Cigar of the Month | October

Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 is part of Pete Johnson’s Retro Cuba line, a collection inspired by the golden age of Cuban cigar craftsmanship. Originally launched in the U.S. in 2015, the RC Series gained an international release with new vitolas crafted exclusively outside the States.

Hand-rolled at the famed My Father Cigars factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, the No. 2 showcases meticulous construction, complete with a pigtail cap, an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, and a Nicaraguan core. This release represents Pete Johnson and Don Pepin Garcia’s shared commitment to old-world tradition married with modern blending expertise.

This month, the Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 is our cigar of the month for October. Read our review below and be sure to order it this month to enjoy the cigar at our discounted price!

About the Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 Cigar

Blender: Don Pepin Garcia & Pete Johnson
Factory: My Father Cigars, Estelí
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium to Medium-Full
Size: 5 ⅝” x 54 (No. 2)

Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop

The Beginning

The cigar opens with elegant notes of wood and toasted almonds, layered with a gentle caramel sweetness. The retrohale carries soft cedar with hints of nuttiness. About an inch in, delicate fruit-like notes appear, adding intrigue to the profile. By the close of the first third, flavours of wood and almond dominate, underpinned by a subtle caramel creaminess. Strength sits at a balanced medium.

The Middle

Into the second third, the almond character mellows while a more distinct woody core takes the lead. The retrohale develops with cedar and faint fruit sweetness, offering a refined balance. Around the halfway point, the caramel note deepens, intertwining beautifully with the natural sweetness of the tobaccos. The profile remains approachable but gains complexity as strength edges slightly towards medium-full.

The End

In the final third, the woodsy backbone becomes more pronounced, joined by darker roasted nut flavours. The fruity note lingers faintly, while the caramel sweetness transitions into a richer, more molasses-like tone. A touch of earthiness develops as the cigar winds down, with the retrohale showcasing cedar and soft spice. The finish is long, warm, and balanced, with the medium-full body holding steady until the nub.

Burn & Draw

Construction is excellent, with a steady, even burn and firm ash holding for extended intervals. The draw provides just the right amount of resistance, producing thick, aromatic smoke that enhances the tasting experience.

Overall

The Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 offers a refined and aromatic journey, weaving wood, almond, caramel, and delicate fruity sweetness into a balanced whole. This is a cigar that honours its “Retro Cuba” namesake with finesse, delivering an experience that feels classic yet contemporary. A fine example of Pete Johnson and Don Pepin’s artistry, it is both approachable for newer smokers and rewarding for seasoned aficionados.

Ross Rating: 9/10

What alcoholic drink would I pair the Tatuaje RC Series No. 2with?

Brugal 1888 Dominican rum would make an excellent pairing with the Tatuaje RC Series No. 2. Its rich layers of toffee, dried fruit, and gentle spice would complement the cigar’s nuanced flavour profile, while the rum’s smooth sweetness would balance the cedar, earth, and pepper notes. Together, they create a refined and harmonious experience.

What soft drink would I pair the Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 with?

It would pair excellently with Fanta Lemon.

Would I smoke the Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 again?

I was impressed and would gladly smoke another when the opportunity arises.