The Toscano Master Aged 2 is a hand-rolled cigar hailing from Tuscany, Italy. It is a unique cigar, in that it is made entirely of Italian tobacco, including the wrapper, binder, and filler. The cigar is named after the fact that the tobacco used to make it has been aged for two years, giving it a smooth and refined flavor profile.
Upon first glance, the Toscano Master Aged 2 is an impressive cigar. It is a dark, rustic-looking smoke, with a rough, toothy wrapper that hints at its handmade origins. The cigar has a solid feel in the hand, and is expertly rolled, with no visible flaws or soft spots. The pre-light aroma is rich and earthy, with notes of leather, cedar, and a subtle sweetness.
After cutting the cigar and lighting it up, I was immediately struck by the complexity of the flavor profile. The initial puff was full of bold, spicy notes, with a strong pepper flavor that lingered on the palate. As I continued to smoke, however, the pepper mellowed out, giving way to a more subtle, nuanced flavor profile.
The middle third of the cigar was where the Toscano Master Aged 2 really shone, in my opinion. The pepper notes had subsided, and were replaced by a rich, nutty flavor, with hints of espresso and dark chocolate. There was also a subtle sweetness that lingered on the palate, adding depth and complexity to the smoke.
The final third of the cigar was a bit more one-dimensional, in my opinion. The nutty flavors were still present, but the sweetness had faded, leaving a slightly bitter aftertaste. There was also a noticeable increase in strength, as the cigar became more full-bodied towards the end. Overall, however, the flavor profile remained consistent and enjoyable throughout the smoke.
One thing that impressed me about the Toscano Master Aged 2 was its construction. Despite its rustic appearance, the cigar burned evenly and cleanly, with no need for touch-ups or relights. The ash held firm and white, and the draw was smooth and effortless. The smoke output was also impressive, with thick clouds of smoke filling the room with each puff.
In terms of strength, the Toscano Master Aged 2 is a medium-bodied cigar, with enough complexity to satisfy experienced smokers, but not so overpowering as to be off-putting to novices. The cigar is also fairly affordable, making it a great option for those looking for a high-quality smoke without breaking the bank.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Toscano Master Aged 2 to anyone looking for a unique, flavorful smoke with a smooth and refined flavor profile. While it may not be the most complex cigar on the market, it is certainly one of the most enjoyable, and a testament to the quality of Italian tobacco.