(Note: This review originally appeared on CigarJack.)
 |
Brand: Fittipaldi
Line: Gold
Vitola: Toro 6 x 50
Origin: Dominican
Wrapper: Connecticut
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Body: Medium
Strength: Medium
Box Price: $151.69 (Box of 25)
I happened to be doing a search recently for small, independent cigar brands, when I ran into this one. I had never heard of Fittipaldi Cigars before, but I figured I’d give it a try.
Since they’re named for Emerson Fittipaldi, one of the top Formula One drivers of the 20th century, it was no surprise to learn these cigars are mainly sold in Europe. (He was F-1 world champion twice in the 1970s, and he even won the Indianapolis 500 twice during the 90s.) In 1997, after his career was over, Fittipaldi, a longtime cigar smoker, teamed up with cigar maker Augusto Reyes, who would oversee Fittipaldi’s stogie production. (Thanks to Josh at Arango Cigar Co. in nearby Northbrook, Ill., for sending me this one; Arango oversees Fittipaldi distribution in the U.S.)
The Fittipaldi Gold a handsome cigar; it’s not toothy, and it has a good-looking band that features dual checkered flags. Pre-light, I noticed the Gold was a complex cigar, as it was chocolaty, with hints of cinnamon. I know I’d be in for a wild ride.
Once I lit up, I noticed the cinnamon went away. The chocolate stayed, and it was joined by hints of leather and coffee. I was quite pleased by the cigar’s complexity.
The Fittipaldi Gold had an awesome draw, feel and burn, but I noticed the ash kept falling off after about an inch and a half or so. Perhaps this isn’t a big deal to you, but I’m an ash-hole; I like to see how big my butt can get. This, I can honestly say, was the only disappointing part of the cigar.
Verdict: Complex, complex smoke. Tasty, and good. It’s a bit hard to find in the states, but it’s worth digging around for a couple.
Similar cigars: The Connecticut/Dominican version of a Carlos Torano Exodus 1959. (I just love those Chocolate flavors!)