TheCaldwell Crafted & Curated Savages Malpensante brings back the spirit of SAVAGES through Caldwell's small-batch Crafted & Curated program. Malpensante—roughly translated as“The Cynic”—isn't simply a reproduction of the old cigar, but a refined interpretation built around anEcuadorian Habano 2000 wrapper, Sumatra-seed binder and aged Dominican fillers. Made at Tabacalera Mina del Rey in the Dominican Republic, only400 boxes of 10 were produced.
At6" x 54, Malpensante has enough body to show the richness of the Dominican core while keeping the Habano 2000 wrapper very much involved. Earth and cedar establish the foundation, followed by black pepper, roasted coffee and toasted nuts. Cocoa and a restrained natural sweetness emerge underneath, softening the darker tobacco and giving the cigar considerably more dimension than its strength might suggest. It's a medium-to-full smoke with some authority, but the attraction is the balance between spice, richness and that subtle underlying sweetness.
For longtime Caldwell smokers who remember SAVAGES, Malpensante is well worth seeking out—and newcomers shouldn't be intimidated by the name. This is serious, beautifully composed tobacco with enough strength for the seasoned palate and enough nuance to reward a slow smoke. With only4,000 cigars produced, this is one Crafted & Curated release worth putting a few aside while they're still available.
