So what is it?

[Big Al]

Blowed if I can pinpoint the difference but there is a difference and although subtle on one level it is massive on another. I have had NC cigars which are reminiscent of Cubans (and pleasant enough at that) but nothing out there that I have ever smoked even comes close to replicating THAT taste, let alone THAT experience that is exclusively Cuban.

[cj121]

You're right Al, it's THAT that makes it unique

[Boss Hog]

One thing I have noticed in the NC's I've had is the first 1cm always seems either bitter or just nothing too it, with a cuban as soon as you light it bang, you get THAT flavour straight away.

[deltawhisky]

I certainly agree with an earlier post about the reputation, the physical and non-physical factors. Deffo, in fact. When the physical, like the previously mentioned citrus notes - couples itself with the non-physical -- reputation, image, branding, notion of a 'Cuban' in its own right -- the THAT, experienced by Al, is created.

Possibly my worst written English on the forums yet, but I think I know what I mean!

[Big Al]

Yep, we all know exactly what you mean Delta - but expressing it beyond a "THAT" is bloody well hard!

[cj121]

Yep, we all know exactly what you mean Delta - but expressing it beyond a "THAT" is bloody well hard!

[misterbulgarin]

One thing I have noticed in the NC's I've had is the first 1cm always seems either bitter or just nothing too it, with a cuban as soon as you light it bang, you get THAT flavour straight away.

As a big NC fan, I can agree with this. Some of the NC's are just 'smoke' then get flavorsome. Starting a cuban, getting it lit properly and getting that immiediate taste...certainly is lovely

[cj121]

And without knowing what IT is, it just gives me a sense of ooh yeah, I feel good n comfortable with this. Niice.