BACKGROUND: In the summer of 2015, the South Florida based Bugatti Group announced the release of their new exclusive series of Bugatti Cigars, which include the Bugatti Signature and Bugatti Ambassador lines.

The Bugatti Group expressed their commitment to bringing a line of cigars to the market that truly befits the legend of Bugatti, a brand that has been historically synonymous with distinction, craftsmanship, and luxury.

“We spared no expense,” said Yigal Harel, President of Bugatti Group. “I wasn’t concerned with the budget. We went after the most well aged tobacco we could get to create a cigar that offered a truly exceptional experience.”

The Bugatti Ambassador sports an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper and a blend that includes Nicaraguan Cuban-seed tobaccos and Piloto Cubano leaf from the Dominican Republic.

The Bugatti Ambassador Series carries an MSRP of $9.50-$10.00.

TASTING NOTES: This cigar started out woody and spicy with white and red pepper on the palate and black pepper on the retrohale. As the cigar progressed, I noted just enough natural tobacco sweetness to balance the wood and spice character. The cigar finished long on the palate with focused and sharp flavors of spice and wood.

The construction and burn characteristics were rock solid. The draw was ideal, the burn line was straight and the light gray ash was firm and hugged tightly to the foot of the cigar.

I have to say that this cigar made a good impression from the outset. And I was favorably impressed with this smoke during the first half.

FINAL THOUGHTS: This cigar has a mouthful of lively, focused flavor that provides a full impact on the palate and a lengthy finish. This is a solidly built cigar and an interesting and challenging smoke. The performance and flavor were consistent right down to the nub.

At $9.50 per cigar, this is a borderline expensive stick, though not out of sync with other good boutique brands. That said, without a proven track record of popularity with the consumer, this may be a tough choice in a competitive market.

I would pair the Ambassador with any single malt or blended whisky, with a lighter-bodied IPA and, of course, with your favorite rye whisky.

Final verdict: If you can find them, pony up some cash and buy a couple to see for yourself if this smoke aptly carries the Bugatti name and reputation.

~Doc