Plasencia Cigars Buying Guide
If you’re serious about quality and craftsmanship in your cigars, Plasencia is a name you can’t ignore. As one of the largest premium tobacco operations in the world, the Plasencia Cigars lineup is home to some of the most exclusive and rare tobaccos on the planet. With over 150 years in the game, the Plasencia family isn't just another name in the cigar industry—they're pioneers. Just take a look at a few Plasencia Cigars reviews; from seed to smoke, their commitment to quality is legendary, and it shows in every stick they produce.
Our Plasencia Cigars buying guide will break down everything you need to know about the brand to help you find the perfect blend to add to your humidor. So, grab a seat, light up your favorite stick, and let's get into why Plasencia Cigars are a cut above the rest.
History and Legacy of Plasencia Cigars
The story of Plasencia Cigars begins in Cuba in the 1860s, where the Plasencia family first planted their roots in the tobacco business. From the very beginning, the Plasencias were dedicated to cultivating the finest tobacco crops, a commitment that has been passed down through five generations.
The family's journey through the cigar industry is marked by resilience and adaptation. In the 1960s, after the Cuban Revolution, the Plasencias were forced to leave their homeland, but they didn't abandon their passion. They relocated to Nicaragua and Honduras, where they rebuilt their operations from the ground up. This move proved to be a turning point, allowing the family to expand their operations and become one of the largest tobacco growers in the world.
Today, the Plasencia family owns and operates several farms across Nicaragua and Honduras, controlling every aspect of production—from seed to cigar. Néstor Plasencia, the current patriarch, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the premium cigar industry. His son Nestor Andrés Plasencia, vice president of Plasencia Cigars and Plasencia Tobacco, continues to cultivate success for this five-generation family business - introducing popular collaborations with renowned brands like Rocky Patel, Davidoff, Montecristo, and Romeo y Julieta.
The Plasencia Portfolio: A Breakdown of Their Best Cigars
The Plasencia portfolio is a testament to their mastery of the craft, offering a diverse range of blends that cater to different tastes and preferences. Plasencia has something for every palate, whether you're into full-bodied powerhouses or more nuanced smokes.
Here's a breakdown of the best Plasencia Cigars, including a few that should be on every enthusiast's radar.
Alma Fuerte
The Alma Fuerte is the crown jewel of Plasencia's lineup. This full-bodied cigar is a complex blend of aged Nicaraguan tobaccos, delivering a rich tapestry of flavors.
The Alma Fuerte is known for its impeccable construction and slow burn, making it a go-to for those who enjoy a strong, well-rounded smoke. It's no surprise that this cigar has garnered high ratings, including a 93 rating in 2017, when Cigar Aficionado named it one of the top cigars of the year.
Plasencia Alma Fuerte Tasting Notes
The Alma Fuerte opens with a rich, bold flavor profile dominated by notes of dark chocolate and espresso, underpinned by a subtle earthiness. As the cigar progresses, you'll notice the emergence of black pepper and toasted nuts, providing a pleasing complexity.
The retrohale brings out a slight sweetness reminiscent of molasses or caramel, balancing the darker flavors. The finish is long, with a smooth, creamy texture that lingers on the palate, making this a truly satisfying smoke from start to finish.
Alma del Campo
A bit more accessible than the Alma Fuerte, the Alma del Campo is a medium-bodied cigar that’s perfect for those who appreciate a balance of flavor and strength. This is a versatile cigar that can be enjoyed at any time of day, pairing equally well with coffee or a light whiskey.
It’s a great option for anyone trying the Plasencia brand for the first time, or for those just starting to explore luxury-class premium cigars.
Plasencia Alma del Campo Tasting Notes
The Alma del Campo starts with a creamy cedar flavor, combined with a hint of toasted almonds and vanilla. As you move through the cigar, more earthy notes emerge, with leather and cocoa coming to the forefront.
The smoke is incredibly smooth, with just enough spice to keep things interesting, particularly on the retrohale, where a touch of white pepper adds a gentle kick.
Alma del Fuego
True to its name, the Alma del Fuego brings the heat. This medium to full-bodied cigar is crafted using tobacco from the volcanic soils of Nicaragua's Ometepe Island, giving it a distinct spicy kick. The flavor profile is bold, making it an ideal choice for those who like their cigars with a bit of an edge.
Plasencia Alma del Fuego Tasting Notes
The Alma del Fuego ignites the palate with bold, fiery flavors. The first third introduces an intense red pepper spice, layered over a core of charred oak and earth. As the cigar develops, the spice mellows slightly, making way for notes of dark chocolate and cinnamon, with a subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile.
The Ometepe tobacco used in the filler adds a unique mineral quality, giving the cigar a distinctive character that sets it apart from other blends in the Plasencia lineup. The finish is robust, with a lingering spiciness that leaves a lasting impression.
Cosecha 149
The Cosecha 149 is a celebration of the Plasencia family's 149th harvest, and it's a fitting tribute. This medium-bodied cigar is crafted with tobacco from Honduras and offers a rich, more robust blend. It's a complex smoke that rewards those who take the time to savor its many layers.
Plasencia Cosecha 149 Tasting Notes
The initial draws of the Cosecha 149 reveal notes of dark coffee and black cherry, combined with a subtle woodsy aroma. Midway through, the cigar introduces baking spices—think clove and nutmeg—which blend harmoniously with a background of dark chocolate.
The finish is long and robust, with a lingering sweetness and a touch of pepper on the tongue. This cigar is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a deeper, more intense flavor experience.
Cosecha 151
The Cosecha 151 is a tribute to the Plasencia family's 151st harvest, and it's nothing short of exceptional. This cigar offers a full-bodied experience with complex flavors and a subtle sweetness.
The Cosecha 151 is crafted with aged tobaccos from Plasencia's 2015 Honduran crop, ensuring a refined and sophisticated smoke.
Plasencia Cosecha 151 Tasting Notes
The Cosecha 151 is a celebration of the Plasencia family's commitment to quality, offering a full-bodied smoke with intricate flavors. The cigar opens with notes of dark fruit—think blackberry and plum—paired with a rich, toasty core.
As the smoke evolves, you'll notice hints of roasted coffee and a sweet, almost molasses-like undertone. There's a pleasant spice on the finish, balanced by a creamy smoothness that makes this cigar both complex and satisfying.
Plasencia Cosecha 151 San Diego Review
Everyone knows that Gary has a soft spot for both Honduran-forward cigars and those crafted by Plasencia. But when he described the Plasencia Cosecha 151 San Diego as "an excellent cigar," was it just polite praise? Watch his review and decide for yourself.
La Floridita Fuerte
The La Floridita Fuerte is a Famous Smoke Shop exclusive, handcrafted by Nestor Plasencia in Honduras. This medium to full-bodied cigar offers a unique blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran Habano long-fillers bound in a sweet Nicaraguan Jalapa Habano leaf and topped with a savory Habano Viso wrapper.
Plasencia La Floridita Fuerte Tasting Notes
La Floridita Fuerte is a bold and flavorful cigar brimming with dark, woody flavors. The Nicaraguan and Honduran long-fillers create a hearty core, while the Habano Viso wrapper adds a layer of sweet, spicy notes.
Expect flavors of leather, earth, and black pepper, with a smooth finish that balances the spiciness with a hint of natural sweetness.
Immortal by Plasencia
The Immortal cigar is another budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on quality. It's a satisfying smoke that provides great value, making it a favorite for those who want to enjoy a Plasencia cigar without splurging.
The Immortal cigar has quickly become a fan favorite, boasting a very high customer rating for its rich, full-bodied profile. It's perfect for new smokers and those who appreciate a good, robust cigar on a budget. Recently, Plasencia introduced the Immortal in a maduro wrapper, which deepens the flavor profile with added richness, making it a top choice for fans of bold flavors.
Plasencia Immortal Tasting Notes
The Immortal lives up to its name by delivering a bold and lasting flavor experience. The first third of the cigar hits you with a deep, earthy richness, complemented by notes of leather and cocoa.
As the cigar progresses, flavors of black pepper and spice become more pronounced, giving the smoke a robust and slightly edgy character. The finish is smooth yet powerful, with a lingering sweetness that balances the more intense flavors.
Reserva Original
The Reserva Original is something special—it's the world's first and only certified organic cigar. Made with 100% organic Nicaraguan tobacco, this blend offers a unique smoking experience. The Reserva Original is a must-try for those who value natural products and want to experience the pure, unadulterated taste of Nicaraguan tobacco.
Plasencia Reserva Original Tasting Notes
The Reserva Original opens with a delicate floral note, underlined by almonds and cream. As it burns, subtle hints of citrus and spices emerge, providing a fresh and lively smoking experience. The smoke is smooth and balanced, with a clean finish that leaves a pleasant, lingering sweetness on the palate.
How to Choose the Right Plasencia Cigar for You
Choosing the right cigar from Plasencia's award-winning and highly-rated portfolio can be a rewarding experience, especially considering the variety of blends, strengths, and flavor profiles they offer.
Match the Strength to Your Experience Level
Cigar strength refers to the nicotine content and overall intensity of the smoking experience. Choosing the right strength is crucial for ensuring an enjoyable smoke:
- The best Plasencia Cigars for beginners: If you're new to cigars, starting with a medium-bodied option like the Alma del Campo is a good choice. These cigars offer a balanced flavor without overwhelming strength, making them accessible for novice smokers .
- The best Plasencia Cigars for seasoned smokers: If you're an experienced smoker who enjoys a powerful cigar, check out the Alma Fuerte or Immortal. These full-bodied cigars are rich and intense, designed for those who appreciate a strong, bold smoke . The Alma Fuerte, with its layered complexity, is perfect for intimate, special occasions, while the Immortal, with its consistently satisfying depth, is an excellent go-to for your daily indulgence.
Consider the Occasion
The occasion often dictates the type of cigar you might want to enjoy. Whether it's a casual smoke or a special celebration, Plasencia has something for every situation:
- For everyday smoking: The Immortal, Reserva Original, and La Floridita Fuerte series offer reliable, medium-bodied cigars perfect for regular use. They're consistent and affordable, making them ideal for daily enjoyment without compromising on quality .
- For special occasions: The Alma Fuerte is a great choice for marking a special moment. Made from organic tobaccos, this medium-bodied cigar delivers a clean, refined flavor profile that stands out in any celebration .
- For a long, relaxing session: If you're planning to spend a few hours with your cigar, perhaps on a quiet evening or during a gathering, the Alma del Campo and Alma del Fuego are excellent options. These cigars offer complex flavors that evolve over time, making them perfect for a leisurely smoke .
Experiment and Explore
One of the best ways to find the perfect Plasencia cigar is to experiment. Don't hesitate to try different blends and sizes to discover what suits you best:
- Sample different sizes: The same blend can offer different experiences depending on the size. A Robusto might provide a more concentrated flavor, while a Toro or Churchill could offer a longer, more mellow (or complex) experience.
- Read Plasencia Cigars reviews: Before committing to a purchase, check out reviews from other cigar enthusiasts. Plasencia Cigars reviews can provide valuable insights into flavor profiles, construction, and overall smoking experience of different sticks.
Where to Buy Plasencia Cigars
Once you've decided on the right cigar for you, it's important to buy from a reputable source to ensure you're getting an authentic product. Thankfully, Famous Smoke Shop is the most trusted online cigar retailer in the industry. We offer a generous selection of Plasencia cigars, often with deals and discounts that make it easier to stock up on your favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plasencia Cigars
If you have questions or would just like to know more about Plasencia Cigars, check out the answers to our most frequently asked questions below.
What makes Plasencia Cigars unique compared to other premium cigar brands?
Plasencia Cigars stands out due to its deep-rooted history in the tobacco industry, spanning over 150 years and five generations. The brand is known for its vertical integration, meaning it controls every aspect of production from seed to smoke, ensuring top-tier quality in every cigar. Additionally, its use of organic tobacco and diverse blends from Nicaraguan and Honduran farms gives its cigars unique flavor profiles that are hard to replicate.
How are Plasencia Cigars made?
Plasencia Cigars are crafted using tobacco grown on their own farms in Nicaragua and Honduras. The company is involved in every stage of production, from growing and harvesting the tobacco to rolling and aging the cigars. This control over the entire process allows Plasencia to maintain consistent quality and produce cigars with complex, well-rounded flavors.
How should I store Plasencia Cigars to maintain their quality?
To maintain the quality of your Plasencia cigars, store them in a humidor at a consistent humidity level of around 70%. This prevents the tobacco from drying out or becoming too moist, which could affect the flavor and burn quality. Proper storage ensures that the cigars age well and remain in prime condition for smoking.
Famous Smoke Shop is Where to Buy Plasencia Cigars
Discover the unmatched quality and rich heritage of Plasencia Cigars by exploring our curated selection at Famous Smoke Shop. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or new to premium cigars, our collection offers something for everyone—from the bold Alma Fuerte to the refined Cosecha 151. Each Plasencia cigar tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and a passion for excellence. Browse our selection today and experience the difference that over 150 years of tobacco expertise can make in your smoking journey.