Best Cigar in The World? E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel Robusto Review

The E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel cigar is one of the higest rated cigars ever on Cigar Aficionado magazine. The rating is so high that it's caused quite a stir in the industry. In this video I review this cigar to see if it lives up to the hype.
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[@cigarinspector2023]

Best whiskey glass - geni.us/Brumate Green Dragon Zippo - geni.us/greend Main Cutter - geni.us/traditional Main Lighter - geni.us/legrandblue My Zippo -geni.us/Goldzippo Great Value Soft Flame Lighter - geni.us/crjulius The best hygrometer - geni.us/butler

[@SippersSocialClub]

I think batch variation is probably the answer. Happens in the spirit competitions all the time. Distilleries send their best single barrels to be judged but you will never see something that good on the shelf.

[@troybucher6383]

I agree think back a few years ago when Henry Mckenna 10 was whiskey of the year. Golden barrel was provided.

[@TerryBollea1]

How does he light before he cuts?????

[@tailorsoldierspy6464]

What a rollercoaster cigar😂 I want to smoke that cigar, it sounds like a lot of fun.

[@murraysaucedo897]

I smoked one a couple of weekends ago and personally I didn’t think was that great. It wasn’t bad by any means just not my stick. I’d go for a Padron 26 instead.

[@JimmyFigueroa]

Saying that you’d rather go for a Padron 26 is like saying you would rather go for a Lamborghini lol

[@MarvFitBikesKicks]

What are your thought on the melanio serie v?

[@yousifbasim5625]

I've had this and it was rather underwhelming tbh, their previous cigar of the year which you can get from c.gars. It's the E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic Cigar, medium to full body with amazing flavours of leather and wood and earth. I highly recommend that one, but it's still nowhere near the RASS or Epicure 2. Still would be nice to see your opinion on it tho. Overall great video!!! Keep it up!!!

[@Stripping_Bolts]

I thought the Pledge blew the Encore away, however the 98 rating doesn't help the cigar because people get their expectations way too high. I didn't really enjoy the Encore until the halfway point, too mild for me. It's a great smoke but the La Historia is better imo. The Pledge was great immediately at light up, big punch of pepper if that's your thing. But no, it's not the best cigar in the world.

[@fenwickc2274]

just ordered one of these cant wait !

[@kevinalvarez5098]

Brother, I love your videos. Great cigar commentary. Cheers from the U.S.

[@shawnglass108]

Obviously we all have different tastes. The Pledge Prequel is one of the best tasting cigars that I’ve ever smoked. Of course it must be toasted, lit, and smoked the right way and at the right pace. Smoking it too quickly completely washes the flavors to harshness.

[@cigarinspector2023]

I didn’t smoke it quickly and I always light my cigars slowly before cutting them. By most accounts it’s a mediocre cigar at best however that doesn’t mean people who love them shouldn’t or are wrong. I’m glad you enjoy it, the fact that you like it is great for you and the cigar industry :).

[@shawnglass108]

@@cigarinspector2023, Thanks for your response. I wasn’t meaning to suggest that you had lit it improperly or smoked it too quickly. I was just giving good general advice. It definitely makes a difference on the harshness of this cigar if you smoke it too quickly. I’m sorry I wasn’t more clear in my response but it wasn’t directed specifically at you. Keep up the good work and the great reviews. We definitely disagree on this one though. The Pledge Prequel is a great cigar to my tastes and my friends who also smoke it. I do agree that a 98 is a bit high though.

[@cigarinspector2023]

@@tajzikria5307 That 4 comments on this video Taj, two of them include insults. Interesting...

[@cigarinspector2023]

@@tajzikria5307 mate, grow up. Your apology is worse than your insult. How pathetic. I’m sorry Shawn, I didn’t mean to bring this nonsense to you. Hope you’re having a great day.

[@dasboot211221]

@@shawnglass108 i give it a 97.75.

[@siavoshmoussavi9347]

Totally agree. Great assessment.

[@prettyfe2462]

What is a good creamy vanilla cigar that you enjoy smoking????? I need suggestions. ** I’m a beginner at smoking cigars

[@seanyglass14]

Try the EPC encore I prefer that one over the pledge. It’s very mild and creamy 😊

[@mrdavid1234]

Just wanted to let you know that your channel is refreshing. I follow other cigar channels and it's nice to have a simple and very straight forward guy talking about cigars. A nice change from the overly macho, big dude, I carry a knife everyday attitude. Definitely looking forwards to some new uploads! Cheers

[@MarvFitBikesKicks]

Maybe they did rate it high, but I’m enjoying as I smoke it right now.

[@briankregg6329]

It is amazing but imo the Perdomo 20th anniversary Maduro is number 1, joya de Nicaragua 45 a very close second

[@humblesamb9920]

Smoked many cigars from both the "new world" and Cuba. I've smoked almost every cuban cigar of note that aficionados rave about along with the same from the new world. As someone who likes to buy boxes and age cigars I have found that each and every pledge prequel I have smoked is vastly different, even coming from the same box. However, when its on it's game I really don't know of many cigars that are so incredibly rich on multiple levels yet nuisanced throughout. Its been mind-blowing the difference between each and every pledge stick. Sometimes it seems it's smoke is life-changing and other times I wonder whether or not I was having a mental lapse or not. Just my 2 cents.

[@cristinaa6465]

Concidering the rating compared to Cigar Aficionados latest 98 rating, that was, as you said, a cuban, 35 year aged cigar... It makes me question Cigar Aficionados credibility and ability to rate cigar unbiased. In my opinion, highly questionable rating for this particular cigar. Great review Usman!

[@grog1473]

The Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro is hitting all the spots with me!

[@Cigarsmokin_woodworker]

Unless it’s a randomly chosen cigar and not sent by a manufacturer it’s hard to accept a rating. If a bad stick is properly seasoned it can be an awesome stick . With that said one rating can be be different then 10 others . It all comes down to if you like it enjoy it smoke it

[@TerryBollea1]

No. Cigar aficionado works like this. They have several reviewers all over the country. They go buy the cigars, smoke them, rate them, then send in there results. The mag takes all of there ratings and comments, and averages them, and writes up there findings to sound like its one review. Sometimes the reviews the mag writes and short and sweet cause everyone responded the same, or without much variance atleast. And sometimes the mag hams it up cause its a huge release. Instead of just averaging the results, theyll put in history of the brand, story of how the cigar came to be, and sprinkle in the reviewers findings throughout to make the average read like its ALOT more then what was actually reported. This is exactly what happened with the Pledge. They are absolutely plain, and nothing special.

[@davidscott2771]

Haven't watched or read a review of the E.P. Carrillo Pledge outside of Cigar Aficionado that gave it a high mark (above 90). Did Aficionado make a mistake or did money change hands ??

[@cigarinspector2023]

I don't think money changed hands becasue the E.P. Carrillo is a highly reputable company and Cigar Aficoinado would be foolish to do something like that. I think that maybe they're a little out of touch.

[@shian2261225]

Ppp

[@aaronknight4800]

Fantastic cigar. You can keep your Cubans.

[@cigarinspector2023]

Well I was going to anyway, but, thank you?

[@tajzikria5307]

IMO the Pledge Prequel is incredible. I don't think it has a lot of strength as is described. Personally, I think its a 95 at least!

[@cigarinspector2023]

@@tajzikria5307 I'm really glad you enjoyed that cigar. Thank you for commenting and appreciate you watching my video.

[@harism2001]

So true. I’ve tried a few. Def a very nice cigar. 98, didn’t see how and why.

[@kinart2543]

Appreciate the honesty. I'm wondering if new world manufacturers are creating and pushing nicotine heavy sticks for sales volume. Not all, but many high ratings are ridiculous.

[@sunnyshams45]

What was the cutter you used for this video? Looked like a knife?

[@cigarinspector2023]

It’s the Les Fines Lames knife cutter.

[@HBHNL]

Hey Usman. Being in the US, I’ve had all kinds of high rated new world cigars. Hit or miss is quite common with more misses lol. Nothing compares to Cubans. How often do we get a mediocre Cuban? Almost never. Great channel!

[@doriangray6633]

The old "I was smoking these before they hit No. 1" Chestnut 🤣

[@cigarinspector2023]

Well I wasn't "smoking them" I tried a couple when they arrived at a local store. I wouldn't say I was smoking them like it's a regular thing because they didn't appeal to me then and they don't appeal to me now lol.

[@chadchiappetta4440]

Cigar aficionados is a pay to play thing I don’t put any stock into their rating system whatsoever

[@paulfong90]

Wakefield is close to me also, practically neighbours! Lovely review, bought some recently and can’t wait to try one. The box itself is absolutely stunning, by the way. A work of art in itself!

[@fishynishy6227]

Smoking is bad for u why u do it :(

[@norithmusic]

Honesty, thank you my friend I enjoyed a honest review.

[@TheHulkster5]

I agree i just bought a 10 pack and first one of the truck was just so so...so ill five it 3 months and try another.

[@williammacneill956]

I'm bursting with excitement.

[@dantedias4064]

What I think happens to every cigar that wins the Cigar Aficionado cigar of the year is that the demand becomes so great that they just sell the cigars before they are properly aged . Bought five , the first was a terrible , rustic cigar . The other ones were progressively better . The last one was amazing . Best of 2020 ? Meh

[@eymerichinquisitore9022]

Same thing for wines, very high scores are often given to simply good products.

[@mikenelson3212]

Pepe Garcia is putting out some great cigars. Not Cubans but suffice..Flor De. Las Antillas Belicoso quite nice.

[@alexx9922]

Where did you get this from ? Out of stock everywhere I look

[@lexxel2398]

Corona Cigars has a gift box of 3 for 35 bucks

[@lexxel2398]

Here is the link www.coronacigar.com/product/Cigars/Cigar-Samplers/EP-Carrillo-Trilogy-Box-Set-EPCSA03TRIL/

[@alexx9922]

Sorry should have specified in UK 🙏 thanks anyway

[@lexxel2398]

One of three is one which he is smoking now. Hope you’ll like it. But in my opinion, of course, it’s all hype though…

[@alexx9922]

@@cigarinspector2023 I need a George 🙏 [e-mail]

[@mikemorrison6564]

Love to get my hands on a box try some 😁👌

[@johnryan7252]

How do you retro hale

[@cigarinspector2023]

Takes a little practice but essentially you exhale the smoke out of your nose. Not sure how I can explain in text how to do it though lol.

[@kurjan1]

I agree with your review and many of the other comments... I bought it because I love the Encore, as well as the rating I guess.?! However, completely underwhelmed. Encore is streets ahead.

[@funnyguy9873]

What your favourite cigar on your preferences

[@cigarinspector2023]

My favourite cigars are Trinidad cigars. The Fundadores is my all time

[@funnyguy9873]

@@cigarinspector2023 is it the one that you reviewed with three t’s

[@ageofaqu]

Prequel is nowhere near as good as the La Historia or the Encore IMO. I find ageing them for around 6mths helps for the La H and Encore. I am currently waiting to see if there will be any difference with the prequel. Appreciate your views 👍🏽.

[@mecklenburgcubancigars]

Hi Usman, I agree with the complex spicy notes but not with the CA high score. FYI, In the Winter Issue of 1992/1993, Cigar Aficionado rated the Cuban Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona at 99. Good review. Thanks, Mike

[@cigarinspector2023]

Yep the Hoyo is still the highest rated cigar ever from the magazine.

[@shawnglass108]

The Pledge Prequel is the highest rated cigar of the year for Cigar Aficionado. They always make that claim. The Hoyo received its rating before they gave out the cigar of the year award.

[@mikejulianoferreiro7654]

Very good review! Could u review a Brazilian Cigar?

[@cigarinspector2023]

I’ll see if I can get hold of some. :)

[@lennysaptho9541]

I've smoked 2. First one was garge and bland. 2nd one is meh ok. Don't think it deserves a 98 rating

[@briarreport8408]

I prefer the Thumbs Up / Thumbs Down rating system.

[@grimilangrimilan6429]

I had the same experience with that tare, could not smoke the other half because of that.

[@IndianaSmoke]

You get tar build up when you slobber on the end you draw from. Especially if you punch cut.

[@cigarinspector2023]

I’ve spoken with several manufacturers regarding this and certain tobacco is just prone to build tar. However Punch cuts make things worse lol.

[@stinger223]

Punch cuts are a last resort for me. I have had tar issues more from punch cut cigars than anything else. I am pretty much to a point that I will wait until I get to my guillotine or cigar scissors to smoke.

[@robertlulek1634]

I agree 1000% with you. It is mediocre at best and mediocre in my opinion sucks I like CUBAN CIGARS and very good new world CIGARS such as Arturo Fuente Op. X or Pedron 26.

[@1gapcap]

I couldn’t agree with you more! Would not buy again!

[@Z3kyTw0]

Had the score gone to a Cuban, any Cuban he would have agreed with the score.

[@cigarinspector2023]

If it was a Cuban with 35 years of age then sure I’d find it easier to believe. If it were just a regular production cigar I’d have a hard time believing it and would attempt to smoke several of them to see what the cigar was actually like. Nice try on attacking my credibility though. Should I start making up lies about you too?

[@lexxel2398]

It’s a good cigar, but NOT a 98 rating cigar, I think that cigar aficionado messed up the numbers, it’s more likely 89. Actually all ratings of the cigar aficionado is a total bullshit…

[@jacobmadsen1122]

Completely agree. Don't get caught up in ANY ratings as most of them are bullshit. This is not an amazing cigar but more just above average. Now that it has scored 98 everyone will think it's amazing...

[@lexxel2398]

@@jacobmadsen1122 You are absolutely right, sir. Even top Cuban's, Fuente's Opus X's, or Padrons don't get this rating. This Carillo's stick is just simply another average cigar...I wouldn't pay more than 8, maybe 9 dollars for it, but 20 pounds?! no way...

[@saadhawas2905]

Just wanted to say something about this, maybe if you loose the mentality of this cigar is going to be better than the monte cristo or the dunhill only then you'd be able to give it a good rating I just tried the epicure no3 hoyo and trust me I swear to God it was the worst cigar I ever had in my entire life cause I compared it to no 2 epicure and I compared to other strong cigars like liga privada no 9 or what ever the cigar you like you can't compare cigars cause each and everyone has their unique flavour and construction

[@robertlulek1634]

I give the cigar tops and 82 to 84

[@blakestuart4748]

These people tripping in the comments. This cigar is delicious hands down

[@charlieleishman1344]

Had a La Historia today and feel as though I was ripped off for $13US. Been smoking cigars for over 7 years and this stick was the worst I have ever smoked. Heavy wet ashtray taste in mouth transitioning to smoldering rubber notes. Absolutely horrible!!

[@blackgrizzly4987]

Short answer: no it's not the best cigar in the world.

[@robertlulek1634]

I don't know the EP Carrillo that I smoked sucked. They were so strong and spicy and disgusting.

[@joenovak6393]

Great owner..But his New line is not for me. Cuban's are my main sticks.

[@mikenelson3212]

Enjoy your site. Love my cigars. I have a personal cigar roller in Pinar del Rio..Cuba. He rolls Behike size cigars for me. 50 cigars for 100bucks. 98+. SPOILED

[@Jjf109nine]

I‘ll pay you 300 Bucks.

[@cigarinspector2023]

Yea man I wanna buy some of them cigars too lol.

[@mikenelson3212]

@@cigarinspector2023 Cuba in turmoil. Dont know when ill b able to return and enjoy a cigar.Been there 40+ times but future trips r in doubt😟

[@EthanReviews123]

You need to smoke a few

[@dod957]

Had a few of these now, for my taste literally overrated, Encore and La Historia both better offerings from EPC.

[@robertlulek1634]

I had a box of the cigars. To me they were bitter and horrible. I don't know where they got the 98 rating.

[@lexxel2398]

One more thing, I smoke some from different boxes, but consistency is the same, exactly as you describe and it’s NOT worthy spending money on box…

[@Glaxyhd1]

Tar is because u char it

[@cigarinspector2023]

We spoke to a number of manufacturers, apparently there’s no real reason why it happens and it can happen to virtually any cigar.

[@androidtech302]

Overrated by far

[@theogeorgiades]

I smoked this for the first time a couple of weeks ago. Literally one of the worst smokes I’ve ever had. Charred wood at its finest.

[@Tony2Nice]

🧢