“Overall, I have found this to provide a complete cigar smoking experience – and it proves to rank as one of the better releases made by Rocky Patel Premium Cigars.”

#26 – Rocky Patel II.XXVI

Coming in at #26 on the 2013 Cigar of the Year countdown is the Rocky Patel II.XXVI.  This cigar was launched by Rocky Patel Premium Cigars this Spring.

Rocky Patel Premium Cigars returns to the countdown after a one year absence and this marks the third time in four years the company has placed on the countdown.  It also marks the first Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper cigar to appear on this year’s countdown.

The II.XXVI is the roman numeral for “2.26” – which is meant to commemorate company head Rocky Patel’s birthday.  The cigar was released in three sizes with a production allocation of 20,000 cigars per size.

The flavor profile of the Rocky Patel II.XXVI is not revolutionary for a Connecticut Broadleaf as it delivers more of a classic profile for a cigar with this wrapper.  Flavors include pepper, leather, espresso, mocha, and nut.  There was also a nice exotic spice on the retro-hale.  The flavors are full-bodied.  The strength starts out medium and builds up to medium to full by the second half. The burn and draw were both excellent.

The price point for this cigar ranges in the $12.95 to $14.95 range depending on the vitola.

Click here for our assessment of the Rocky Patel II.XXVI.

Score: 93 (4/22/13)
Assessment Rating: 3.5 – Box Split


For more information on our vision and criteria for the 2013 Cigar of the Year countdown, see our December 2013 Editor’s Corner.