Cigar Reveal #101
| S&T ID | #101 |
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| Brand | Illusione |
| Cigar | MJ12 |
| Wrapper | Nicaragua |
| Binder | Nicaragua |
| Filler | Nicaragua |
| Retail Price | $11.50 |
| Tasting Notes | Dry fruit, pepper, sweet wood, leather, coffee with cream, charred oak |
| Description | The MJ12 is one of Illusione's original blends, coming out around 2009. Illusione is notorious for their... strange branding (Illusione's founder, Dion Giolito, is from Reno, Nevada, after all), and this one is no different, with MJ12 referring to the Majestic 12, which was the name given to the scientists and people put in charge of the situation at Area 51. Okay. For the cigar itself, this is just cigar blending at it's finest. Balanced. Elegant. Clean. You could light up one right after smoking the first one down the nub (we did verify this). If you're talking milder bodied cigars that are as complex as the stronger smokes, it's a short list, and the MJ12 is right at the top. |
| Review #1 |
Stogie Review |
| Review #1 Content |
After finishing my first MJ12, I couldn’t help but think how much I would like another. Though I didn’t light one up immediately, not having another two hours or so to spare, I have had several since that initial experience. And all have been excellent. This thick, oily cigar from Dion Giolito’s Illusione brand is rich in flavors, complex, and balanced. Beginning with peppery spice befitting its Nicaraguan tobacco, the cigar evolves as it slowly burns down the six-inch length. I’ve picked up leather, cedar, floral notes, coffee, and a tobacco sweetness that blends nicely with various spices. This is a cigar not to be taken lightly. You should be prepared to spend the time necessary to truly enjoy it. If you do, the MJ12 will repay you in spades. |
| Review #2 |
Stogie Press |
| Review #2 Content |
Overall, I found the Illusione MJ12 to be a fine smoking experience that had a complex flavor and aroma profile which kept my interest through the journey. There was some waves in the burn and it did require a touch up in the second third. I can understand why this cigar has been on the market for 10 years and I would recommend this to any cigar enthusiast. Pick up a box to add to your rotation. I rate this a 94. |