Ortega Wild Bunch2013 Fast Eddie 8 Ball

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
Binder: Not disclosed
Filler: Not disclosed
8-Ball: 6 1/2 x 38
Price: $159.00 (Box of 20)

We previewed this cigar last week on Cigar Coop. The Fast Eddie is the eighth installment of Ortega Premium Cigars’ Wild Bunch 2013 series. The concept behind the series is to dedicate a cigar to various cigar enthusiasts whom company president Eddie Ortega has personally met during his time in the cigar industry. During 2013, each month a different cigar – in a different size and blend will be released as a tribute to these various people. The Fast Eddie represents a bunch of firsts. It is the first release of this series to use an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. It is also the first lancero. Finally this is an eponymous release as Fast Eddie represents Eddie Ortega himself.

The 6 1/2 x 38 (the vitola is called 8-Ball) is actually smaller than a traditional lancero. Eddie Ortega used this size on his Ortegs Serie D Maduro lancero. This represents a very nice addition to the series. It includes notes of chocolate, pepper, baker’s (sweet) spice, and a creamy undertone. The flavors start out medium-bodied but progress to medium to full-bodied. The Fast Eddie is not an overwhelming as it is medium strength. The construction is excellent – delivering a nice burn and draw.

This cigar is worth a box split.