The Epicure was a hit for Crux Cigars almost from the word go. Not only was it a blend that filled a void in the Crux portfolio, but it also came at a time when Connecticut Shade wrappers were making a comeback. Earlier this year, Crux announced the addition of a Short Salomone vitola for the Epicure. The cigar is available in 10-count boxes, and is a limited initial production for Crux retail partners.
In addition to the Short Salomone, Crux Epicure is also available in a 5 x 50 Robusto (MSRP $10.00), 6.25 x 52 Toro (MSRP $10.75), 5.75 x 54 Robusto Extra (MSRP $11.50), and a 5.375 x 46 Corona Gorda (MSRP $9.25). All sizes are presented in 10-count boxes.
Crux Epicure Short Salomone
MSRP: $12.99
Size: 6 x 54
Origin: Plasencia Cigars S.A. (Nicaragua)
Wrapper: Connecticut (Ecuador)
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Prologue
There is just something elegant about this vitola. From the defined point at the head, to the nipple at the foot, this cigar is beautiful. The light tan wrapper has a few very small green spots, but is otherwise very even and clean. It has a gentle aroma of cedar and almonds, but the foot adds some mild leather and hay aromas. The cold draw is tight, with notes of cedar and citrus.
Act I
The draw is tight in the beginning, but opens up once the burn line gets past the curve of the nipple shape. Flavors are rich and creamy, with a few hints of citrus, some milk chocolate and very gentle black pepper. The retrohale is somewhat sharp with notes of pepper and something that reminds me of roasted almonds.
Act II
The warmer it gets, the more the flavors open up. More of that roasted nut flavor comes to the foreground and joins with a nice creamy sweetness. There is an element that makes me think of an almond mocha or biscotti. The retrohale ramps up with hints of citrus and a little bit more of that black pepper spice.
Act III
As the shape of the cigar thins back down a bit, some new notes join the party. I have flavor notes and aromas that remind me of toast, or fresh bread. That is mixed with more citrus, cream, mild coffee, dark sugar, and a very interesting floral note. There is a lot going on. The retrohale is a mix of all of the above, with that pepper spice giving a nice pop to the nostrils.
Epilogue
All in all, this one was very complex and tasty. The flavors are varied and it tends to be cohesive, so the flavor and aroma notes play nicely together. With the sweetness, creaminess, and surprising floral note at the end, it was a smoke that was elegant, refined, and yet very accessible to the palate. I have been a fan of the Epicure since it was first release and this Short Salomone is another great iteration of the blend. I would happily make a home for more of these in my humidor.
Crux Epicure Short Salomone – How Bout That Cigar?
Rating: How Bout A Box?
Overall Score: 91
PAD: -0.0 (What is PAD?)
Flavor Summary: Citrus, cream, roasted nuts, sweetness, floral, spice
Strength Assessment: Mild
Source: Cigars for this review were provided by Crux Cigars