The Edge cigars were introduced by Rocky Patel in 2004, soon after which their popularity took off like a rocket. Interestingly, there was no marketing campaign to announce Patel’s new brand, no advertising, not even a band on the cigar! By word of mouth alone this cigar quickly gained a solid reputation as a kickass smoke.
When I first saw these cigars in my local smoke shop they were on a lower shelf in a wooden bin. Because I couldn’t see the lid on the bin and they didn’t have bands, I had to ask what they were. “Rocky Patel,” said the manager, as if that were all the information necessary. Later I learned that they were Edges, distinguished by their lack of bands and presentation in rough crates of 100 sticks.
The Edge is made in Danli, Honduras, with the assistance of the Plasencia family. Patel has been coy about the makeup of the cigar, saying that he will not reveal the “secret leaf” he uses in the filler because it comes from an area rarely used for tobacco cultivation. What we do know is that the Edge maduro comes wrapped in a Nicaraguan maduro, a binder from Mexico, and filler from Nicaragua and Panama (as well as the other classified location.) The wrapper shines with oil.
I found this toro to be an extremely well constructed cigar, somewhat better than the RP Vintage lines. It burns evenly, draws perfectly, and earns an A in deportment. The ash is a mottled light gray and is fairly solid.
The Edge starts up with a rich burst of classic maduro flavors– a little sweetness, a little char– and quickly transitions to a smooth but full flavored smoke. I’ve found all the Edges I’ve smoked to be a little tannic. Even though this cigar is aged well enough to smoke now, the tannin indicates that these could benefit from some time in the box. In a year or two these could be even better than they are now. (Or it could be the Mexican binder. Mexican leaf always gives me bitter beer face.)
It gathers a little more strength as it burns to the end, but maintains the same character– smooth and rich with a charred wood foundation. At some point a slogan was attached to the Edge: “For professional smokers only.” I don’t think that job description can be found in the Dictionary of Occupational Titles, but if it ever surfaces my resume is ready. In any case, the power of this cigar is in my opinion a little overstated. It’s a medium to heavy bodied cigar, but it’s not a brontosaurus. On the other hand, it’s not a stick to be fired up on an empty stomach either.
The Edge is a fine cigar, and the maduro in particular is a tasty and attractive after dinner selection. Try one with with a stout or espresso.