Augusto Reyes Nativo Lancero

Maker of some of the finest brand names in the business—including Indian Tabac , Don Lino, Cameroon Legend and Fittipaldi—the Augusto Reyes family has been in the tobacco and cigar world for over 150 years. The Nativo Lancero is worthy of the family name and a heritage that harks back to pre-Castro Cuba. Fans of flavorful medium-mild cigars are in for a treat. The Lancero has a wonderful Criollo 98 seed wrapper that’s oily to the touch and an Olor binder. The blend is a rare Dominican puro that includes Piloto Cubano, Olor and Criollo 98, which is a hybrid of Corillo, one of the original Cuban tobaccos going back to the time of Columbus. The February 2007 issue of Cigar Aficionado gives the Nativo Robusto an Outstanding 89 rating (only one other cigar—the Davidoff 100th Anniversary—received a higher score of 90). The review states "the wrapper on this cigar is oily with great color. An easy draw imparts rich smoke full of sweet wood and wheat flavors with a significant kick of orange peel." On the heels of the February review the following April 2007 issue of Cigar Aficionado chose the Nativo Lancero as their highest rated panatela, giving it a coveted 90 rating. Not surprisingly the cigar draws beautifully. Nativo has a hearty and complex profile. Notes of cedar, spices, pepper and a semi-sweet fruit-like quality are among the rich and creamy core flavors. The smoke is thick and smooth. As it burns, the flavor increases to medium-bodied and by the final third the taste intensifies. Most panelists detected an enjoyable sweetness on the aftertaste. Others reported a slightly sharp tannic finish, but that didn’t detract from a rewarding smoking experience. This cigar is nicely complemented by slightly chilled Añejo Tequila.