One of the nice things about living in Costa Rica is that it has developed a cigar culture that did not exist before. Not only do we have access to the most Cuban cigars, but also there are a variety of cigar factories and brands produced right here in Costa Rica.
Some are better than others- but there are really 4 categories in my opinion; Bad, Smokable, Good, and Great. Unfortunately most of the cigars are in the first two categories, and only one is in the last (that I have found); however it is always a pleasure to find another good cigar.
Habanos Hernandez is defiantly one of these good cigars.
I received an email from a nice couple here in Costa Rica that have been working on the development of their cigar brand, and they asked me to give it a try. As things are here in Costa Rica, in the end we knew several people in common, and I gladly looked forward to trying their cigars.
The presentation that I saw was crisp with that simple elegance I prefer.
All of the cigars has a similar construction and blend, however for the sake of the review I used the Extra Robusto.
The cigar was lightly rolled, but was not missing material. It's wrapper was light and delicate with an attractive shine.
The cigar was a smooth cigar with an easy draw. I expected it to be a little stronger for it's ring gauge (52), however it was not that it lacked strength, rather it was just a lighter smoke; easy on the throat and lungs...
It has a light aroma and a natural flavor. The nut, wood and spice characteristics came through from the first puff and carried through until the end. I am happy to report there was none of that damp-earthy flavor that I despise.
The burn was even and consistent, and I did not have to relight it.
Habanos Hernandez is one of the cigars that exceeds the run-of-the-mill reputation that has defined many of Costa Rica's other cigars.
Their website is growing so check back often. For more information visit them at:
www.habanoshernandez.com
Habanos Hernandez (Extra Robusto)
Overall Score: 90/100
Flavor: 85/100
Construction: 90/100
Presentation: 95/100
TC-Keith