Arturo Fuente OpusX Forbidden Deseos d'Amor

Name: Arturo Fuente OpusX Forbidden X Deseos d'Amor
Brand: Arturo Fuente – OpusX Forbidden X Series
Origin: Dominican Republic — handcrafted at Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia
Wrapper: Undisclosed (described as Colorado Maduro)
Binder & Filler: Undisclosed (believed to be Dominican tobaccos)
Size & Shape: 5¼″ × 50 (Robusto)
Strength: Medium to full-bodied

🔥 Flavor Profile

• First Third: Opens with a blend of cedar, sugar cookies, and earthiness, accompanied by a hint of sourness. The retrohale reveals creamy sweet cedar and a gingerbread profile, finishing with toastiness, bread, melon, and deep coffee flavors.

• Mid-Smoke: Introduces a strawberry note that accents the dominant nuttiness. Additional flavors include cedar, pasta, and a touch of acidity. The finish offers cedar, earthiness, roasted flavors, and vibrant peanut shells. Retrohales present floral notes, roasted flavors, paprika, and a ginger-like sensation.

• Final Third: The nuttiness intensifies, accompanied by leather, fruitiness, and remnants of cedar. The finish develops acidity, white pepper, and pizza crust notes. Retrohales become more aggressive, featuring meatiness, lemon, and a spice mixture.

🛠 Construction & Burn

• Expertly rolled with a smooth draw and consistent burn.

• The cigar is wrapped in a cedar sleeve, enhancing its aromatic profile.

• Some samples required minor touch-ups due to uneven burn lines, but overall construction is commendable.

📖 Story & Accolades

• The Forbidden X line represents a masterful evolution of the OpusX series, utilizing the rarest tobaccos from Chateau de la Fuente.

• Aged in special "Forbidden" barrels within a secret area of the Fuente factory, this cigar embodies the mystical and spiritual essence envisioned by Carlito Fuente.

• Rated 91 points by Halfwheel, praised for its complexity and unique flavor profile.

🥂 Pairing Suggestions

• Coffee: A rich espresso or dark roast to complement the cigar's cocoa and nutty notes.

• Spirits: Aged bourbon or single malt Scotch to enhance its earthy and spicy characteristics.

• Desserts: Dark chocolate truffles or spiced nuts to mirror its sweet and savory profile.

🎯 Overall Impression

The Arturo Fuente OpusX Forbidden X Deseos d'Amor stands as a testament to the Fuente family's dedication to excellence. Its intricate flavor profile, combined with impeccable construction and a storied legacy, offers a luxurious smoking experience. Ideal for seasoned connoisseurs and those seeking a special occasion cigar, this masterpiece delivers a memorable journey from start to finish.