CAO America Potomac

Apr 25

“Stars, Stripes & Smoke Rings” – CAO America Potomac Review 🇺🇸

CAO brings bold patriotism to the palate with the America Potomac — a stout little firecracker wrapped in a striking barber pole design. This cigar doesn’t just look like the Fourth of July; it smokes like a celebration. It features a blend of four-country long-filler tobaccos, delivering a blend of sweet, savory, and earthy notes. The Potomac is often praised for its smooth burn, complex flavors, and accessible aftertaste, making it a good choice for both casual and experienced cigar smokers. At our April meeting, every member received the CAO America Potomac — a bold little robusto with a patriotic barber pole twist that turned heads before the foot was even toasted. This CotW selection was a fitting tribute to spring’s arrival, and it delivered a flavorful, medium-to-full-bodied journey that didn’t disappoint.

Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf & Shade (dual wrapper)

Binder: Brazilian

Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, USA

Size: 5 x 56 (Potomac – robusto)

Strength: Medium to Full

🔥 First Impressions:

The barber pole is a showstopper. Pre-light aroma gives off cedar and a hint of cocoa. Cold draw has a touch of creaminess. Easy to cut and lights up with no fuss.

🌕🌕🌕🌕 (4/5)

Flavor Profile:

First Third: Creamy espresso, cashew, and vanilla — smooth and pleasant.
Second Third: Earth, pepper, and leather come in, giving it backbone.
Final Third: Dark chocolate bitterness with a bold roasted note.

Good flavor evolution, though the final third was a bit harsher than expected.

🌕🌕🌕🌘 (3.25/5)

Construction:

The build feels solid, and the cigar holds together nicely throughout the smoke. Ash stacked well and didn’t flake.

🌕🌕🌕🌗 (3.5/5)

Burn:

Started out razor sharp but got a little uneven in the middle third. Self-corrected without needing a touch-up. Solid performance overall.

🌕🌕🌕🌗 (3.5/5)

Pairing Recommendation:

A classic American bourbon is a must — Elijah Craig Small Batch was a perfect match, bringing out those vanilla and oak tones.

🌕🌕🌕🌕 (4/5)

Overall Moon Rating:

🌕🌕🌕🌗 (3.5/5 moons)

🛒 Want more? Members, you can grab additional CAO America Potomac cigars straight from our club humidor here:

👉 Buy Now

Stay Smokey,

Jeff Fuller