Cigars.ie

Vintage H. Upmann Aromaticos

The H. Upmann Aromaticos were introduced in the cigar market before the 1960’s. For a reason that is unknown, there was two versions of this cigar, with their only difference being their size. With no other way of separating these two cigars, the smaller of the two was known as the Aromatico No.1, and the largest as the Aromatico No.2.

Paul, a friend from the UK, sent me recently a stick of the largest version of the two, known as the Aromatico No.2, a machine made petit corona, measuring 42 x 129. Now, I am not a great fan of machine made cigars, but a well aged stick, in a cellophane that has turned yellow, has to be interesting. The age of this cigar is uncertain, but judging by its cello and the oxidised label, I would agree with Paul and I would say that this cigar is roughly 30 years old.

Appearance & Construction 11 / 15

The wrapper is relatively clean for a machine-made cigar, with some wrinkles and creases, less than you would normally come accross in a machine-made cigar. As expected from a short filler cigar, the draw is on the looser side and the cigar is evenly packed. The wrapper has an interesting fruity aroma that reminds me of ripe, red apples.

Flavour & Body 20 / 25

The cigar shows some power from the very first draw, with bold and toothy flavours. Once the initial kick goes away, the cigar settles down. Sweet herbs, such as tea and camomile can be identified in the first third, with a finish of hot Asian spicies. The flavours change very little until the cigar finishes. The spicy finish disappears, to leave a sweet-vanilla finish. This is a tasty little bugger, and alhough far from being complex, it makes it up with its consistency, pleasant flavours and a medium body.

Draw & Burn 20 / 25

As a short filler cigar, the Aromatico does not really have any problems… The draw is loose all the way through and the burn is even. Don’t expect a thick ash of an inch in length, coz you ain’t getting it! But what you ain’t getting is any trouble with the burn. Once you light it, you can put your lighter away, as this cigar wont go off. The ash is flaky though and will fall apart with the slightest movement.

Overall Experience 30 / 35

Handmade or machine made, any cigar of this age deserves some respect. Ok, it might not be a Magnum 50 or a No.2, but it is a pleasant cigar. It is sweet and mellow, and easy to smoke. The aging of this cigar has definately played a big role on this, as there is no sense of harshness, apart from the initial draw. I have tried a lot of machine made cigars which I have not really enjoyed, but none of which had about 30 years of age. If you come across them, give them a go  - if you can find them that is!

Total 81 / 100