Cigar Review: Kristoff Pistoff Robusto

cigar review kristoff pistoff cigar
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We tried the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar to explore the smoking experience it offers. Read our review below, or shop now to enjoy this cigar for yourself.

Originally launched in the summer of 2016, the Pistoff Kristoff line was said to be the fullest in the company’s portfolio, yet owner Glen Case repeated several times that it also packed a good amount of flavour and smoothness. As for the name, that came from a customer who pitched the idea of the Pissed Off Kristoff. Case liked the sound but not the spelling; he simply adjusted it, and the cigar was born.

About The Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar

Owner: Glen Case
Factory: Kristoff/Exclusive Cigars
Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
Binder: Indonesian
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Full
Size: Robusto (5 1/2 x 54)

Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop

The Beginning

A straight cut with the Dupont, and off we go! The cigar starts with a nutty flavour with hints of brown sugar and toffee. The retrohale adds some more sweetness that lingers long on the finish. The first third comes to a close with hints of toast.

The Middle

As we move into the middle, the toasty quality that ended the beginning is in full effect as it serves as the dominant note, with some subtle sweetness in the background. The retrohale serves up a faint floral component, with a touch of liquorice and cinnamon.

The End

Towards the final throes, the Pistoff Kristoff sees the liquorice notes carry over the palate, with some pepper and spice starting to show up in abundance on the retrohale. The finish is moderate to long in length, with a slightly earthy feel to it.

Burn & Draw

Construction of the Pistoff Kristoff was decent. I had over an inch of ash most of the time, a very good draw, and an even burn line. The draw had a slight pull to it; I wouldn’t want it to be open when the cigar is this full-on.

Overall

While the Pistoff started off medium-to-full, by the time I got to the second third, it was definitely in the full-bodied range, with plenty of earth and espresso upfront, and toffee, toast and liquorice carrying the secondary roles.

The pepper spice was a constant, but low level, burn on the palate and nose. The last third carried on with rich flavours of earth and coffee, mellowed out a bit by some dried fruit sweetness and further liquorice. The pepper notes never really peaked above an afterthought.

Ross Rating: 8/10

What alcoholic drink would I pair the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar with?

Carlos I Imperial XO Spanish Brandy (70cl / 40%)

An exquisite blend of brandies, some of which have aged for more than 20 years in oak casks, previously containing premium Sherry wines, Olorosos and Amontillados. This is a brandy of extraordinary quality and aromatic complexity. I still can’t believe this XO brandy is £65, incredible stuff.

What soft drink would I pair the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar with?

Dr Pepper is the king for cigars like this. Sparkling mineral water would also work well if you want to clean things up a little bit.

Would I smoke the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar again?

When I read about cigars like this, I always think they are going to blow my socks off, but they rarely do. The Kristoff gives intense flavours, and the strength you feel is more from the robust body of flavour. Sure, I would love to smoke another one.

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