Don Juan Criollo '98

Don Juan cigars are handmade at the Tabacalera Tropical based in Esteli, Nicaragua by Cuban expatriate Pedro Martin. It seems of late we've regularly had a puro in the mix (i.e. a cigar whose wrapper, binder and filler tobaccos all come from the same country) and most of the time, it is a Nicaraguan puro. The fact is, the Nicaraguan tobacco industry continues to improve—and this month's Don Juan Criollo '98 Toro is the perfect example. It is a well-constructed, satisfying premium that exhibits a smooth, medium-bodied flavor. Packed with dense layers of tobacco, note the gorgeous, shade-grown Cuban Criollo '98 wrapper. Beneath this, the long-fillers, also grown in the lush Jalapa Valley of Nicaragua, provide this Nicaraguan cigar with ample punch and presence. Expect these carefully aged leaves to yield floral qualities, with a distinct character akin to rose petals (no kidding, look for it!), balanced by an earthy counterpoint, all rounded out by a sweet, slightly salty finish. Overall, we found this medium-to-full-bodied cigar robust in the finish with a complex flavor profile and hearty character, while maintaining a gentle restraint. Consider pairing this one with a slightly sweet Sauvignon Blanc or a particularly hoppy pilsner, like Prima Pils (Victory Brewing Company) or Sunshine Pils (Tröegs Brewing Company).