Stogie Reviews: La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Chisel

On the surface, while it appears as though much of the cigar industry’s innovation centers around unnecessary gadgets and tricky marketing schemes, a closer look will reveal more functional improvements. Case in point: the Double Ligero Chisel from La Flor Dominicana.

This figurado’s unique shape was a first when it was introduced in 2003. Designed by Litto Gomez, the head almost looks as if a fat lady sat on the end of what might otherwise be a torpedo. The point—pardon the expression—is to focus the smoke in a way that fits naturally in the mouth.

After recently sitting down with a couple Chisels, we can safely say that Litto’s strategy works. The head clips cleanly to reveal a neat oval-shaped plateau with a clear and concentrated draw. And in addition to the functional aspects, the improved head also brings some unique aesthetic qualities to this Ecuadorian sungrown-wrapped beauty.

Of course, all this would be moot if the 6 inch by 54 ring gauge cigar tasted like dirt. Fortunately, though, it has a satisfying woodsy flavor that includes the same salty spice you’ll find in many other La Flor Dominicana sticks. The taste is as consistent as it is complex, with subtle and unwavering notes of pepper, coffee bean, and cereals.

We were anticipating lots of flavor, and the Chisel delivers. It doesn’t, however, bring that powerful, knock-you-on-your-ass feeling that its reputation would lead you to expect. The Double Ligero line—so named for its Dominican ligero binder and filler—is supposed to be dark, full-bodied, and spicy. The other vitolas in the blend that we’ve tried certainly live up to that reputation, but the Chisel is far more laid back.

That said, despite the disconnect between its reputation and the actual flavor, this cigar has a lot to offer. The Chisel’s excellent physical characteristics and approachable yet intricate flavors can be enjoyed by attentive smokers and noobs alike, and Litto Gomez’s dedication to functional innovation should be applauded.

Don’t think twice about spending $6-7 apiece on this fine specimen, La Flor’s third best-selling stick in 2007. We give it a solid rating of four stogies out of five.