I won't beat around the bush with a lengthy intro.  Today I smoked the La Palina Black Label and it blew me away. La Palina offers some incredible cigars...and this newest addition is one of their best ever.  Let's get to it!

Construction: The Black Label has a very rustic look.  The wrapper is veiny with black streaks over a rather lumpy shape.  Coupled with the absolutely gorgeous branding we have a very nice looking cigar here.

Pre-light Aroma and Draw: Out of the cellophane the Black Label is massively aromatic.  Spices, leather, some rich earthy cinnamon-like notes...just awesome.  Even the head of the cigar has a sweet flavor that made me do a double take.  The draw is nice and comfortable.  Not too open which is good for the smaller ring gauge here.

Light and Burn: Absolutely spot-on burn from start to finish.

Tasting: Starting off I get a nice meaty quality with plenty of pepper, sassafras, deep cocoa, and a touch of caramelized sugar.  Terrific balance too - I can see this becoming a stick of dynamite if you smoke it too fast.  Easily full body and strength. On the finish, I am finding a slight plum note...something I am not sure I have found in a cigar before.  Burn is even as can be with a nice white ash.  Incredible so far.

The middle third starts off with leather and some rich earthy notes on top of that pepper and plum.  A touch of cinnamon and sweetness make this one heck of a cigar.  **** Sorry the middle third is short.  I spent too much time wandering the store telling everyone to try one. ****

The final third is here.  While the flavors from the first two thirds have staying power, I am getting a bit more leather and plum in this third.  The cigar stays cool and comfortable until the end too.  Easily full body all the way through with plenty of flavor to love.

Value: Around $9 for such a terrific smoke?  Totally worth every cent.

Final Thoughts: What an amazing cigar!  La Palina has some amazing blends under their belt, but I think they hit solid gold with this one.  It is unique, delicious, and masterfully balanced.  Without a doubt, very highly recommended.

Wrapper: Brazilian Bahiano
Binder: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua
Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua

Strength: Medium-full

Size: 6 x 40

Terrific rustic look