Info:
When I reviewed the Lawless, I gave you some background information on Black Label Trading Company, their founder, and the cigars in their portfolio. Please check it out if you haven’t done so already.
The Last Rites is one of the original six lines that were released in 2013. Like the other releases, it comes in two vitolas, the robusto and gran toro. However, this one has both a standard parejo and box pressed version of both vitolas, adding up to 4 different options. This one is the robusto.
We acquired some samples from Black Label Trading Company. Though we appreciate their generosity, this will have no bearing on the rating.
Looks:
The BLTC Last Rites looks a lot like the other two I reviewed. It has a rather dark chocolate wrapper with some veins and smooth seams. It looked to be well packed and well constructed.
The top band is the same as the one on the Lawless and Redemption. It has a black background with silverfish-white print. Same designs, letters, placement, etc. The foot band is where they differ. This one says “Last Rites” in a different font than the other two. This foot band requires me to peel it off, leaving a small patch of glue.
Function:
The BLTC Last Rites has a smooth feel to it. It feels well packed and only has a slight give when squeezed. There are no lumps or soft spots.
The foot smells of earth, hay, and a touch of maple syrup. I start thinking of breakfast every time I encounter that aroma on a cigar! The barrel smells like cocoa. Now I’m thinking dessert! Anyone else hungry?
When I clip the cap, the draw reveals good airflow. There are notes of pepper, earth, and a touch of bitterness. I hope the bitterness doesn’t come through during smoking!
Smoking:
I am able to get the BLTC Last Rites lit quickly and evenly. I guess when you are getting your last rites; you might as well get to it quickly. The burn stays mostly even throughout until the last third. I do have to touch it up near the end.
Just like on the pre-light, the draw is great. I am able to get plenty of smoke without it being wide open.
The ash is mostly white with some gray. The ash looks solid and is very pretty against the maduro wrapper. It lasts for 1” and promptly falls off, which was a bit surprising.
Flavor:
So far, the BLTC Last Rites is very reminiscent of the Redemption, only not a box press. That being the case, I am expecting it to be a tasty cigar. Let’s see if it can deliver.
The first third is very interesting. It starts out with a mild black pepper, a hint of caramel, and some wood. After several puffs, a hint of cinnamon appears, though faint. I start to get some salt, more wood, and a floral spice on the retrohale.
The second third continues with the pepper, salt, and wood. The floral notes continue to develop as does some earth. However, the sweetness and cinnamon are gone, which is a bit of a disappointment. The strength starts to pick up a bit here as well.
The final third is where the floral notes really shine. It also gets a little savory and the wood is still present. Near the end, it does get a tad bitter. I slow down on smoking it and the bitterness fades out but comes right back in. The cigar starts to get hot and stronger, which is not a good thing. I decide to give this cigar its Last Rites and let it die out.
The Black Label Trading Company Last Rites Robusto is medium-full flavored/Medium in strength. Most of the cigar is very enjoyable and has a nice level of complexity. The end was not as enjoyable but didn’t ruin the overall experience. Smoke time was 1 hour 10 minutes.
Would I Buy It Again?
Yes, but I do have a slight issue with the price.
Is It An Everyday Smoke?
Based on price and strength, I would say no. It would be more of a weekend cigar for me.
Would I Buy a Box?
Personally, I would not. I could see getting a 5 pack or the BLTC Sampler.
Conclusion
The Black Label Trading Company Last Rites Robusto is a pretty good cigar, offering a variety of notes, lots of flavor, and enough strength to please those who enjoy hearty smokes but not so much it will make a novice green in the gills. The construction is really good as well. Again, like with the Redemption, I have an issue with the price. Of course, I am cheap and also in the middle of buying a house, so my budget is little tight these days. If you have a nice monthly cigar budget, go out and get a 5-pack, box, or the BLTC sampler (all available on Cigar Federation).
