The Balmoral Anejo XO, in recent years, has proved to be a line worthy of the utmost attention. In 2016, the number of sizes expanded, with the inclusion of the Corona, presented to the public in the usual 20-ct boxes. The blend uses a Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper, a Dominican binder, and a mix of Nicaraguan, Dominican, and Brazilian tobaccos make up the filler.
The cigar is dressed in a Colorado Maduro shaded wrapper that is slightly rough to the touch. Construction is great, and the filling is generous.
- Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
- Size: 42 x 150 mm (5.9″)
- Wrapper: Arapiraca (Brazil)
- Binder: Olor (Dominican Republic)
- Filler: Nicaragua, Brazil, Dominican Republic
- Price: $9 – € 7.7
Balmoral Anejo XO Corona: unlit, clear notes of cocoa and spices are perceived. Once lit, the cocoa note is confirmed, enriched with hints of herbs.
In the first third appear aromas of wood, cocoa, and hazelnut. Herbs are perceptible in the background. Strength is medium-full (4/5).
In the central section, the nutty component is brought to the foreground. Now the walnut is the protagonist, joined by nuances of cocoa and black pepper. The latter is present in the retro-hale. The flavor intensity is marked, as is the strength, which increases slightly (4.5/5).
In the last third, the spicy component becomes more pronounced. Chilli and black pepper alternate now, supported by intense aromas of earth and cocoa, with hints of leather and herbs in the background. Strength remains constant (4.5/5).
Overall, the Balmoral Anejo XO Corona returns a flavorful and full smoke that is satisfying and has an excellent flavor intensity. The balance in the central section is on the razor’s edge in some puffs, but the cigar does not fall apart and releases an enjoyable evolution.