While some may consider it cigar blasphemy, I have not been impressed in the past with Alec Bradley cigars.  In fact the Prensado, Cigar Aficionado's number one cigar of 2011, was so run-of-the-mill that I have started to question CA's ratings.  The exception to the rule is the Black Market - review forthcoming, I am sure.  So, what posssessed me to try another Alec Bradley?  I can attribute it to a couple of factors: I wanted something new and the price was right.  How was this new cigar?  Let's see....

Construction: The Classic Blend is a well put together cigar.  I noticed that it wasn't overly oily and was fairly light in the hand.  Honestly I wasn't sure what to expect with this cigar.  But, it being Wharf Wednesday and all that, it was the perfect size for a lunch smoke.

Pre-light Aroma and Draw: The unlit aroma was...almost non-existent.  I was shocked.  Only the slightest hint of tobacco aroma hit my nose.  The draw was excellent, however.  Not too tight, not too loose.

Light and Burn: Using matches the American Classic fires right up.  The burn was only very slightly off-kilter during the smoke.  Nothing worrisome.  In fact, James had to admonish me for correcting the light when there really wasn't anything wrong with it.  I guess it's a bad habit.

Tasting: Looking around online, I see this cigar listed as medium to full bodied.  I don't know what they are smoking but it certainly wasn't what I smoked.  This is a mild cigar.  Mild in body.  Mild in flavor.  Mild in complexity.  Underwhelming is the best description I can come up with.  Oh, it was a good cigar showing some mild coffee and woody characteristics, but that's just it.  Mild.  I recall saying something to the effect of " this cigar is so mild it has almost no flavor" .  I guess that could be a good thing for some people but I like a cigar with flavor....and this one certainly is no where close.

Value: The American Classic will run you about $5 for a robusto.  Was it worth it?  I can't say it was.

Final Thoughts: Alec Bradley.  Ah, how do I say this without sounding like a curmudgeon? You need to step up your game.  The American Classic is just okay - it was not bad....but nowhere near the best American tobacco cigar out there.  Now, you might think me crazy but I would recommend the American Classic Blend....Not highly.....but to a new cigar smoker it might have some appeal.  To an old salt like me, it leaves a lot to be desired.

Wrapper: Connecticut Seed Honduran
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua

Strength: Mild

Size: 5x50

One thing I really DO like about this cigar is the presentation.  Gorgeous band!