Crux Guild

The Crux Guild’s band is a sharp, burnt orange that creates a modern look, devoid of the old-world flourishes usually found on a cigar box. The wrapper is a reddish-brown Habano leaf from Ecuador. It is dry and has the texture of a paper bag. This cigar is the result of Jeff Haugen and Joel Rogers getting access to the Plasencia family’s tobacco inventory in Estelí. They chose a leaf that has been aging for four years.

The first puff is a sharp hit of white pepper. It is accompanied by a citrus zest that feels bright on the tongue. It is not a heavy start. It is an alert. The smoke is thin and blue. It carries a scent of aged cedar and leather. As the burn moves past the first inch, a bready flavor emerges. It tastes like toasted rye.

There is a sweetness here that keeps the wood from becoming too dry. It is a faint honey note. It stays in the background while the cedar and roasted nuts do the work. The strength is a steady medium-plus. It is a linear progression. It does not have the complex shifts of a more expensive blend. It is predictable. It is a reliable companion for any casual pastime.

The burn line is often wavy. It is a known quirk of this Habano wrapper. It does not always stay straight. You might have to use a lighter to correct it. It is a minor flaw in an otherwise solid construction. The finish is charred oak and bitter cocoa. It ends with a return of the black pepper. It is an honest piece of work for a reasonable price.

Size: Toro (6 x 50)
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium+