Filler: Dom. Rep.
Binder: Dom. Rep.
Wrapper: Dom. Rep.
From Cigar Aficionado
#1 Cigar of the year 2023 Rated 97
When OpusX was released, it was a strong cigar in a mostly mild market. Today, it has a lot more competition in the full-bodied segment, yet OpusX remains relevant—and coveted. It’s leathery and assertively spicy without being harsh. Every puff is inlaid with an opulent sweetness of baking spices, nutmeg and vanilla. The balance of power and elegance is astounding and precisely why it’s our Cigar of the Year. Because the ring gauge of the Reserva d’Chateau is somewhat slim, the wrapper plays a major role in the smoking experience. Ultimately, the story of OpusX was about a wrapper that was thought to be unfeasible. In the end, Fuente proved everyone wrong and created a stunning, all-Dominican cigar that’s much more than the sum of its parts.
Review:
Cigar Reviews by Mikey: Arturo Fuente Opus X Reserva D’ Chateau. Today we are reviewing in Cigar Aficionado’s #1 rated cigar of 2023, the Arturo Fuente Opus X Reserva D’ Chateau which is a highly acclaimed cigar. This recognition alone makes its review from Cigar Aficionado one of the most significant and widely referenced.
Upon first glance, the Reserva d’Chateau presents a visually stunning reddish-brown wrapper, often with a subtle sheen. The veins are typically fine, and the overall construction feels solid and expertly rolled, a hallmark of Arturo Fuente craftsmanship. There are no soft spots, indicating a consistent pack of tobacco.
Pre light examination. Bringing the cigar to the nose, the wrapper offers rich notes of cedar, sweet barnyard, and a hint of dried fruit, often reminiscent of raisins. The foot intensifies these aromas, adding a distinct spice to the mix. The cold draw, usually firm but open, delivers clear flavors of aged cedar, sweet tobacco, and a touch of cinnamon, providing an enticing preview of the complexity to come.
First Third. Upon lighting, the OpusX Reserva d’Chateau ignites with a lively burst of spice and black pepper, often accompanied by robust notes of earth and rich leather. This initial intensity quickly settles into a more balanced profile. Hints of toasted nuts and a subtle sweetness, reminiscent of cocoa or dark chocolate, begin to emerge, providing a delightful counterpoint to the initial spice. The burn line is typically sharp, producing a dense, satisfying smoke and a firm, light gray ash. The strength starts at a solid medium-full.
As the cigar progresses into its second third, the flavors deepen and become more nuanced. The prominent spice from the first third often recedes, allowing a beautiful creamy sweetness to take center stage. Notes of baking spices, particularly nutmeg and vanilla, intermingle with the persistent leather and cedar
The final third of the Reserva d’Chateau is a powerful crescendo. The core flavors of earth, leather, and dark roasted coffee become more pronounced, often accompanied by a return of a gentle spice. The sweetness might diminish slightly, replaced by a more robust, savory character. Despite its strength, the cigar remains remarkably smooth and cool to the nub, a testament to its superior construction and aged tobaccos.
Strength: Medium-to-full, building in intensity as the cigar progresses. It is flavorful without being overwhelmingly strong.
Construction & Burn: Excellent construction the draw opens up nicely after the initial taper. It’s a slow-burning cigar lasted 1.5 to 2 hours.
MIKEY LIKES IT 👍