Punch Short de Punch is the latest addition to the Punch brand from Habanos S.A. Although this is a new size to the portfolio of the Punch brand, the brand itself hasn’t seen an addition to its line in decades. The size is a modern approach to the Punch line, since all the other sizes are under a 50 ring gauge. So far the cigar has only been available in Switzerland.
Visually, the cigar is dressed in a Colorado shades wrapper, there are a couple of green dots present as well. The wrapper itself is smooth to the touch and construction is good. While the cigar has “Short” in its name, it is not a Short Robusto nor a Robusto (it is only 4 mm shorter than a classic Cuban Robusto size).
- Country of Origin: Cuba
- Size: 50 x 120 mm (4.75″)
- Wrapper: Cuba
- Binder: Cuba
- Filler: Cuba
- Price: € 12
Punch Short de Punch: the cold draw reveals aromas of wood. Once lit, it brings notes of wood and nuts.
In the first third, the wood and nuts (mainly hazelnut) are the main flavors. Honey and a light hint of spice are present in the background. The spiciness is more evident in the retro hale. Strength starts out on a solid medium level (3/5).
Continuing into the second third, the core flavors remain the same as in the first third, while vegetal nuances appear in the background. The smoke is now very creamy and somewhat sweet. Strength remains unchanged.
The final third reveals the youth of the cigar. Wood and hazelnut are still present, but an unpleasent bitterness is starting to creep up to the front of the flavor profile. Said bitterness becomes increasingly more pronounced the closer you get to the end. Strength remains medium throughout.
Overall, the Punch Short de Punch starts out surprisingly well for a rather fresh cigar. Good first two thirds, with a balanced profile and strength. The bitterness in the final third was kind of expected, but a couple of years of rest should even that out. A promising new release, with a flavor profile that is true to the brand.
Rating: 88