Perez-Carrillo Ascend
The Ascend is the newest regular production release in the Perez-Carrillo series from Casa Carrillo. Rolled in the Dominican Republic with an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper over a Nicaraguan Estelí binder and Nicaraguan fillers, it is built around the idea of progression. Each size carries a name that marks a stage in the climb: Saddle, Ridge, and Peak.
Stogie at a glance
Review
Initial Light
Nutty earth comes through first, quickly joined by chocolate and sweet notes. There is light pepper on the retrohale, then cedar moves in. The aroma feels richer than expected for the cigar’s appearance, which makes it intriguing right away. Smoke output is plentiful and very satisfying.
First Third
Woody and nutty flavors take the lead, followed by espresso. Light leather appears mixed with cedar, along with a touch of pepper on the finish. The leather arrives as a welcome surprise. Woody cedar remains the steady backbone while leather, coffee, and baking spices swirl around it. By the end of the first third the combination of cedar, coffee, nuttiness, and pepper on the finish has settled into something consistent and enjoyable. I find myself hoping for more evolution as the smoke continues.
Second Third
The ash holds firm, a clear sign of the excellent construction from Casa Carrillo. The finish smooths out, leaving cedar and nutty earth as the main notes. Almond and nuttiness then become dominant, joined by baking spices and pepper on the finish. The experience reminds me of the Prequel Pledge, though with less intensity and a lighter overall profile. The same enjoyable character remains, complete with great velvet smoke and plenty of it. Black coffee and espresso notes begin to show as the nuttiness continues. Near the end of the second third the almond nuttiness grows stronger and a little more pepper appears on the retrohale. The sweet cedar aroma stays very enjoyable throughout this section.
Final Third
Nutty cedar notes greet me at the start of the final third, still with pepper on the finish. The finish lengthens and brings in slight chocolate and leather. Sweetened coffee appears as a new addition. Intensity builds while the cigar remains milder than the Prequel Pledge. As the smoke nears its end the flavors grow stronger: coffee, cedar, and almond become more powerful than they were at the beginning. The finish smooths somewhat as the pepper softens, yet it stays longer than it was in the early stages. Cedar and nutty coffee notes keep inviting another draw right to the close.Overall
This is a perfectly paced mid day smoke. It delivers complexity and satisfaction without dragging you down or taking unexpected turns. If you enjoy the Pledge or other offerings from E.P. Carrillo, you will feel right at home with this one.
Score
89/100