Final Thoughts: There wasn’t a ton of twists and turns with this cigar, but it really didn’t need it. It had all the spice I desire and mixing in the sweetness really made for an enjoyable experience. The first sample performed perfectly in terms of draw, while the draw of the second was noticeably tighter; still enjoyable just not as smooth as the first. This cigar right off the bat had Rye Whiskey written all over it (which happens to be my favorite spirit). This is a night-cap cigar in my opinion.
Pairing Recommendations: I usually provide a more comprehensive list of pairing recommendations, but this one is just Rye Whiskey. My non-alcoholic suggestion would be Dr Pepper. If you’re a fan of Rye, smoke this cigar with a nice pour and enjoy pure bliss.
Breakdown of My “Overall Enjoyment” Total:
Feel in the hand: 15/15
Ash Strength: 3/5
Versatility (pairings, time of day): 6/10
Appearance: 5/5
Pepper Scale: 10/10
Box Worthy: 4/5
Founded in 2012 by Hendrik Kelner Jr. the Kelner Boutique Factory has crafted some of the last decade’s most sought-after craft and boutique blends. Kelner opened KBF to after almost two decades learning from legends like his father Hendrick “Henke” Kelner Sr. and Master Blenders like Eladio Diaz. Located in Santiago in the Dominican Republic, KBF has developed unique cigars for storied brands like Casdagli, Lampert, United, and Privada Cigar Club.
Wrapper: Dominican / Binder: Dominican / Filler: Dominican
Vitola: Robusto / Size: 5 x 52
Factory: Kelner Boutique Factory / Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Wheat bread
Red pepper, graham cracker
Red pepper, leather, molasses
Right at light up a blast of spicy red pepper coats the palate and makes itself even more present on the retrohale. The wrapper is visually flawless. Further into the first third the spice is still prominent, but the finish is leaving a pleasant sweetness on the palate. The burn has been rather wonky in the first third, but not enough to touch up. As the first third makes way for the second third, that red pepper spice is hitting all over my palate and retrohale; the sweetness on the finish is becoming more present. The sweetness is syrupy in nature. Maple syrup-esque.
The second third dials the spice/red pepper down a bit and is now on the same level as the sweetness. A touch of oak comes into the mix as the second third progresses. The burn, although not perfect; has corrected itself enough to no longer be a concern. Zero complaints on the draw at the mid point, perfect amount of resistance accompanied by a lovely smoke output. As the final third approaches, Oak, Red Pepper and Maple syrup jockey for position on the palate. A battle I’ve enjoyed thoroughly thus far.
The final third starts out with an uptick in red pepper on the retrohale, but the maple sweetness and the spice on the palate hold position from the second third. As the final third comes to an end, a noticeable dryness becomes present. Nothing unpleasant, but certainly worth noting. Wheat bread, not toasted comes to mind. A little dry on the palate, but a ton of flavor going on.
