Last week I received a package of sample cigars from Ray Zinar of Providencia Cigars for some feedback, which was rather humbling and flattering. Providencia Cigars is a small cigar company making their cigars in Honduras and I’ve enjoyed the cigars I’ve smoked from the brand. Ray has ties to the Philadelphia area, so we have that in common. I’m still looking forward to meeting him and sharing a smoke in person, but that day will come eventually. Anyway, as you probably know, the first cigar I chose out of the package was the only maduro in the 
bag, and, fortunately for me, it happened to be a 7″ x 47 Churchill. I’m always tickled to find a traditional sized Churchill, next to a toro, it’s about my favorite shape, and not an easy one to find. Most companies take liberties with the dimensions. The look and feel of this dark, rough wrapper made me think San Andrés and I lit it up and was pretty sure I was on the right track. I took a quick walk around the block and then settled into my favorite chair on the porch to enjoy this perfect cigar. The flavor was right up my alley, exactly what I love in a cigar. Sweet espresso, with some spice and that little earthiness you get from Mexican tobacco. At about the midway point I hit a cinnamon stretch, just a hint, enough to take notice and make me want more. Throughout the cigar the burn was straight, the draw was perfect, and the combustion was even, all tobaccos in the blend burning at the same rate, which always marvels me. I quite look forward to smoking this again.
Just as I was finishing the cigar I was in communication with Ray and he revealed that the cigar I was smoking was to be their next release, a small batch to be called Johnny Ringo. It indeed has a San Andrés wrapper, Indonesian binder and Nicaraguan, Dominican and Honduran fillers. Photos here are their mock-ups and may or may not represent the finished product, but I can tell you, the cigars will be top notch!
Last night I smoked another sample that I have no information on, but I suspect it had a Habano wrapper and it was very good, had the same great construction and excellent flavor. It wasn’t the perfect cigar for me that the Johhny Ringo was, but was still a tasty smoke, and was a traditional corona gorda size, 5 5/8″ x 46. It’s an interesting experience smoking samples where feedback is requested. It’s an added responsibility not to be taken lightly, and I appreciate the opportunity!
That’s all for today, until the next time,
CigarCraig
Thank you Cigar Craig for taking the time to post your pre production Johnny Ringo experience! We appreciate your feedback and are thrilled you enjoyed the blend!
Ray & Jim