I've smoked several of them. I did have a plugged stick once, or maybe it was just a really tight draw. That was a couple of years ago. I haven't experienced anything like that since.

As far as what they taste like, I couldn't do it justice. It's a very pleasant smoke. I'd put it at a solid medium-body, not too strong, but with great flavor. Very even burn. Myself, I prefer the Cafe vitola. Of all of the cigars from the NOCF, I enjoy this blend the most - followed by probably the double-wrap Churchill and then their Panatela, but according to their site, they only make flavored Panatelas now. Too bad, because they were a quick, cheap decent smoke.

I'd go for the split, but I've got too much going on right now. These are, however, some of my favorite cigars out there. I always visit the shop on Decatur anytime I'm in the Crescent City.