Tatujae and Redwood Empire: Notes from the Healing Journey

I decided to celebrate a good checkin with the surgeon with a quick smoke and sip. (It's my logic, don't judge.) Friday was a delightfully warm day, even if a bit cloudy most of the afternoon. But as luck would have it, the clouds gave way to sunshine before sunset. Even more reason to head out and soak up some Vitamin D3 for my healing bones.

From the humidor, I selected the Tatuaje Havana VI Nobles that came as part of the December Luxury Cigar Club package. It is a cigar I have not smoked in several years but remembered it fondly. After perusing the bottles on the shelves, I grabbed a pour of Redwood Empire Lost Monarch — a Bourbon and Rye blend, also known as a “Bourye.”

Redwood Empire Lost Monarch blends 60% rye (aged 3 to 5 years) with 40% bourbon (aged 4 to 12 years). The result marries the sweetness of bourbon with the spice of rye. On the nose, there are notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of citrus zest. The palate opens with vanilla and caramel, followed by a lingering peppery finish.

It’s difficult to pick out distinct bourbon or rye flavors — the blend is neither one nor the other, yet somehow both. On the long finish, the rye component seems to take the lead. The overall profile is unique and thoroughly enjoyable. At 90 proof and priced under $35, Redwood Empire Lost Monarch is an easy pick for an everyday sipper.

Tatuaje Havana VI Nobles is a 5 x 50 Robusto wrapped in an oily, reddish-brown Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos complete the blend. Thanks to the rolling and blending techniques employed in production, the Havana VI line is often compared to classic Cuban cigars of the past.

It had been a while since I last smoked one, though I remembered enjoying it. Checks notes… yep, confirmed. Back then, I paired it with a delightful Porter, and I approached the current whiskey pairing with high expectations.

The cigar opens with sweet molasses, caramel, and nutty notes. As it burns, earthy tones, cedar spice, and creamy coffee come into play. The medium-bodied smoke is well-balanced. While it didn’t overpower the spice of the “bourye,” it held its own nicely. I did alternate the whiskey with sips of water before puffing, which helped keep the flavors distinct. Altogether, it made for a flavorful and satisfying pairing.

The Tatuaje Havana VI Nobles comes at a reasonable price, especially in today’s world of ever-rising cigar costs. Like the Redwood Empire Lost Monarch, it’s a strong contender for a regular rotation. Honestly, it’s as if the two were made for each other. 

Cheers!

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