American Viking Liga Zebra Barber Poles Robusto (5×50)

I was pretty excited to try this cigar. It’s the 8th Barber Pole and Tim’s review was really positive. I love the mixed wrappers and have found these enjoyable cigars that are “just fun” – Sadly this one just didn’t impress me like I hoped. It’s a lovely looking cigar, great looking construction. Clever looking band. Cut/Light – Nice early sweetness, little pepper and tight draw. 1/3 – Strong white pepper and cedar, some light coffee flavors. The draw continued to be tight but otherwise It started okay. 2/3 – At this point I typically really expect the flavor profile to come through but found it not really hitting anymore more than cedar, and some light coffee notes – maybe it’s my my pallet? Started to burn wavy and the tight draw annoyed me. Pulled out the trusty “Perfect draw” and that seemed to help. 3/3 – Draw was better but it still died have a set it down for 2 minutes which surprised me. Little canoeing. Flavors never really improved for me. Stopped at 1 1/2 inch. Was no longer enjoying it. Final thoughts – I’d been saying that I’d not found a barberpole I didn’t like – Well… This time kinda – However, I bought two and will try the other in a week and see if my experience is the same – I’ll update or renew my review then.