10 Illusione La Grande $61.39 at famous. Trying to find a reason not to buy. Haven't tried them yet.
20 of them for $110, using dad40. $5.50 a stick is about the best price I've seen for them.
what's your opinion on them, Will?
The Epernay is worth the coin. One of the two or three non-Cubans I'll actually pay $6+ for.
The Illusione line is a great example of how vitolas shape flavor profiles, imo. Really expertly blended and they all appreciate rest. Big difference between fresh, 6 months, 1 year, etc. The Epernay extension follows suit. I've had the 6x46, the sharp press 6.75x44 (42?), and the 6.5x56 torpedo. All of them have excellent flavor profiles (though the sharp press has a few more burn issues).
As far as flavor profile goes: complex. Delicate and bold. There is a definite Illusione "house" profile, though it really does depend on vitola. Expect floral notes in all the lines, quality tobacco, and some spices/pepper, as it's Nicaraguan tobacco. But it could be creamy coffee or strong espresso. Or it could be creamy in the two thirds before going full throttle.
As far as the 6x46, its been a while. I have about 10 of them I set down to for extended rest, just about 2 years old right now. I'll break one out instead of the CRV.