H. Upmann Connossieur No. 1

The H. Upmann Connossieur No. 1 is immediately very Cuban, sober and traditional. When cold, the nose sets the tone with notes of hay and a clean woodiness that already gives an impression of classicism.

Tasting note

Lighting up is straightforward and the cigar quickly gets into its stride: the first puffs deliver a clean, slightly toasty woodiness, accompanied by a clearly perceptible black pepper that adds depth from the outset. The combustion inspires confidence, with a compact ash of a rather light grey, while the draw, a little restrained at first, gradually opens up over the first third to become more comfortable.

As it enters the second third, the smoke becomes more generous and the cigar gains in presence on the palate. However, the texture remains a little dry at this stage, even if the whole is rounder than at the start. It is also at this point that the profile becomes denser: notes of undergrowth appear, with greater depth, accompanied by a hint of nuts which rounds out the aromatic palette without radically transforming it.

The final third confirms this gentle evolution. The sensations become rounder, the smoke becomes creamier and the balance improves, while retaining a clearly woody dominant. The finish heats up slightly, without really slipping, and prolongs this impression of a regular tasting, with no breaks or big surprises. In the end, Connoisseur No. 1 offers a classic, fairly linear experience, centred on wood, undergrowth and nuts, with a hint of spice at the opening. It's a safe bet for those looking for a Cuban that's faithful to its codes, more focused on continuity than complexity, with an actual duration of around 50 to 60 minutes.

Pairing

A classic pairing with dark rum will satisfy your taste buds to perfection. Choose a lighter spirit so as not to overpower the cigar.