Kicking Ash With Kayla: Gurkha Black Ops Habano Cigar Review

Gurkha Black Ops Habano Construction

Gurkha’s Black Ops Habano is one of the brand’s most economical lines so far, but don’t let the low price point fool you, the Black Ops Habano is a quality stick. The oily, Ecuadorian-grown Habano wrapper is a light chestnut brown color with petite veins. In true Gurkha style, the band is as much a masterpiece as the cigar itself; a beret-clad skull surrounded by angel wings. Beneath the delicious wrapper, nestled in a thick, Nicaraguan binder, are ample Nicaraguan long leaves. The length of the torpedo is plump and skillfully rolled. The cap cuts cleanly with a Black Ops Accu-Cutter.

Flavor & Aroma

Scents of sweet vegetation, barnyard, and earth are present on the wrapper leaf. The cold draw is slightly sweet with notes of white pepper and oak. The first few puffs are bitter with an ashy flavor. Midway through the first third, the bitterness fades and is replaced by notes of pepper, oats, and earth. The second third is milder, with flavors of bread and yeast. The bitterness returns in the final third, overtaking the earthy flavors.

Burn and Smoking Characteristics

The Gurkha Black Ops Habano lights perfectly with my Vector KGM Quattro Lighter, leaving a beautiful burn line. The draw starts off a bit tight, but still produces plenty of smoke. The draw opens up in the second third. The pretty, gray ash grows to over an inch before the first drop. The burn is slow, and even, with a total burn time of one hour and fifteen minutes. The burn is cool enough that I am able to smoke it down to the nub.

Conclusion of the Gurkha Black Ops Habano

Gurkha’s Black Ops Habano is an attractive, well-made stick. However, the flavor is inconsistent and at times, unpleasant. Half of the time it is a delicious mix of earth and bread, the other half is bitter and ashy.