Initial Thoughts
The Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare (ALR) has really stood out to everyone in the world of premium cigars. So I finally came across one in my local tobacco shop and decided to pick one up. This unique blend uses tobaccos that have been aged for two years after being rolled. The thought is that this technique allows the flavors to completely develop and offer up a well-rounded smoking experience. Rocky Patel has been in the game for quite awhile and he one created some of my favorite cigars: The Decade. He’s known to produce a wide range of cigars, from every day smokes to the high-end premium side like this one. It’s stated that this ALR was blended for cigar enthusiasts who appreciate rich, layered flavors, being a cigar enthusiast myself, I can’t wait to get it lit up!
Looks
Right off the bat this cigar caught my eye on the shelf in the humidor. My eyes were immediately drawn to its dark, oily Mexican San Andrés wrapper. The smooth texture, alongside the box-pressed shape, gives it nice look and feel. I must be on a box-pressed kick as of late, or that’s just the industry trend now. I feel like my last 5-7 cigars have been a box press. I just love it though! This cigar feels solid and well-constructed with no soft spots. There is a bit of spongyness that I know is going to give a nice solid draw all the way through.
The band on this thing is crazy. I love the upper band with the gold imprint and the RP logo right in the middle. There is a secondary (huge) band that has a small script written on it that tells you everything you need to know about this cigar. I didn’t want to write it word for word, b/c you just have to see it for yourself! Overall, that adds a nice touch of class, emphasizing the premium nature of this smoke. It’s clear from the beginning that this cigar was built with the premium cigar smoker in mind.
Pre-Light
Before lighting up, the Rocky Patel ALR greets me with some nice notes of mocha, a hint of black pepper, and earthy tones. Smells just like a cigar should from the foot. Lots of good flavors and great aroma from the pre-light. My pre-light draw is a nice smooth and easy drag, I can pick up the flavors rolling through the filler and I’m very excited to put some flame to this thing! Overall, there is a slight creaminess that comes through. Alright, that’s enough with the pre-light let’s see how this thing smokes!
First Third
As this Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare starts to burn, the flavors start rolling in, with a mix of cream and spice. Ohh it’s nice! The draw remains effortless, producing nice clouds of smoke, not overly thick as they quickly disappear with the slight gust of wind behind my back. I love when the smoke swirls around, it really enhances the experience to me. There’s a touch of mocha and a soft pepperiness on the palate that hits peaks and valleys of intensity. The retrohale adds a nice subtle floral note that is making the smoke complex without being overwhelming. This is one of my favorite things when you get something that isn’t hitting you right in the face but offers a nice way to round out the overall flavor profile. Well done!
Second Third
Moving into the second third, the flavors start to deepen a bit. That delightful creaminess persists but is now joined by nuttier, woodier notes. I couldn’t place the specific flavor of nut, just an overall nutty type flavor. The spice that was present earlier takes a soft step back, which allows the mocha and nut flavors to take center stage and present their talent. Again, it’s really interesting how these flavors are just dancing and taking turns. It’s something that I haven’t experienced a ton, but it’s fantastic! The retrohale continues to provide a floral and spicy mix, contributing to the cigar’s overall balance and complexity. It’s an enjoyable and consistent smoke so far.
Final Third
The final section of the cigar was very similar to the second third. In fact, I took very few notes on this section nothing new popped out at me. So I just sat back and relaxd and really enjoyed this last section of the Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare!
Would I Buy It Again?
Without a doubt. I’m tempted to go get a box actually.
Is it An Everyday Smoke?
Definitely not. Its something that should be enjoyed on a rare occasion or otherwise I feel like I wouldn’t appreciate it as much.
Would I Buy a Box?
Yes, and I should get one right now!
Conclusion
Man, I’m not sure there is much else to say about this Rocky Patel Aged Limited Rare (ALR). It offers an incredibly rich and balanced smoking experience to me personally it highlights the expertise of Rocky Patel’s flavor structuring. From the creamy mocha notes to the subtle spice and wood, this cigar is a treat for any and all cigar enthusiasts. I feel like its ideal for someone who has been smoking for awhile and needs to reset and enjoy something with a bit of complexity. Whether you’re a fan of the brand or simply looking for something special, the Rocky Patel ALR is worth adding to your collection.
