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Showing posts with the label Exceptional

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Flor de Copán 20 Aniversario Gran Reserva"

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About Flor de Copán 20 Aniversario Gran Reserva The Flor de Copán 20 Aniversario Gran Reserva is a limited-edition cigar created to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Flor de Copán brand. Produced in the historic Flor de Copán factory in Honduras, the oldest cigar factory in the country, this cigar showcases the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and quality. It features an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder, and a blend of aged tobaccos from Honduras and Nicaragua. Crafted in a grand corona size with a pigtail cap and presented in elegant 10-count boxes, only 6,000 individually numbered cigars have been produced, making it a true collector’s item. CigarPursuits Review Appearance & Construction: 15/15 The Flor de Copán 20 ...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Joya de Nicaragua Antaño"

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Cigar Review - Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Alisado 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,...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "La Libertad Robusto"

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Cigar Review - La Libertad Robusto La Libertad Robusto - Cigar Review About La Libertad The La Libertad is a cigar that hails from the esteemed portfolio of Villiger Cigars, a company with a rich history dating back to 1888 in Switzerland. La Libertad, which means "Freedom" in Spanish, reflects the brand's dedication to crafting cigars that embody the spirit of independence and quality. The cigar is known for its robust flavor profile and exceptional craftsmanship. The La Libertad by Villiger Cigars has undergone some significant changes in recent years. Originally produced in the Dominican Republic, the production of La Libertad has now moved to Villiger's own factory in Estelí, Nicaragua. This shift was accompanied by a rebranding of the line, although the blend remains largely unchanged. The La Libertad now features a Criollo wrapper from Jalapa, Nicaragua, and a binder from the Cibao Vall...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Plasencia Alma del Fuego Concepción"

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About Plasencia Alma del Fuego The Plasencia Alma del Fuego Concepción is part of the renowned Alma series by Plasencia Cigars, a company with a rich history dating back to 1865. The Plasencia family began their journey in the tobacco industry in Cuba before relocating to Nicaragua and Honduras following the Cuban Revolution. Over the years, Plasencia has become one of the largest tobacco growers in the world, supplying high-quality tobacco to many prominent cigar brands. The "Alma del Fuego," which translates to "Soul of Fire," is a tribute to the volcanic soils of Nicaragua, particularly the island of Ometepe, where the tobaccos are grown. This unique region, with its nutrient-rich volcanic soil, imparts distinctive flavors and strength to the tobacco. The Alma del Fuego line is celebrated for its bold flavors and complexity, a testament to the rich heritage and expertise of the Plasencia family. Each cigar in the Alma series reflects a deep connection to the eart...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Oliva Serie V Lancero"

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About Oliva Serie V Lancero Oliva Cigar Co., founded by the Oliva family with roots in Cuba, has grown to be one of Nicaragua's most respected cigar manufacturers. The family's journey in tobacco started in 1886 in Pinar del Rio, Cuba, and continued in Nicaragua after the Cuban Revolution. By 1995, Oliva Cigar Co. was established, becoming known for its high-quality and innovative cigars. In 2006, Oliva introduced the Serie V line, which quickly became a cornerstone of their portfolio due to its robust and complex flavors. The Oliva Serie V Lancero, a notable vitola in this line, features a Ecuadorian Habano Sun Grown wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and Jalapa Valley ligero fillers. This slender 7 x 38 format emphasizes the rich characteristics of the wrapper, delivering a full-bodied, complex smoking experience. CigarPursuits Review Appearance & Construction: 15/15 The Oliva Serie V Lancero is a slender 7 x 38 cigar with a smooth and attractive Habano Sun Grown wr...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Rocky Patel Olde World Reserve Maduro"

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About the Rocky Patel Olde World Reserve Maduro The Rocky Patel Olde World Reserve Maduro is a celebrated cigar that has made a significant mark in the cigar industry since its release. Crafted by Rocky Patel, a brand known for its dedication to quality and consistency, the Olde World Reserve Maduro is a testament to traditional cigar-making techniques with a modern twist. The cigar features a rich, Costa Rican Maduro wrapper that encases a blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran long-fillers. This combination promises a full-bodied smoking experience with complex flavors. The Olde World Reserve line was reintroduced in 2018 after a brief hiatus, much to the delight of aficionados who appreciate its robust character and sophisticated profile. CigarPursuits Review Appearance & Construction: 15/15 The Rocky Patel Olde World Reserve Maduro presents a very smooth construction with well-executed finishes. While the wrapper isn't oily, it still provides a refined look, indicativ...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Macanudo Gran Reserva Churchill"

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About   Macanudo Gran Reserva Churchill Macanudo is a distinguished brand with roots dating back to 1968. Originating as a Jamaican brand, it was later acquired by the General Cigar Company and production moved to the Dominican Republic. Known for its commitment to quality and consistency, Macanudo has become one of the best-selling premium cigar brands in the United States. The brand's hallmark is its mild and smooth cigars, making them accessible to both beginners and aficionados. CigarPursuits Review Macanudo Gran Reserva Churchill Appearance & Construction: 15/15 The Macanudo Gran Reserva Churchill boasts an impeccable construction with a sleek and smooth Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper. The cigar displays an oily sheen with small veins and no soft spots, indicating a high level of craftsmanship. Aroma: 14/15 Before lighting, the cigar releases a captivating aroma characterized by rich coffee  notes from the wrapper. The cold draw presents pepper and c...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Horacio SLED Edición Especial 2019"

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About  SLED Edición Especial 2019 The Horacio brand, known for its premium cigars, was established in 2008 by three cigar aficionados in Costa Rica. Their passion for fine tobacco led them to create a brand that emphasizes quality and innovation. The production eventually moved to Nicaragua, a country celebrated for its excellent climate and conditions ideal for tobacco cultivation, allowing Horacio to develop cigars with intricate and delicate blends. The Horacio SLED Edición Especial 2019 is a premium cigar produced in honor of Pierre Sled,  an esteemed French sports journalist and broadcaster. He gained prominence for his work in sports broadcasting, becoming a well-known figure in the French media landscape. His contributions to sports journalism are recognized and celebrated, which likely inspired the creation of the Horacio SLED Edición Especial 2019 as a tribute to his influence and legacy in sports media.  Originating from Nicaragua, this cigar features a distinct...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Vegueros Centrofinos"

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About  Vegueros Centrofinos Celebrating Cuba's esteemed tobacco farming traditions, the Vegueros Centrofinos emerges as a modern homage, crafted in the heart of Pinar del Río at the Francisco Donatién Factory. This robusto-sized cigar, launched in 2018, showcases the artistry and rich heritage of generations of Cuban tobacco producers.   It features a purely Cuban blend, meticulously hand-rolled with long fillers, encapsulating the authenticity and spirit of Cuban craftsmanship. The Centrofinos is presented in distinctive metal tins of 16, reflecting its contemporary appeal while honoring traditional values. CigarPursuits Review Appearance & Construction: 15/15 The cigar is well-made, with a smooth wrapper and solid construction from head to foot. There are no soft spots, which suggests a consistent, quality roll. Aroma: 12/15 Before lighting, the cigar’s wrapper emits earthy notes, and there’s a slight peppery scent on the cold draw, but nothing overwhelming. ...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "C.A.O Amazon Basin"

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About   C.A.O Amazon Basin The CAO Amazon Basin is a fascinating cigar, renowned for its unique origins and rare tobacco blend. Introduced by General Cigar Co . at the 2014 IPCPR Convention, this cigar uses Bragança tobacco, grown in the Amazon rainforest and harvested only every three years. This rare tobacco undergoes a natural fermentation process for six months and is traditionally rolled into tubes called " carottes " before making its journey from the forest to the factory​. The CAO Amazon Basin is crafted with an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder, and fillers from Brazil (Bragança), Colombia, and the Dominican Republic, creating a medium to full-bodied profile. The cigar has a 6 X 52 Toro size and features an artisanal touch with a rope-like band made from twisted tobacco leaf, which reflects its natural and rustic origins​. CigarPursuits Review C.A.O Amazon Basin Appearance & Construction: 14/15 The cigar generally presents good construc...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut Divinos"

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About   E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, the founder of E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company, is a celebrated figure in the cigar industry, bringing a rich heritage and extensive experience to his craft. Born into a family deeply rooted in the cigar business, Ernesto’s journey began in Cuba where his father owned and operated a cigar factory. After migrating to the United States, Ernesto took over his father's operations in Miami, eventually launching the renowned La Gloria Cubana brand, which gained significant acclaim under his leadership. In 2009, Ernesto decided to establish his own brand, E.P. Carrillo, aiming to encapsulate his personal approach to cigar making and to continue his family’s legacy. His company quickly made its mark with innovative blends and exceptional craftsmanship, earning Ernesto further recognition and numerous awards in the industry. The E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut is a testament to his ability to blend traditional methods with in...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Diplomáticos Grandes"

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About   Diplomáticos Grandes Diplomáticos Grandes, a slender Cuban lancero, is part of Habanos S.A.'s Edición Regional program, exclusive to Germany. Launched as a 2021 offering, it revives the classic lancero size that had been absent for decades, sharing the Laguito Especial vitola with the renowned Trinidad Fundadores. This cigar is a rare addition, being both elegantly slender and limited in production with just 4,800 boxes available. It embodies the heritage of Diplomáticos, a brand first established in 1966 as a slightly milder alternative to Montecristo, appealing to French tastes with its medium-strong long-filler blend from the premium Vuelta Abajo region​. CigarPursuits Review Diplomáticos Grandes Appearance & Construction: 15/15 The Diplomáticos Grandes lancero presents an impeccable construction, featuring a sleek and well-rolled body capped with an elegant pigtail . The cigar displays no soft spots or cracks, indicating a high level of craftsmanship an...