Finally! The first NC I've had this year that I want to rave about...

[Zigatoh]

But is it definitely the vendor at fault, or do manufacturers of NC cigars tend to hold on to them a bit longer to release quality product, whereas Cuba seems to get away with the 'not great now but give them time' caveat?

edit - Apart from which I have also had some mighty fine 4 month old puros (and less...) not enough experience to really know about the potential fo a 9-12 month sick period tho...

[TJCoro]

I Smell Ammonia!

I should clarify a bit...the sick period - marked by the smell of ammonia - lasts up to twelve months, beginning about a month after rolling. This is caused by the continuing fermentation of the leaves once they are rolled into cigars (due to the moisture added during the rolling process).

Some puros may "ventilate" faster than others, but as a general rule, most puros need 12 or more months to shed the ammonia taste.

As far as fault goes - who knows. But I would think that a reputable vendor would not sell puros that are not ready to be consumed.

But what the hell do I know!

Perro, el Perro

[L_DOG]

I should clarify a bit...the sick period - marked by the smell of ammonia - lasts up to twelve months, beginning about a month after rolling. This is caused by the continuing fermentation of the leaves once they are rolled into cigars (due to the moisture added during the rolling process).

Some puros may "ventilate" faster than others, but as a general rule, most puros need 12 or more months to shed the ammonia taste.

As far as fault goes - who knows. But I would think that a reputable vendor would not sell puros that are not ready to be consumed.

But what the hell do I know!

Perro, el Perro

I have 5 Oliva Serie V Belicosos with that exact smell. Cheers for the info TJ. Will have to let them rest for a couple of years now. Must resist!