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H. Upmann Magnum 52 Year of the Tiger: A Cigar Worth Roaring About

Welcome to KD Leaf Diaries, where I explore the most notable cigars in the world. Today, I’m diving into the H. Upmann Magnum 52 Year of the Tiger, a limited-edition cigar crafted to celebrate the Chinese Zodiac's Year of the Tiger. This release showcases the refinement and elegance H. Upmann cigars are known for, offering a smoking experience that's truly luxurious.


The Flavour Profile



The Magnum 52 delivers a rich and balanced flavour profile. Upon lighting, the cigar greets you with notes of cedar and leather, quickly evolving into layers of earthiness and subtle spices. Midway through the smoke, hints of cream and nutmeg emerge, providing a smooth and satisfying complexity. The finish is long and refined, leaving a delicate aftertaste that invites you back for another puff. This cigar balances strength and smoothness, making it suitable for both seasoned smokers and those new to premium cigars.


Vitola Details and Interesting Facts


Here are the specifications for the H. Upmann Magnum 52 Year of the Tiger:


  • Factory Name: Magnum 52

  • Dimensions: Ring gauge 52 x Length 148 mm (5 7/8 inches)

  • Construction: Handmade

  • Bands: Standard H. Upmann band with an additional Year of the Tiger band

  • Packaging: Presented in boxes of 18 cigars, each adorned with the Year of the Tiger design

Straight from the Second edition of El Habano Moderno by Mr. Alexander Groom!


This cigar is a true collector’s item, released in limited quantities. Its packaging features intricate designs that reflect the Year of the Tiger theme, making it a standout both visually and in terms of craftsmanship.


Limited Edition Significance


The H. Upmann Magnum 52 is not just another cigar—it's a tribute to a cultural celebration:


  1. Exclusive Production: Limited in number, making it a rare find for collectors.

  2. Tailored Blends: Crafted with a special blend that reflects the celebratory nature of the release.

  3. Elegant Presentation: The box and bands celebrate the Year of the Tiger, adding a level of artistry to the cigar.




Construction and Craftsmanship



The construction of the Magnum 52 is exceptional. Each cigar is hand-rolled by skilled torcedores, ensuring a perfect draw and an even burn from start to finish. The wrapper is smooth and free of imperfections, while the solid construction ensures a consistent smoke throughout. This attention to detail showcases the quality and tradition behind the H. Upmann brand. This particular cigar I reviewed today unfortunately had very restricted draw and I had to use a Perfect Draw tool to open the draw up. Although the tool enhanced slightly the draw it remained quite restricted for the duration of the cigar.


Perfect Pairings


For an enhanced experience, pair the H. Upmann Magnum 52 with a glass of aged rum or a full-bodied red wine. The rich flavours of these beverages complement the cigar's cedar and spice notes, enhancing the overall smoking session.


A Journey Worth Taking


The H. Upmann Magnum 52 Year of the Tiger is more than just a cigar; it's a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and luxury. Whether you're a collector or simply someone who appreciates a finely made cigar, the Magnum 52 offers a memorable experience that resonates with the elegance of the H. Upmann brand.


Rating for H. Upmann Magnum 52 Year of the Tiger


Here’s how the H. Upmann Magnum 52 Year of the Tiger scores based on my rating system:


  • Appearance: 10/10

  • Aroma: 9/10

  • Flavour: 15/20

  • Draw: 4/10

  • Burn: 9/10

  • Construction: 4/10

  • Strength: 8/10

  • Finish: 7/10

  • Overall Experience: 9/10

  • Total Score: 75/100


Disappointing ending...


Unfortunately, not the ending I was expecting. The cigar was reading at 67% Humidity prior to me cutting and lighting it. It was very restricted throughout the duration but at the last third the wrapper split, and that lead to the binder to expand and that was not recoverable situation. I will revisit this cigar as this could have been a single cigar with a construction issue. Hope the next time the experience would be better!


Join My Events


At KD Leaf Diaries, I host events where enthusiasts can explore cigars like the H. Upmann Magnum 52. Join us for an experience filled with great cigars, vibrant company, and an atmosphere that enhances your appreciation for premium smokes. Also feel free to join my telegram group you can find a link in the link tree in my Bio on YouTube, Instagram or TikTok.

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