Binder: Nicaraguan
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Criollo ‘98
Filler: Dominican and Nicaraguan

Length: 6 1/2

Ring Gauge: 44

Everytime I hit my local cigar lounge, I try to sample cigars that I haven’t tried yet. After thinking it over for about 5 minutes I decided to go with a Frank Llaneza 1961. For those not in the know, Frank Llaneza is a legend in the cigar business. He oversaw both Punch and Hoyo de Monterrey brands was a key player and getting Cuban seeds spread throughout Central America. Unfortunately he passed in 2010. To commemorate his first year in the business, Altadis USA made the Frank Llaneza 1961.

The 1961 is really good looking stick. It features a very dark chocolate colored wrapper that is oily and veiny. The cigar is firm from head to toe which is even more important when dealing with a smaller ring gauge. Speaking of when I was smoking it I was sure this was their lancero shape While very simple and straightforward, I think the band is very nice.

The draw was open and I got an ample amount of smoke with each pull. Even better the burn was excellent. With very little use of my torch, I got this 1961 going. The burn line needed a little touch up in the beginning but after that it was good to go. The ash was a stark white and held on strong for the first third.

The Frank Llaneza 1961 had a nice dry flavor of earth that was consistent throughout the entire cigar. Even though there wasn’t any spice upfront, the profile was still balanced enough to keep me very much interested. When I got to the end, all the flavors were amplified.

Long ashes!