This week we are photographing and smoking the Viaje Exclusivo in corona gorda format by Andre Farkas of Viaje. This specific vitola is not available for regular sale / distribution but it is available, fortunately, at Viaje events. Some have reported that Viaje Exclusivo CG was only available as a giveaway from Andre himself however at the latest Viaje event at the Cigar Republic (NY) store – a retail face of the Atlantic Cigar Company, I was able to purchase an entire bundle. The cost of the bundle – $220 / 25. Andre Farkas has confirmed that Viaje Exclusivo CG is available for sale at every Viaje event he attends. It is my understanding that the following Viaje cigars are available in the Exclusivo line:
Exclusivo Lancero – Atlantic Cigar Co 15th Anniversary (exclusive)
Exclusivo Robusto box-pressed – Tower Cigars 45th Anniversary (exclusive)
Exclusive Double Perfecto Double Edged Sword
Exclusivo Corona Gorda
Exclusivo Robusto
Exclusivo Shorts
Exclusivo Chiquito
Construction of the Viaje Exclusivo CG was visually pleasing with minimal veins and very tight seams. There is something about that ‘fancy’ finish and today’s cigar, like few other within that line, was sporting well applied pig-tail. The cigar had no soft spots and foot gave the impression of well bunched tobacco. After cutting and lighting, good draw with decent amount of smoke. In flavor department, blast of spice and blast of savory, rich earthiness. Similarly to Exclusivo Shorts, I was able to extract woody / leathery notes in the background. Definitely a noticeable increase in strength when compared to recently smoked Exclusivo Shorts or Exclusivo Tower 45th. As for as the burn and ash, pretty satisfactory experience, as depicted below.
I have put down 3 samples for this photo / review entry and although above comments are overall positive, I did wanted to mention the fact that the first sample had some not so favorable qualities. Not only did I experience that ‘alligator’ looking finish with the ash (similar to Exclusivo Shorts), the middle 2″ or so had a noticeable tunnel which negatively impacted the flavor department. Fortunately, the other two samples had no construction / burn hiccups. If you find the flavor profile up your alley and / or you are a Viaje Exclusivo fan, this is definitely a vitola to seek out. Considering how Viaje cigars are priced and what I have paid for the bundle, Exclusivo Corona Gorda is a no brainer.
Country of Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Criollo
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan
Length: 5 5/8 ”
Ring: 46
Construction > Good
Burn > Good
Enjoy > Yes
Recommend > Yes
Buy > Yes
Please consider the following post:
* Viaje Exclusivo Shorts
- click on photographs (slideshow / EXIF)-
#1 by AJ on January 11, 2012 - 1:24 pm
Excellent cigar! Although I think this should be regular production around $7./stick. Then it would be in my daily rotation!
#2 by admin on January 21, 2012 - 9:20 pm
Good point, AJ !
Wouldn’t mind paying less and adding to frequent rotation.
#3 by czerbe on January 11, 2012 - 1:49 pm
Jay great shots, Viajes are not sold in this area as I have been looking, I had the Holiday blend of 2010 but was less then impressed, I have heard great things about this line and would love to grab them if possible.
#4 by admin on January 21, 2012 - 9:20 pm
Corey,
Exclusivo is my favorite Viaje line. Seek them out online :)
#5 by OchoZacho on January 20, 2012 - 12:31 am
First of all I have to say that your photos have inspired me to start dabbling with taking pics of my cigars. My wife does photography for all kinds of events, mostly weddings, and she is AMAZED at your work. I appreciate the short reviews in addition also. Would love to try some Viaje stuff, my only experience has been with the Stuffed Turkey.
#6 by admin on January 21, 2012 - 9:25 pm
Thank You for your feedback ! Much appreciated.
Glad you, and especially your wife – fellow photographer, can appreciate my art. Means a lot ! Would love to see her work as well. Post a link here or send me an email at jay@cigarphoto.net.
Enjoy !
#7 by Matt on January 20, 2012 - 9:15 pm
So I was just going through my humidor and found this stick tucked under some other stuff. I wanted to smoke it but forgot. Now looking at the cigar the wrapper looks like it rubbed up against the drawer and now is ruined. At least I got to read a review on it since I didn’t get to try. Thanks for the wonderful pictures and review you do.
#8 by admin on January 21, 2012 - 9:26 pm
Thanks, Matt !
Nothing is stopping you from smoking that damage cigar ! Go for it ;)