While on my journey of exploration to find the perfect blend of craftsmanship and flavour, El Septimo's Bomba Orange and Mirifico Sapphire emerge as a celestial duet, each note resonating with an artistry that is truly unparalleled. My recent rendezvous with these exquisite cigars took place amidst the sophisticated ambiance of Kayu, the new café on Curzon Street in Mayfair. Here, the confluence of fine cigars, a charming outdoor terrace, exceptional coffee, and delectable cakes orchestrated an experience that transcended the ordinary.
As I settled into the plush confines of Kayu's outdoor terrace, a symphony of scents enveloped me—a harmonious blend of rich tobacco, aromatic coffee beans, and the sweet allure of freshly baked cakes. The stage was set for an experience that would tantalize not just the palate but also the senses, and El Septimo's Bomba Orange and Mirifico Sapphire were poised to take center stage.
The Bomba Orange, with its impeccable leathery, dark chocolate wrapper, seduced the senses from the very first draw. The initial notes, akin to a citrusy crescendo, gradually unfolded into a complex tapestry of leather, spice, a subtle hint of cedar and a sophisticated pepper. This cigar, much like a well-composed novel, revealed layers of flavour that kept me engaged and intrigued, making each puff an exploration of the senses. The extraordinary dimensions - 60 ring gauge by 6 1/2 inches - meant that the smoke production was legendary, the texture of the smoke was thick, chewy and dense, coating the palette with tastes I hadn't experienced previously, but still very true to the el Septimo DNA I have grown to love. The Bomba might be the greatest El Septimo I have had to date.
In contrast, the Mirifico Sapphire, cloaked in a resplendent dark wrapper, offered a mellower but equally captivating experience. Its creamy texture, reminiscent of a fine custard, danced delicately on the taste buds, while undertones of cocoa and a gentle nuttiness added depth to the narrative. The Sapphire, much like a masterfully crafted poem, evoked a sense of tranquility and refinement. When smoking this statement cigar, slow puffs are recommended, a jaw dropping sweetness is in store for you if you are patient.
The magic of this cigar experience was elevated by the splendid surroundings of Kayu. The outdoor terrace, adorned with elegant furnishings and greenery, provided a perfect backdrop for indulging in the luxurious ritual of cigar smoking. The attentive staff at Kayu ensured that my coffee cup was never empty, presenting a delightful ensemble of aromatic brews that complemented the cigars impeccably.
Adding a sweet coda to this symphony of indulgence were Kayu's exquisite cakes. Each pastry, a work of culinary art, paired harmoniously with the cigars, creating a sensory medley that lingered long after the final puff had dissipated into the evening air. The interplay of flavors, whether in the form of a velvety chocolate gateau or a delicate fruit tart, heightened the overall enjoyment and served as a fitting denouement to the cigar experience.
In the heart of Mayfair, Kayu has masterfully curated an oasis for those seeking the epitome of sophistication and pleasure. El Septimo's Bomba Orange and Mirifico Sapphire, in tandem with the unparalleled offerings of Kayu, transformed an evening into a literary masterpiece—a tale of taste and refinement, woven together with the threads of artisanal cigars, aromatic coffee, and delectable cakes. In this hallowed setting, every draw became a paragraph, every flavor a sentence, and every moment an unforgettable chapter in the saga of indulgence.