CA Report: Top New Cigars (March 18, 2024)
Fresh smokes from Plasencia, Alec Bradley, & Tatiana—reviewed!
Warm sunshine, blue skies, and perfect smoking weather. With the arrival of spring tomorrow to kick off the official smoking season, I’m hoping snow and ice are firmly in the rear view. And what better way to kick it off than with a new cigar? Whether you’re looking for the finest luxury smoke, a limited-edition unicorn, or a flavored cigar treat, I’ve got you covered this week with all of the latest releases at Famous. Sit back, relax, light up, and take a tour of their flavors with me!
As always, if there’s a new blend you think we should be talking about, drop us a line in the comments below!
Plasencia Cosecha 151
Wrapper: Honduras Olancho San Agustin
Binder: Honduras
Filler: Honduras
If you’ve smoked a previous Cosecha blend from Plasencia you know two things: they’re immaculate in flavor and construction—and don’t stay stocked long. With 151 (named for Plasencia’s 151st harvest) finally in our humidor, we can say…the wait has been worth it. Cocoa, earth, tingling spices, and an underlying sweetness make it one for the books. I might even say…if you only try one new blend this year, Cosecha 151 wouldn’t be a bad pull!
Alec Bradley Fine & Rare BCN-143
Wrapper: Honduras Trojes Maduro
Binder: Honduras
Filler: Honduras & Nicaragua
With a total of 10 unique tobaccos comprising its blend, Alec Bradley Fine & Rare BCN-143 is the latest from the company’s series of small batch cigars. So small, in fact, that only two rollers are allowed to craft the cigars. Expect a spicy swath of peppers and earth alongside a foundation of natural sweetness, coffee, and nuts. While its price tag may sway you, the flavors you’ll receive are worth the buy-in. Consider it—like Johnny Walker Blue—an investment for your next special occasion smoke.
Tatiana La Vita Chocolate
Wrapper: Indonesia Sumatra
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: Dominican Republic
Admittedly a little out of place given the first two cigars on this list, Tatiana La Vita Chocolate still gets points for flavor. Besides, a hearty filet mignon is always complemented by a sweet dessert. Flavored cigars often get a bad rep. Some say they’re not ‘real’ cigars (whatever that means). And even though they’re not the first choice out of my humidor, once in a while—just like that dessert—they really fit the mood. With La Vita Chocolate’s coffee and cocoa vibe, it’s excellently paired with a morning cup of joe. Stop worrying about what everyone else says and try it. Your secret will stay safe with me!