Seems that a cigar's character doesn't shine through until after at least the first 1/3 is ashed. I was gifted a Griffins robusto, smoked it after breakfast this morning. I'm not a big fan of mild smokes. It had a straightforward taste (not much) but after about 20 min a pretty decent leather/nutty profile came through and I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. I experience the same with my favorites (anything CAO, Perdomo, Torano). I really enjoy them after the flavors start changing and look forward to that.

Is there a reason why the flavor changes (is it blended to do that, or does the smoke passing through the leaf affect it)? Sometimes it's subtle, other times it's pretty dramatic. Any thoughts? What cigars in your experience change considerably as they are smoked?

Thanks,

John

Different parts of the leaf have different characteristics. For example, the tips and veins have more nicotine. Different leaf varieties will display these differences to a lesser or greater degree. A very good cigar will be rolled with the leaves oriented to take advantage of these characteristics. Supposedly Torano likes to blend for an initial bite which smooths out quickly, then slowly builds in strength.

I'm sure there are other reasons as well (tar buildup, etc.). A good cigar blender does more than just choose different leaves, he is a maestro of vedgetable detritus.

You'll also find a some cigars that either become very mellow, or even go flat after an inch or two...never to return to its starting-line strength or flavor 😞