CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Joya de Nicaragua Antaño"
About Joya de Nicaragua Antaño
The Joya de Nicaragua Antaño series is a beloved line among cigar enthusiasts, known for its bold and full-bodied Nicaraguan profile. Launched in 2001 as a tribute to the robust cigars of the 1970s, "Antaño" translates to ‘Yesteryear’ capturing the essence of classic, strong cigars from the oldest cigar factory in Nicaragua, Joya de Nicaragua. The Antaño Alisado, with its 6 x 52 dimensions, is crafted with 100% Nicaraguan tobaccos and features a dark, oily Criollo wrapper that promises an intense and flavorful smoking experience.
CigarPursuits Review
Appearance & Construction: 14/15
The Antaño Alisado presents a well-constructed appearance with a smooth, dark Nicaraguan Criollo wrapper that feels slightly oily to the touch. The cigar is well-finished, displaying minimal veins and a solid structure. However, halfway through the smoke, some cracks appeared, a minor issue also observed in the Joya de Nicaragua Classico. Despite this, the cracks did not significantly detract from the cigar's performance or flavor, allowing for an enjoyable overall experience.
Aroma: 14/15
Before lighting, the Antaño Alisado exudes an inviting pre-light aroma characterized by rich barnyard and woody notes. The cold draw reveals hints of pepper and earth, setting the stage for the robust flavor profile that unfolds once the cigar is lit.
Flavors: 32/35
The Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Alisado offers a complex and evolving flavor profile that keeps the smoker engaged from start to finish:
- First Third: The cigar opens with a bold introduction of pepper and oak, complemented by a surprising sweetness reminiscent of butterscotch. This intriguing combination of spice and sweetness creates a balanced and captivating start.
- Second Third: As the cigar progresses, the flavor profile develops to include roasted almonds and nutmeg. These warm, nutty, and spiced notes add depth and complexity, seamlessly transitioning from the initial flavors.
- Final Third: The cigar concludes with satisfying earthy tones, providing a robust and full-bodied finish. This earthy finale rounds off the smoking experience, leaving a lasting impression of a well-crafted, traditional Nicaraguan cigar.
Burn & Smoke: 15/15
The performance of the Antaño Alisado is excellent across the board. The draw remains consistently great, producing a smooth and satisfying smoke output. The ash is firm and white, holding well and reflecting the quality of the tobaccos used. Despite the minor construction issue with cracking, the burn line stayed even throughout the session, requiring no touch-ups and adding to the overall enjoyment.
Overall Enjoyment: 19/20
The Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Alisado delivers an excellent smoking experience with a balanced profile and medium-full strength, making it suitable for a wide range of cigar enthusiasts. Its dynamic flavors, smooth draw, and even burn contribute to its high rating. This cigar is recommended for both seasoned smokers looking for a powerful yet balanced smoke and newer aficionados wanting to explore the depth of Nicaraguan tobaccos.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Alisado is a standout cigar that encapsulates the essence of traditional Nicaraguan craftsmanship with its bold, balanced flavors and satisfying performance. Despite minor construction issues, it maintains an engaging profile from start to finish, making it a highly enjoyable smoke. With a rating of 94/100, the Antaño Alisado is a must-try for those seeking a medium-strength cigar that delivers a robust and dynamic flavor experience.
Bonus - Perfect Pairing
To complement the bold flavors of the Antaño Alisado, consider pairing it with a rich, dark rum or a single malt scotch with notes of spice and oak. The sweetness and warmth of these spirits will enhance the cigar's butterscotch and nutmeg elements, creating a harmonious and satisfying pairing.
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