New Yorkers have a lot to be proud of. Having grown up in the Big Apple, I can understand why it’s considered to be the greatest city in the world. With its storied past, historic monuments, and proud population, New York breeds a certain “state of mind”. And now New Yorkers have something else to call their own, a cigar made exclusively for the New York market. This new Alec Bradley cigar is simply named New York, and its big flavor and bold character reflects much of what its namesake is all about.
I sampled two robusto New Yorks over as many days and before I go into the details I must first say that I loved smoking these cigars. With rich complexity, deep flavors, and just a hint of spice, these medium strength cigars left me hungry for more. Since the introduction of the Maxx line, Alec Bradley Cigars has been riding a string of great successes with each new cigar line surpassing its predecessor. And those who enjoy the Prensado and Tempus should appreciate the New York. With a similar sensibility albeit slightly less power, this new cigar takes the evolution one step further by giving medium to full bodied cigar smokers an even more refined smoking experience. With its smooth texture and gentle build in intensity, the New York is a class act. Like a beautiful woman dressed to go out on the town, this cigar seduces you with all its attributes.
In appearance, the New York looks like many other Honduran cigars. With a somewhat mottled wrapper and crude triple cap, its looks belie this cigar’s inner beauty. But upon lighting, you quickly fall under its spell. Starting with a slight tingle on the tongue, the flavors gradually open up into a bouquet of flavors with tones of a fine cabernet and rich tobacco. Without a hint of dryness on the palate, this cigar would be a great compliment to a fine steak or rich rack of lamb.
For me, the city of New York has many fond memories of great restaurants and long walks after dinner. Perhaps it is the power of suggestion, but the cigar named after this great town brings back many of its culinary adventures. The New York has a refinement and complexity that is synonymous with the city that never sleeps, and its name is a fitting tribute to a great city and a fine cigar.
Update: BestCigarPrices.com now carries the entire line of New York cigars.
Brand: New York
Vitola: Robusto 52 x 5.25 (looks more like a 50 x 5.25)
Wrapper: Honduran Habano (Trojes)
Release date: First quarter of 2011
Manufacturer: Alec Bradley Cigars
Strength: Medium
Price: $11 – $12.75 (price includes all New York taxes)
I read some where that this cigar was also made with a lower price point in mind for the high New York cigar taxes. is that so?
I don’t know how the pricing was determined but I was told by a retailer that with the NY taxes being what they are, the pre-tax price would be in the $7/stick range. I haven’t crunched any numbers myself but that sounds about right.