On the positive side, the flavor of the Chinchalle gets better in the second third. Peanut shells lead the profile, edging out both creaminess and oak while some black pepper lingers. The finish has a combination of oak and creaminess over leather and some herbal flavors. Retrohales now have floral flavors as the primary, with peanut shells, cedar, earthiness and some harshness following. Unfortunately, the finish of the retrohale is even harsher with paprika, black pepper and earthiness.

While the first third was my least favorite, the Chinchalle’s harshness is not lasting and is not off-putting. The flavors are well-balanced and quite interesting. That trend continues throughout the rest of the cigar. The flavors mellow a bit in the middle third, but bounce right back in the final third. More importantly, the flavors compliment one another and never fight for dominance. The blending of the Chinchalle is nothing short of masterful.

After smoking cigars for over twenty years, it’s easy to feel at times like you have a cigar figured out by its appearance, smell, and draw. It’s always fun when a premium smoke surprises your expectations. I did not see the strength that came on immediately from looking at this robusto, and I was certainly taken back. Even more was that with its strength there was a nice balance of toast, wood, fruit, and even floral notes. Throughout the cigar the full body remained yet managed to become savory on the finish.

When I found out this was a Warped cigar, I was not surprised as I enjoy Kyle Gellis’ variety of blends. The Warped Chinchalle is worth a try and/or a box purchase if you enjoy a full-bodied cigar with character to back it up.