Sancho Panza Valientes Cigar (Ex. Suiza 2017) Review
- Brand: Sancho Panza
- Length: 130 mm
- Ring: 55
- Score: 4/5
Product Introduction
The Sancho Panza Valientes is a Cuban cigar with a Montesco vitola, measuring 130mm by a 55-ring gauge. It offers a full-bodied smoke. The brand, named after a character in Miguel Cervantes' Don Quixote, first appeared on a cigar in 1848 and develops intense medium-strength cigars with high ageing potential.
Regional Edition
Since 2005, Habanos S.A. introduced the Regional Edition Series. The Swiss distributor, Intertabak, worked with Habanos to create this exclusive cigar for the Swiss market. The Montesco format, trendy but not part of the official Sancho Panza selection, was used. A minimum order of 60,000 sticks is required for this concept.
Tasting Notes
- One third: Round and smooth texture, with fresh notes of liquorice and mint. Light to medium strength, low acidity, and a touch of sweetness on the lips.
- Two thirds: Increased sweetness with sugar cane notes like creme brûlée's caramel crust. More intense, medium to full strength, with vegetal, aromatic, and slight salty notes.
- Three thirds: Strength decreases. Woody flavor with a long finish, likely due to the blend still needing time to meld.
Appearance and Construction
The cigar has a double red and grey band (though the samples didn't have the final dress). The wrapper is a beautiful colorado claro, soft, with few veins. The construction is excellent, with proper tobacco packing, a smooth draw with the right resistance, and an even burn with a solid grey ash.
Value
Expected to cost CHF25- in Switzerland, it may seem pricey compared to some. But if the production is as good as the samples, it could be a success for the Swiss distributor.