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An exceptional new Davidoff cigar full of zest and interestingly subtle transitions
The Davidoff brand has been synonymous with elegance due to continued success with each release. Considered a luxury by many and a great value by others, everyone will agree that the quality of construction, mastery of blending and depth of flavor is evident in all sticks the Genevan behemoth produces.
I recently had the luxury of smoking a wonderful robusto out of the newly introduced Davidoff 702 Series. Many longtime Davidoff smokers will remember the launch of the Davidoff Limited Edition 2009 Selección 702. This is not a re-release but is actually the introduction of a new mainstream line.
With this new 702 Series, Davidoff has chosen to replace the conventional Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper on many of its classic cigars to give them a bit of a twist.
The replacement of the Connecticut with this new 702 hybrid wrapper, which was born out of three distinct Habano seeds, adds some zest to the flavor profile and will come in very familiar vitolas including the 2000, Double R, Special R and a few others.
General Specifications
Davidoff 702 Series Special R
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano 702
Binder: Dominican Republic- Piloto Seco
Filler: Dominican Republic- Piloto Seco / San Vicente Visus / Olor Seco
Vitola: Robusto (4 7/8 x 50)
Price: $21.40
Analysis
A few puffs in and into the first third, there are strong notes of musty woodiness and creaminess on the finish – the wood being closer to an oak than a cedar. Normally when transitions occur when smoking a cigar, certain stronger notes fade to the back while newer, more pronounced, flavors come to the fore.
This was not the case with the 702 Series Special R. Instead of the oakiness fading away, you’re introduced to an earthy nuttiness that is difficult to explain with words. The nuttiness does not overwhelm the notes of oak and the finish is still creamy.
In the second third of the cigar you’re introduced to a mellow sweetness that combines well with the previous flavors pervading the palate. In the last third, a mild pepper mixes with the lingering earthy flavors and continues to finish with some cream.
The one thing that amazed me the most about this cigar was the subtlety in its transitions, especially when transitioning to flavors that are paradoxical in nature, such as the transition to a combination of pepper and cream. The transitions allow you time to adapt to new flavors being introduced, making the overall experience quite enjoyable and leaving you wanting more.
Boldness: 4/5 | Strength: 4.5/5
This cigar takes roughly 45-55 minutes to smoke and is perfect as an after dinner cigar, especially after a heavier meal such as a steak dinner. The woody, creamy and earthy notes would complement a decent cognac or even armagnac perfectly. This cigar is a great choice for an intermediate to veteran smoker as the transitions are subtle in nature and give off some more complex flavors.
Verdict
Overall, I give this cigar a 8.75/10. To me this is a weekend cigar – one that is occasional, won’t break the bank and totally worth the time.
Thanks for reading.
Stylishly Yours,
Christopher Benedetto
He Spoke Style
Photography by Rob McIver Photo
