CA Report: Top New Cigars (July 8, 2024)
Fresh Premium Picks from Plasencia, AJ Fernandez, and Foundation Cigars!
If you’re lucky enough to still have all your fingers after 4th of July festivities, here are some new cigars we think you’ll want to put in between them!
With the potassium nitrate in the air finally tapering off, we’re ready to make room for a smell that’s more…inviting. We’re talking, of course, about the fresh aromas coming off these fresh premium picks. This week’s list covers just about everything. Luxury. Affordability. Even boutique.
With the holiday behind us, it’s time to kick back, relax, and let summer coast. See my reviews of the best smoky companions to make the most of it. And as always, if there’s a new cigar we should be talking about, hit us up on social media to let us know - links below!
Foundation Wise Man Corojo & Maduro
Wrapper: Nicaragua Corojo/Mexican San Andres Maduro
Binder: Nicaragua Estelí & Jalapa
Filler: Nicaragua Estelí, Condega, & Jalapa
Just in case you missed our panel review on Nick Melillo’s revamp of Wise Man, here’s one important highlight: It’s the best new cigar I’ve smoked this year. With a handoff in manufacturing to My Father in Nicaragua, Foundation gambled hard with their tried and truest blend—but I think it’ll likely pay dividends in the end. Fans of bolder, darker cigars will find a lot to love in their choice of a naturally sweet Nica Corojo or nutty San Andres Maduro wrapper. As a bonus, the reimaging of Wise Man is decidedly accessible. Bold. Yet well-mannered. Can’t ask for more than that on a warm summer day.
Indomina by AJ Fernandez Magnum (New Size!)
Wrapper: Ecuador Habano 2000
Binder: Mexican San Andres
Filler: Nicaragua
You asked; Famous delivered! Finally, a big-ring addition to the popular Indomina lineup. Expect a slow-burning flavor fest chock full of leathery earth, nuts, coffee, and a zesty sweetness only AJ Fernandez can craft—especially at a low price like this. If you can live without the brand name fanfare, these cheap seats will leave you pleasantly surprised. Don’t take my word for it. Light it up yourself and let me know if you agree!
Plasencia Cosecha 149 Cortez (New Size!)
Wrapper: Honduras Olancho San Agustin Criollo
Binder: Honduras Jamastran Corojo
Filler: Honduras Talanga, Olancho Criollo, & Jamastran Corojo
We unveiled Plasencia’s latest entry to the Cosecha series (151) back in March. Not to be outdone, the previous blend, Cosecha 149, wants the final word. Plasencia has just released a fresh vitola they’re calling ‘Cortez.’ And it being a 5 ¾ x 56 Figurado, the cigar’s here to leave its mark. Expect to fall in love with the 149 blend all over again with every coffee and cocoa-laced puff. The Figurado’s tapered ends give a boost of flavors both in the beginning and end of the cigar—with a middle section that smokes buttery and smooth. Your evening on the deck is calling. You ready to answer?