Smoked: Ashton Esquire

Smoked at: West Chester, Ohio

A tin of Ashton Esquires sure comes in handy for a short smoke outside on a cold night. For a 4.25 by 32 guage vitola, the Esquire provides a typical mild Connecticut Shade experience – just in a small dose. The flavors are basic but balanced and enjoyable – cedar, almonds, milk chocolate, fresh brewed coffee and cream. It pairs well with coffee, but also the right single malt scotch. I think I found the sweet spot with the Talisker.

A Christmas Wish: Please turn this into an ESG 23 Year Salute It has been many years since I’ve smoked an ESG – back when they cost a paltry $20 a stick.