Cigar Review: La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto

On a warm and sunny day in Tamboril, widely regarded as the cigar capital of the world, nestled on the outskirts of Santiago in the Dominican Republic, sits Jose Arnaldo Blanco – known to all simply as “Jochy” – calmly puffing on a cigar. A man who has worked with tobacco for as long as he can remember, his unwavering love and passion for it is clear to all who know him.

Through hard work and determination, he has cultivated and processed tobacco to perfection throughout his decades-long career as both a grower and manufacturer. His factory, Tabacalera Palma, has been the birthplace of exceptional cigars that have earned the admiration and loyalty of smokers across the globe.

The La Galera Chaveta Robusto Cigar is an authentic Dominican cigar, hand-made by the best rollers of Tabacalera Palma, and it shows – the construction is flawless.

If you want to try this cigar yourself, the La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto is available here at Havana House.

About La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto

Owner: Jochy Blanco
Factory: Tabacalera Palma
Origin: Dominican
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Filler: Dominican Repulic (Piloto Cubano, Criollo 98, Pelo de Oro)
Strength: Medium – Full
Size: Chaveta (5″ x 50)

Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop

The Beginning

A slight hint of mint and an even subtler touch of cedar are detected on the cold draw before lighting up. The first thing I notice upon ignition is the wonderful, rich aroma filling the room — this cigar smells incredible! Crisp white pepper floods through the nose, while the draw offers soft leather, a strong dose of mineral, and just a fleeting touch of cream on the finish. The burn line starts off uneven, but with a bit of attention, it’s mostly straightened out by the one-inch mark. The pepper fades significantly towards the end of the first third, allowing the cream to make an appearance on the retrohale as well.

The Middle

As I move into the middle portion, this La Galera blend is starting to come to life. A light white pepper has made its presence known, particularly on the retrohale. A very subtle floral note occasionally emerges on the inhale. The wood remains the most prominent flavour — my mind perceives it as something akin to white oak, perhaps influenced by the white pepper.

The End

A lovely vanilla note has joined the dominant creaminess, making for an exceptionally enjoyable smoking experience. The soft leather remains present beneath these flavours, and there’s still a touch of mineral on the retrohale, but cream reigns supreme in every aspect of this cigar’s ending. The construction is excellent throughout the final stretch in every regard. I smoke it right to the very end.

Burn & Draw

This cigar has been expertly rolled. It has an even burn light and the draw is spot on.

Overall

This cigar becomes progressively smoother as the smoking experience unfolds. Pepper and spice are gradually overtaken by a dominant creaminess that is immensely enjoyable. Once that subtle hint of vanilla appears, it only enhances the enjoyment right through to the very end. I only wish this fast-burning cigar had lasted longer, I’ll certainly be smoking the La Galera again this month.

Ross Rating: 8/10

What alcoholic drink would I pair the La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto Cigar with?

The La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto will pair fantastically with Brugal 1888 Double Aged Dominican Rum (70cl / 40%).

This special edition from Dominican producer Brugal has been double-distilled and matured in American oak before a second maturation period in sherry casks to add a dose of dried fruit and leathery sweetness to the flavours.

What soft drink would I pair the La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto with?

Sprite works really well with this cigar.

Would I smoke the La Galera Habano Chaveta Robusto again?

I had the pleasure of visiting the La Galera factory recently. The care taken with every cigar they create really blew me away. I will be smoking many more La Galera in the future.