Edición Regional Benelux – Don Juan 2014
Introduction
The Don Juan 2014, an Edición Regional release for the Benelux region, is another fine example of how Juan Lopez cigars tend to age like fine wine. With a decade of maturation, this Cuban cigar showcases depth, balance, and a well-rounded profile.
Appearance & Pre-Light
The wrapper is a darker brown with an oily sheen, a classic Cuban look that promises rich flavors. The pre-light aroma gives off hints of leather, almonds, and a subtle sweetness, setting the stage for an intriguing experience.
First Third
Right from the start, the cigar leans heavily into almond flavors. Think of an Almond Joy, but without the excessive sweetness—more like something you’d find at Whole Foods, a healthier, more natural version of the classic treat. The nuttiness is pure and clean, with a smooth, creamy texture that lingers beautifully on the palate.
Second Third
The almond note remains strong, but now it’s joined by a hint of earthiness and espresso, complemented by a touch of cream. The flavors meld together seamlessly, creating a balanced and refined experience. The darker, oilier wrapper starts to show its presence more, introducing some leather undertones that add complexity to the cigar.
Final Third
As the cigar enters its final third, the flavors become more mellow, rounding out into a smooth, creamy mix of almonds, earth, and leather. The espresso note fades slightly, leaving behind a subtle sweetness and a lingering nuttiness. The overall experience is refined and easygoing, making for a satisfying finish without any harshness.
Final Thoughts & Rating
This cigar is aged beautifully but still has the potential to develop even further. Juan Lopez cigars tend to improve with time, and this one is no exception. The balance of almond, espresso, and leather makes it a refined and enjoyable smoke that we can only imagine getting even better with more years of aging.
Smoke Time: 1 hour 40 mins
Final Score: 89 If you know us, you know that an 89 is a really good rating. This is a fantastic stick, and we’re excited to see what time will continue to do for this cigar.
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