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Showing posts with the label Score 90

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 "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 "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 "AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Habano"

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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, off...

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "Silencio Los Rios Toro"

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About  Silencio Los Rios The Silencio brand, renowned for its exquisite cigars, is closely associated with Sean Williams, its master blender and brand ambassador. Williams, who entered the cigar industry in 2005, initially founded the El Primer Mundo brand and later became a pivotal figure in Silencio after the 2008 financial crisis. The brand's expansion into Europe is a strategic extension of the American Cohiba brand, with Silencio serving as a distinct identity for its European market presence. The Silencio trademark, owned by General Cigar Co. Inc., was filed in 2019, underscoring the brand's commitment to quality and innovation under Williams' expertise.  

CigarPursuits: Pursuing the "AVO Heritage Robusto"

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About  AVO Heritage The AVO Heritage cigar is a full-bodied creation designed to honor the legacy of Avo Uvezian, the founder of AVO cigars. This line, introduced in 2010 and later rebranded in 2015, represents a collaboration between Uvezian and Hendrik "Henke" Kelner. It distinguishes itself from other AVO offerings, which are typically milder, by offering a more robust smoking experience. This is achieved through the use of an Ecuadorian Sun Grown wrapper, which is a key component of its flavor profile. The blend includes a unique combination of Dominican Ligero, Seco, and Peruvian longfiller tobaccos, all enveloped by the same Ecuadorian sun-grown wrapper used in the 2009 Compañero. This blend pays tribute not just to Uvezian but also to the farmers, rollers, and blenders who have contributed to AVO's status as a premier, super-premium brand in the industry.