Cigar Reviewed: Alec Bradley Magic Toast

Smoked at: Carolinas

I might have to try this one again. I know this cigar maker has a fine reputation, and the cigar has enjoyed many favorable reviews across the internet. So I hesitated before writing this, but here goes. I bought this 5 x 42 from a smoke shop in what appeared to be a well maintained walk-in humidor. The stick felt a little hard on the pinch test, but it didn't appear dry. I thought maybe it was just heavily packed. I had a heck of a time toasting this cigar, and more trouble keeping it lit afterwards. The draw felt like the back of my head would cave in. I didn't have a bore tool. Perhaps that would have solved the problem. There was full flavor, but not desirable flavor: if you've ever tried to temper chocolate and burned it, that's what I got along with an undesirable tartness. I don't want to disparage the cigar or it's maker. I'm figuring that the cigar had dried out, spoiled, and then was hastily dehumidified to preserve its retail value. Too bad. I was really looking forward to smoking this cigar after reading the rather charming story about how it got its name. If you read this review, I'd be interested if you've had a similar experience, or if I just bought a mishandled stick.