“The Patriot’s Draw” — CATI PR-49 Toro
“The Patriot’s Draw” — CATI PR-49 Toro (6x52)
Reviewed by Jeff Fuller
Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Jamastran Habano
Binder: Honduran Connecticut
Filler: Jalapa, Estelí, and Honduran tobaccos
Body: Medium
MSRP: ~$11.00
The Story
Let’s do a deeper dive into this one…CATI—short for Come and Take It—is a name that instantly commands attention. The PR-49 pays tribute to the founder’s father, Phillip Ray (born in 1949), and that sense of heritage runs deep in the blend. From the first glance, the Toro presents itself with pride and purpose: a firm roll, a silky-textured Jamastran Habano wrapper, and a band design that quietly says tradition meets grit.
This isn’t a gimmick cigar—it’s a statement piece from a small-batch company with something to prove.
Pre-Light & Construction
Pre-light draws offer an earthy aroma with hints of toasted nuts and cedar. The cold draw has a smooth resistance and a faint sweetness that suggests balance ahead. The cap is expertly applied and the foot closes tightly—a nice boutique touch.
Once lit, the burn line stays sharp with an easy, voluminous smoke output. The ash builds in tight, clean stacks and holds strong through the first half. CATI clearly took pride in rolling these right.
Flavor Journey
First Third:
Initial puffs bring a gentle spice and a toasted nuttiness that sits on the tongue with just enough zest to grab attention. A bit of white pepper hits the retrohale, pairing beautifully with the woody undertones.
Second Third:
The profile deepens into warm earth, roasted almonds, and dry cocoa. There’s a steady rhythm to the flavor—no wild swings, just smooth transitions and balance. The sweetness from the binder creeps in here, rounding things out with a creamy note.
Final Third:
The finish brings back a touch of pepper and espresso bitterness, but it never overwhelms. It’s a slow, respectful fade—like the end of a good conversation with an old friend.
Pairing Recommendation
This cigar pairs perfectly with a neat pour of Eagle Rare bourbon or a slightly sweet whiskey sour. The oak and caramel notes complement the earthy, nutty profile beautifully. For coffee lovers, a dark roast or cold brew also brings the flavors to life.
Moon Ratings
Category & Rating Notes
Flavor - 🌕🌕🌕🌗 (3.5) Smooth and balanced, mild pepper finish
Construction - 🌕🌕🌕🌕 (4) Excellent draw and burn
Burn - 🌕🌕🌕🌗 (3.5) Even burn, minor touch-ups near the end
Aroma - 🌕🌕🌕🌗 (3.5) Earthy and nutty with a subtle cedar sweetness
Value - 🌕🌕🌕🌕 (4) Outstanding boutique quality for ~$11
Final Thoughts
The CATI PR-49 Toro is a cigar with heart and history. It’s the kind of smoke that feels personal—crafted with purpose, not just production. While it doesn’t chase complexity for complexity’s sake, it delivers harmony and authenticity.
If you’re a fan of medium-bodied cigars that speak softly but carry weight, this one’s for you. The PR-49 earns a firm spot in the Moon Cigar Club lineup—and it’s easy to see why this boutique newcomer is turning heads.
Stay Smokey,
Jeff Fuller