile:
As the cigar progresses, the flavor profile evolves and becomes more nuanced. The sweetness remains present, but takes on a more earthy character with hints of cedar and leather. The nuttiness intensifies, offering notes of cashew and hazelnut. The peppery spice lingers on the retrohale, adding a pleasant complexity to the smoke.
Burn and Ash:
The Espinosa Sumatra boasts an excellent burn throughout. The burn line remains straight, requiring minimal touch-ups. The ash is a light gray and holds firm for extended periods.
Aroma:
The aroma of the Espinosa Sumatra is pleasant and inviting. It exudes notes of cedar, nuts, and baking spices, with a touch of sweetness that complements the overall profile.
Overall Experience:
The Espinosa Sumatra is a medium-bodied cigar with a rich and complex flavor profile. It offers a delightful interplay of sweetness, nuttiness, and spice, keeping the palate engaged throughout the smoking experience. The construction is top-notch, ensuring a smooth burn and ample smoke production.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Espinosa Sumatra:
- Strength: Medium
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
- Binder and Filler: Nicaraguan
- Flavor Profile: Sweetness (brown sugar, cedar), earth, nuts (nutmeg), spice (red pepper flakes, ginger)
- Body: Medium
- Burn: Consistent and clean
- Overall: A flavorful and balanced smoke with a unique sweet and spicy profile.
Who would enjoy this cigar?
- Smokers who appreciate Nicaraguan cigars with a medium body.
- Fans of Sumatra wrappers who enjoy a touch of sweetness.
- Smokers who prefer a complex and flavorful smoke.
Final Thoughts:
The Espinosa Sumatra is a worthy addition to any humidor. It caters to a range of palates, particularly those who enjoy a balanced and flavorful smoke. With its approachable medium-body and engaging complexity, the Espinosa Sumatra is a cigar that can be enjoyed by both novice and experienced smokers alike.
Click Here for Espinosa Sumatra at Smoke Inn
