CAO Criollo

**jaewing** · 04-16-2005, 03:28 PM

I got 10 of these in a sampler. I believe these are the Pato size (4 7/8 x 50).

I have only smoked one so far but here is my review of the first (I will update after I smoke a few more).

Initial Impression Well cronstructed with a beuatiful reddish brown wrapper and a small "rat-tail" type top. Firm to the touch and round.

Pre-Light Aroma Rich and aromatic with a slight cedar undertone and a hint of vanilla.

Draw Smooth to firm draw, a bit difficult at first.

Flavor Medium at first then built to a Med-Full rich flavor. Rich thick smoke with a cedar undertone and lingering finish. For a smaller stick it was suprisingly rich and strong toward the end.

Burn Even burn with a firm salt and pepper ash.

Over-all Impression CAO makes another great cigar. Not as spicy as the Gold label I have tried in the past. Very smooth and if you like thick rich smoke that lingers on the pallate then pick some up. 91

**Cigar Jack** · 04-25-2005, 09:44 PM

The Criollo is one of my favorites. I haven't had a bad one yet.

**cigarsarge** · 04-26-2005, 02:43 PM

I'm not a fan of the Criollo line. The Brazilia line is much more to my liking.

**jaewing** · 04-26-2005, 04:19 PM

What is it about the Criollo line that you do not care for? And on the flip side (since I have never tried the Brazilia) what is it about the Brazilia that you do like?

**cigarsarge** · 04-26-2005, 06:21 PM

The ones I've tried seemed to never develop any complexity. The Brazilias start off spicy and get very full flavored...coffee, cedar, and dark spice. I nubbed one out last night. They go very well with rum and coke.