Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills Review: A Tribute to Flavor and Heritage

Brand: Davidoff
Line: Winston Churchill Late Hour
Size: 5 1/2" x 54 (Robusto)
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Strength: Medium-Full
Price: £314 (Box of 20)

The Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills is a distinguished cigar that pays homage to one of history’s most iconic figures. As a cigar enthusiast, I find its robusto blend combines exquisite craftsmanship with a rich flavor profile, making for a luxurious and memorable smoking experience.

Look & Feel: 19/20

The Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills impressed me with its appearance due to beautifully crafted Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, which features a rich, dark chocolate hue with an oily sheen. Measuring 5 1/2" x 54, this cigar has a robust presence in hand, providing a comfortable grip that enhances the overall smoking experience.

Upon closer inspection, the cigar reveals flawless construction, with a smooth surface and minimal veins. It feels solid when squeezed, exhibiting a satisfying firmness that signals expert rolling and quality control. 

Pre-Light: 15/20

Cutting the cap reveals a perfect draw that promises an enjoyable pre-light experience. The cold aroma is inviting, showcasing notes of rich leather, cocoa, and a hint of dried fruits. On the cold draw, I detect subtle hints of spices and earthiness, building anticipation for the complex flavors that lie ahead.

Burn: 16/20

Once lit, the Late Hour Churchills ignites without any effort, producing a steady burn that remains even throughout the smoking experience. The first few puffs deliver a smooth, creamy smoke that envelops the palate with flavor. The ash holds well, typically reaching about an inch before dropping, and only requires the occasional touch-up to maintain an even burn.

Flavor: 18/20

The flavor profile of the Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills is a delightful exploration of rich, evolving tastes that reflect the sophistication of the Davidoff brand:

• First Third (0-20 minutes):
  From the first puff, the Late Hour Churchills opens with a creamy texture, featuring notes of rich leather and cocoa. A gentle sweetness weaves through, reminiscent of honey and toasted nuts, creating a balanced and satisfying introduction. The smoke is rich and well-rounded, setting a luxurious tone for the journey ahead.
• Second Third (20-40 minutes):
  As I delve deeper into the cigar, the flavors become more pronounced and complex. The leather notes transition into a bolder, spicier profile, while the cocoa evolves into a deeper, darker chocolate flavor. Hints of cedar and espresso begin to emerge, adding depth and character to the smoking experience. 
• Final Third (40-60 minutes):
  In the final third, the Late Hour Churchills reveals its full character. The spice intensifies, beautifully harmonizing with the underlying sweetness. Notes of dark fruits, leather, and a touch of earthiness come forward, creating a contrast with the richer flavors. The retrohale offers a captivating mix of spices and creaminess, leaving a satisfying finish that invites me to savor every moment.

Throughout the smoking experience, the aroma is exquisite, exuding a blend of toasty notes and rich tobacco that enhances the overall ambiance. This delightful aroma often draws compliments from those nearby, enriching the experience further.

Overall Experience: 20/20

The overall experience of the Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills is nothing short of exceptional. Its balanced flavors, from rich cocoa to smooth leather, create a refined smoking journey that lingers long after the final puff.

Comparative Analysis

To fully appreciate the Late Hour Churchills, it's valuable to see how it stacks up against other cigars in a similar price range:

The Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills stands out in this group for its exceptional balance of quality and flavor. While other cigars may offer their own unique profiles, the Late Hour Churchills remains a staple for its dependable construction and delightful taste.

Pairings

To elevate your experience with the Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills, consider these pairing options:

• Aged Scotch: The smooth, peaty notes of an aged Scotch complement the creamy and spicy notes of the cigar beautifully.
• Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of a rich espresso enhance the coffee notes within the cigar, creating a harmonious combination.
• Dark Chocolate: A piece of high-quality dark chocolate pairs wonderfully, enhancing the cocoa flavors while adding a touch of sweetness.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, yes.

Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour Churchills offers a refined and enjoyable smoking experience, earning a solid 88/100 in my rating. 

While its flavor profile is complex and satisfying, with notes of spice and earthiness, it may not be as bold as some prefer. Nevertheless, it remains a well-crafted cigar that appeals to those who appreciate subtlety and elegance. 

Perfect for moments of reflection or celebration, this cigar honors its namesake while providing a pleasant, lasting impression.

James Peasley

James started out in the cigar industry in 2009, working for the leading cigar specialist in the UK for nearly a decade, slowly crafting his deep knowledge of cigars and developing a very refined palate. There's not many Cuban cigars he hasn't tasted, including Limited Edition Habanos and pre-embargo Davidoffs, as well as a large section of the New World offerings. When away from his desk he's usually found out walking in the countryside, or following other hot pursuits.