JR Ultimate Corona (JR Alternative)
Size: 5.62" x 46
Price: $1.05 (comes in bundles of 20)

It doesn’t make any sense to me that JR Cigars makes an "alternative" to its own line. The alternatives are a little cheaper, but c’mon… it’s gotta be the exact same cigar!

Like almost all the JR Alternatives, this is a well-constructed cigar. No problems with burning too fast or unraveling or loose leaf bits on the tongue. But be forewarned: This is a heavy pungent cigar! It’s similar to the Montecruz but it’s not bitter and doesn’t leave me with a stomach ache. I’ve loaned some to friends – who seem to fall into the "love it" or "hate it" camps. I’m not sure I could smoke them all the time, but they seem to fit when I’m in the right moods.

Cigar Review: Onyx Vintage '97 Prince Royal
Filler: Brazilian, Wrapper: Mexican
Price: $4

Somewhat harsher and drier than the Onyx Reserve, but a quality smoke for the price. One of the best buys from JRCigars.com.






Cigar Review: Montecruz Negra Cubana - Double Corona
Filler: Dominican Republic/Nicaragua
Price: $2-3

This was a very fast-selling cigar this year (2003), because of the rock-bottom price (a victim of the economy!). The corona is a very big, long-lasting cigar. The best one I smoked was with James in an outdoor cafe in St. Louis, as we watched the valet attendents race around the block for cars. Unfortunately, it was also a very heavy maduro that often left me a headache and a queezy stomach.