Stopping in to The Wharf on Sundays is a usual habit of mine....I know, I am here far more than just Sunday - and that is basically because it's too damned cold to smoke outside this time of year (11 degrees this morning).  My Fiancee and I had lunch and then dropped in for a smoke.  Dillon, one of the excellent sales staff here pointed me at something new.  I admit, I wrinkled my nose when he said Rocky Patel - just because I have had some bad experiences in the past few years with their cigars blowing up on me.  Imagine my shock when I saw it was a new Edge Habano....and with a wink and grin he told me to try it.  How was it?  Let's see....

Construction: It's a big hefty cigar - quite heavy in the hand.  The wrapper is a nearly veinless affair.  Smooth and milk chocolate brown.  Overall, a nice looking cigar.  I love the foot band on this....pale blue and simple, intended to protect the foot as much as show off the brand. 

Pre-light Aroma and Draw: I didn't get a very powerful aroma out of the cellophane on this cigar.  Basically a sweet tobacco smell all around.  The draw seemed a little stiff at first but after lighting it opens up to a perfect slow burning draw that is just right.

Light and Burn: Two matches lights this one up perfectly.  The burn was almost spot on the whole way.  I had one spot that needed a little coaxing with the jet lighter but in total it's a solid performer with a nice light gray ash that is clingy and a little flaky.

Tasting: There is a nice creamy core of sweetness to the Edge Habano.  It's strong in flavor yet fairly medium in body.  The opening is cool and pleasing in the mouth.  I picked up coffee, cocoa, lemon zest, and a nice earthy undertone to the first third of this big toro.  Into the middle third, I found a nice cocoa flavor with more of that citrus.  I usually really enjoy that in a cigar - even if I have never been a fan of fruit and chocolate combined.  I can honestly say this is the most flavorful Rocky I have ever had.  And easily the best of his creations I have smoked in years.  As the final third started up I picked up a nice woody spice that coats the palette and just adds to the already great set of flavors.  It opens up into a bit more strength towards the end as well but overall very nice.  This cigar really works well and I hope this is a sign of things to come from Rocky's stables in the coming year.

Value: The going rate for this stick is just shy of $7!  I can easily say that at that price I will be adding the Edge Habano to my rotation.

Final Thoughts: I am impressed beyond my will with this cigar.  I used to smoke Perdomo Habanos a ton over the course of 2011 into the beginning of 2012.  And while the Perdomo is an excellent cigar, I can say that this blend is superior to my old favorite and I am sold on this new offering from Rocky.  So, if you live in the Dayton Ohio area, throw on your snow shoes and head to The Wharf to try one or ten...you won't be disappointed.

Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium and touching on full

Size: 6 x 52

Gorgeous Habano wrapper!