Check availability here and get $20 off for every order of $145 or more!
Vitola Specifications:
Brand History: AJ Fernandez is a name synonymous with excellence in the world of premium cigars. With a rich Cuban heritage passed down through generations, AJ Fernandez has earned a reputation as a master blender and producer of exceptional cigars. The Bellas Artes Special Edition Lancero is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality, showcasing their dedication to crafting cigars that elevate the smoking experience.
- Cigar: AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Special Edition Lancero
- Vitola: Lancero
- Size: 7.5 inches by 40 ring gauge
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Rosado
- Binder: Nicaraguan
- Filler: Nicaraguan, Honduran
- Strength: Medium to Full
Tasting Notes in Thirds:
Prelight: A lot a chocolate, cedar, and hay. Similar to a Padron Maduro.
Cold Draw: A lot of sweet chocolate and haw. The draw is perfect not to loose and not too tight. Lovely soft box press with no clear soft spots.
First Third: Upon lighting, the AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Special Edition Lancero immediately captivates the senses with a burst of peppery spice and toasted cedar notes. The draw is smooth and effortless, allowing for an even burn. The initial flavors are complemented by subtle hints of roasted nuts and a touch of dark chocolate, creating a well-balanced and complex profile. The medium-bodied smoke showcases the high-quality Ecuadorian Habano Rosado wrapper. Very reminiscent of a Padron Anniversary Series Maduro openings in terms o flavor profile and pepper. I would bet there are very similar tobaccos and blending used. Half way through the cigar transitions to a nice meaty BBQ flavor with chocolate and some charred oak. The pepper smooths out into a nice chocolate and leather tones on the retrohale.
Second Third: As the lancero progresses into its second third, the spice mellows out, making way for a symphony of flavors. Rich notes of espresso and leather emerge, providing a velvety texture to the smoke. There is a ton of chocolate and some sweet hay. The pepper is mostly hone and the retrohale is very smooth. You could retrohale the whole puff. Aroma is a bit peppery with some vegetal and chocolate tones. The third ends in spicy chocolate flavors with a dash of white pepper and a rich creamy retrohale. The sweetness from the wrapper intensifies, adding a delightful caramel undertone. The construction remains impeccable, with a sturdy ash that holds well.
Final Third: In the final third, the AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Special Edition Lancero continues to impress. The strength builds to a solid medium to full, delivering a robust finish. The leather notes deepen, and a subtle earthiness emerges, providing a captivating depth to the cigar’s character. The flavor profile transitions into more chocolate and pepper. A bit of sweetness lingers on the palate. Transitions to a lot of pepper. Retrohale returns to its original spiciness but different to the pepper. A rich amount of dark chocolate and cedar comes to the forefront. Reminds me of a Padron Maduro beginning and end. The final puffs are a crescendo of flavor, leaving a lasting impression of meaty BBQ, chocolate, and a decent amount of pepper.
Check availability here and get $20 off for every order of $145 or more!
Food and Drink Pairings: To complement the richness and complexity of the AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Special Edition Lancero, consider pairing it with the following options:
- Drink: A glass of aged Scotch whiskey, particularly one with smoky and peaty notes, enhances the cigar’s flavor profile. Alternatively, a robust red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a dark, complex beer like a stout would also be excellent choices.
- Food: A charcuterie board featuring artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and dark chocolate pairs beautifully with this cigar. The combination of salty, savory, and sweet flavors enhances the overall tasting experience.
Rating out of 100: I would give the AJ Fernandez Bellas Artes Special Edition Lancero a well-deserved 93 out of 100. This cigar showcases AJ Fernandez’s expertise and dedication to crafting exceptional smokes. Its impeccable construction, complex flavor profile, and enjoyable smoking experience make it a standout choice for aficionados seeking a memorable, medium to full-bodied cigar. Whether you’re an experienced enthusiast or new to the world of premium cigars, the Bellas Artes Special Edition Lancero is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in the art of cigar smoking.
Check availability here and get $20 off for every order of $145 or more!