Rocky Patel Vintage 2003 Cameroon (robusto)

I've heard that this is one of Rocky's better cigars.  It seems that Rocky has spread himself (and the rest of his family) a bit thin over the last several years.  It seems that everywhere you look there's another X Patel brand of cigars.  Lately, the only RPs I've been picking up when I see them is the Sumatra label.  When I was still mixing milds into my rotation, I enjoyed the Edge Lites, but lately I haven't had much of a taste for the milder side of the spectrum.

At first inspection, the Vintage 2003 Cameroon has an oily sheen on the wrapper.  The pre-light sniff at the foot shows a hint of barnyard.  I opted for my Xikar punch/torch to get things started.

1/3: The first few puffs were unique and pleasant.  There's a good draw, and I notice a crisp finish.  I have a long flap on one side of the cap that keeps peeling back.  I tore it off, and it's not presenting any issues now.  Predominant notes of leather here in the 1st third.

2/3: The leather continues on into the 2nd third.  Medium-bodied describes this one so far.

3/3: This RP was consistent to the finish.  I "nubbed" it, and didn't notice too much in terms of flavor shifts.  If you're looking for a stick with consistent leather, this one's got that.


Size: 5-1/2 x 50
Wrapper: Cameroon
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler:  Dominican Republic, Nicaragua