Rocky Patel Vintage 1992 Cigar Review
First Impressions and Aesthetics
As a long-time cigar smoker, I have a deep respect for Rocky Patel. His portfolio of award-winning blends made from the finest tobaccos is impressive. Rocky was a pioneer in the boutique segment of the premium cigar market, crafting his blends in limited small batches to ensure high quality and consistent taste. For this review, I chose the Rocky Patel Vintage 1992 Toro cigar. This series is considered among the best by industry experts and cigar enthusiasts alike. The Toro, with its popular 6 x 50 size and medium-bodied strength, is perfect for an hour-long smoke in the afternoon or at the end of the day.
The Rocky Patel Vintage 1992 Toro is a visually stunning handmade premium cigar, perfectly box-pressed with a seamless, dark reddish-brown Ecuadorian-seed Sumatra wrapper. Beneath this attractive 10-year-old wrapper is a Nicaraguan binder and a blend of aged Dominican and Nicaraguan long-leaf fillers. Like most box-pressed cigars, this solid stick was easy to light and displayed a crisp, even burn right from the start.
Initial Flavors and First Third
Immediately after lighting, I noticed a harsh bitter peppery taste that lingered a bit too long for my liking. However, after about a quarter inch, the bitterness disappeared and was replaced by robust flavors of earth, leather, and milder pepper notes. By the end of the first third, bold hints of black coffee joined the flavor profile, adding a delightful complexity.
Second Third
During the second third, the cigar became predominantly peppery, with deep layers of leather, earth, and wood. This slow-burning Toro produced plenty of thick, creamy white smoke and an irresistibly sweet tobacco aroma, offering many moments of relaxation. The combination of flavors was rich and satisfying, making this part of the smoke particularly enjoyable.
Final Third and Conclusion
The final third continued with the core flavors of the second third, enriched by rich coffee and caramel notes that lingered in the background. This consistent and complex flavor profile made the Rocky Patel Vintage 1992 Toro an enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Final Verdict
Whether you’re a seasoned cigar smoker or new to premium cigars, the Vintage 1992’s solid medium-bodied profile is very accommodating. Like all Rocky Patel creations, this cigar boasts top-notch construction, a great burn, and an effortless draw from beginning to end. For those looking to explore Rocky’s award-winning Vintage line, the 1992 is a great option. It offers a slightly stronger smoke than the creamy and mellow 1990 or 1999, and a less powerful experience than the earthy and bold 2003 series.
On a scale from poor to excellent, I’d rate it “very good.” Personally, I prefer cigars that are less peppery and more sweet, nutty, and creamy. However, taste is subjective, and with an impressive 91-rating, the Rocky Patel Vintage 1992 is certainly a must-try premium cigar for any enthusiast.
