Cigar of the Week: Puros Indios

Smokers remember when a brand makes a specific impression . . . on taste, on quality, or on value. But smokers admire – and buy – cigars which do all three. Like Puros Indios.

The Puros Indios line is a creation of one of the most revered cigar makers in the world, Rolando Reyes. Now having past his 80th birthday, Reyes is a quiet man of modest size with white hair who looks like the grandfather he is. But he is also one of the most talented blenders of cigars anywhere.

Like so many before him, he started in Cuba and in the 1940s was making a cigar called Cuba Aliados ("Cuba United"). The political turmoil in his home country sent him elsewhere after the cigar trade was nationalized in 1960. Eventually, he ended up in Honduras and began producing cigars that weren’t simply good, but at sensationally low prices!

His Puros Indios line debuted in the U.S. At its peak, it was made in 18 sizes, including the stunning "Chief" of 18 inches and 66 ring gauge! But more importantly, it combines perfect construction with a rich, memorable flavor that will put a smile on your face.

Reyes has been a fan of Ecuadorian wrappers for a long time and his cigars show the range of possibilities of tobaccos grown in that country. The Puros Indios line is characterized by a smooth, caramelized taste and a perfect draw. Those who prefer a little more depth will be energized by the maduro-wrapped line.

There is a toasty aroma and an easy, even burn that won’t tire you as you enjoy it. In our CigarCyclopedia.com tasting, the Puros Indios line earned a grade of "A+: Outstanding."

One of the very best aspects of this cigar, however, is its accessibility because of its modest pricing. There are aged versions which cost more, but the standard line retails for a stunning $3.10 to $8.00 each before local tobacco and sales taxes. The robusto-sized Rothschild (5 inches by 50 ring) retails for a value-priced $4.10 each.

At such prices, there’s no reason not to buy Puros Indios by the box. And if you do, perhaps you can set one or two aside to age for a year after purchase. These cigars age beautifully and with a little time to mature, will be even smoother and more delicious after a long rest.

Reyes knows he can’t go on forever, but his legacy will continue for decades as a man who not only knew how to make a great cigar, but also someone who wanted smokers at all levels to be able to enjoy it.

(Rich Perelman is editor-in-chief of CigarCyclopedia.com, offering comprehensive daily coverage of cigars, accessories, issues, people and prices at www.CigarCyclopedia.com.)

Rich Perelman

2/4/08

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