CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Habano"


About AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Habano

AJ Fernandez's foray into the tobacco world was deeply rooted in Cuban agricultural techniques, learning the ropes in Estelí, Nicaragua, under his cousin, Nestor Plasencia. From humble beginnings with just three rolling tables in his home, AJ expanded his operations outdoors to meet growing demand, eventually establishing the AJ Fernandez label as a major player in the premium cigar market. Now, AJ oversees multiple Nicaraguan facilities, producing over 30 brands, including collaborations with legacy Cuban names like Montecristo and Romeo y Julieta. His cigars are celebrated for their robust Nicaraguan flavors.

The Bellas Artes Habano Toro, inspired by the Cuban Bellas Artes National Museum, showcases AJ's mastery with its unique "Rojita" wrapper, blending Connecticut 8212, Corojo '99, and Havana 2000 tobaccos. The binder is Havana '92 from Quilalí, Nicaragua, with a filler blend from Nicaragua, Honduras, and Brazil, offering a distinct, memorable smoke.

CigarPursuits Review

AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Habano

Appearance & Construction: 15/15

This cigar impresses with excellent construction and flawless finishes. The robust build indicates a meticulous attention to detail, lacking any weak spots.

Aroma: 14/15

Before lighting, the cigar emits a barnyard and wooden aroma from the wrapper. A cold draw reveals sweet and spicy notes, promising a rich flavor profile.

Flavors: 28/35

The smoking experience starts with a dominant woodiness and notes of orange peel zest. As it progresses, leather and espresso flavors emerge, followed by a nutty, peppery finish. The flavors are consistent and well-balanced throughout the smoke.

Burn & Smoke: 15/15

The smoke is voluminous and enjoyable, with an ideal draw and an even burn. The ash is white and firm, adding to the overall quality of the smoking experience.

Overall Enjoyment: 18/20

This medium-strength cigar offers a not overly complex but highly enjoyable flavor profile, suitable for a wide range of cigar enthusiasts. It stands out for its balanced and consistent flavors.

Conclusion

The AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Habano Toro represents a noteworthy entry in the premium cigar market, showcasing a blend that aims to cater to a broad audience. With its unique "Rojita" wrapper and a mix of tobaccos from Nicaragua, Honduras, and Brazil, it offers a distinct flavor profile that many may find appealing. While the craftsmanship and consistency are commendable, the experience of enjoyment can vary widely among individuals, with preferences playing a significant role in overall perception. Acknowledging its balanced blend and solid construction, I'd assign this cigar a score of 90 out of 100, suggesting it holds potential appeal for a diverse range of cigar enthusiasts.


Bonus - Perfect Pairing

Pairing the AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Habano Toro with a cup of oolong tea could enhance your smoking experience remarkably. Oolong tea, known for its complex flavor profile that ranges from floral and sweet to deep and roasted, mirrors the multifaceted nature of the Bellas Artes Habano. The slight sweetness and the floral notes can complement the tobacco's woodiness and nutty finishes, while the deeper, roasted flavors of some oolong varieties can echo the cigar's earthy undertones. This pairing not only promises a harmonious blend of flavors but also ensures that the tea's natural palate-cleansing properties enhance the cigar's richness without overpowering it. The moderate caffeine content in oolong tea also provides a gentle lift, making this pairing ideal for a relaxed yet invigorating smoking session.

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