Many cigar lovers see smoking as a relaxing pastime to unwind after a long day. However, not all cigars are the same. Some stogies are best left for experienced smokers, especially if they are full-strength and full-bodied. Yet, I’ve never heard anybody refer to a cigar as a “Cakewalk.”
This 6 x 50 shaped stick is another coveted boutique offering from Caldwell, but there’s also a large element of secrecy. There’s a natural shade to the Caldwell Eastern Standard Cakewalk wrapper, but the binder, filler and wrapper type are kept under wraps.
The line comes in four different vitolas and packed in 24-count boxes. Joining the Caldwell Eastern Standard Cakewalk Piramide are the Euro Express (5.5 x 44 Corona), the Corretto (5 x 50 Robusto), and finally, the Cream Crush (a 7 x 48 Churchill).
Brand overview
Founded in 2014, Caldwell Cigars is still a relative newcomer to the industry, but there’s no denying their smokes are special. The brainchild of Robert Caldwell, they are manufactured using all-grade A tobaccos and are known for delivering instantly memorable flavor profiles.
Caldwell’s first taste of the cigar industry came in 2008 when he launched a concierge-like service that provided cigars and cigar accessories to luxury hotels and restaurants.
Today Caldwell boasts an impressive portfolio and loyal fan base, with master blender Robert also a frequent collaborator with other cigar makers.
Cigar specs
- Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
- Strength: Medium
- Wrapper: Manufacturer’s Secret
- Binder: Manufacturer’s Secret
- Filler: Manufacturer’s Secret
- Sizes Available:
- Caldwell Eastern Standard Cakewalk Piramide (6 x 50)
- Caldwell Eastern Standard Corretto (5 x 50)
- Caldwell Eastern Standard Euro Express (5.5 x 44)
Cold draw
I ran the barrel along my nose and detected an intense hay and licorice aroma. The foot wasn’t as generous with its waft, with a faint smell of dry cedar the best I could muster. After cutting the pointed head, the cold draw filled my mouth with creamy, sweet hits of cocoa and hay.
First third
Like the candles on a birthday cake, it was time to light my Cakewalk and see if the textbook draw brought a flavor profile worthy of a celebration. A delightful woody tone comes to the fore, partnered with soft, dry cedar notes and white pepper.
Some subtle spice also glazes my palate, but it’s an easy (and exciting) start.
Second third
The second third of the Cakewalk is quite full-bodied and complex, with the pepper taking on more of a cayenne-like quality, adding texture and heat to the long finish.
I pick up the sensation of the aged Grade A tobaccos at this stage, with the thick, chewy smoke showcasing a unique smoking experience. The sweet and savory notes of strong leather, cedar, light creamy coffee, and a honey-like sweetness are perfectly poised and exhibit a full spectrum of flavor.
Final third
This slow-burner remains complex in the finale, but the major shift is the honey sweetness morphing into burnt caramel. Everything is still dancing together in rhythm, with cedar and leather complimented by deep, rich tones of earth and molasses.
The latter has a lingering sweetness purring, while the white pepper gives a touch of spice through the nose.
Conclusion
While there’s an air of mystery to the blend and make-up of the Cakewalk, there’s no denying its even burn and fascinating complexity from beginning to end. Flavorful, rich, and sweet, it’s an outstanding expression of the consistent quality and (Eastern) standards that Caldwell delivers.
Grab yourself a slice of 24 Caldwell Eastern Standard Cakewalk Piramide cigars from cigars.com for $307.95.