CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "AVO Heritage Robusto"

About AVO Heritage

The AVO Heritage cigar is a full-bodied creation designed to honor the legacy of Avo Uvezian, the founder of AVO cigars. This line, introduced in 2010 and later rebranded in 2015, represents a collaboration between Uvezian and Hendrik "Henke" Kelner. It distinguishes itself from other AVO offerings, which are typically milder, by offering a more robust smoking experience. This is achieved through the use of an Ecuadorian Sun Grown wrapper, which is a key component of its flavor profile. The blend includes a unique combination of Dominican Ligero, Seco, and Peruvian longfiller tobaccos, all enveloped by the same Ecuadorian sun-grown wrapper used in the 2009 Compañero. This blend pays tribute not just to Uvezian but also to the farmers, rollers, and blenders who have contributed to AVO's status as a premier, super-premium brand in the industry.

CigarPursuits Review

AVO Heritage Robusto

Appearance & Construction: 13/15

The AVO Heritage revealed a veiny, semi-oily wrapper, exuding a rugged charm. Its construction raised mixed feelings; while a minor crack at the head and an imperfect cap were noticeable, the overall structure was solid with no soft spots. Despite these minor imperfections, the craftsmanship mostly met my expectations.

Aroma: 15/15

Before lighting, the AVO Heritage offered a delightful olfactory experience. The wrapper emitted an enticing blend of dark chocolate and fresh grass notes, hinting at the complexity to come. The cold draw further tantalised the senses with a mix of spices, wood, and leather – a promise of the rich flavors awaiting in the smoke.

Flavors: 30/35

As the journey began, the AVO Heritage presented a strong black pepper presence, paired with a distinct woodiness. This initial spiciness gave way to a more nuanced blend of leather and nutmeg, adding layers to the flavor profile. In its latter stages, the cigar transitioned smoothly into a creamy, with toast and cocoa notes coming to the forefront. This evolution of flavors showcased the cigar's complexity and depth.

Burn & Smoke: 14/15

The AVO Heritage excelled in its smoking characteristics. The burn was remarkably even, creating a firm, white ash. The draw was consistently good, producing a creamy and pleasant smoke. While not overly voluminous, the smoke was satisfying, contributing to a gratifying smoking experience without any issues of uneven burning or maintenance.

Overall Enjoyment: 18/20

My overall enjoyment of the AVO Heritage was notably high. Its medium to full strength and full-bodied nature struck the right balance, catering to my preference for cigars with depth and character. The blend's complexity and the seamless transition of flavors were particularly appealing. While the initial construction issues were a slight drawback, they didn't significantly detract from the experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AVO Heritage stands out as an exceptional cigar, meriting a solid 90 out of 100. Its blend of spicy, woodsy, and creamy flavors, combined with a robust aroma and consistent burn, creates a deeply satisfying smoking experience. Despite minor construction flaws, it impresses with its complexity and balance. I highly recommend the AVO Heritage for its rich, full-bodied character, making it a top choice for both new enthusiasts and seasoned aficionados alike.

Bonus - Perfect Pairing

For an ideal pairing with the AVO Heritage cigar, I recommend the Espresso Martini. This cocktail, a blend of vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup, complements the cigar splendidly. Its rich coffee flavor harmonizes with the earthy and creamy notes of the cigar, while its robust character matches the full-bodied profile of the AVO Heritage. The slight sweetness of the Espresso Martini offers a delightful contrast, enriching the cigar's overall tasting experience.

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