H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro: A Comprehensive Review

The H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro is a cigar that speaks to both the brand's rich history and the craftsmanship behind each smoke. Whether you're a newcomer to the cigar world or a seasoned aficionado, this cigar offers something special for everyone. The H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro stands out in the premium cigar market, from its balanced flavors to its well-constructed build.

The History of H. Upmann and the 1944 Reserve Toro

A Legacy of Tradition and Excellence

Founded in 1844 by Hermann Dietrich Upmann, a German banker passionate about cigars, the H. Upmann brand has become one of the most respected names in the world of premium cigars. Initially, Upmann moved to Havana, Cuba, for banking, but his love for cigars led him to create his cigar line, which quickly gained popularity.

By the early 20th century, the Menéndez and Garcia families took over the brand, ensuring that H. Upmann continued to grow while maintaining its high-quality standards. Even after more than 175 years, the brand remains synonymous with luxury and excellence. 🚬

The 1944 Reserve Toro

The H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro was crafted to commemorate the brand’s 150th anniversary. It blends Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos to honor its Cuban roots while embracing modern cigar-making techniques. This 6 x 54 Toro features a Nicaraguan wrapper and offers a rich, flavorful experience.

The Key People Behind the Brand

Today, Altadis U.S.A. oversees the production of H. Upmann cigars, ensuring its legendary status remains intact. With the guidance of master blenders like AJ Fernandez, the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve remains a modern favorite, delivering quality and tradition in every puff.

Construction of the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro

The H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro is a prime example of exceptional cigar craftsmanship, reflecting the attention to detail and expertise in every aspect of its construction. This cigar is expertly made in the Dominican Republic, a country renowned for producing some of the finest cigars in the world. The blend’s construction ensures its smooth, consistent burn and balanced flavor profile.

The Three Main Parts

1. Wrapper: The wrapper is one of the most essential elements in a cigar’s construction, affecting flavor and appearance. The H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro is wrapped in a beautiful Nicaraguan wrapper. This wrapper adds an oily sheen to the cigar and contributes to its earthy and spicy flavor notes.

2. Filler: The filler consists of a combination of Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos. This blend of long-fill tobaccos creates a complex smoke with evolving flavors throughout the cigar. The Dominican filler provides smoothness, while the Nicaraguan filler adds richness and strength.

3. Binder: The Dominican binder holds the cigar together, which is essential in maintaining the cigar’s structure and supporting the overall flavor. This high-quality binder ensures an even burn, preventing unevenness or canoeing as you smoke.

This precise construction results in a cigar that delivers flavor and performance. From the smooth draw to the sharp burn line, the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro offers a satisfying smoking experience from start to finish.

A Guide for New Smokers

If you're new to cigars and curious about what to expect, the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro is an excellent place to start. It strikes a great balance between approachable flavors and enough complexity to keep things interesting. Let’s break down the key factors for new cigar smokers. 🌟

Strength and Flavor Profile

This cigar is a medium-bodied smoke, offering a good mix of rich flavors without being overwhelming. Right from the first puff, you'll notice earthy notes complemented by subtle spice and a touch of nuttiness. There’s no overwhelming sweetness or harshness—just a smooth, well-rounded flavor.

Burn Time and Construction

The H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro has a burn time of about 1 hour, making it perfect for a longer, relaxed smoke. The cigar is known for its excellent construction, featuring an easy draw and a consistent burn, so you won’t have to worry about relighting it or adjusting it frequently. The build quality is top-notch, and it’s clear that craftsmanship is a priority in this cigar.

Price and Occasions

Priced between $8 and $10, this cigar falls into the mid-range category, making it an excellent value for beginners who want to try a premium cigar without spending too much. Whether enjoying a casual smoke with friends or unwinding after a long day, this cigar perfectly fits any occasion.

Pairing Suggestions

For the best experience, pair the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro with a smooth whiskey like Basil Hayden’s or Woodford Reserve. A bold Cabernet Sauvignon like Robert Mondavi is an excellent match if you're a wine lover. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, pair it with dark espresso or black coffee to enhance the earthy and nutty flavors.

Tasting Notes for Aficionados

For experienced smokers, the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro provides a rich, evolving experience. Let’s break down the cigar’s flavor profile by thirds, offering a deeper insight into this premium smoke.

First Third: A Smooth, Earthy Introduction

As you light the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro, you’ll be welcomed by cedar and black pepper, setting the stage for a bold yet balanced experience. The initial flavors are earthy and rich, with hints of leather and toasted nuts. The pepper adds a bit of spice but doesn’t overwhelm, offering a nice contrast to the more mellow tones.

Second Third: Complexity and Creaminess

The second third sees the spice mellow out, giving way to cocoa and coffee notes that add a creamy texture to the smoke. The earthiness from the first third remains, but the sweetness of dried fruit emerges, giving the cigar a more complex and layered flavor profile. The retrohale enhances these flavors, bringing out more toasted nuts and a hint of wood.

Final Third: Bold and Satisfying Finish

In the final third, the cigar intensifies. The leather and pepper return, but they are balanced by the lingering cocoa and espresso flavors that now dominate the palate. The creaminess transforms into a buttery smoothness, making for a bold, satisfying finish. The burn remains consistent to the nub, with no harshness, offering a full-bodied close to the smoking experience.

Expert Pairing Suggestions

• Whiskey: Pair this cigar with a peaty Lagavulin 16 for an earthy, smoky match or a rich Blanton’s Bourbon for a sweeter, nuttier contrast.

• Rum: For rum lovers, the Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva offers caramel sweetness that complements the cigar’s earthy core.

• Red Wine: A bold Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon like Caymus will elevate the complexity of the second third’s cocoa and coffee notes.

• Coffee: A strong espresso or French press coffee will highlight the cigar’s toasted nuts and leather tones, making for a balanced pairing.

Final Thoughts and Accolades

The H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro has earned high praise from top cigar reviewers, with Cigar Aficionado rating it 90+ points multiple times. Its balance of complexity and craftsmanship has made it a favorite among fans, with publications like Cigar Snob and Halfwheel also giving glowing reviews.

Though it hasn’t received any recent awards, the cigar’s consistent ratings and high demand speak for its quality. Its mid-range price point and its exceptional flavor profile make it an excellent value for anyone looking for a premium cigar.

Overall Impression

In conclusion, the H. Upmann 1944 Reserve Toro is a cigar that delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re new to cigars or a seasoned enthusiast, this medium-bodied beauty offers a well-rounded, evolving experience that’s sure to satisfy. Its balance of earth, spice, and creaminess keeps the smoker engaged from start to finish, and its impeccable construction ensures a smooth, consistent burn throughout. For under $10, this cigar is a must-try for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship and flavor. 🌟