CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "La Libertad Robusto"
La Libertad Robusto - Cigar Review
About La Libertad
The La Libertad is a cigar that hails from the esteemed portfolio of Villiger Cigars, a company with a rich history dating back to 1888 in Switzerland. La Libertad, which means "Freedom" in Spanish, reflects the brand's dedication to crafting cigars that embody the spirit of independence and quality. The cigar is known for its robust flavor profile and exceptional craftsmanship.
The La Libertad by Villiger Cigars has undergone some significant changes in recent years. Originally produced in the Dominican Republic, the production of La Libertad has now moved to Villiger's own factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. This shift was accompanied by a rebranding of the line, although the blend remains largely unchanged.
The La Libertad now features a Criollo wrapper from Jalapa, Nicaragua, and a binder from the Cibao Valley, Dominican Republic. The filler tobaccos are a mix of Seco Jalapa, Viso Esteli, and Ligero Esteli, which contribute to the cigar's medium to full-bodied profile.
La Libertad Robusto
CigarPursuits Review
La Libertad Robusto
Appearance & Construction: 15/15
The La Libertad Robusto showcases a well-crafted Criollo wrapper that is semi-oily, with a few pronounced vein trails adding character to its appearance. The cigar is firmly rolled, ensuring a solid construction that feels consistent throughout its length. The cap is well-applied, indicating careful attention to detail in its craftsmanship.
Aroma: 14/15
Before lighting, the La Libertad Robusto offers an intriguing aromatic profile. The wrapper exudes the scent of dried fruit, which adds a rich and somewhat sweet note to the pre-light experience. The cold draw, meanwhile, is spicy, hinting at the complexity and intensity of flavors that the cigar will deliver once lit.
Flavors: 29/35
Upon lighting the La Libertad Robusto, the cigar opens with a robust blend of oak and pepper, offering an immediate hit of woody and spicy notes that engage the palate. As the smoke develops, flavors of vanilla and plum emerge, providing a subtle sweetness that contrasts nicely with the initial spice. These flavors play off each other throughout the smoke, with hints of leather weaving in and out, adding complexity and depth to the profile.
The finish of the cigar is both spicy and sweet, leaving a lingering impression that is both satisfying and memorable.
Burn & Smoke: 14/15
The La Libertad Robusto performs admirably in terms of its burn and smoke production. The burn is consistently even throughout the entire smoking experience, which is a testament to the quality construction of the cigar. The ash is firm and a bright white, holding well and contributing to the overall inviting nature of the smoke.
While the draw started out a bit tight, it gradually opened up, allowing for a more comfortable and satisfying smoking experience as the cigar progressed.
Overall Enjoyment: 18/20
I found this smoke to be thoroughly enjoyable, striking a good balance with its medium body and well-rounded flavor profile. With its excellent construction, intriguing aromas, and dynamic flavors, the La Libertad Robusto is a cigar you can confidently recommend. It's a smoke that leaves you eager to try more from Villiger’s lineup.
Conclusion
The La Libertad Robusto earns a solid 90 out of 100, showcasing the high quality and craftsmanship that Villiger is known for. Its rich, balanced flavors and consistent performance make it a must-try for any cigar enthusiast. And with another Villiger cigar waiting in my humidor, the excitement for the next smoke is already building.
Score: 90/100
Bonus - Perfect Pairing
To complement the rich and complex flavors of the La Libertad Robusto, consider pairing it with a glass of aged rum or a bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes. The sweetness and depth of these spirits will harmonize beautifully with the cigar's oak, pepper, and dried fruit flavors, enhancing the overall experience. For a non-alcoholic option, a strong, dark coffee or an espresso would also pair nicely, accentuating the cigar's earthy and spicy undertones.
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