November's Cigar of the Month: Norteno (because I like the band. Shush, you!)

Sometimes* I like shiny things. Okay, most of the time. But there are those moments when I prefer something a little more L.L. Bean and less Bob Mackie.

This is a perfect combination of both, don't you think? [source]

So in a sea of shiny bands at Mr. J's Havana not too long ago, this box of Herrera Esteli Norteno stood out:

 

I love the way they stand at attention.

I was all, "La la la, we need these, Valentino!" (Full disclosure: I had also been seeing these pop up on different Facebook groups, so my interest was mildly piqued. But really, the box and band did it for me at that very moment. It kind of reminds me of wood paneling and that 1970s green that I so adore.)

Valentino actually smoked one of these, like, the next day. That means his excitement level hovered on the high side as well; usually he'll tuck away new sticks until he deems the moment best--and no formula exists when trying to determine when said moment becomes best. Next-day stuff like this always throws me off--I thought I'd figured out his pattern!!**

What was he going to do? Put up a fight? As if...

So...here are some things you might want to know:

Willy Herrera is Drew Estate's master blender

"Norteño" comes from a term used to refer to people in the northern part of Nicaragua,
where Estelí is located. [source]

The band features Nicaragua's national bird, the Guardabarranco.
(Words like that make me thankful I'm a writer and not an orator.
Nooooo idea how to say that. And I'm way too shy to try!) [source]

According to CI, "This full-bodied firecracker is no joke, boasting long-fillers from the fertile Nicaraguan growing regions of Jalapa and Esteli, both known for producing bold n’ hearty tobaccos. A Honduran binder cloaks these leaves with an oily San Andres Maduro wrapper draped over top. This long-anticipated release delivers bold notes of pepper and chocolate that endure to the finish and are backed by hints of cashew, cocoa, and espresso. Powerful, ultra-flavorful, and satisfying to the last puff."

I will admit that maybe, just maybe, I knew this cigar was full-bodied before I saw it at our tobacconist's place.  And maybe, just maybe, I knew Valentino's tastes run more medium than full. And maybe, just maybe, I forced the purchase anyway, because 1. I am evil; 2. I had a sneaking suspicion he would like it based on the flavor profile; 3. Box and band--box and BAND! (Only one of these is true. Okay, maybe two. Sometimes all three.)

So the other day, when we were picking up the J Grotto Anniversary prize cigars, I figured you all might like a couple for yourself! And that's a brief glimpse into how we choose the Cigar of the Month to give away--in summary, no rhyme or reason whatsoever. But then again, that's about how we roll across the board!***** Yay us!



How to win the Cigar of the Month:

Comment on this post to be entered to win.  (Be sure to leave your email address so we can get in touch with you!) Want a second chance? Subscribe to our blog posts by email--over there on the right side of the blog.***

The winner will be chosen on the 25th of each month--because my birthday is on the 25th (of December; be sure to mark your calendars), and what better way to count down to the blessed event than to give something away?

So! Comment below. Wheeeee!




*Most times. All times.

**Grrrrr.

***And doing that also puts you in the running for the cool ashtray.****

****Which will surely include other stuff as well.  Because that's how do it.

*****Poor Valentino. When I met him, everything was planned and organized and everything had a place. Now, we run willy-nilly, much to his chagrin. And stuff still has a place, but stuff is rarely in that place.