JOYAS DE PANAMA CIGARS

I first read about these offerings from the mountains of Panama in an article in Playboy a couple years back.  It peaked my curiosity and I decided to buy a sampler pack of five.  

Country: Panama

Wrapper: Maduro

Price: $6.50

Strength: Medium

Length: 5.0

Gauge: 50

Joyas de Panama cigars are quality artisan products made of organic Cuban seed tobacco. The leaves are hand selected and examined for quality assurance. No chemicals, pesticides or machines are used in the growing or production of this sustainable product. The cigars are mild to medium in flavor, thus accessible to a wide audience of enthusiasts.

The cigars are 100% puros, all Panamanian product. Cigars are individually wrapped in cellophane, and bundled or boxed in packs of 25. 

Panama has a rich history of cigar manufacturing for over 100 years. The tobacco is grown in the Chiriqui province of Panama, a lush region well known for its agricultural products. The rich volcanic soil and shade canopy give the tobacco its Colorado Maduro color and smooth, full flavor. The consistent tropical climate of Panama has been a prime location for cigar production, much like her neighbors, Cuba, Nicaragua and Honduras.

The cigars are constructed of a long filler with Sumatran wrapper. They are mild to medium in flavor, with a smooth, even draw. These smokes have been described as imparting a spicy nutmeg flavor, blending rich leather with hints of rum and oak.

I've had these in my humidor since late July so they had ample time to acclimate.  I was excited to try these cigars but like the Camacho I wasn't all that impressed.  The draw was a little too tight and if you've ever fought a cigar with a poor draw it can become exhausting and unenjoyable after a bit!  The burn was even and the ash was very consistent with a slight grey color.  I thought the cigars were very well made.  The taste was very earthy.  I didn't find any hints of spice tough.  I thought the smoke was earthy as well with a slight richness.  I wonder if the cigar had a better draw if I would've had a more enjoyable smoke?  I need to try another one in 6 months or so.  The Jury is still out on these cigars.  If you plan on trying a few e-mail their company and haggle with them over shipping...they're a new company and need to build a solid base so they may be willing to send you the cigars for free shipping.  I can't recommend these or tell you to stay away.  I think you should find out for yourself if you have about $40 lying around!

Cheers!