1502 is the child project of Global Premium Cigars (GPC). As you may be aware, GPC is known for providing cigars with exceptional craftsmanship and a unique range of mouthwatering flavors.
The cigar brand is managed by none other than Enrique Sanchez, a cigar master that has dedicated his life to creating the highest quality smokes.
The name 1502 is a tribute to its Nicaraguan heritage and the brand holds its roots close to its heart; it is the year Christopher Columbus discovered Nicaragua.
Each cigar from the 1502 line is handmade with Nicaraguan tobaccos and offers unique flavor blends to provide cigar lovers around the world with a unique and unforgettable smoking experience.
Which cigars are 1502 known for?
1502 Cigars has a variety of small-batch lines that are special in their own way, and each one of them pays a special tribute to Nicaragua.
For example, the 1502 Emerald, 1502 Ruby and 1502 Black Gold are known as hidden gems, with their names paying tribute to Christopher Columbus discovering both jewels and Nicaragua itself.
What is the 1502 XO?
The 1502 XO cigar first made its debut in March 2015 and has wowed the cigar community ever since.
Similar to the world of spirits, “XO” in the name of this cigar means “extra old”, which refers to the aged tobacco found within this exceptional blend.
Sanchez included a feature that he refers to as his “cigar lock”, which is a partially covered footer found around the edges of the cigar.
The first thing I noticed about the 1502 XO cigar is the beautiful dark wrapper that contrasts against the gold and black band. It also features “XO” in striking a striking red. Immediately, I felt that this cigar demands your attention and demands that you smoke it.
What is the cold draw like?
Cold draws are a great way to give yourself an insight into what flavors you can experience from a cigar. Alongside this, it can prepare you for any draw issues you might face while smoking.
The cold draw for the 1502 XO cigar provided me with a combination of delicious cocoa notes, spice, and the tiniest hint of fruit.
What is the blend profile of the 1502 XO?
As I mentioned above, the “XO” in this cigar means “extra old”, and the tobacco in this blend is no less than 18 years old!
Although 1502 hasn’t disclosed the exact information on the wrapper, binder, and filler, we do know, as you may have already assumed, that it comes from Nicaragua.
Looking at the flavor profile
The 1502 XO cigar provided a variety of flavors that changed throughout the smoke. Below are the flavors I experienced through different parts of the cigar.
First third
When I first started this smoke, I immediately welcomed the mixed flavors of chocolate, pepper, and natural tobacco. Although subtle to begin with, the flavors in the first third of the cigar complimented each other well.
Second third
As the smoke progressed into the second third, it was clear that tobacco and chocolate were the dominant flavors of this stogie. Accompanying the chocolate, I experienced notes of subtle coffee before the pepper came back to give an exciting kick.
Final third
When I worked my way towards the end of the cigar, I was pleasantly surprised with even more new flavor experiences such as vanilla cream. Overall, the mix of the flavors created a well-balanced smoke that continued to improve throughout.
How does the 1502 XO draw?
The draw of the 1502 XO was quite open; however, it was not flaky or loose. The stick had a straight burn path and produced black and white ash that wasn’t too firm.
Often, it can be a bit of a challenge when a cigar has aged tobacco as part of the blend; however, this smoke had a smooth and well-balanced draw that enhanced the overall experience.
When I progressed through the cigar, the strength slightly increased, but even still, it remained medium-bodied. It was exactly as I expected.
Final thoughts
The long-aged 18 year-old tobacco is really reflected through the whirlwind of flavors in this stogie, and it is something that I highly recommend.
Throughout every puff, there is a new flavor that improves the entire smoking experience. Whether you’re a cigar aficionado or a beginner, this is a perfect cigar to try if you’re looking to extend your taste palate.
Check it out today!