Warped Cigars has long been synonymous with craftsmanship and dedication to the Cuban cigar tradition, and the release of the La Colmena 10th Anniversary Amado No.50 continues that legacy in spectacular fashion. To commemorate their 10-year journey, Warped crafted this cigar to pay homage to one of their earliest and most beloved lines, La Colmena. The result is a limited-edition masterpiece that captures the essence of Warped’s dedication to artisanal cigar-making.
The La Colmena Story
La Colmena, which translates to “The Beehive” in Spanish, was first introduced by Warped founder Kyle Gellis as a nod to the classic Cuban style of cigars. Hand-rolled at the El Titan de Bronze factory in Little Havana, Miami, each cigar in the La Colmena line is carefully crafted by Level 9 rollers, Cuban-trained experts who employ traditional rolling techniques that give these cigars their distinctive flavor, construction, and aesthetic.
The 10th Anniversary Amado No.50 is a special vitola, released in extremely limited quantities to mark this significant milestone in Warped’s history. This medium-bodied cigar is rolled in a 5x48 format, perfect for those who appreciate a balance of flavor and smoke time.
Construction and Appearance
Upon first glance, the La Colmena 10th Anniversary Amado No.50 stands out with its smooth, silky wrapper. The Ecuadorian Desflorado wrapper is a hallmark of the line, boasting an elegant sheen and a nearly seamless appearance. Its flawless construction is immediately noticeable, with the wrapper hugging the cigar tightly, creating a firm feel from foot to cap. The cigar is finished with a beautiful triple cap, another nod to classic Cuban techniques, which adds to the aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
Blend and Components
The La Colmena blend consists of a carefully selected combination of tobaccos. At its core is a blend of Ecuadorian binder and Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers. These tobaccos are known for their complex and balanced flavor profiles. What makes the Amado No.50 particularly unique is the use of the Desflorado wrapper, a tobacco that is harvested after the plant’s flower has been cut off, allowing the leaves to absorb more nutrients and develop a sweeter, richer flavor profile.
Tasting Notes
From the very first puff, the La Colmena 10th Anniversary Amado No.50 envelops the palate with a rich and complex bouquet of flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the experience throughout the cigar:
• First Third: The initial light is smooth and creamy, with subtle notes of honey and floral sweetness, a trademark of the Desflorado wrapper. There is a delicate white pepper spice that lingers on the retrohale, adding complexity without overpowering the initial creaminess. Notes of almond, cedar, and light citrus also begin to develop, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
• Second Third: As the cigar progresses, the flavors deepen. The honey sweetness transitions into richer caramel and vanilla undertones, accompanied by a more pronounced nuttiness. The pepper spice remains present but becomes more of a background note. Earthy tones of leather and light cocoa also emerge, adding complexity to the smoke. The burn is razor-sharp, and the draw is impeccable, reflecting the expert craftsmanship of El Titan de Bronze.
• Final Third: The final third brings an evolution in strength, with the cigar edging into medium-full territory. The flavors become more robust, with the cedar and earth notes taking center stage. The sweetness mellows out into a more caramelized sugar profile, while the nuttiness develops into roasted almonds. The pepper spice returns with a touch more intensity, creating a delightful finish to the cigar experience. There’s a lingering creaminess that stays on the palate, making for a satisfying conclusion.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairing a cigar like the La Colmena 10th Anniversary Amado No.50 with the right drink can elevate the experience to new heights. Given the cigar’s balance of sweetness, creaminess, and light spice, here are a few ideal pairings:
• Rum: A well-aged rum with natural sweetness and complexity, like Ron Zacapa 23 or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva, complements the honey and caramel notes of the cigar while enhancing the overall richness.
• Whiskey: A smooth, slightly sweet bourbon such as Woodford Reserve or Blanton’s would match well with the nutty and woody elements of the cigar. For those who prefer Scotch, a Speyside single malt like Glenfiddich 15 offers fruity and floral notes that pair beautifully with the cigar’s creaminess.
• Coffee: A rich espresso or a cappuccino with a hint of sweetness would make a perfect non-alcoholic pairing, especially to highlight the creamy texture and nutty undertones of the La Colmena.
• Wine: For wine lovers, a medium-bodied red such as a Merlot or Pinot Noir would complement the cigar’s balance of earthiness and spice. The light tannins and red fruit notes in these wines would harmonize well with the complex layers of the cigar.
Final Thoughts
The Warped La Colmena 10th Anniversary Amado No.50 is a true testament to Warped’s dedication to tradition, quality, and artistry. This cigar is not just a smoke; it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a moment of relaxation, this limited-edition release will surely leave a lasting impression.
Its perfect construction, complex flavor profile, and smooth evolution throughout the smoke make it a must-try for both seasoned cigar aficionados and those looking to elevate their collection. If you manage to get your hands on one, savor the moment—it’s a fitting tribute to Warped’s 10 years of excellence in the cigar world.
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