La Perla Habana Black Pearl Rojo Toro

La Perla Habana is one of the most coveted brands produced today. Two of the industry's most respected entrepreneurs took it upon themselves to recreate this well-known Cuban brand in the Dominican Republic. Sergio Cuevas and Doug Wood have created a cigar in which commitment, quality, and flavor are the sole concerns. Using closely guarded techniques to age and blend the tobaccos, these men have produced a cigar that is worthy of the name, the Pearl of Habana. We think they've done an exceptional job with this highly rated line, right down to the level of detail in re-creating the band to exacting standards, and Cigar Aficionado agrees with a 90 rating. The handsome wrapper is a Habana Criollo that is thick, toothy, and glistens with oil. It encases a complex, full-flavored blend of Nicaraguan long leaves. This is a medium to full-bodied smoke with a complex and spicy flavor profile. Expect hints of nuts, cocoa, cream, and a slightly peppery, cedary note in the finish. Consider pairing it with a well-aged Cabernet or an after dinner espresso.

The Nicaraguan cigar industry originated when Cuban cigar makers escaped the revolution and re-established their livelihood in Nicaragua with Cuban-seed tobacco. Blessed with dark, rich soil, their new home was ideal for tobacco cultivation and Nicaragua quickly became known for cigars that rivaled Cuban quality. Unfortunately, revolution and war came to Nicaragua in the 1980s and devastated the industry, but it’s rebounded dramatically and is once again producing tobacco considered by many to be the finest in the world.

The Esteli Valley is in many ways the heart of Nicaraguan production and is known for its very powerful and spicy tobacco. The Jalapa Valley produces arguably the finest tobacco in the country: somewhat sweeter and less intense than Esteli, but extremely complex. The tobacco of the Condega Valley is often described as a blend of the other two regions.