Prior to the implementation of the numeric scoring system, assessment updates were used to provide assessment ratings to cigars that were “Pre-Reviews” (typically pre-release reviews). Going forward, assessment updates will also be done to provide scoring updates to cigars that have been previously assessed.  We will not go back to score every cigar reviewed, but from time to time will get an opportunity to smoke these cigars again and provide a numeric rating.

Viaje Fifty Fifty Black

Viaje Fifty Fifty Black No. 3

The Viaje Fifty Fifty line has become an annual limited production run by Viaje.  The concept behind the Fifty Fifty is to bring two different flavor
profiles together into one cigar.  This is done by utilizing two
separate fillers, brought together within double binders and covered by a
single wrapper.  The end goal was to produce a distinct smoking experience in each half   There are two versions of this cigar – the Fifty Fifty Black and Fifty Fifty Red.  The Fifty Fifty Black represents the blend with more strength.

The Fifty Fifty Black is a Nicaraguan puro. It is medium to full in terms of strength and body.  It provides a flavor profile of leather, cocoa, and pepper.  While it delives a good flavor profile, it fails to deliver on its promise of a distinct smoking experience in each half.   It was more like a continuous smoking experience.   As for burn and draw, this cigar was excellent.

Here is the original assessment done on the No 3 vitola (Churchill).

Assessment: Nice to Have 
Score: 88

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Viaje Fifty Fifty Red

Viaje Fifty Fifty Red No. 3

The Viaje Fifty Fifty Red is a similar blend to the Black.   While it is also medium to full in body, the blend is tweaked to make this a cigar that falls into the medium area of the strength spectrum.

Like its Black label cousin, the Fifty Fifty Red is a Nicaraguan puro.  Of all of the cigars released in the Fifty Fifty series, this one came closest to delivering a distinct smoking experience in each half.  The first half had more of a flavor profile of mild pepper, chicory, and cocoa.  The second half had more of a classic black pepper, cocoa, and nut.

Ultimately, the flavor profile, while a little more complex than the Black was less satisfying. The burn and draw of the Red has not been up to what the Black has delivered.

Here is the original assessment done on the No 3 vitola (Churchill).

Assessment: Nice to Have 
Score: 86