E.P. Carrillo Cardinal Impact Natural cigars are part of what the company calls it’s “Classics” line. These are traditional blends that the Carrillos liken to a favorite sweater or a comfy pair of shoes. But the blends are not strictly traditional. Instead, effort is made to move them forward to suit modern tastes and preferences. “Reinventing tradition” is what they call it, and we think they’ve struck a nice balance here.
For the Cardinal Impact Natural, there is a very big difference from a more standard E.P. Carrillo cigar. Many of his blends combine a number of tobaccos from different countries and soils to offer a rich flavor, but settle into medium(ish) strength and body. In contrast, this one dials up the body closer to full for a lush mouthfeel and sensuous experience. Think we’re overdoing it? An experience that really awakens all the senses is a big point of inspiration for the E.P. blenders, so we’re just throwing it out there that this one is meant to really captivate you and carry you away.
It comes in two versions, one with a “natural” wrapper, and a maduro.
The Cardinal Impact Natural cigar uses an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper over Nicaraguan filler. The result is a full-bodied smoke with a wealth of earthy flavors that also include dried fig and cocoa powder. The Maduro is even more special, pulling in a 91 rating from Cigar Aficionado. It’s got a dark and oily Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, and delivers flavors of toasted oak, sweet vanilla bean, and has a light toffee finish. The body doesn’t always seem to get all the way to full, but is a satisfying medium-plus.
If this is the new “traditional,” we’re all for it.
Please browse our selection of E.P. Carrillo Cardinal Impact Natural cigars at your pleasure.
Shop All EP Carrillo Cardinal Impact Natural Lines
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