By Gary Korb
When you look at the dark, ebony hue of the Nicaraguan Habano Oscuro wrapper o the 601 "green label" Tronco, you get the feeling you're in for a real whopper of a smoke - and you are. After having smoked the uber-spicy 601 Habano "red" Robusto, and keeping in mind that E/O Brands describes this cigar as its "fullest and strongest of the 601 series," I was prepared for anything. Apart from everything else, its really a beautiful-looking cigar.
Like all 601 cigars, the head was finished with a triple cap, and my sample clipped perfectly. The pre-light taste was not as spicy as expected. Interesting. Once lit, the draw was effortless and spewed forth gobs of thick, creamy earthy-flavored smoke with a burly aroma.
As the cigar began to work its way through the first act, I expected it to be much spicier, but to my delight, it was much more full-flavored, and easier on the palate with a subtle sweetness in the mix. From the midpoint on, the cigar took on much more complexity and strength. Flavors of cedar, nutmeg, black pepper and a hint of caramel rounded out this stealthily heady smoke that made a huge impression on me. After I finished it, I wanted another.
If you like strong, complex, yet incredibly smooth Nicaraguan cigars like the Oliva Serie V Ligero, the 601 Oscuro will float your boat, and then some. Highly recommended, but newbies, be forewarned. This is a cigar tailored for the more experienced palate.
Appearance: 10
Construction: 10
Burn: 9
Draw: 9
Aroma: 8
Flavor: 9
Final Score: 9.1
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