{"id":38561,"date":"2020-12-15T11:51:13","date_gmt":"2020-12-15T10:51:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/?p=38561"},"modified":"2021-02-19T10:58:14","modified_gmt":"2021-02-19T09:58:14","slug":"top-25-of-2020-the-complete-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/top-25-of-2020-the-complete-list\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 25 of 2020: The Complete List"},"content":{"rendered":"

Here is the complete list of our Top 25 Cigars of 2020. They can also be downloaded as a PDF (US-letter<\/a> or A4 format<\/a>), or a JPEG<\/a>.<\/p>\n

#1 | Plasencia Alma Fuerte Robustus I<\/h3>\n

\"\"Alma means soul and reflects the core knowledge of the family \u2013 to cultivate excellent tobacco. The Alma Fuerte Robustus I embodies exactly that: a blend that is second to none, made from Nicaraguan top-quality tobacco. With the Alma Fuerte Robustus I, we particularly liked the depth of taste, which is particularly noticeable from the second third.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Pepperiness and caramel\/cinnamon sweetness are a good match in this almost black box-pressed cigar. It develops cedary, nutty and coffee aromas with herbal spice. During the smoke it becomes more expressive.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Plasencia Group
Factory:<\/strong> Plasencia Cigars S.A.
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 133 x 20.6 | 5 \u00bc x 52
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#2 | Perdomo Estate Seleccion Vintage Imperio Sun Grown<\/h3>\n

\"\"This Puro is a blend of seven years aged Nicaraguan tobaccos, all of which were cultivated on Perdomo\u2019s farm called Natalie (the name of Nick Perdomo\u2019s daughter). It utilizes only the top three percent of the state crop. Perdomo is known for offering the same blend with three different wrappers – and ESV also comes in the Sun Grown, Maduro and Connecticut variants.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

From the beginning, this box-pressed cigar develops the pleasant sweetness of vanilla, a hint of bourbon and fine spices like nutmeg. The fruity notes of cherries, wood and nut aromas, as well as chocolate notes and gentle pepper are also present.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Perdomo Cigars
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera Perdomo
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 152 x 21.4 | 6 x 54
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#3 | Davidoff Limited Edition Special 53 Perfecto<\/h3>\n

\"\"The new edition of a Puro launched by Davidoff in 2002. In 2020 it was relaunched worldwide in a limited quantity of 9,700 numbered boxes. The Perfecto is made exclusively from tobacco grown in the Cibao Valley. The original Corojo seed wrapper has been aged for ten years. The 53 ring gauge was developed for this wrapper.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

As soon as this Perfecto \u201copens,\u201d it unfolds floral, fruity, slightly bitter and sweetish flavors. It presents aromas of wood, nuts, leather and coffee, accompanied by chocolate sweetness, vegetal spice notes and a gentle salty note.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Oettinger Davidoff AG
Factory:<\/strong> Tabadom Holding, Inc.
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Wrapper:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Binder:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Filler:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Strength:<\/strong> 7 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 156 x 21.0 | 6 1\/8 x \u00a053
Released:<\/strong> 2020<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#4 A.J. | Fernandez Bellas Artes Maduro Lancero Special Edition<\/h3>\n

\"\"Since 2016, the A.J. Fernandez cigars with the sonorous front mark Bellas Artes (Fine Arts) have been well received. Two years ago they also came on the market in a Maduro version. Abdel has created a special work of art with this slightly oval box-pressed Lancero. We were not only enthusiastic about the slim format, but also the exciting blend: Mata Fina from Brazil meets Mexico. For fans of the Lanceros vitola, this cigar is fantastic.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This Lancero presents ample sweetness, spice, pepperiness, and roasted notes. It is an elegant, creamy cigar with predominantly chocolate, fruit, wood, and a subtle chili spice \u2026 Everything is perfectly balanced and in full harmony.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> A.J. Fernandez Cigars
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez Cigars de Nicaragua S.A.
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Brazil
Binder:<\/strong> Mexico
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 7 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 178 x 15.9 | 7 x 40
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#5 | Daniel Marshall by Carlos Fuente XXXVIII<\/h3>\n

\"\"Daniel Marshall and Carlos Fuente, entrepreneurs and friends,\u00a0introduced\u00a0the DM\u00a038th\u00a0<\/sup>Anniversary cigar at the Daniel Marshall Cigar Lounge in Kitzbuhel, Austria. The cigar honors and symbolizes their 38 years of friendship. The pyramid shaped cigars are available to collectors at Daniel Marshall Campfire events around the world and allocated to the world\u2019s top tobacconists and iconic hotels.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This Torpedo offers the complex spectrum of aromas of cedar, coffee, nuts, leather, and exotic fruit. Everything is underlaid by a delicate sweetness. In the last third, it develops a gentle peppery kick. Pure harmony.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Daniel Marshall, Inc.
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia.
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Wrapper:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Binder:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Filler:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Strength:<\/strong> 5 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 162 x 20.6 | 6 3\/8 x 52
Released:<\/strong> 2020<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#6 | La Aurora 107 Anniversary Nicaragua Robusto<\/h3>\n

\"\"Ten years after the launch of one of the most successful cigars, La Aurora 107 Aniversario, the oldest factory in the Dominican Republic has taken on the task of revamping this popular series under a new umbrella brand: Tobaccos of the World. The first big hit of the revised 107 is this 100% Nicaraguan cigar: La Aurora 107 Nicaragua Robusto. The line is completed by the 107 Ecuador (the original), the 107 USA (originally Maduro) and the 107 Rep\u00fablica Dominicana (originally Cosecha).<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

In the pleasant, cool, creamy smoke of this cigar, bitter chocolate and coffee can first be detected. Then spices like carraway, nutmeg and pepper accompany the aromas. An exciting, diverse, and harmonious cigar.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> La Aurora S.A.
Factory:<\/strong> La Aurora S.A.
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Wrapper:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 6 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 127 x 19.8 | 5 x 50
Released:<\/strong> 2020<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#7 | El Rey Del Mundo La Reina ER 2018 Gran Breta\u00f1a<\/h3>\n

\"\"This royal cigar is especially close to our hearts. Not only because it is a real treat for the palate and also because its slim format makes it particularly elegant. But above all, because a great personality played a part in the blending and the naming process: Simon Chase (\u271d2019), CJ <\/em>author and long-time marketing director of Hunters & Frankau. La Reina means \u201cthe queen\u201d and therefore fits both the El Rey del Mundo (King of the World) as well as the United Kingdom as an Edici\u00f3n Regional \u2013 with Elisabeth II as head of state.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

From the start, this Lancero with a pretty pigtail shows its qualities. It is smooth, creamy, and has thick smoke with the opulent sweetness of molasses, cappuccino, and honeydew melon, and a pinch of pepper in the finish \u2013 a taste-bud pleaser.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Empresa Cubana del Tabaco (Cubatabaco)
Factory:<\/strong> Antonio Briones Montoto Factory
Origin:<\/strong> Cuba
Wrapper:<\/strong> Cuba
Binder:<\/strong> Cuba
Filler:<\/strong> Cuba
Strength:<\/strong> 4 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 191 x 15.1 | 7 \u00bd x 38
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#8 | Tatuaje ME II Churchill<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"Pete Johnson’s brand Tatuaje is mainly characterized by the striving of its creator to look and be different, which is also manifested in this Churchill. It is wrapped in a Mexico San Andr\u00e9s Oscuro wrapper; the binder and filler come from Nicaragua. The cigar follows in the footsteps of the Tatuaje Limited Series Mexican experiment from 2012. However, the edition back then was only very limited and the new one is already an integral part of the brand portfolio.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

A box-pressed Churchill in a sandy Oscuro wrapper with voluptuous spice and a fine mocha aftertaste. It also offers a subtle sweetness, hints of fruity notes, but, above all, a whole garden of herbal aromas.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Tatuaje Cigars, Inc.
Factory:<\/strong> My Father Cigars S.A.
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Mexico
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 7 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 165 x 19.0 | 6 \u00bd x 48
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#9 |<\/strong> Rocky Patel CSWC\u00a0Mareva\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"At the 2019 Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) final in Split, Croatia, event founder Marko Bili\u0107 announced that the new competition cigar in 2020 would be created by Rocky Patel. In January 2020, Rocky Patel released the\u00a0CSWC Mareva, and two other vitolas in the line, the Robusto and Toro. All are made at Patel\u2019s Tavicusa. Sadly, due to Covid-19, only a handful of live CSWC events took place around the world, however the dynamic Bili\u0107 introduced the Stay Strong 2020 season which attracted entrants for live online competitions throughout the year.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes: <\/strong><\/p>\n

Along with the intense aromas of roasted coffee beans, almonds and earth, as well as a noticeable cacao sweetness, this cigar offers a broad spectrum. Later, perceptible acidic and bitter notes are added. It has a razor-sharp burn.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Rocky Patel Premium Cigars
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera Villa Cuba S.A. (Tavicusa)
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Mexico
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Honduras, Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 5 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 130 x 16.7 | 5 1\/8 x 42
Released:<\/strong> 2020<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#10 | Juan L\u00f3pez ER 2018 Francia Punto 55 (Rerelease 2020)<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"The Edici\u00f3n Regionales from Habanos have become popular cigars for passionados and collectors. Apart from that, they are proof for how much more international the world market for cigars is becoming. This cigar debuted in late 2018 and was reissued in 2020 for the 50th anniversary of Coprova, the Habanos importer in France.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This cigar offers spicy wood, earthy and nut aromas with the subtle sweetness of dried fruit and later caramel. Flavor-wise, it spreads a pleasant, creamy feeling on the palate with a gentle chili spice and, at the end, with cr\u00e8me br\u00fbl\u00e9e.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Empresa Cubana del Tabaco (Cubatabaco)
Factory:<\/strong> El Habanero Factory
Origin:<\/strong> Cuba
Wrapper:<\/strong> Cuba
Binder:<\/strong> Cuba
Filler:<\/strong> Cuba
Strength:<\/strong> 5 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 130 x 21.8 | 5 1\/8 x 55
Released:<\/strong> 2018 & 2020<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#11 | D\u00edas de Gloria by A.J. Fernandez Gordo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"The Nicaraguan puro from Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez which hints at the glory days of Cuban cigars, was initially launched at the 2019 IPCPR trade show and features seven years aged tobaccos from four of A.J.\u2019s oldest farms in Nicaragua: Finca los Cedros, La Providencia 1, La Lilia and La Soledad. All of them located in Estel\u00ed. The cigar is also available in a Toro, Short Churchill, and Robusto.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

A tangy cigar with dark, earthy, coffee and wood aromas. In very creamy smoke there is also slightly sweet bitter chocolate as well as a little pepper and salt. Towards the end, the coffee and pepper notes become more intense.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> A.J. Fernandez Cigars
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez Cigars de Nicaragua S.A.
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 152 x 23 | 6 x 58
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#12 | Casa Turrent Origin Series San Andres Robusto Extra<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"In late 2019, Casa Turrent finally released the Origin Series after an initial launch at InterTabac 2018 and 2019 IPCPR trade show. It is a series that also comes in three other different blends: Cuba, Miami, Nicaragua. Each blend is presented in the same sized vitola in 12 count boxes, with the Miami blend also available in a 24 count box.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This cigar is a spicy-sweet bomb. The sweetness of the Maduro wrapper and the multifaceted notes of spice keep the palate on its toes: between tangy peppery, fruity acidic to roasted and tart, this cigar plays through all the variations.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> A. Turrent Cigars
Factory:<\/strong> Nueva Matacapan de Tabacos S.A. de C.V.
Origin:<\/strong> Mexico
Wrapper:<\/strong> Mexico Negro San Andr\u00e9s
Binder:<\/strong> Mexico Negro San Andr\u00e9s
Filler:<\/strong> Mexico, Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 140 x 21.4 | 5 1\/2 x 54
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#13 | Vega Fina & Great Wall Fusion Edition<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"Released in mid-2020, the Vega Fina & Great Wall Fusion Edition Piramide was a collaboration between Tabacalera S.L.U. and China\u2019s Great Wall Cigars. The cigar\u2019s name clearly hints at the combined efforts of Vega Fina and Great Wall brands. Great Wall Cigars recently hosted the 6th Chinese Cigar Festival in their hometown of Shifang, China and many more collaborations with international cigar brands are expected from Great Wall Cigars in the future.<\/p>\n

\u00a0Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This Figurado is densely rolled, its wrapper is extremely smooth. Alongside a sepia-like sweetness that lasts throughout, it offers nuances of exotic fruit, cedar aromas, fine, tart nutty aromas, and subtle acidity. It has a razor-sharp burn.<\/p>\n

Owner: <\/strong>Tabacalera S.L.U and China Tobaco Sichuan
<\/span>Factory:<\/strong> The Great Wall Cigar Factory (Shifang,China)
Origin:<\/strong> China
Wrapper<\/strong>:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
<\/span>Binder:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Filler:<\/strong> Dom. Rep., Brazil, Indonesia
Strength:<\/strong> 6 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 152 x 20.6 | 6 x 52
Released:<\/strong> 2020<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#14 | Viva La Vida Robusto<\/h3>\n

\"\"Made by Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez for Artesano Del Tobacco, the Viva La Vida brand was launched on the U.S. market in March 2019. The brothers behind the Artesano Del Tobacco brand, Billy and Gus Fakih, were in the cigar retail trade for 23 years from 1992 to 2015. They began working with A.J. Fernandez after becoming fans of A.J.\u2019s San Lotano which led to the creation of the Artesano Del Tobacco brand in 2015. The cigar is available in four other sizes apart from the Robusto, a Torpedo, Gordo, Toro, and Diadema.<\/p>\n

\u00a0Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This cigar presents a proper pinch of pepper\/chili spice and at first tastes rather piquant. Later, sage, toasted aromas, coffee, fruity notes (citrus) and a cautious cinnamon sweetness are added. Creamy, harmonious, and bold.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Artesano Del Tobacco
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez Cigars de Nicaragua S.A.
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Nicaragua Habano Oscuro 2000
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua Corojo 99
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua Criollo 98
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 127 x 21.4 | 5 x 54
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#15 | Villiger Cu\u00e9llar Black Forest Robusto<\/h3>\n

\"\"With the Cu\u00e9llar Black Forest, Heinrich Villiger paid homage to his homeland. Right where the mystical Black Forest region ends in the south is the German Villiger headquarters in Waldhut-Tiengen. The owner grew up nearby and knows and loves the region through his numerous motorcycle tours. The Black Forest is a line extension to the Cuellar Connecticut Kr\u0113m\u0113 launched in 2014 and, in addition to the Robusto, the Toro Gordo, Churchill and Torpedo formats are on the market – unfortunately only in the USA so far.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This dark, box-pressed Robusto presents a touch of pepper combined with gentle sweetness and coffee … almost like Cuban coffee. In addition, the cigar develops notes of earth and spice. It is expressive, robust, and wonderfully balanced.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Villiger Cigars North America
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera Palma LTD
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Wrapper:<\/strong> Mexico
Binder:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Filler:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 127 x 19 | 5 x 48
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\u00a0\"\"<\/p>\n

#16 | Carlos Andr\u00e9 Airborne Corona Larga<\/h3>\n

\"\"The name of this cigar conceals several stories: \u201cAirborne\u201d means to be in the air and, in aviation, is the term used for the moment when an airplane leaves the ground. This very multifaceted, round and therefore excellent cigar actually made us fly. Those who want to try their way through the entire line can do that in the Robusto, Toro, and Petit Corona formats. Carlos Andr\u00e9 is the name of the company owner\u2019s youngest son \u2013 and with this the bond to the future is tied, the eighth generation of the family company Arnold Andr\u00e9.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

A whole spectrum of woody and nutty aromas, abundant fruity sweetness and spices cajole the palate with creamy smoke. A fine peppery kick also adds to the diverse smoke. Very harmonious.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Arnold Andr\u00e9 GmbH & Co KG
Factory:<\/strong> Arnold Andr\u00e9 Dominicana
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Wrapper:<\/strong> Mexico
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Brazil, Dom. Rep., Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 5 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 146 x 16.7 | 5 \u00be x 42
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#17 Flor de Copan Special Edition Rare Blend<\/h3>\n

\"\"Unfortunately, this excellent cigar \u2013 the name says it all \u2013 is limited and therefore rare. With this creation, Flor de Cop\u00e1n is offering the Singulares vitola for the first time \u2013 a compact, short Robusto with a 54 ring gauge. The blenders at Flor de Cop\u00e1n went through a long process looking for a different taste experience than the one we usually expect from Flor de Cop\u00e1n. The abundance of flavors, the excitement between fruit and roast aromas was a highlight for our tasting panel in 2020.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

At the start, this thick Robusto develops the intense sweetness of vanilla and exotic fruit over fine roasted aromas and bitter notes. The fruity, roasted and bitter tones alternate in taking charge, and make it exciting.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Tabacalera S.L.U.
Factory:<\/strong> Flor de Cop\u00e1n Factory Honduras
Origin:<\/strong> Honduras
Wrapper:<\/strong> Ecuador
Binder:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Filler:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Strength:<\/strong> 7 (out of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 114 x 21.4 | 4 \u00bd x 54
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#18 | Balmoral A\u00f1ejo XO Nicaragua Rothschild Masivo<\/h3>\n

\"\"The eponym for the latest and fourth Balmoral A\u00f1ejo XO line (next to the A\u00f1ejo XO, A\u00f1ejo XO Connecticut and A\u00f1ejo XO Oscuro) is the beautiful sungrown wrapper from Nicaragua. Master blender Francisco Batista also played a leading role in this series. Once again, he succeeded in creating a great blend of complexity, power and sweet gentleness. The vitola presented here, Rothschild Masivo, is the second format in the series, alongside the Gran Toro.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This cigar immediately offers a fine Maduro sweetness, paired with a potpourri of spice, which ranges from acidic and salty to gentle bitter tones. It then develops roasted and barbecue aromas. The sweetness accompanies the cigar throughout the smoke.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Scandinavian Tobacco Group
Factory:<\/strong> Agio Caribbean Tobacco Company
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Wrapper:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Binder:<\/strong> Brazil
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua, Dom. Rep., Brazil
Strength:<\/strong> 7 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 127 x 21.8 |\u00a05 x 55
Released:<\/strong> 2020<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#19 | Laura Chavin Classic No.66 Edition 2019<\/h3>\n

\"\"The Laura Chavin cigar brand has existed since 1999. After the previous owner’s bankruptcy, the cigars disappeared from the market in 2017. Last year the brand experienced a resurgence with new blends and a refreshed design. Currently, the following lines are available: Classic, Concours, Therre de Mythe, Virginy and Paso Fino. The cigars are produced by the Austrian G\u00fcnther Schichl in the Dominican Republic.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

This elegant format is flawlessly manufactured. The cigar has a razor-sharp burn and develops fruity, floral and woody aromas, accompanied by a finely dosed sharpness, smooth sweetness and delicate acidity. A cigar full of finesse.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Cigar Company Willi Knopf
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacaleria Altagracia
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Wrapper:<\/strong> Ecuador
Binder:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Filler:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.
Strength:<\/strong> 5 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 178 x 19 |\u00a07 x 48
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#20 | Joya de Nicaragua Cin\u00e7o D\u00e9cadas Fundador<\/h3>\n

\"\"In 2018, Joya de Nicaragua celebrated its 50th anniversary with a new line of cigars, Cin\u00e7o D\u00e9cadas. A year later, the company added the Fundador to this line, a soft-pressed toro that pays tribute to the founders of the Nicaragua Cigar Company, as Joya de Nicaragua was originally called: Juan Francisco Bermejo, and Sim\u00f3n Camacho. Currently, the line consists of four vitolas: El General, Diadema, El Doctor and Fundador.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes: \u2028<\/strong><\/p>\n

At the beginning, this cigar offers floral aromas, the freshness of menthol and chili spice alongside nutty aromas and a nougat sweetness. Mid-way through, it becomes more tart, underscored by cacao sweetness and fruity nuances. The finale is chocolatey.<\/p>\n

Owner: Joya de Nicaragua S.A.
Factory: Joya de Nicaragua S.A.<\/p>\n

Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Strength: 8 (of 10)\u2028
Size: 152 x 21.4 | 6 x 54\u2028
Released: 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#21 | Undercrown ShadyXX<\/h3>\n

\"\"The ShadyXX is a collaboration between Drew Estate and Shady Records, a music label founded by hip hop artist Eminem and Paul Rosenberg, who is a cigar lover. The box-pressed Belicoso was created to celebrate the 20th<\/sup>anniversary of the record label in 2019. Fortunately, this cigar made a comeback in 2020. Like all Undercrown cigars, ShadyXX is rolled at the Drew Estate cigar factory in Estel\u00ed, Nicaragua.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes: \u2028<\/strong><\/p>\n

A flawless box-pressed Belicoso, whose sweetish Maduro wrapper provides a subtle counterpoint to the sumptuous spiciness of the cigar. It develops tangy, finely acidic notes, leather aromas and even a fine sweetness in a creamy smoke.<\/span><\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Drew Estate, LLC
Factory:<\/strong> La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Mexico San Andr\u00e9s
Binder:<\/strong> USA Connecticut
Filler:<\/strong> Brazil, Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 7 (of 10)\u2028
Size:<\/strong> 127 x 19.8 | 5 x 50\u2028
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#22 | Oscar Valladares Wild Hunter Oscuro Toro<\/h3>\n

\"\"The camouflage design hints at the name of Oscar Valladares\u2019 newest cigar line: Wild Hunter. The Honduran puro that gets its inspiration from heading out into the woods comes in a Natural or an Oscuro wrapper from the Cop\u00e1n region. The binder and filler of both cigars are from Oscar\u2019s own farm, La Entrada and El Paraiso. Both cigars are offered in a 6 x 52 toro vitola.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Aromas of earth, cedar and oak are accompanied by herbal spice and later a sweetish chocolaty\/toffee note. Occasionally it is slightly salty, delicately bitter (almonds) and sweetish. A complex cigar.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Oscar Valladares Tobacco & Co.
Factory:<\/strong> Oscar Valladares Tobacco & Co.
Origin:<\/strong>\u00a0Honduras
<\/span>Wrapper:<\/strong> Honduras Oscuro
Binder:<\/strong> Honduras
Filler:<\/strong> Honduras
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 152 x 20.6 | 6 x 52
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#23 | Southern Draw Jacobs Ladder Brimstone<\/h3>\n

\"\"Owned and operated by a family of veterans out of Texas, Southern Draw Cigars has grown fast in the past years. The Brimstone is an extension to the Jacobs Ladder line, introduced at the IPCPR 2019. The company describes the original Jacobs Ladder as double ligero, meaning that it uses two different types of ligero. For Brimstone, they use three types of ligero. 150,000 cigars annually are being produced.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

In the thick, oily smoke there are tart-spicy notes underscored with sweetness. Nuts, fruity notes, coffee, and chocolate create an interesting sweet-sour play. Towards the end, the cigar becomes more peppery and even spicier.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Southern Draw Cigars
Factory:<\/strong> Tabacalera A.J. Fernandez Cigars de Nicaragua S.A.
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> USA Broadleaf
Binder:<\/strong> USA Broadleaf
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua, Dom. Rep.
Strength:<\/strong> 8 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 152 x 22.2 | 6 x 56
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#24 | Alec Bradley Project 40 06.52<\/h3>\n

\"\"Officially, this cigar is called Project 40 06.52, which indicates the size of the cigar \u2013 a Toro.<\/p>\n

It is the first of Alec Bradley\u2019s Experimental Series. Alan Rubin, founder of Alec Bradley, says: \u201cProject 40 is a generally accepted concept in multiple industries with the end goal to find how a service or product can have a positive impact on the mind and body. Since cigars bring people together, cause for relaxation and create positive experiences, I asked myself why this concept should not be applied to premium cigars.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tasting notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n

The cigar offers pronounced woody, nutty, coffee and cacao aromas with a sweet fruity impact to malt candy and a subtle salty note. Primary flavor notes of leathery, nutty flavors.\u00a0The cigar is decidedly creamy.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Alec Bradley Cigar Corp.
Factory:<\/strong> J. Fuego Cigar Co. de Nicaragua
Origin:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Wrapper:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Binder:<\/strong> Brazil
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua
Strength:<\/strong> 6 (of 10)
Size:<\/strong> 152 x 20.6 | 6 x 52
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

#25 | Kristoff Shade Grown Robusto<\/h3>\n

\"\"Glen Case has been smoking cigars since his teens and spent about 18 years in the financial industry. In 2004 he started Kristoff Cigars which has been a successful cigar brand since then. \u201cQuality, consistency, availability\u201d is their motto. In 2019, Kristoff announced the Kristoff Shade Grown. It uses a Connecticut-seed wrapper from Honduras over a Dominican binder and fillers from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. The line is offered in three sizes: Robusto, Churchill and Matador.<\/p>\n

Tasting notes: \u2028<\/strong><\/p>\n

This pretty cigar with a pigtail and closed foot offers ample earthy aromas over a subtle sweetness as well as a gentle peppery spice. Tangy, vegetal, tart and piquant notes, a light acidity and wood aromas develop in the creamy smoke.<\/p>\n

Owner:<\/strong> Kristoff Exclusive Cigars, Inc.\u2028
Factory:<\/strong> Charles Fairmorn S.A.\u2028
Origin:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.\u2028
Wrapper:<\/strong> Honduras\u2028
Binder:<\/strong> Dom. Rep.\u2028
Filler:<\/strong> Nicaragua, Dom. Rep.\u2028
Strength:<\/strong> 6 (of 10)\u2028
Size:<\/strong> 140 x 21.4 | 5 1\/2 x 54\u2028
Released:<\/strong> 2019<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Here is the complete list of our Top 25 Cigars of 2020. They can also be downloaded as a PDF (US-letter or A4 format), or a JPEG.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":38571,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_mi_skip_tracking":false},"categories":[72,435,44],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38561"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/25"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=38561"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38561\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/38571"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=38561"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=38561"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cigarjournal.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=38561"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}