Mild with a Twist: Affinity Corona Review
As covered in an earlier post, Sindicato is a unique company in the cigar industry due to the fact that it is owned by cigar retailers. Due to their unique position, the company is able to rapidly respond to market trends and craft cigars to meet the immediate needs of enthusiasts everywhere. The company recently unveiled Affinity at this year’s International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers Tradeshow (IPCPR) in Las Vegas. Affinity is described by Sindicato as having a “… flavorful and complex taste profile that will satisfy the smoker seeking a medium bodied Connecticut wrapped cigar.” As a fan of medium bodied cigars, I figured Affinity would be a great introduction into the blending and craftsmanship of Sindicato.
My first impression of Affinity is that it will be a straight forward cigar. The outward appearance of Affinity is remarkably simple, yet elegant. The tan Ecuadorian Connecticut Wrapper is offset by the white band bearing the cigar’s namesake in black and red embossed lettering with a stylized gray ‘A’ in the background. Closer inspection of the cigar reveals great construction and a perfect draw. The cold draw on Affinity is highlighted by a pronounced smoothness with a hint of spice towards the end.
Affinity starts off as a true mild bodied cigar with notes of cream and cedar. There is a slight earthy spice noticeable on the retrohale. The burn of the cigar is great, not requiring any touch ups. As the cigar progresses towards the end of the first third, the creamy note that dominated the beginning of the cigar dissipates into the background as notes of cedar and spice begin to take the helm.
Affinity burns into the second third with a continued increase in the spice and cedar notes found in the end of the first third. The cream notes that I enjoyed during the first third have completely disappeared, leaving me with a medium body cigar with a great balance of cedar and pepper tones. A slight hint of earthiness is noticeable on the retrohale of the second third of the cigar. The burn remains fantastic and the aroma of the cigar is creamy with a hint of spice.
The final portion of Affinity continues with the same flavors found in the second third. The dominate notes of cedar and spice continue to tantalize the senses, while an earthy retohale keeps the cigar interesting and fresh. If I had to sum up Affinity by Sindicato in one word, it would have to be consistent. By the middle of the first third, the cigar has fully developed the flavors that it will have for the rest of the smoke. Overall, I would recommend Affinity to those who enjoy a consistent medium bodied Connecticut wrapped cigar with great construction. Look for Affinity at all of our Hampton Roads locations and emersonscigars.com soon.
