Micallef Reata Cigar Review – A Legendary Duo

Two names that go together real well, especially if you are from Texas, is Micallef and Reata. Of course it only makes sense that these two names represent a fine 2017 cigar offering. If you don’t know what I am referring to let me explain.

Deep in the heart of the great state of Texas is a legendary restaurant by the name of Reata, that offers what many describe as the finest Texas cuisine you’ll ever grace your palate with. Actually there are two Reata locations. The original is nestled in the southern end of the breathtaking Davis Mountains in the west Texas town of Alpine. The second is in Fort Worth, Texas. The Reata restaurants are owned by a legendary man known as Dr. Al Micallef.

It was this year that Dr. Micallef entered the world of cigars at the IPCPR in true Texas style, introducing not a small portfolio of cigars, but a huge Texas portion of delectable leafy products – 13 introductions in all. You may have read our review of the Micallef Experiencia a couple of months ago which tells the story of the brand, Dr. Micallef, and Gomez Sanchez family (two more names that go together) that he has partnered with to bring his creations to market.

Today,  I would like to  introduce you to yet another fine cigar from Micallef Cigars known as the Micallef Reata.

One has to think that naming your cigar after your successful restaurant chain is a prelude to what will be a memorable experience and you would be correct.

To start with the blend of the Micallef Reata is described as:

• Wrapper:  4 year old San Andreas Capa Clara
• Binder:  4 Year old Ecuadorian
• Filler:  4 Year old Nicaraguan from 3 regions

It is available in 2 popular vitolas and [packaged in 25-count boxes.

• Churchill  (7 x 48) – MSRP  $15.00
• Torpedo (6 1/8 x 52) – MSRP  $15.00

The Micallef Reata, like all Micallef cigars, are made at Gomez Sanchez factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.

For this review I sampled the Micallef Reata Churchill which was provided to me for the purpose of reviewing on Stogie Press.

Pre-light Examination

Looking over the Micallef Reata you will first notice the wrapper. It is a  San Andreas  leaf but unlike the dark gritty Mexican maduro leaf we are familiar with, the Reata uses a Clara variety – in other words natural.  It is medium tan in color kind of rugged with a some veins and a light toothy texture. The packing of the Reata is full and solid from foot to the simple cap.

There are two band on the Micallef Riata – the primary contains the Micallef logo centered in the middle with the words “Gomez Sanchez Family 1934”  printed in black on silver background underneath. The second band is a footer band with a silver, gold,  and black motif with the word REATA printed on it. Another note about the band is the back of the primary band which has an image of two hands gasping arms and the statement “An alliance between two great families” and the Micallef Cigars website address www.micallefcigars.com.

Running the Reata across the nose I picked up notes of earth and hay on the foot and not much along the barrel. I cut the cap with my double blade Xikar cutter and gave it a few good cold puffs that were slightly restricted and offered a nice earthy note.

It was time to saddle up and take the Reata for a ride.

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Cigar Review Notes

• Upon first light I am greeted with a light body of smoke with notes of baking spice and vanilla
• It is an elegant start – smooth and creamy
• A light grey ash evolves resting on an even and medium char line
• Coffee notes enter much like a cafe latte
• Ash fell after about an inch of burn
• The burn cone was well centered
• Vanilla still lays in the background with a bit more sweetness
• Citrus notes spike the palate blending well with the coffee
• Very Smooth !!
• Flavors remain consistent entering the second third
• Oils start to open up on the foot
• The vanilla jumps to the front again as it moves through the second third
• Profile starts to change with a light cooking spice entering
• Earthy aroma develops
• This is a slow burner with a decent volume of smoke so far
• Oak notes enter
• The ash has gotten darker near the end of the second third
• The final third brings a continued citrus and spice
• Strength moved up closer to medium
• Aroma shifted to more of a maple syrup toward the end
• Total Smoking Time was 1 hour and 40 minutes

Overall, the Micallef Reata was a truly elegant smoke with a pristine burn and a mild to medium blend of delectable flavors. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey of this cigar from the foot to the nub and highly recommend it to any cigar enthusiast. It is certainly a cigar that would be perfect as the first cigar of the day with a rich cup of Joe. I would also suggest enjoying this as the last smoke of the day with an evening cordial or dram of sweet bourbon. The price point is high but the experience is worth it. If you can’t find these yet at your local  B & M you can find them at the Micallef Cigars shop here.