ARGANESE ML3 ROBUSTO

In an East-Meets-West review, Matt and Jason provide critical insight on the new ML3's from Arganese Cigars.

As benefactors of the test run for the Arganese Cigar Experience, we both enjoyed prototypes of this cigar almost a year ago in the D.R.

It's interesting to see how a product evolves over time and goes through the development process from concept to "on the shelves."

Jay and I thought this could be special back then. What do we think now?

Doormatt - What stikes me first and foremost about the cigar is the appearance - this greenish black wrapper with the reddish brown filler and binders make this cigar look like a a spicy tuna/seaweed roll. Rock solid and really oily, the cigar has one dominating trait - leather. Its like smoking a Coach bag.

Sherpa - Having heard about this smoke for sometime, and having seen it during an experimental phase at the Arganese rolling factory in Tamboril, Dominican Republic, I finally made the time to dissect Gene Arganese's latest creation. A visually handsome smoke, the triple maduro wrapper is dark as night and creates a superb contrast to the ligero filler on the end. With a slick appearance and dark cherry wood aroma, at first sight, this cigar sends the smokers senses wild with possibilities.


Doormatt - Upon ignition, the greenish black hue gave way to a chocolate brown coloring. And after the smoke, there was a substantial residue on my fingers.

Sherpa- Before smoking I puffed the cigar to taste the raw tobacco and experience the draw. The compact construction yielded and excellent draw with that classic tobacco flavor on the palette and lips. Once I started smoking, the cigar was forward and robust on the front palette. As I puffed and drew an ash this smoke mellowed and revealed subtle dark cocca flavors on the back palette.

Doormatt - I sat on my deck and practically ate the cigar. I get the same flavor notes as Jason, but again the prevailing taste on my palette is leather. Draws easily, has a heavy smoke concentration. When I exhale from my nose I pick up some pepper, but again its mostly leather. Really firm ashes and it burns slowly, you can really take your time and enjoy this cigar.

Sherpa - I smoke this cigar to the band while walking with my two terriers around Johnson lake near Columbine High School. The cigar held a firm dark ash and overall was a pleasure to smoke.

Doormatt - The progression of the Arganese line is exciting. I smoked a total of 4 of these and each was consistantly great. No suprises. Mr. Arganese intends for this cigar to retail at around $5.75 to $6.50. Value. Being in the Northeast, I would probably pay on the higher end for these. In today's market, at least up here, a buyer may look at that price point and think its not of signifcant quality. I think they will be pleasantly surprised.

Sherpa - Having had the chance to smoke many of Mr. Arganese's cigars, in fields, from the rolling table, from the aging room, next to the pool in downtown Santiago, I have to say, by far his best creation yet.

Doormatt - My concerns are plainly asthetic as I look at the band. I know it is a temporary band, but I am huge stickler for brand identity and consistency. I know Jason is as well. The cigar band is the icing on the cake, the ribbon atop the gift. But it can't get left to chance. I had my druthers with the Uno labeling and packaging and think that it could be the only detriment to Mr. Arganese's line of cigars.

But the product is wonderful from first puff to last. I rank it a 91.