Cigar: H. Upmann by AJ Fernandez
Size: Toro
Smoke time: 1 hour, 35 minutes
Appearance & Aroma
The gorgeous blue and gold band is only the first in a list of amazing qualities this cigar has to offer. There are hints of oak and pepper, but nothing overpowering that might turn off a smoker. The Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper is very smooth and just slightly on the shiny side.
I’m pairing this cigar with an E.H. Taylor Small Batch bourbon, which aside from being a favorite of mine in general, complements the slight spiciness of the cigar.
Light-Up & Draw
My go-to cut tends to be a V-cut and today is no different. I find that particular cut to be just the right amount of smoke for my profile. It lights up easily as usual, only taking two puffs to start burning on its own. The draw for this cigar is sightly tight, but I didn’t want to use a poker to loosen it up just yet.
Early Profile
One of the reasons I love this cigar so much is that it’s very flavor-forward. Right off the bat, you’re tasting hints of the oak and pepper I mentioned above, which to me justifies my cigar decision. Some cigars take time to show their flavor, but I prefer ones that are a little quicker on that front. I’d classify this cigar as medium-full, leaning toward medium.
Middle Profile & Burn
So far so good. As usual, the burn is remaining relatively straight. In general, this has never been a cigar I’ve had trouble with. I’ve switched over to Eagle Rare bourbon because I was in the mood to pair something slightly sweeter with it. That seems to bring out hints of coffee and spice, which was a nice surprise.
Late Profile
The flavor at this point seems to combine a mix of the coffee/spice and the oak/pepper, which, when paired with the Eagle Rare, makes for a very enjoyable mix without presenting such a complex flavor as to overwhelm the smoker.
Overall Impression
This is a very solid cigar that has always been a very reliable smoke. The price point is perfect for what it offers, and it remains a go-to in my weekly rotation. I’ve had no problems suggesting this cigar to both experienced smokers and to relatively new ones. In my opinion, the flavor-forward nature of the cigar is satisfying enough to draw newer smokers to it. This is a can’t-miss stick that I hope to find in every humidor.
– Review by Jason Soby, tobacconist at Cutters Cigars and Spirits in Alpharetta, Georgia.
This story first appeared in PCA The Magazine, Volume 1, 2025. To receive a copy of this magazine you must be a current member of PCA. Join or renew today at premiumcigars.org/membership.