PCA Magazine Winter 2020

PREMIUMCIGARS.ORG WINTER 2020 | PCA The Magazine 33 T H E B L E N D Ash: The ash is gray, dense and a little flaky. It holds on well, but breaks apart easily when tapped into an ashtray. Last third: The sweetness of the blend picks up, along with a prickly sensation on the tongue and upper palate. The spice is more noticeable, as the flavors remain fairly consistent. Overall Impression: This cigar is an enjoyable smoke. What it may lack in complexity is compensated for by its texture, color, hearty aroma and solid, if not scintillating flavor. While The American may not be a wild ride of dancing flavors and sensations, it is a well-made, well- burning and good tasting cigar—with its own unique character—as well as the distinction of being the only one of its type. This cigar would pair well with a dark stout or an oaky American bourbon with some “heat.” As it was a bit early in the day for me to consume alcohol, I settled for a Starbuck’s café Americano. The beans may not all have been American, but the name made me feel I was consuming an appropriate beverage. It turned out to be a good choice.