Don Ernesto Habanero

La Rica Hoja, which translates to "The Rich Leaf", was founded in 1925 by Don Ernesto Gonzalez Perez, and was later passed down to his son, Don Ernesto Gonzalez, now 93 years old and still supervising the company’s cigar production. Don Ernesto himself is also the Master Blender responsible for creating the blends that we have sent you this month. The Gonzalez family owns their own tobacco plantation on the island of La Palma, which is one of seven Canary Islands, and is well known for the quality of their leaf. After Don Ernesto opted to continue the family business taught to him by his father, he was joined by his son-in-law, Don Miquel Perez Hernandez, who was exiled from Cuba where his family owned their owned the Finca El Purial plantation and El Surco cigar factory. Don Ernesto cigars have long been a favorite of cigar aficionados in Spain, Germany, and France and until only several months ago, were not available in the United States. Thanks to exclusive importers, the Spain-based Jose Santana Corporation and the Trans-Atlantic Cigar Company of New York, this fine product line in now available in the United States. In addition to the two cigars featured this month, Don Ernesto also rolls a second shorter, larger ring gauge robusto, the Epicurean which measures 4 ¾ x 52. For more information about the product line contact the Trans-Atlantic Cigar Company directly at (516)-783-6020.

Don Ernesto’s Corona Extra is a well-constructed cigar offering a rich, slightly oily Sumatran wrapper and a smooth, consistent draw. We found its flavor to be complex with traces of coffee, spice and earthiness evident. Look for a woodsy finish and a slightly tart aftertaste. Both of Don Ernesto’s cigars are very full flavored and not for the timid! Consider pairing this one up with either a small batch bourbon or a full-flavored scotch.