E.P. Carrillo Short Run 2023 Gordo

The E.P. Carrillo Short Run 2023 Gordo opens with a commanding medium-to-full-bodied profile, delivering a rich tapestry of dark cocoa, roasted coffee bean, and aged cedar underscored by a subtle molasses sweetness. Early draws introduce a measured black pepper and nutmeg warmth on the retrohale, framing the cigar’s core flavors with refined spice. As the second third unfolds, notes of toasted pecan, caramelized sugar, and dried plum emerge, adding depth and balance to the blend’s earthier tones. The final third builds in intensity, featuring espresso crema, charred oak, and bittersweet chocolate, finishing with a long, spice-accented woody sweetness that lingers elegantly on the palate.

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The construction is flawless, with a dark, silky wrapper bearing a soft oil sheen, expertly draped over a densely packed binder and filler. The Gordo vitola is rolled with even firmness throughout, capped perfectly, and free from visible imperfections. The cold draw reveals aromas of cocoa husk, cedar, and raisin, while ignition produces voluminous, aromatic smoke through a perfectly calibrated draw. The burn remains sharp and steady across the entire length, requiring minimal maintenance, and the ash forms dense, silvery-gray stacks that hold securely between drops.

An ideal whisky pairing is the GlenAllachie 18 Year, whose sherried richness of dark berries, toffee, and warming spice complements the cigar’s cocoa, cedar, and caramelized nut elements, while its long, rounded finish amplifies the retrohale’s pepper.

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This cigar has substantial aging potential, with 6–9 years expected to integrate its spice and sweetness more fully, soften its earthy edges, and yield a smoother, more cohesive profile.

Overall, the E.P. Carrillo Short Run 2023 Gordo is a bold yet refined smoke that marries depth, complexity, and flawless construction, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a larger format delivering both power and elegance.