Island Jim is one of the latest cigars from Jim Robinson and friends at Leaf by Oscar. For those who don’t already know, Leaf by Oscar began as a small boutique project based out of Leaf and Bean, a tiny shop in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The owner of that shop is the man after whom this cigar is named: Jim Robinson, a.k.a. “Island Jim.” While the release of Island Jim was not a hugely celebrated event with a ton of exposure, it is still a cigar that, like the other offerings from Leaf by Oscar, is both intriguing and unique. While good ol’ Jim swears not to disclose any in-depth information about the blend, we do know that Island Jim consists of rich Honduran filler and binder tobaccos inside a Nicaraguan Jalapa wrapper leaf. In typical Leaf by Oscar fashion, Island Jim comes complete with a ragged, unfinished foot and a very interesting multi-layer cap. Island Jim is only available in one size: a beautiful 6 ½ x 52 torpedo figurado appropriately named “#2,” due to its apparent resemblance to a No. 2 pencil. The packaging and presentation is just as cool as all other offerings from Leaf by Oscar, this time with a fun tropical island theme, naturally.
Despite its rugged appearance, Island Jim is actually an exceptionally well-crafted cigar. Rolled with precision, it delivers a huge volume of smoke, an easy draw, and a razor-sharp burn. Beginning with rich notes of earth and nuts, the complexity builds as the cigar progresses. Along the journey, hints of white pepper, nutmeg, and black cherry are easily detectable. A bold, creamy tobacco note is definitely what holds the whole thing together, and each puff concludes with a sweet, chocolaty finish. It is on the heavy side of medium-full, but never overpowering and quite smooth for such an intense flavor profile.
The fun packaging and brand name may be a bit misleading. Island Jim is a very serious cigar for very serious cigar connoisseurs. Beginners will in no way genuinely appreciate the delicate puzzle pieces of the complex flavor profile. Island Jim pairs well with dark rum, single malt scotch, or a good port wine, and makes a great conversation piece when relaxing in the cigar lounge. Similar cigars may include La Flor Dominicana Ligero and Camacho Corojo. Leaf by Oscar is no doubt one of the leading up-and-coming cigar brands of recent years. Island Jim is sure to be a significant player in their portfolio, and it will doubtless become the favorite smoke of many who are daring enough to give it a try.
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