Don Doroteo El Alcalde

Background

Don Doroteo is more than a cigar brand; it’s a legacy rooted in the inspiring story of Doroteo Fermin Delgado. In 1969, Delgado became a mayor who left a lasting impact, and this brand pays tribute to his vision through expertly crafted cigars. With tobaccos aged for over a decade, Don Doroteo’s blends are rich, complex, and steeped in history. The “El Alcalde,” a 15-year-aged blend, serves as a celebration of his legacy, offering smokers a journey through time and craftsmanship.

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Cigar Details

• Size: 6 ¼ x 52 (Belicoso)
• Wrapper: Sumatra seed grown in Ecuador
• Binder: Sumatra seed grown in Ecuador
• Filler: Brazil, Dominican Republic (Cibao Valley)

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Pre-Light Experience

The appearance of the “El Alcalde” is striking, with a smooth textured Sumatra wrapper that shows prominent veins and a textured surface. The cigar feels firm with minimal give, suggesting a tight roll. The bands are visually stunning, featuring gold embossing on cream and black with light blue highlights. A secondary band proudly declares the 15-year aging process, and a paper foot band adds extra protection.

The wrapper emits a pungent aroma of earth and a subtle cheese-like quality. It’s intriguing rather than off-putting, hinting at the complexity to come. Upon cutting the cap with an XO cutter in a Dickman style, the cold draw offers sweet and grassy notes with no resistance, promising good airflow and smoke production.

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First Third

The cigar lights effortlessly, producing a medium finish with a smooth retrohale. Initial flavors include a mix of vegetable sweetness, hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and a grassy undertone. The draw is perfect—neither too tight nor too loose—and the smoke production is generous. The ash forms in tight, solid stacks resembling “dimes,” indicating flawless construction.

The burn line is nearly perfect, with a thin, dark ring that speaks to the quality of the aged tobaccos. Interestingly, the wrapper seems to form a unique seal around the ash, enhancing combustion efficiency.

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Second Third

As the cigar progresses, the flavors remain consistent, with an emphasis on woody and nutty undertones. A subtle citrus note complements the profile, offering balance. The cigar pairs beautifully with a sweet rum or bourbon, making it an excellent companion for a relaxed evening. Combustion remains impeccable, and the smoke output is consistent even after long pauses.

Removing the secondary band proves effortless, maintaining the cigar’s flawless construction. Even after over an hour, the burn is razor-sharp, and the ash remains sturdy.

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Final Third

In the final stages, the flavor profile evolves to include earthy and mineral notes, with a dry finish on the palate. The sweetness from the first third has largely dissipated, replaced by a more robust, woody character with hints of tannins. While the strength remains medium, there’s a noticeable nicotine presence, though it’s manageable and doesn’t overpower.

The retrohale continues to be smooth, and the draw remains consistent. The cigar’s construction shines through till the very end, with no relights necessary even after extended pauses.

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Overall Impressions

The Don Doroteo “El Alcalde” is a standout cigar that seamlessly blends artistry and legacy. From the impeccable construction to the evolving flavor profile, it performs at a level that rivals top-tier cigars. Its medium body and smooth retrohale make it accessible for novices, while its complexity and craftsmanship will impress seasoned aficionados.

Strength: Medium
Body: Medium
Burn Time: Over 90 minutes

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Final Rating

El Alcalde by Don Doroteo was an absolute pleasure to smoke. Top notch construction, an elegant Vitola, and aged tobaccos come together to create a cigar blend all aficionados should add to their rotation. I know that I will be.

Verdict: Highly Recommended
Whether you’re a connoisseur or a beginner, “El Alcalde” offers a memorable smoking experience, blending history, flavor, and craftsmanship into one exceptional cigar.