Feb 21stBrick House

I went into the office yesterday morning, but came home for some lunch, and to work the rest of the day from home.  It was approaching 60, so I thought I might try to catch up on some calls and emails on the porch while I enjoyed a cigar.  Unfortunately, my new work laptop was not bright enough and had too much glare, and I did have some work I had to get done, so I defeatedly headed back in to my home office.  I picked up a sampler when I last ordered some cigars.  The name of one of the brands enticed me.  I have a friend, who’s dad often says that his wife is built like a brick shithouse.  While I was not familiar with the saying when I first heard it, I was able to ascertain that it was a compliment, and though context, that it meant she is voluptuous.  I figured I’d try one, and if it was good, buy a few for next time I go over to his place to enjoy his company, amazing cooking, and pool.

The sampler has four different cigars made by JC Newman.  I think the main reason I ordered these is that I don’t know much about JC Newman or its brands.  I picked the Brick House mighty mighty natural.  I generally go for a robusto or petite corona, so to me, this was a gigantic cigar.  I got a belated xmas present from a close friend the other day, so I poured a glass of it as well.

The Woodford Reserve Distillers Select was surprisingly good.  I’ve had more than my fair share of brown sauce (many of which have just been OK), so whenever I have a new one I like, I’m pleasantly surprised.  The Woodford had a very traditional bourbon flavor profile, and I found no real issue with it.  It reminds me of Elmer T Lee in that regard.  I would say this is very good, but not outstanding.  That said, like Elmer, I’ll probably be reaching for it often.  For a more artistic and detailed review, check this canuck out.

The cigar was also surprisingly good.  The construction and burn were good, though I felt the draw was a little open.  It might be my fault for cutting it too much, but with such a huge stick, without punching, I’m not sure how one would cut less.  I found the flavor fairly one dimensional, but there was a sweet spot when the stick became about the length of a robusto, or maybe a little shorter.  There was far more pepper present than I’m typically used to.  It may have been a stronger or younger cigar than I usually smoke.  By the end, I was feeling a little light headed, but I’m going to guess that had as much to do with the size as the overall strength.  It made for a long smoke.  At the price point, I think this is a very good value.  If the make a smaller size, I’m going to pick at least a few up.  Check more out here and here.