In the world of cigars, every blend tells a story. The Southern Draw Rose of Sharon is not just a cigar, but an ode to love, dedication, and the beauty of shared journeys. Robert Holt’s tribute to his beloved wife, Sharon, this cigar is the embodiment of gratitude and affection. Every puff narrates the tale of unwavering commitment, both to the craft of cigar making and to the bonds of love.
The brand Southern Draw has long been synonymous with quality and passion. With Rose of Sharon, it takes a step further, intertwining personal stories with the art of cigar craftsmanship. This isn’t just about the tobacco; it’s about memories, experiences, and celebrating life’s beautiful moments.
Cigar Name and Brand
Named the “Rose of Sharon,” this cigar is more than a product of Southern Draw Cigars; it is an emotion, a gesture of gratitude, and a testament to the strength and grace of Sharon Holt. The brand itself resonates with an ethos of dedication, and with this particular blend, it has achieved a symphony of flavors and feelings.
The name evokes imagery of beauty, grace, and resilience, much like its muse, Sharon. This cigar isn’t merely about smoking; it’s about relishing the story behind it, understanding the layers of love and dedication that have gone into its creation, and appreciating the legacy of the brand and the people behind it.
Appearance
Upon first glance, the Rose of Sharon captivates with its Ecuadorian Sun Grown Connecticut wrapper, glistening with a subtle sheen. This wrapper not only adds a silky smooth texture but is also an embodiment of the sun-kissed landscapes of Ecuador, setting the stage for the sensory journey that awaits.
The cigar’s appearance exudes elegance and sophistication. Every detail, from its form to the delicate bands adorning it, hints at the meticulous craftsmanship behind this masterpiece. The color, the texture, and even the feel in one’s hand showcase the blend’s premium quality and Southern Draw’s commitment to excellence.
Construction
Hailing from the renowned AJ Fernandez’s factory, the Rose of Sharon boasts impeccable construction. Beneath the beautiful exterior lies a symphony of top-quality Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers. This combination ensures not just a delightful flavor but also a consistent and even draw, making every smoking session smooth and enjoyable.
The construction speaks of precision, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Whether it’s the perfect firmness when held or the way it lights up this cigar’s build ensures that aficionados and novices alike can appreciate the nuances of its blend without any distractions.
Pre-Light Experience
Before the flame even touches its foot, the Rose of Sharon teases with an earthy aroma, intertwined with whispers of oak and leather. This pre-light scent is a prelude to the intricate flavors that lie within, kindling anticipation for the experience to come.
Taking a moment to appreciate this aroma, one can’t help but be transported to the lush landscapes where these tobaccos have been nurtured. This sensory experience is not just about the imminent flavors but also about understanding the journey of the tobacco, from field to cigar.
Lighting and Initial Draw
Upon lighting the Southern Draw Rose of Sharon, the first sensation is of a seamless experience. The cigar catches flame effortlessly, showcasing the meticulous construction that has gone into crafting each piece. As you take your first draw, it is undeniable how smooth it feels, with the smoke gliding into your mouth without any resistance. It’s this ease of the initial draw that sets the tone for the rest of the smoking session, promising a satisfying journey of flavors and sensations.
The first puffs are gentle, teasing the palate with a symphony of flavors waiting to unravel. The balanced combination of Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers become evident as you get introduced to the delicate dance of aromas. This initial phase entices, preparing the smoker for the deep and varied experience that the Rose of Sharon promises to deliver.
Flavor Profile
The Rose of Sharon’s flavor profile is a tapestry of complex, yet harmoniously blended notes. There’s a subtle spice that greets you, not overpowering, but just enough to pique interest. As you delve deeper, the undertones of leather, oak, and earth become prominent, creating a rich narrative of taste that holds your attention. Each drag reveals a different layer, a new note that adds to the intricate symphony.
What is particularly striking about the flavor is its complexity. While many cigars may focus on one or two dominant flavors, the Rose of Sharon is a journey. From the earthy depths of the Nicaraguan binder to the smooth elegance of the Ecuadorian Sun Grown Connecticut wrapper, the interplay of flavors is nothing short of artful, proving that this is not just a cigar but a crafted experience.
Strength and Body
The Southern Draw Rose of Sharon is thoughtfully balanced. It boasts a mild body, making it accessible to both novices and seasoned aficionados. While it’s gentle, the medium flavor ensures that it’s far from bland. This balance ensures that the cigar doesn’t overwhelm but instead provides a soothing experience, making it ideal for moments of relaxation or reflection.
The real charm lies in its nuanced character. While it’s on the milder side of medium, the richness of the flavors gives it depth. This unique combination of mild body with a medium flavor profile ensures that every puff is both soothing and invigorating, capturing the essence of what a premium cigar should be.
Smoke Output
The smoke produced by the Rose of Sharon is dense and voluminous, enveloping the surroundings with its rich aroma. Each puff generates a generous cloud, testament to the quality of tobaccos used in its making. Despite its abundance, the smoke is not oppressive. Instead, it adds to the ambiance, creating an immersive experience for the smoker.
There’s an elegance to the way the smoke wafts into the air, the gentle tendrils curling upwards, leaving behind a lingering scent that is pleasant and inviting. This dense yet delicate smoke output is a hallmark of quality, showcasing the impeccable standards set by Southern Draw Cigars.
Burn Quality
One of the standout features of the Rose of Sharon is its consistent burn. From the moment it’s lit till the last drag, the burn line remains even, without any unnecessary runs. This consistency ensures that the smoker can focus on the experience without the distraction of constantly correcting the burn.
The ash, a beautiful grayish hue, holds firm, further evidence of the cigar’s superior construction. It’s this reliability in the burn quality that elevates the Rose of Sharon from just another cigar to a premium experience, ensuring that every session is smooth and uninterrupted.
Aroma and Room Note
The aroma of the Rose of Sharon is an experience in itself. The Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper exudes a mellow creaminess, which, when combined with the hearty long-fillers from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, creates a scent that is undeniably captivating. It’s not just a smell; it’s an olfactory journey, taking you through the various landscapes where these tobaccos are sourced.
In the room, the note is pleasant and inviting. It’s not the kind of aroma that lingers and overpowers but instead complements the environment, making it ideal for social gatherings or moments of solitude.
Ash and Ash Characteristics
The ash of the Rose of Sharon is a visual treat. Holding firm to the cigar, it showcases a pleasant contrast to the wrapper, with its beautiful grayish hue. Its sturdiness is a clear indication of the cigar’s quality construction, with each layer of ash building up evenly, without any flakiness.
As you tap off the ash, there’s a satisfaction in seeing the uniformity, a testament to the balance and consistency of the tobaccos used. It’s this attention to detail in aspects like ash quality that showcases the meticulous care that goes into crafting each Rose of Sharon cigar.
Transitions
As the cigar progresses, there are subtle transitions in flavor, ensuring the palate remains engaged. Starting with the earthy notes, there’s a gradual shift, introducing the smoker to the various layers of flavor within the cigar. These transitions are smooth, without any abrupt changes, making the journey through the cigar a delightful experience.
These transitions not only keep the smoker engaged but also showcase the blend’s depth. With each new phase, there’s a renewed appreciation for the craftsmanship, making the Rose of Sharon a cigar that’s not just smoked but experienced.
Overall Enjoyment
To say the Rose of Sharon is enjoyable would be an understatement. Every puff, every aroma, and every sensation is meticulously crafted to ensure the utmost satisfaction. From the initial draw to the final puff, the cigar holds attention, making it a journey of discovery and enjoyment.
Personal Review: The Rose of Sharon combines a smooth flavor with an easy draw and a perfect burn. This is an excellent morning smoke or coffee smoke, and it’s definitely on the mild side of medium. If one can get this stick for under $10 and has an appreciation for a smooth Connecticut wrapper, this cigar is a must-try.
For those who enjoy the subtle complexities of the Rose of Sharon, exploring the rich and robust flavors of the best Maduro cigars can be an exhilarating next step in your cigar journey.
Pairing Recommendations
The mild yet rich flavor profile of the Rose of Sharon makes it a versatile cigar for pairings. A mild coffee, with its subtle notes, complements the cigar perfectly, enhancing its intricate flavors. For those looking for something stronger, a smooth whiskey can be an ideal companion, with its depth adding another layer to the smoking experience.
It’s this versatility in pairing that showcases the cigar’s intricate blend, ensuring that whether it’s a morning smoke with coffee or an evening one with whiskey, the Rose of Sharon stands out.
Value for Money
Given its rich flavor profile, meticulous construction, and the overall experience it offers, the Rose of Sharon provides excellent value for its price. Every aspect, from its appearance to its aroma, showcases the premium quality of the cigar.
For those who can snag this gem for under $10, it’s an absolute steal. The cigar not only offers a delightful smoking session but also adds a touch of luxury to the experience, making it a worthy addition to any collection.
Conclusion
The Southern Draw Rose of Sharon is not just a cigar; it’s a narrative of love, dedication, and craftsmanship. Each puff tells a story, a tale of passion and precision. A beautiful embodiment of what it means to craft with care and love, the Rose of Sharon is a must-try for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life.
Additional Notes
The backstory of this cigar adds another layer to its charm. The Rose of Sharon is not just about flavors and aromas; it’s a tribute to the enduring spirit of Sharon Holt. With every drag, there’s a connection, a bond that is felt, making it more than just a cigar but a legacy of Southern Draw Cigars and their commitment to quality.
FAQs about the Southern Draw Rose of Sharon cigar:
What is the inspiration behind the name “Rose of Sharon”?
The Rose of Sharon cigar by Southern Draw was crafted in tribute to Sharon Holt, the wife of Robert Holt, the founder of Southern Draw Cigars. The name is a testament to Sharon’s grace, faith, and daily fellowship, emphasizing her significant role and influence in Robert’s life and the company’s success.
What kind of flavor profile can I expect from the Rose of Sharon cigar?
The Rose of Sharon boasts a complex flavor profile with subtle spice undertones, hints of leather, oak, and earth. This combination is derived from its Ecuadorian Sun Grown Connecticut wrapper and the Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers. It provides a medium flavor while retaining a mild body, making it a versatile choice for both novice smokers and aficionados.
Where is the Rose of Sharon cigar handcrafted?
The Rose of Sharon cigar is handcrafted in Esteli, Nicaragua, specifically at the Tabacalera Fernandez Cigars factory. Esteli is renowned for producing some of the world’s best cigars, and the Rose of Sharon stands as a testament to the region’s quality.
Is the Rose of Sharon suitable for morning smokers?
Yes, the Rose of Sharon is an excellent choice for morning smokers. Its mild body combined with a medium flavor profile makes it a perfect morning smoke, especially when paired with a cup of coffee.
Are there any limited edition sizes for the Rose of Sharon cigar?
Yes, the Rose of Sharon is available in several sizes, including the limited edition LANCERO – 7.5×40 and two PERFECTO sizes: 6.0X56 and 5.0X58, with the latter not yet released as of the provided information.