Felipe Gregorio Classic Belicoso (Single Cigar)

• Length: 159mm
• Ring Gauge: 52
• Flavour: Medium-Full
• Wrapper: Habano 92
• Binder: Sun Grown Habano 44
• Filler: Habano 92
• Origin: Dominican Republic

Felipe Gregorio Classic Belicoso – Single Cigar There's a certain satisfaction in seeing a well-made Belicoso sitting in the humidor. That pointed head, the long, elegant body and the handsome band all suggest that somebody has put a bit of thought into the business. The Felipe Gregorio Classic Belicoso is a fine-looking example.

The wrapper is a lovely light golden-brown, with the natural veins of the tobacco leaf visible beneath its surface. It has the sort of colour that reminds me of a well-worn leather armchair, although I wouldn't recommend trying to smoke one of those.

Felipe Gregorio is the creation of Philip Wynne, an American cigar entrepreneur whose interest in tobacco has taken him through several of the world's cigar-growing regions. He established the brand with an emphasis on traditional craftsmanship and exploring the character of different tobaccos.

The Classic range carries that traditional approach into a cigar with a distinctly old-fashioned appearance. There's nothing peculiar about the presentation, just an attractive wrapper and a rather splendid navy blue and gold band bearing a crown and heraldic emblem.

The Belicoso shape is worth mentioning. Unlike a standard Robusto or Toro, which generally finishes with a rounded head, a Belicoso narrows to a point. It's a shape that requires considerable skill from the roller, particularly when forming the cap.

It also makes preparation rather interesting. You can begin with a relatively small cut at the pointed end and enlarge it slightly if necessary. It's worth taking your time over this part, as a good cut is the beginning of a pleasant experience.

I've always thought a Belicoso has a little more personality than the average straight-sided cigar. It looks distinctive in the humidor and gives you something interesting to examine before you've even reached for the cutter.

This single loose Felipe Gregorio Classic Belicoso is an opportunity to explore the brand's traditional cigar-making style and enjoy a classic figurado shape.

And if you're wondering whether that crown on the band makes you royalty, I'm afraid not. I've checked. You'll still have to put the bins out yourself.