Earlier this month, I accepted a challenge from a great Brother of the Leaf – Kevin (Commish) Parow. Kevin said I should run a series of cigar reviews on this year’s Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection. I accepted the challenge and throughout the month I did just that. Starting with the Frank and ending with the Creature, I smoked and reviewed all 14 cigars in the collection, leaving me only the empty box at the end.
If you are not familiar with the Tatuaje Monster series of cigars, it all started back in 2008 when Pete Johnson started a new Halloween trend in the premium cigar market with the release of the Frank, a nod to Frankenstein. It continued for about 13 years, releasing a new blend each year and various extensions to blends. The idea was to make 13 blends and stop, but 2 years ago we were surprised with a 14 count sampler pack, known as the Monster Mash that included all the original vitolas of the blends and added a 14th new monster – the Creature. So, now we have 14 monsters, we have small monsters, and we have skinny monsters. They are highly sought after boxes and blends.
Today I would like to post my ranking of the 14 cigars in the 2024 Monster Smash collection, starting with the best to the least as if it were a cigar of the year list. The ratings ran from an 88 to a 97.
For this project, I purchased my sampler from Neptune Cigars as they were the first to show they had the Monsters in stock ready to ship.
For reference, the 14-count collection has an MSRP is $175.00 but if you search around, you may find them discounted to about $160.00. As of this writing, if you have a discount code, check Neptune Cigars or check Fox Cigars as they had them for $159.99.
All cigar in the collection this year are expressed, in (5 1/4 x 52) box pressed vitolas and are handcrafted at My Fathers Cigars S.A. in Nicaragua.
If I was to rate the overall collection, I would give it 93 for a full cross palate spectrum with a few that were absolute stellar. Sadly, there were a few that skewed low and offsets the collection rating. The majority of the monsters burn fairly well, had nicely balanced profiles and at times some interesting transitions. I should also note that many of the blends just seemed to burn a bit quicker than I am used to. Some coming in below 1 hour and 20 minutes. But if you want the good you have to accept the not so good ones and just think of it as $12:50 per cigar – some of which are comparable to more expensive cigars on the market.
Have a Happy Halloween 2024 Everyone.
Boston Jimmie
The Final Rankings
Number 1
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Tiff
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Tiff journey begins with a delicate interplay of floral notes and spices, setting an enticing tone. Nutty undertones and dry fruit essences enrich the early profile, while the smoke itself envelops the senses with its full-bodied presence. As the first third unfolds, subtle nuances of cedar weave seamlessly into the tapestry of flavors. Transitioning into the second third, a growing honey sweetness emerges, accompanied by a gentle hint of orange peel that brightens the profile. Midway through, spice notes intensify, elevating the strength of the smoke, while the citrus peel sharpens in flavor. An impressive ash cascades away, revealing a well-formed burn cone that speaks to the cigar’s quality. As the journey progresses, caramel nuances develop, beautifully balancing the zesty citrus. By the final, the sweetness deepens, inviting a satisfying conclusion to this rich and complex experience.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 2
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Mummy
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection The Mummy starts its magnificent, medium strength journey with palate pleasing notes of sweet cinnamon spice. Subtle, yet inviting undertones of dark chocolate enrich the profile. Each draw is smooth, delivering a full-bodied volume of smoke that envelops the palate. Cedar notes elegantly weave into the mix, adding depth to the experience. As the first third draws to a close, a sweet, fruit-like aromas emerge, adding the overall allure. Moving into the second third, the dark chocolate notes deepen, intensifying in richness while sweet cream notes provide a perfect counterbalance. By the latter part of the second third, the pre-light nuttiness reasserts itself, adding complexity to the flavor profile. As the journey reaches the final third, a bold hint of black pepper makes its presence known, rounding out a truly engaging journey of flavors. I can find nothing to deduct form this monster.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 3
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Krueger
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Krueger journey begins with a delightful interplay of caramel sweetness and zesty pepper, creating an inviting first impression. Cedar notes swiftly weave into the blend. After an inch of burn, the profile settles gracefully, introducing buttery cracker undertones that enhance the experience. As the second third unfolds, a rich dark chocolate note emerges, adding depth to the flavor. The smoke is thick and full, enveloping the palate with each draw. Bright citrusy fruit notes keep the palate vibrant and moist, harmonizing beautifully with a creamy finish that binds the flavors together. The initial pepper, though softened, evolves into a gentle cinnamon background midway through. As the cigar progresses into the final third, the spice intensifies, becoming the dominant note and culminating the experience in a satisfying crescendo. This is by far one of the best in the 2024 Monster Smash Collection.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 4
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Bride
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Bride journey begins with vibrant tanginess and a hint of white pepper that tantalize the senses. Early on, subtle plum nuances join the blend, followed by a harmonious marriage of chocolate and cream that defines the first third. In the second third, the creamy texture deepens, enriched by an espresso note that adds depth to the profile. The initial plum evolves into a brighter, citrusy fruit, while cedar notes emerge, further enhancing the complexity. As the final third unfolds, the espresso intensifies, accompanied by a resurgence of pepper, bringing the experience to a satisfying crescendo.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 5
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Chuck
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Chuck journey begins with vivid red pepper spice tantalizing through the nasal passages, awakening the senses. The smoke is abundant, boasting a thick, chewy texture that envelops the palate. Early flavors of salt and nut harmonize, setting the stage for a complex experience. Mild notes of orange citrus emerge, providing a refreshing contrast. It is soon complemented by sweet honey undertones that enhance the citrus notes. In the second third, rich dark chocolate flavors make their entrance, adding depth. A delightful nutty essence lingers on the palate. As the final third unfolds, the blend of dark chocolate and spiced honey continues to enchant, leaving a lasting impression.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 6
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Wolf
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Wolf begins with delightful introductory notes of sweetness and spice, creating an inviting start. As the experience progresses, an orange note emerges, adding a vibrant layer to the profile. A hint of citrus rind enhances the orange, offering a mouthwatering, tangy sensation. Deep into the second third, rich spice and caramel notes captivate the palate. However, as it moves into the final stretch, the profile turns slightly bitter.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 7
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Michael
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Michael journey begins flavors of nut and pepper that awaken the senses. The smoke, rich and voluminous, coats the palate, while earthy and leather notes emerge early on. About an inch into the burn, a subtle sweetness sneaks in, and buttery hints enrich the experience during the first third. As the cigar transitions into the second third, a sweet cinnamon note develops, complementing the aroma of roasted nuts wafting from the foot. Midway through, mild chocolate notes subtly weave into the profile, enhancing the complexity. By the final stretch, cinnamon spice intensifies, joined by a hint of coffee to round out the flavors with a reassurance of sweetness at the end. This is an excellent morning cigar pair with a good cup of coffee.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 8
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Face
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Face opens with an inviting blend of sweetness, black pepper, and ripe fruit. Soon, dry notes of leather weave into the profile. As the smoke progresses, the initial peppery kick recedes after about half an inch, giving way to delightful hints of baking spices. As the first third unfolds, bittersweet chocolate notes mingle with the lingering dry leather, creating a rich tapestry of flavors. A sweet cracker aroma drifts alluringly from the foot, enhancing the experience. By the second third, a touch-up becomes necessary, but midway, salty butter notes enrich the profile, adding depth. A subtle zing dances on the palate, an elusive sensation that’s hard to define. As the final third approaches, a fruity tang emerges alongside a toasted cracker note, rounding out the complex flavor journey.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 9
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Frank
The initial puffs, of the Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Frank, strike the palate with a bold punch of rich peppery spice, immediately commanding attention. The pepper opens up the nasal passages and gives way to a sweet, nutty aroma. After the first inch of burn, pleasant sweetness and earthy tones begin to break through, adding balance to the intensity. The palate is filled with thick, voluminous smoke, and notes of fresh citrus rind provide a mouthwatering sensation. As the first third deepens, a subtle leathery note joins the profile. Moving into the second third, a slight off-burn develops, eventually requiring a minor touch-up. Dark chocolate flavors emerge, accompanied by a more restrained spice, though bitter notes become prominent toward the latter part of the second third. The final stretch brings a resurgence of the initial pepper blast, interwoven with rich earthy undertones for a powerful finish. Ok so the Frank is in the books. An admirable start. We shall see how the rest of the Monsters compare.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 10
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Jason
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Jason journey begins with a delightful interplay of tangy fruit and cream. Rich, peppery notes emerge prominently on the retrohale, opening the nasals. In the second third, enticing milk chocolate notes make their entrance, weaving into the evolving profile. The initial cream transforms into a sweet vanilla cream, striking a balance with the other flavors. Darker chocolate notes develop in the second third, adding richness and depth, while tannic undertones start to surface. As the cigar progresses into the final, earthy notes emerge to complete the journey.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 11
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Hyde
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Hyde journey begins with a burst of tangy earthiness and pepper, setting a bold foundation. Hints of caramel emerge, adding a layer of enticing sweetness. The barrel softens in the middle as subtle fruit notes appear early in the first third. As the cigar progresses, spice notes intertwine with the flavor profile, leading into the midway point. Deeper into the second third, dark chocolate tones surface, and the fruit notes evolve into a raisin-like richness. The final finishes with a subtle added spice note. I rate this monster a 90.
Number 12
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Jeckyl
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Jekyll journey begins with vibrant bursts of citrus and pepper, awakening the senses. Notes of cedar soon join the mix, creating a balanced and aromatic profile. However, an uneven burn develops, and when the ash falls in a solid chunk, it reveals an off-centered burn cone. As the second third unfolds, hints of nut emerge, enriching the experience. A tempting cinnamon spice follows, adding warmth and depth, while delicate milk chocolate nuances enhance the pleasure. Deep into the second third, the flavors begin to turn bitter, and a woody aroma starts to waft from the foot. In the final third, there isn’t much change except for a slight increase in spice, rounding out the experience.
Number 13
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Drac
The initial puffs, of the Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Drac, enticed the palate with a pleasant sweetness and fruit introduction. Unfortunately, that was not the rest of the story. A mild spice joined with an earthy aroma did join the early mix, but then the Drac fell back in he coffin as bitter, sour and astringent notes attacked the palate. It wasn’t until the midway point when it seemed to awaken with a touch of chocolate and bit of the pre-light nut arrived in the profile. The flavors just seem unbalanced and the bitter just never faded away. Sorry Drac, you did not hold up against the Frank. We shall see how the rest of the Monsters compare.
SEE FULL REVIEW HERE
Number 14
Tatuaje 2024 Monster Smash Collection Creature
The Tatuaje Cigars 2024 Monster Smash Collection Creature journey begins with an intriguing blend of earthy undertones and a hint of pepper that captivates the senses. Initially, the flavor profile strikes sharply, almost aggressively, on the palate—a sensation I hope will mellow with time. The smoke itself is rich, ranging from medium to full in volume, with a slight pastiness evident early on. As the burn progresses, tangy notes begin to unfurl an inch in, accompanied by a delicate waft of sweet, nutty aroma that dances in the air. The profile starts to evolve, introducing creamy notes that blend into the second third of the cigar. Woody elements join the ensemble, alongside a rich grapefruit citrus reminiscent of a hoppy IPA. Midway through, the barrel becomes squishy, a development I anticipated based on the pre-light squeeze. Now, a mild almond flavor lingers on the palate after each puff, weaving its way into the experience. The peppery bite intensifies as the final third unfolds, while a subtle touch of dark chocolate emerges in the final act. It felt like the Creature just couldn’t not find its equilibrium point.