Don’t you love it when you pull a cigar from a box and the cellophane has the slightest tint of yellow to it? It doesn’t feel like this box (or Foundation Cigars) should be old enough for yellow cello, but mine are definitely yellowed. This doesn’t always guarantee a great cigar experience, but it usually increases my expectation – particularly when it’s already a great cigar.
I’ve always been curious about the cellophane as well, and how different varietals of tobacco and oils impact the rate of coloring. If you’re reading this, and have some expert knowledge to drop on the subject, please accept my invitation to drop it on us!
If you’re not aware, El Gueguense was Foundation Cigar Co.’s first release after Nicholas Melillo left Drew Estate. Considering that he’s such a Broadleaf nut, I found it interesting his debut cigar didn’t feature at least some version of Broadleaf. And I love the fact that he threw conventional wisdom aside, naming his cigar according to his convictions (championing Nicaragua) as opposed to an easy to read and say name like The Wise Man. Granted, the Maduro version was named The Wise Man Maduro, but it made sense for this sequel as it’s a different blend altogether, yet under the same brand.
When I first smoked this cigar, I felt like it had an identity crisis: there was a duality of flavors present that challenged me with sweet and smoky sensations. Cherry, hickory barbeque sauce ingredients, cedar, molasses, and leather. Looking back on it, I probably should have cut the cigar more slack… That sounds like an amazing combo!
Today, this cigar has melded into something special over the last few years. While all of the components are less distinctive, the sum of all the parts has radically improved. Now it’s less about how well the sweet and smoky notes work together, and more about how the overall experience works as a whole.
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Like a sip of scotch, each puff requires deliberate inspection to uncover the layered tasting notes within. Cedar, leather, milk chocolate, floral, pepper, baking spices, and nuts all come together in unison to form a lasting impression. Like a chili that gets better in the fridge, El Gueguense has made good use of the time in the humidor.
What I’ve lost, though, is the cherry and hickory components that I was unsure of in the beginning. For that experience, I’ve enjoyed these in samplers quickly over the last couple years and kept this box separate.
Recommendations:
I’ve always gravitated towards the Corona Gorda size in this cigar. It just works very, very well. If you’re not partial to a size, I’d highly recommend starting here. If you’ve tried this cigar and want another variation, I’d suggest starting with the Lancero or Toro Hauco. The Lancero has more pop to the flavor, while the Toro stays cool under pressure as the body builds over time.
My favorite pairing of all time with El Gueguense is Macallan 18. If you’re inclined to indulge in a couple pours while you enjoy The Wise Man, I invite you to start here. The similar and contrasting notes compliment each other like a married couple finishing their sentences.
If you haven’t experienced Foundation Cigars before, the no-brainer recommendation is to try their Brand Sampler! In addition to El Gueguense, you’ll also get The Wise Man Maduro, The Tabernacle, Charter Oak, and Highclere Castle. I’ve posted the picture and link below.
Cheers!
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