Cigar Hunt: Konscious - Lancero
I love when people put me on new cigar brands, especially Black-owned cigar brands because I relish the opportunity to try different expressions and blends from palates not often seen and championed in the industry. Eric over on instagram (@ericjrsr) put me on to Konscious—their Lancero in particular—but just know that I bought the whole lineup so additional reviews with New Dawn whiskey are coming.
I’ve recently started smoking Lanceros regularly and I find them to be a delightful alternative to the larger gauge cigars I typically prefer. I especially love them when I’m working with my tarot deck because their longer, skinnier nature always makes me think of a magic wand and I like to think the ancestors prefer a shorter smoke ‘cause they don’t have all day to spend with just me!
Konscious Cigars Lancero: Small Package with a Punch
This vitola is highlighted by a stunning, Ecuadorian Habano wrapper laid over a robust blend of all-Nicaraguan binders and fillers. The construction is impeccable, providing a perfect smooth draw that can be hard to find in such a slender format.
Oh, but don’t be fooled. She may be smooth but she's also a little bit spicy, think cinnamon raisin bread with a cayenne kick to make things interesting. There's a lot going on in such a small package, with complex notes of walnuts and a distinct raisin/fig note wrapped in baking spice, again with that kick of something sharper on the back palate. She’s a beautiful, luxurious smoke that evolves with every puff.
Whiskey of Choice: New Dawn 6-year Bourbon
New Dawn’s 6-year Bourbon serves as a perfect pairing, adding a creamy note to the cigar, bringing the overall profile into cinnamon roll territory. The cherry and almond undertones of the bourbon smooth out the cayenne kick of the tobacco and elevate the sweetness.
Cocktail of Choice: 40 Acres and a Mule
If you’re relaxing in your cocktail garden on a hot summer day, recommend pairing with a refreshing 40 Acres and A Mule cocktail. The sorrel and New Dawn bourbon in the cocktail provide a rich spiciness that enhances the tobacco, cinnamon, and peppery notes of the cigar. Meanwhile, the cocktail's tartness offers a vibrant counterpoint to the Lancero's deep, earthy characteristics.
Final Thoughts
Don't think this is a quick smoke just because it's thin; this blend is made to be enjoyed slowly over an hour or so making for a perfect smoke to unwind at the end of the day before dinner. Highly recommend picking up a stick or two of this lancero ‘cause you’re definitely going to want to revisit this pairing more than once.
