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Blind Review: AJ Fernandez New World Dorado Figurado

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In June 2022, AJ Fernandez teased a new version of New World featuring a golden-colored wrapper. Later in the year, he introduces the Nicaraguan puro blend as New World Dorado. The majority of the tobacco for this new blend is from AJ Fernandez’s new Dorado Farm. It is also to showcase the first yield from his new farm. 

Per AJ, the soil in his Dorado farm has a golden hue, which is unusual; combining that with the name of his new farm and the literal meaning in Spanish for “golden” birth Dorado. 

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: AJ Fernandez: New World Dorado
  • Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano Sun Grown
  • Binder: Nicaraguan Criollo ’98
  • Filler: Nicaraguan 
  • Size: Figurado (6″x56)

Appearance & Construction

This box-pressed figurado shaped cigar has a dark maple syrup color wrapper, which becomes lighter when I place it right underneath the light, almost mustard yellow. The wrapper is smooth, with very few visible veins. It’s soft and grainy to the touch, almost like soft leather. The tobacco under the wrapper feels lumpy as if it’s the Devil’s Snare (nodding at my Harry Potters fan out there).

Flavor and Smoke Characteristics

There is a sweet and tart scene off the wrapper. And since it’s in a figurado shape, I don’t get anything off the foot of the cigar. I then use my Xikar XO cutter and make a small triangle by cutting off the cap. To my surprise, the draw is pretty loose, and I get raisins. 

Figurado is one of the cigar shapes where it tests everyone’s patience when it comes to lighting. Because if I rush this process, I might risk canoeing, if not worse. Luckily, I’ve had my fair share of figurados and did not have any issue lighting. 

The initial flavor is grassy with roasted chestnut and damp wood. With a little delay, white pepper spice makes its presence known at the back of my tongue. Half an inch in, when the burn line expanded to the widest part of the cigar, the smoke becomes creamy with roasted chestnut, oakwood, bitter espresso beans, and white pepper spice. I follow up with a retrohale and instantly regret it. My nasal path flooded with an overwhelming amount of white pepper spice, which lingers for a while. After the spice dissipates, I can taste maple syrup and cedarwood.

This cigar has a long finish with a flavor of roasted peanuts and a constant spice around my tongue. The construction of this cigar is on point. The burn line is even, the airflow is perfect at 7 out of 10 restrictiveness, and the layer of ashes continues to stack with each passing puff.

I arrive at the second third, and the ash is still attached! The cigar becomes sweeter at this point: the maple syrup and roasted chestnut shine here, with cedarwood and white pepper spice supporting in the background. The retrohale is just as sweet with syrup, roasted peanuts shell, and white pepper spice. 

As I approach the final third, the ash finally decides to let go, making a thud as it hits the ashtray.

The cigar keeps smoking great. It is earthier than before, with cedarwood, honey, leather, and only a hint of spice. The retrohale also has a similar shift to the profile: cedarwood, leather, and white pepper spice. The last couple of puffs is creamy with roasted peanuts, which remind me of peanut butter. 

Conclusion

The New World Dorado is a great addition to AJ’s portfolio. The cigar has a nice build-up that prepares my palate for each following puff. The first third set the stage with a tease of the flavors, minus the retrohale. Once my palate got acquainted with the profiles, it then intensified. The creamy and sweet roasted chestnut leads the way with a satisfying amount of spice on the retrohale. The flavor is well-balanced, but what impressed me was the progression in the nuance. There is a slight shift in flavors every other puff. It kept me at the edge of my seat, guessing where the next puff might take me, and kept me going back for more.

Final Rating: 90

Blind Review: H. Upmann Nicaragua AJ Fernandez Heritage Toro

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Master blender AJ Fernandez released his second interpretation of the H.Upamnn line, this time utilizing a dark Brazilian mata fina wrapper with Nicaraguan filler tobaccos. I’ve had many blends from AJ, and I’m always impressed that he can create such distinct and varied profiles.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: H. Upmann Nicaragua AJ Fernandez Heritage Toro
  • Wrapper: Brazilian
  • Binder: Nicaraguan
  • Filler: Nicaraguan
  • Size: 6” x 54 (Toro)

Blind Cigar Review: H. Upmann Nicaragua AJ Fernandez Heritage Toro

Appearance and Construction

This cigar has an extremely dark somewhat molted wrapper. It is very hard in its roll and there is no give when I put pressure on it. I notice the filler tobacco is much lighter than the wrapper which creates a contrast in color. There are some slight veins and the foot smells charry without much else to offer.

Taste and Smoking Characteristics

I make a precise cut with my guillotine blade and the cold draw delivers an overwhelming blast of red pepper. As I toast the cigar and take a puff I am hit with full flavors of earth and pencil lead upfront. A dark wrapper on a cigar does not always mean that it will be strong however this blend is doing just that. Taking a more cautious draw, there’s cocoa, raisin, and a barnyard finish. The retrohale on this toro stings my nostrils a bit with red pepper flakes, cumin, and earth.  The burn line is razor sharp and the quality in the construction is evident.  Chocolate begins to intermingle with oak leaving a short woody finish. The body is in the full range from the start.

The toro begins its journey midway with salt and leather toning down some of the more direct and intense flavors than previously. There’s gingersnap, coffee, and charred oak on the back end. The billow of smoke clouds in front of me as it burns is creating a dense setting. Another retrohale and the fullness returns with wood and earth dominating the flavor profile and leaves a bitter finish. I’ve picked up some more raisinated notes again which become more pronounced which each puff. Leather, oak, and cumin proceed with a slow draw that ends bitter. The short finishes seem to be commonplace with this toro.

The burn line remains even on the final third which is a nod to the construction of the cigar. There are more charry notes along with salt and oak that remains pervasive throughout. I’m picking up leather and burnt espresso bean which is intense and bitter. The retrohale has hay, toast, and an acidic finish. Spice adds to the profile picking a stronger end to the toro. The flame go es out on its own and I’m putting the cigar to rest.

Conclusion

AJ Fernandez has created an expansive profile of cigars and blends. This Heritage toro came on strong with pepper which was a little much to start off. There was some nice notes of cumin, earth, oak and hay although the finish remained consistently short not allowing a lot of lingering on the palate. The chariness also became acidic which left bitter taste on my tongue. I would suggest trying another of AJ’s blends however if you want a full-bodied cigar, A spirit pairing would help to round out this smokes rougher edges.

Final Rating: 88

Blind Review: AJ Fernandez New World Cameroon Doble Robusto

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The AJ Fernandez New World Cameroon Doble Robusto is manufactured by AJ Fernandez. AJ Fernandez, is the grandson heir to the famed Cuban cigar brand San Latano, thus, making AJ a third generation cigarmaker. Before establishing himself as an individual force-to-be-reckoned-with in the cigar industry, AJ shined as a partnering manufacturer for Cigars International and Rocky Patel. Today, AJ owns and operates one of Nicaragua’s biggest premium cigar factories, producing some 9 million cigars a year, and currently selling its products in more than 32 countries.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: AJ Fernandez New World Cameroon Doble Robusto
  • Wrapper: Cameroon
  • Binder: Nicaragua
  • Filler: Nicaragua
  • Size: 5.5 x 54

Appearance & Construction

A soft box-press rustic robusto with a wrapper leaf that looks like crust-punk patch-work.  Its striated and delicate.  I notice it doesn’t fully cover the binder/filler. There is the slightest centimeter of binder/filler protruding out from this wrapper at the foot. I wonder if that was done on purpose? It is packed very loose with a double cap, and feels very light weight in my hands. Strong cedar and chocolate aroma coming off the body and the foot of the cigar. So much so, you don’t even have to hold it close to your nose.

Flavor & Smoke Characteristics

The cold draw is super loose and airy with faint dark chocolate on the breath.  It toasts and combusts well.

At first puff I am blown over by a BBQ pit smoker. Nice and strong mesquite. However, that flavor bomb dies down and the cigar become more subdued fairly fast. Whatever the blend is, it makes me salivate a lot.  A good sign of premium tobacco. There is spice and the unique farming taste of freshly picked sweet field greens. If you’ve ever harvested broccoli leaves or cabbage stem leaves before the actual brassica grows to full maturity, then you have a clue of what I’m talking about. There is wood, spice, and fruit on the finish of each puff as well as  on the retrohale. So far, it handles the heat well, and I don’t necessarily have to pace my smoking speed. There is lots of leather also on my palate as the tobacco oils heat up, and a nice nutmeg aroma coming from the foot.

The second third opens with a sweeter and even lighter profile. Leather forward with spice on the finish.  Lots of pencil shaving taste developing. Not my go to “woody note” as a cigar smoker. There is still nutmeg aromas coming from the foot, with some nice hot mesquite on the retro.

The last third begins to get harsh. This happens to be a reoccurring theme the more I smoke loosely packed cigars, as well as a reoccurring issue with box pressed cigars. Where’s the cigar forum “bro-science” to help explain this away for once?! I’m experiencing some savory notes like cumin. There are also earthy tones with lingering leather. Still a nice spice on the finish with the hospitable nutmeg aroma on the foot.  Spicy retro with hints of vegetable. Not my cup of tea.

Conclusion

The AJ Fernandez New World Cameroon Doble Robusto was alright. Not my go-to smoke even at the attractively low MSRP. The last third ruined it for me. However, if you’re a big fan of leather, spice, and pencil shavings, then the AJ Fernandez New World Cameroon Doble Robusto is for you. I wont say its the best expression of Cameroon wrapper on the market, even at this price point, but the sweetness was there. With so many people in the market experimenting with this specific wrapper leaf nowadays its hard to tell who is actually sourcing real Cameroon from African terroir and who isn’t. I’m not saying the AJ Fernandez New World Cameroon Doble Robusto will steer you in the wrong direction, I just think Fuente is still the king of Cameroon at the end of the day. It’s a totally different smoking experience to be sure, but a much better one at that, and with a comparable price tag depending on which Fuente mark you choose from. ENJOY!

Final Score: 82

Blind Review: AJ Fernandez San Lotano The Bull Torpedo

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While AJ Fernandez is increasingly known as the master blender behind dozens of boutique brands and even massive names like H Upmann and Montecristo, he made his name initially with his own line of course brands. The San Lotano brand encompasses a broad array of flavor profiles, from mild (Requiem Connecticut) and medium (Dominicano) to full (The Bull). Now more than 10 years old, the San Lotano line is still massively successful and well regarded.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: AJ Fernandez San Lotano The Bull
  • Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
  • Binder: Nicaraguan
  • Filler: Nicaraguan
  • Size: 6 1/2 x 54
  • Vitola: Torpedo

Appearance and Construction

The wrapper is a nice dark brown color and the foot has a chocolate aroma. There are a few visible veins, but the cigar is smooth to the touch and the wrapper seams blend together flawlessly. The cigar itself is also soft when I squeeze it, but not in an over-humidified way, you can just tell that the draw will be wide open throughout.

Flavor & Smoking Experience

I use a double bladed guillotine to cut as little of the cap off as I can, while still allowing for a nice clean draw, I do this to preserve the torpedo shape. I take 3-4 big cold draws and I am met with an abundance of chocolate and some hints of leather.

I am sitting outside and the weather is calm, so I decided to use matches to light this cigar. I use two long wood matches and strike them together, waiting for the flame to move down to the wood before lifting to toast the cigar. Once I see the toasting is complete I take two big puffs while rotating the cigar and the giant burst of flames indicate I am ready to go.

The first third starts off with a sweet chocolate flavor on every draw. The finish left me with tastes of leather and a bit of peppery spice. The smoke is thick and bellows out in big clouds while dancing from the burn line around the body of the cigar. The burn is razor sharp and the ash is holding together strongly, highlighting the construction. I find myself holding the cigar out and inspecting all aspects of it after each draw, it is worth mentioning that little puffs generate copious amounts of smoke. On the retrohale black pepper notes are strong and make my nose tingle a bit, the feeling is powerful but not overwhelming. This is definitely a medium to full body cigar, leaning more towards full body.

Towards the end of the first third I am starting to notice a coffee flavor that has made itself present, between that and the consistent leather that are prevalent the cigar is showing its complexity throughout the smoking process. The ash gets to about 2 inches in length before falling off in one solid chunk right in the ashtray. In the heart of the second third I am noticing the coffee flavor much more, almost an espresso at this point but a creamy espresso as you can almost chew on the smoke. The retrohale leaves me with intense espresso flavors, almost like a burnt coffee-which isn’t the greatest, but it is not terrible.

I roll my cigar on my ashtray as I think the ash is going to fall off soon and venture into the final third of the cigar continuing to experience those creamy yet powerful coffee/espresso flavors. The smoke becomes more intense the shorter the cigar gets, but the flavors are consistent. Black pepper is very prevalent on the retrohale and I begin to taste it more with each draw as the final third progresses. There was a bit of a wave that started to form on the burn towards the end of the cigar, but I don’t mind as the experience is almost over and this cigar has been truly enjoyable throughout the 94 minute smoke.

Conclusion

The flavors in this cigar were bold, complex and consistent. I was also extremely impressed with the construction of the cigar; the smoothness of the wrapper and the burn were great from start to finish, even with the little wave in the final third. While this cigar packs a bit of a punch, it is never overpowering. I would however shy away from this stick if I was not a regular cigar smoker, just to be on the safe side and avoid running to the cabinet for some honey to cut the potential nicotine sickness. A.J. Fernandez has a lot of cigars out there, and I have always been a bit overwhelmed by HOW many options his name is attached to, but this is one that I would go back to again and again.

Final Rating: 90

Blind Review: Aging Room Rare Collection

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Although Aging Room was established a decade after the cigar boom in the 90s, I associate the company with older brands like Oliva, Plasencia, Ashton, etc which have become staples in the cigar world. With Maestro Rafael Nodal at the helm, Aging Room has become a brand recognized for its boldness and creating classic profiles like Quattro and Quattro Nicaragua. 

This past year, Nodal embarked on another adventure with A.J Fernandez and laid the foundation for a new line of cigars under the Aging Room umbrella called Rare Collection. Per Nodal, this new project “intends to offer small runs based on the availability of rare and superbly well-aged tobacco.” 

This release will be the first of several blends under the Rare Collection project. Just how rare or aged is the tobacco contained in this first blend? The wrapper leaf is a Cuban seed hybrid from La Lilia, A.J Fernandez’s flagship farm in Nicaragua. The filler tobacco consists of Pelo d’Oro, translating to “hair of gold,” also from a type of Cuban seed which is prized for its flavors but very difficult to grow and low yielding. 

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: Aging Room Rare Collection
  • Wrapper: Nicaraguan Cuban seed Hybrid
  • Binder: Nicaragua
  • Filler: Nicaraguan Cuban seed, including Pelo d’Oro
  • Size: 5.5″ x 55

Cigar Review: Aging Room Rare Collection

Appearance & Construction

Before picking up the cigar, I immediately notice the construction. The cigar is very sturdy both visually and with physical touch. The pigtail at the end of the cap has a twirl like a cinnamon bun from Auntie Anne’s. Upon closer inspection, I notice two visible veins that come across in a lighter tone than the milk chocolate wrapper. Additionally, I see several random miniature cracks in between the wrapper. However, after running my fingers across the surface, I’m guessing the light marks will not be an issue. 

Flavor & Smoke Characteristics

The wrapper has a tart and sweet fruit scent. The fruity scent is more prominent by the foot with white pepper spice aroma. Since I’ve never attempted to twist and pull off the pigtail from the cap before, I decide now isn’t a good time to start, and opt for a straight cut. I take a few puffs of cold draw, getting stone fruits, cedarwood, attic funk, and red pepper spice. 

I proceed to toast the foot and take my first puff. The flavors are very refreshing, with creamy oats, cedarwood, citrus, and mild white pepper spice that remains on the flat and side of my tongue indefinitely. On the retrohale, the white pepper spice is more noticeable along with roasted nuts, sweet fruity notes, and a smokiness that reminds me of burnt pizza crust. So far, the finish on this cigar is pretty long, with a mild sugary sweetness. 

The construction of this cigar is flawless. The burn line is razor-sharp, the dark gray ash seems to be reinforced by cement, and the burn goes right over the minuscule cracks I noted earlier. The only negative experience I have had so far is that smoke production seems a bit lacking. 

I make it to the second third before the ash detaches itself from the cigar. The refreshing finish of this cigar remains on the palate. The smoke is less creamy compared to the initial light, and flavors concentrate on earthy tones such as dry hay, tan leather, cedarwood, roasted nut, and white pepper spice. I take another puff to retrohale, and the flavors reflect what I get on my palate alongside a very satisfying amount of white pepper spice. 

As I engage with the final third, the overall profile becomes buttery, but there aren’t many changes to the flavors. The retrohale is still satisfying and keeps me coming back for more until the cigar is too nubbed to smoke. 

Conclusion

I enjoyed the Aging Room Rare Collection. The profile teeters from medium to medium-plus. The flavors were very balanced on the palate, and the retrohale compliments it even further. My biggest fear was the construction, which ended up being impeccable throughout. So far, everything I’ve experienced is positive. Nonetheless, it felt like a certain oomph was missing. It needed another element or profile to elevate the experience from an exceptional cigar a truly amazing one. 

Final Rating: 90

Blind Review: Cigar Clowns “The Ronald”

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Cigar Clowns “The Ronald”

In 2021, Limited Cigar Association (owned by Privada Cigar Club) released Cigar Clowns “The Ronald.” This toro size cigar recognizes the popular clown Ronald McDonald of the fast food McDonalds chain. Master blender AJ Fernandez created this smoke at his Esteli factory as a Nicaraguan puro. AJ has developed blends for a variety of cigar companies and has a superb reputation as someone that processes and treats tobacco with an expert touch. I’ve smoked many of his cigars which rarely if ever disappoint in taste and quality. Read on for the blind review.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: Cigar Clowns “The Ronald”
  • Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano
  • Binder: Nicaraguan 
  • Filler: Nicaraguan 
  • Size: 6″ x 50 (Toro)
Cigar Clowns “The Ronald” Review
Cigar Clowns “The Ronald” Review

Blind Review: Cigar Clowns “The Ronald”

Appearance & Construction

There’s an oily sheen to this toothy, milk chocolate colored wrapper. The foot is a bit spongy and as I run my fingers alongside the cigar there are no discerning soft spots. Giving a roll in my palm, the uniformity of the smoke is evident and the quality in construction is there. The accent is the triple cap on the head that makes the cigar more attractive. The foot smells of cocoa bean and rich chocolate.

Flavor & Smoke Characteristics

A straight cut clips just enough of the head and giving a dry draw, there’s must and some grit from the wrapper. With a cigar taper I toast the foot which burns brightly. Taking a puff, the cigar starts off spicy with some heat and black pepper. The smoke turns up right away and is wafting thick in the air. Taking a retrohale there’s distinct graham cracker and floral notes resonating from my nostrils. The white/gray ash is uneven while I draw slowly. Vanilla and cream counterbalance the strength from the cigar’s full body. 

By midway, I’m picking up burnt almonds with the profile in the medium to full bodied range. On the retrohale there’s notes of tin and copper that is rather displeasing. Another draw yields spiciness that ends a bit harshly. The burn line continues to falter, and the spice turns to cedar with a short finish. I’m currently enjoying the spice and wood notes although I wish the flavors lasted a little longer. With another puff there is serious chocolate coming from the cigar, giving this cigar some sweetness and making the profile more interesting.

Reaching the last third the full strength continues with black pepper interplaying with cocoa and cinnamon. I’m getting sea salt with toasted oats and a full blast of smoke that coats my palate. The finish continues to be short with little left on the tongue as I exhale. There’s a metallic taste with a retrohale and bakers chocolate pushing through that’s becoming bitter. With a final puff the wood and pepper come together to emphasize the strength of this cigar.   

Conclusion

AJ has such a wide variety of blends and styles its hard to nail down where this one fits. Right away there was spice and heat with a full bodied profile. The toast and wood notes evident midway were enjoyable, minus the tin and copper notes on the retrohale which create some bitterness on the short finish. With the exception of the metallic tastes that resonated on the last two thirds of the cigar, this was an enjoyable full bodied smoke. I would recommend picking up one or two and laying them down for a few months and see where The Clown takes you.

Final Rating: 89

Blind Cigar Review:Trinidad Espiritu Series No. 2 Toro

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Trinidad Espiritu No 2 Review

In 2021, two master blenders Rafael Nodal and AJ Fernandez combined their skills to honor the Trinidad cigar brand and the nation of Brazil with the Trinidad Espiritu No. 2. The cigar uses Brazilian and Nicaraguan leaf to capture what they feel is the “spirit” of Brazil. The Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper really stands out with its dark maduro color and bold appearance. Read on to see how this cigar fared in blind review.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: Trinidad Espiritu Series No. 2 Toro
  • Wrapper: Brazilian Arapiraca
  • Binder: Nicaraguan
  • Filler: Nicaraguan and Brazilian
  • Size:6”x 54 (Toro)
Trinidad Espiritu No 2 Review
Trinidad Espiritu No 2 Review

Blind Review: Trinidad Espiritu No. 2

Appearance and Construction

This toro sports a molted dark maduro wrapper with a few distinct veins along the side. There are some soft spots at the foot and in the middle of the cigar as I give it a squeeze. The foot of the smoke is semi closed with some wrapper leaf covering most though not all of it. Not sure if this was intentional or a quality control issue. While I give it a smell and coax out some flavors there’s faint traces of oak, wine barrel and leather with nothing too pungent lingering.

Taste and Smoke Characteristics

I slice the toro with my Xikar and despite the clean cut a bit of filler tobacco appears loose from the binder. Taking a cold draw there’s oak notes along with pieces of tobacco I must take out of my mouth. With that, I take a torch to the foot of the covered piece and the wrapper takes flame with a gritty start. There’s an intense charred oak flavor that’s overwhelming with earth notes and a short finish. Taking a retrohale I’m getting white pepper and a noticeable minerality that builds in intensity. Despite the flavors coming on strong the cigar is in the medium range at present. Another puff delivers wet stone and earth followed by a sharp finish. There’s a sufficient amount of smoke billowing from the cigar giving off a slight aroma of cocoa with a gray ash and straight burn line.

Working on the midpoint of the smoke I take a long draw that is full of milk chocolate backed by leather and a gritty end on the back palate. There’s a raisinated sweetness that develops with bakers’ chocolate providing a bite on my tongue as swirl the smoke around.  The retrohale is grassy with stale wine attacking my nostrils as the smoke rolls out. The strength is appearing to fade from medium to milder as the flavors get lighter in taste and less distinct. Taking a long draw leather and minerality grips the sides of my mouth which leave it dry. As I release the smoke there’s cedar and white pepper wafting out. The burn line continues to be razor sharp as the wrapper holds on strong.

The cigar is burning faster than before as I am at the final third of the smoke. I’m getting coffee and spice while I take another draw. There’s a rawness on the retrohale that stings my sinus and as I exhale there’s a lingering bitterness.  The medium body that has been prevalent has turned to a fuller profile with a chewy, dense mouthfeel. Taking another puff earth and oak preside with a short mineral finish. The draw has become tighter and there’s a peppery note then ends the cigar as it goes out on its own.

Conclusion

The Trinidad Espiritu Series No. 2 Toro started off gritty with notes of charred oak then settled into an earthy, peppery cigar with a sharp minerality. At its best the smoke delivered milk chocolate and a raisinated sweetness that finished with leather and cedar. It maintained a medium body only sparingly switching to a fuller chewy quality. The short finish left me wanting more from this cigar as it delivered some pleasing flavors–they were simply too short in supply. This is not the best from AJ and Raphael however it was a concept I was happy to checkout. This is worth of try if you find it, just nothing I would seek out.

Final Rating: 87

Blind Review: Diesel Delirium Limited Edition 2020

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It seems like these days there are more limited cigars than you can count (or review!). I could probably smoke “Limited” cigars for an entire year without ever smoking a regular production blend. That said, the limited edition world certainly has its share of hits and misses. For the Diesel Delirium 2020 Limited Edition, General Cigars Brand Manager Justin Andrews and AJ Fernandez teamed up to create this full bodied toro.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: Diesel Delirium Limited Edition 2020
  • Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra
  • Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf
  • Filler: Nicaraguan
  • Size: 6” x 52 (Toro)

Appearance & Construction

Reviewing this cigar blind, I see the wrapper is dark. Though this doesn’t always indicate strength, I am anxious to see on what sides of the fence this cigar leans. Besides the color, the wrapper has elongated raised veins. The cigar is slightly soft as I give it a squeeze and there appears to be small nipple or some sort of bump on the cap. I am not sure if this is intentional or poor quality control.

As I smell the foot I’m getting chocolate, vanilla with some earth notes. Let’s light up.

Flavor & Smoke Characteristics

With my cherry wood Xikar blade I take a slice which cuts a small clip off the head. On the cold draw I get hay and black pepper which comes through rather distinctly. Using my Lamborghini torch I set aflame the foot and get a full blast of black pepper like ground peppercorns right on my tongue. This cigar comes on strong and with another puff there’s leather and earth with spice hitting hard in the back of my throat. I hazard a retrohale and it is spicy and aggressive through the nose. As I exhale, I’m getting  tropical fruits oddly enough with a sweetness on the finish. What began as a powerful full bodied smoke is, at the tail end of the first third, on the medium to full range.          

At midway, I notice the grayish white ash that’s formed is looking a bit shaky. I lay the cigar down for a moment to let it rest and the ash falls right off. As I pick it up and take a draw there’s a sweetness along with spice albeit it rather short lived. Another puff and it’s damp with paper notes around a backlash of earthiness. Taking another retrohale, I get a combination of leather and chocolate which ends bitter as I move it through my sinus and out my mouth.  The full body picks up once again taking a draw that is now more black pepper and leather with cacao coating the palate.  The bitterness lingers which is unpleasant at the moment and another puff delivers spice and lots full tobacco notes.

As I reach the last third of the cigar, there’s cocoa, wood and a hint of licorice that rounds it out.  While the full body seems to overshadow the other flavors, I’m still tasting some glimpses that quickly fade into the background. While I give this smoke another go, black pepper, wood and earth remain the constant. The changes are not great and the cigar continues to come off strong with a solid burn line. I’m getting some leather as I’m drawing with an earthy short finish. In the final puff the pepper is tasting more like white pepper with a bitter finish. \

A full bodied, one dimensional cigar.

Conclusion

I’ve never been wholly impressed with the Diesel brand in any of its incarnations. Although they are quite different than the previous catalog lines, the style seems more strength over nuance. This cigar began as a peppery overload on the palate and even with the sweetness I picked up it was not enough to balance out the smoke. The earth and leather notes added to the strength but lacked structure. The tobacco itself was of good quality, but the blend seemed disjointed.

My opinion: there are full bodied cigars out there with more going on, and though this cigar wasn’t bad it could’ve given more.

Final Rating: 86

Dias de Gloria Double Toro Review

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Dias de Gloria Cigar Review

Up for review today is the Dias de Gloria from AJ Fernandez. I saw a lot of buzz on social media (particularly AJ’s) in the leadup to this release, and given AJ’s penchant for blending truly delightful smokes, I was excited to give the cigar a smoke and review it. As luck would have it, before I was able to purchase the cigar myself, I received it in a monthly batch of smokes from Luxury Cigar Club, a great mail service that delivers a monthly selection of expensive cigars at a very reasonable price.

So let’s get to it.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: Dias De Gloria Toro
  • Wrapper: Nicaraguan Sun Grown
  • Binder: Nicaraguan
  • Filler: Nicaraguan
  • Size: 6×56 Double Toro

Appearance & Construction

At 6 x 56, this Dias de Gloria is a beefy cigar. I’m not usually a fan of such large cigars, but I’ve learned to give Fernandez the benefit of the doubt. The outer Nicaraguan Habano wrapper is smooth and nearly seamless, and it has quite a bit of oil and a smooth texture. Branding-wise, the cigar is beautiful. No expenses were spared on the bands it seems.

Taking a whiff off the foot produces aromas of dry cedar, espresso, white and black pepper, and some natural tobacco notes. Once cut, the draw is perfect, and the cold draw reveals a lot of spice, earth, and wood.

Flavor and Smoke Characteristics

The Dias de Gloria cigar kicks off in a way that really has me surprised. There are some definite AJ vibes but it’s also got quite a bit of new stuff going on. I’m used to AJs blends straddling the line between sweet, creamy, and bitter flavors (think chocolate, cedar and leather). The Dias de Gloria has chocolate and (lots of) cedar, but it also has a substantial savory edge that adds nice complexity. Flavors include cooking spices (white and red pepper), salted peanuts, perfume and a creamy vegetal note that I’m more used to finding in Quesada blends. The retrohale is aggressive and toasty, with some pepper, vegetal, and mineral notes.

Overall, strength and body are both at medium plus in the first third.

At an inch and a half in, the layered white ash is still holding on, and the burn is flawless. The overall balance shifts slightly toward sweet, with a new brioche-like bread note that morphs quickly into cinnamon cookies.

Into the second third, the Dias de Gloria backs down a bit and lands at medium. Some spice creeps into the palate, and some sweet fruit notes develop as well. The cigar is in good balance, with good complexity, and the burn remains remarkably perfect (something I’ve come to expect from all AJ cigars). Still, I’m finding myself wanting a bit more strength from the flavors. The large ring gauge might be stretching the flavors out a bit, so I’m interested to try a smaller format.

In the final third, the Dias de Gloria picks up again, increasing in strength and producing even more smoke. The cooking spices are back in full force, balanced against notes of fresh bread, powdered sugar, and tangy fruits. A bit of bitterness also shows up near the end and sticks around all the way to the end. Thankfully though, the smoke remains cool and never heats up.

Conclusion

Before lighting up I complained to my wife about how many boring blends I’ve reviewed lately. Thankfully, Dias de Gloria by AJ Fernandez is anything but boring.

It has some very enjoyable moments, mostly in the first third where the strength is highest. Notes of cooking spices, peanuts, cocoa and vegetal play very nicely together, but I think the cigar could do with some more flavor, particularly in the second half of the smoke.  For that reason, the cigar can’t achieve as high of a score as it probably would in a different size.

I’d recommend pursuing this cigar in the short churchill or robusto size.

Final Rating: 86

San Lotano Dominicano AJ & Joche Review

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San Lotano Dominicano AJ & Joche Review

Sometimes it seems like 80% of the cigars I review on any given month just happen to be in some way connected to AJ Fernadnez, one of the most popular (and increasingly famous) blenders on the market. From ultra boutique brands like Viva La Vida to giant tobacco companies like Altadis, Fernandez is simply everywhere. And with the quality of smokes he puts out, his products basically demand to be reviewed. Such is the case with the San Lotano Dominicano, which is a collaboration project between Fernandez and Jose “Jochy” Blanco.

Blend Specifics

  • Cigar Reviewed: San Lotano Dominicano
  • Wrapper: Brazil
  • Binder: Dominican Republic
  • Filler: Dominican Republic and Nicaragua
  • Size: 5 x 50 toro

Appearance & Construction

The San Lotano Dominicano is easily one of the most visually striking blends to hit the market in 2019. The dominant blue of the main band plays perfectly next to the gold and red accents, and complements the rich outer Brazilian wrapper. The outer leaf has a sandy texture and some major knotted veins located mainly near the head of the cigar.

Taking a whiff off of the foot of the cigar, I pick up aromas of barnyard, wood planks and light cocoa notes. Taking a cold draw reveals a slightly restrictive draw (about an 8/10 in terms of amount of restrictiveness), and notes of earth, granola, and light spices.

Flavor & Smoke Characteristics

Once lit, the San Lotano Dominicano opens up with assertive flavors that are spicy, sweet, and slightly bitter. It’s strong (medium +) but definitely in a way more characteristic of Dominican tobacco than Nicaraguan. In order of prominence are notes of toasted nuts, sweet floral, cocoa, big white pepper, and cream on the finish. The retrohale is just as enjoyable, with heavy toasted bread, vegetal notes and white pepper. The cigar produces excellent amounts of rich smoke, and though there is some initial waviness to the burn, that corrects itself in about half an inch. What I’m loving most at this point in the smoke is the texture. It does a great job threading the needle between smoothness and assertiveness.

As the cigar burns past the first inch and a half, the balance of flavors ebbs and flows, sometimes emphasizing creamy cocoa, other times focusing more on a spiciness that borders on jalapeño. Beneath these notes are oak, Fuente-esque vegetal flavors, and bitter espresso. All of this helps the cigar deliver balanced complexity that makes for a captivating experience.

Into the second third, the San Lotano Dominicano loses a touch of its strength, and some of the spiciness present up till now burns off with it. The balance of flavors shifts definitively to sweet, and the smoke takes on a chocolaty flavor that’s nicely augmented by bitter espresso. Still very enjoyable but not quite as complex as the first third. Construction is perfect, with a razor sharp burn and excellent smoke production.

The final third of the Dominicano sees the profile shift once again, this time toward savory vegetal notes, white pepper, and traces of cinnamon, cocoa and cream. Construction never falters, and though the smoke does start to pick up some heat, it’s manageable and I smoke the cigar down to the nub.

Conclusion

The San Lotano Dominicano is one of the more enjoyable 2019 releases that I’ve smoked lately. It has a balanced and harmonious flavor profile, with notes of toasted nuts, floral, cocoa, pepper, and a nice cream. Construction is essentially perfect throughout the course of the smoke, which is no surprise given the characters involved in producing the cigar.

Highly recommended.

Final Rating: 91

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