A Quick Draw: Padilla Series '68 (Corojo 05 0766)

by Tim H. Swanson
The Padilla Series '68 was a good smoke. It began with a very bold, but not overwhelming taste. With an earthy flavor throughout, hints of spice kicked in at the mid point. The only real downside to this stick was its very poorly packed state. It burned completely unevenly. For some the burn is not an issue. If, however, you're particular about burn, you probably won't like this one.
In spite of it's poor burn, I'm giving it a reluctant four out of five for its aromatic flavor.

Rating: 4 out of 5

A Quick Draw: Alec Bradley Special Blends

By: Gabriel Pace

I bought this cigar on a whim when I was browsing a cigar shop that I found while waiting for my girlfriend to get her nails done.  I have been in the market for some good sub $3.00 a stick cigars, and thought I would give this one a try. It is a hand made cigar, but not well crafted with a fairly large seam down the middle. It had a slightly hard draw, which limited how much smoke it produced, and it was not very aromatic. It had a mild flavor with slight peppery notes. Overall not an awful smoke for someone who is looking for a very mild cigar at a low price point, but definitely not something I would make my every day smoke.

Rating: 2 out of 5

A Quick Draw: Gurkha Centurion

by Tim H. Swanson

I've been looking forward to trying the Gurkha Centurion for a while. It's a torpedo that delivers a mild  with a good finish. The torpedo shape naturally lends to a bold spicy finish. While it was a good , the quality didn't live up to Gurkha's grand reputation. The quality just  wasn't there.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

A New Way To Think About Buying Cigars

by Tim H. Swanson
The internet has changed everything Today, there is no reason to pay more than $3.50 a stick. There are too many websites that offer affordable cigars, with reliable delivery, at great prices. If you've been shopping at the local cigar shop and paying  $6.50 or more, it's time to check out one of the great online vendors. Here are some places you go to find great selection with very competitive prices.

CigarsInternational.com - These guys are probably the most notable. You can also subscribe to get their printed catalog  for free. I read it every time it comes in the mail.

Thompsoncigar.com - These guys have a very wide selection. Don't pass them up. Their prices are nearly unbeatable.

Famous Smoke - My good friend and co-author told me about this place. They have a huge  variety of deals and bundles.

With places like these, it's time to look online to get some help for your collection of fine cigars. These are prices that wont break the bank.