These are the original Island Jim by Oscar Cigars, right here. They’re what turned yet another just-launched line into a hot commodity that has spawned multiple other cigars and is growing into quite a nice brand as it ages.

“Island” Jim is the owner of Leaf and Bean in Pittsburgh, itself part of a growing business. It was in his retail brick-and-mortar cigar shop that Oscar Valladares first sold his Leaf by Oscar blend, and took off into the sky.

As it turns out, this cigar is really good, too. Like, surprisingly good. You’d be forgiven for thinking it was just a gimmicky stick, especially with the look of it. That #2 pencil concept is coming through strong, thanks to the shaggy foot “eraser” and double cap pencil tip, complete with light CT shade for the “wood” and oscuro for the “lead.” But in reality, the cigar is tasty as heck.

The tobacco at the core of it is a rich, flavorful Honduran leaf. Then, around that, you get a high-quality Nicaraguan Jalapa wrapper. Island Jim by Oscar Torpedo Natural cigars probably will bring a more complex flavor than you’re expecting. It really departs from what we find most Honduran blends are like. Instead of the rugged earthy spice, this cigar is like a treat straight from the front of the convenience store candy racks. This is thanks to notes like chocolate and confectioner’s sugar. But the complexity comes in with sophisticated floral notes, making this a grownup cigar, all the way. A core flavor of coffee is also in there, somewhere.

Don’t let the playful branding fool you – this is a really good cigar that you’ll be taking seriously. Just not TOO seriously. It’s all about enjoyment.

This Island Jim by Oscar Torpedo Natural cigar is made in Honduras. Outside, you'll find a Nicaraguan Jalapa wrapper. Inside, the binder is Honduran, and the filler is Honduran. This is a Torpedo cigar with a length of 6.50 and a ring gauge of 52.

Please browse our selection of Island Jim by Oscar Torpedo Natural cigars at your leisure.

• What are the flavors like?
o Chocolate, coffee, confectioner’s sugar, floral notes

• What’s the strength level?
o Medium-full

• Who is this cigar for?
o Island Jim by Oscar Torpedo Natural cigars are for folks who want a surprisingly sophisticated Honduran blend.

• Will I want to smoke it to the nub?
o Yes, you most likely will.

• What’s a good pairing with it?
o The friendly Caribbean vibes make us want something old-school with Kahlua. Google tells us that a White Russian with a splash of cola is called a “Colorado Bulldog.” Who wants to try it?

• What’s the best time/place to smoke this cigar?
o When you’re getting ready to plan that next island vacation.

• Any flaws/downsides?
o Reviewers are just in love with it. Sorry, nothing to share here!