Initial Thoughts: Very few people in the cigar world make a name for themselves outside the brand they’re associated with. Of course, the Fuente family members have an advantage, but if you’re not from a Cuban family with 100 years of cigar heritage, establishing yourself can be a challenge. However, Steve Saka has done it. And, Steve’s name carries some weight as one of the best blenders around. So, when I found the Muestra de Saka Nacatamale, I knew I had to smoke one and give it a review. The Muestra de Saka Nacatamale by Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust has a pigtail end and comes in its own “coffin” – a small cedar box made to hold a single cigar. As soon as I “unboxed” this cigar, I could tell it was incredibly well made. The cigar lit easily and the wrapper, though it had rough characteristics, was smooth and rolled well. CigarScore: 3 Brand: Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust Line: Muestra de Saka Size: 6 x 48 Cut: Guillotine Light: Matches Wrapper: Nicaraguan Binder: Nicaragua Filler: Nicaragua Learn About This Cigar Final Thoughts: The Muestra de Saka Nacatamale by Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust was a very enjoyable cigar. It was impeccably made, and I could tell Steve Saka’s attention to detail is passed on to the people who make his cigars. The burn was almost perfect, though there were some challenges during the middle third. The flavors were rich and complex, and I only noticed some moderate bitterness in the last inch or so. However, I think the $18 price point on this cigar is a little high for what you get. While I liked the Nacatamale, I think there are cigars that are of equal quality and flavor, but which you can get for less money. Because the value of the cigar doesn’t quite live up to the price, I give the Muestra de Saka Nacatamale a CigarScore of 3.
