2011 Edicion Regional Mexico Edmundo Dantes Conde 54

Had the opportunity to get a few of these when they were first released. This is the second Edicion Regional for Mexico. The first was the iconic Edicion Regional Mexico Edmundo Dantes 109. I was a big fan of the 109 and could not wait to have these in my possession as well.

The story behind the Edmundo Dantes brand is that there is a trademark conflict in Mexico is the use of the Montecristo brand thus, the ED was born. For all intensive purposes, this vitola is to have the traditional flavours of a Montecristo vitola.

There were 1,000 Semi Boite Nature boxes released in 2011. 25 cigars per box.

Let’s see how this is progressing….

The Edicion Regional Mexico Edmundo Dantes Conde 54 is a sublime vitola. Identical to the 2008 Edicion LImitada Montecristo Sublime. 54 ring gauge and 6.5 inches in length.

The only real difference is that the ER Mexico ED Conde 54 uses a traditional wrapper as the 2008 EL Montecristo Sublime uses a maduro wrapper that has been aged for at least 2 years.

The wrapper is a light honey brown colour. Aromas from the wrapper is barnyard, molasses, earth and cream. Very pungent and rich. No trace of ammonia though…

The construction on this cigar is excellent. Silky smooth to the touch. No soft spots. Nicely done.

I have to say that the bands on this cigar are excellent. I love the intricate yet simple Edmundo Dantes band. Nice embossed, oversized Edmundo Dantes symbol that is front and centre. Very well done.

The triple cap looks good. Ready for my punch and the foot is nice and packed. Should be a good one.

A quick punch and we are ready for ignition.

Initial cold draw reveals molasses, leather, cream and a hint of cedar. Airflow is good with a slight resistance.

Time to take this to the flame…

First Third
Strong initial blast of flavours. Strong out of the gate. Very woody and earthy right up front. Takes me by surprise. Supporting cast is vanilla bean, cream and a hit of black pepper. Whoa!!! Didn’t see this at all.

Strength is medium full right now. The first thing that comes to mind is these can age very well, me thinks. Might not be ready for prime time right now however, can’t put it back now can I? LOL

Great airflow. Lots of smoke production. Burn line is acceptable. Ash is a ‘Dirty’ grey.

This cigar is in its youth and it shows it right up front, with no apologies. It flexes its muscles with pride and joy. Take a look at me….

The after finish is long: dominating the pack are the earth and cedar notes, followed by the vanilla bean and cream combination.

Second Third

Settling in now. Strength has moved towards the medium spectrum now.

Cocoa and cream, wrapped in a cloak of earth and leather start the second third. The vanilla bean has subsided. Is that roasted nuts in the background? Can’t put a finger on it right now.

Decent burn, a little wonky but doesn’t need a touch up. A little black pepper percolates in the after finish.

The draw and smoke production continues to deliver in spades.

Final Third
Very creamy and chocolatey now. Is this a glimpse into the future? A bit of vanilla wafer as well. The woodiness has returned and really goes with the cream and chocolate notes. The black pepper is no where to be found.

Strength is medium however, this is now a very mellow, soulful cigar. Very relaxing. Hitting on all cylinders now.

A nice long finish of cocoa, cream and woodiness with a hint of earth. Very nice.

Final Impressions
A Classic in the making. This cigar definitely needs some time in humidor slumber land. The first third was a tsunami of strength and youthful exuberance. The final two thirds were really an evolution of flavours. A good solid smoke that can age effortlessly and will hopefully develop into something truly great. A delightful cigar.