Black Label Trading Company Bishops Blend Novemdiales Robusto

Some of the most polarizing labels in the cigar industry are those made by Black Label Trading Company. Creating an eye catching image of eclectic and urban art, the noticeable black and white branding is something I am drawn to. One such design is the label used on the Bishop’s Blend Novemdiales. With the shine of silver, a skull mounted with a Pope’s hat seems to pull you in. This cigar is traditionally released once a year as a limited run. Bishop’s Blend has always been one of the most popular brands BLTC puts out. Last year’s rendition was somewhat different in terms of tobacco used. Instead of a Ecuadorian Maduro wrapper, Novemdiales highlighted a Pennsylvanian Broadleaf. Along with several other changes, the new cigar offered a new set of rules.

According to Owner and Blender, James Brown, he says, “Bishops Blend has been one of our most popular and sought-after releases. The Bishops Blend Novemdiales is an amped-up version of the traditional Bishop. We tweaked the blend a bit and went with a Pennsylvania Broadleaf wrapper instead of the traditional Ecuador Habano Maduro. The Novemdiales will be available in vitolas not seen before in the Bishops Blend lineage. The result is a very rich, earthy, and intricate fusion of dark fruits, layers of spice, and a stout star anise finish. Those that have grown to love this release will still recognize the distinctive flavors of the past with a fresh, nuanced perspective.”

This is one of the stronger limited cigars from the company. The rustic Pennsylvanian Broadleaf adds a healthy measure of deep notes like dark chocolate, espresso, and charred oak. But the challenge with a Pennsylvanian is to not have it turn out bitter. Drawing out flavors that are lighter or sweeter prove to be a challenge. However, I feel like the bishop’s Blend Novemdiales brings sweet notes to the table. They are well balanced against a backdrop of heavy hitting tobaccos. If you are one who enjoys Broadleaf, or were thinking of trying a few, this one is a home run. I also think it would pair well with a Sherry Cask finished Single Malt or a stout.

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