Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
full-bodied
Balance
very good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- long
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
With an elegant and well-constructed wrapper, the A.J. Fernandez 20th Anniversary Toro features a smooth and shiny wrapper, revealing shades that captivate at first glance. With its generous dimensions of 152.4 mm (6") in length and a diameter of 22.2 mm (⅞"), this cigar offers a pleasant grip and an impressive presentation, heralding a high-end experience.
At first olfactory contact, you will be transported by a complex bouquet. Pre-light aromas of spices, nuts, and cocoa emerge, promising a beautiful aromatic promise. Upon lighting, the aromas intensify, broadening the flavor profile with hints of wood and coffee, signaling a lively and engaging start.
On the palate, this experience develops harmoniously across the three thirds. The flavors of spices and nuts take center stage, while cocoa and fruity notes bring a well-balanced complexity. Each draw proves to be a feast for the senses, with a continuous progression and exemplary coherence throughout the tasting.
The finish is equally captivating. With a long finish in the mouth, this cigar leaves a comforting and slightly bitter sensation that invites contemplation. The balance between strength and sweetness is masterful, giving the A.J. Fernandez 20th Anniversary Toro a unique identity that will appeal to intensity enthusiasts.
This cigar is ideal for a moment of relaxation after a meal, offering a fine alternative to a full-bodied coffee. Pair it with a red wine or a dry whisky to enhance its powerful character and subtle aromas.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its excellent construction and value for money. The pre-light aromas of spices and cocoa, combined with a marked strength, provide a rich and satisfying tasting experience. This cigar is recommended for those seeking a pleasant intensity and a refined balance.
How to taste: A.J. Fernandez 20th Anniversary Toro
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1.Visual Examination
The A.J. Fernandez 20th Anniversary Toro showcases a beautiful deep brown wrapper, slightly textured, which reflects the quality of the Nicaraguan tobacco. Its dimensions of 152.4 mm (6") and a ring gauge of 56 make it a pleasant cigar to hold, promising an enjoyable tasting experience.
A careful observation of the color and construction provides insight into the forthcoming aromatic richness and the quality of the tobacco used.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the cigar exudes strong notes of spices, nuts, and chocolate. These well-defined aromas blend with woody nuances, coffee, and dried fruits, enriching the olfactory palette.
This step allows one to immerse in the identity of the tobacco and anticipate the sensations to come, thereby sharpening focus during the tasting.
3.The Cut
The standard cut made under the cap is clean, facilitating optimal access to the aromas during tasting. A beautiful construction is also revealed at this stage, with no apparent defects.
A precise cut ensures an easy draw, essential for fully enjoying the smoking experience without interruptions or discomfort.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw is perfect, indicating good craftsmanship and proper aeration of the cigar. This ease of inhalation is promising for the rest of the tasting.
An adequate draw helps avoid the inconveniences of uneven burn, ensuring that one can appreciate the full complexity of the aromas.
5.Lighting
Lighting proceeds smoothly, with a well-toasted foot indicating a homogeneous burn. This moment is crucial for establishing the foundation of the tasting.
Taking the time to properly light the cigar avoids the risks of canoeing and guarantees a balanced smoking experience from the start.
6.First Third
From the first puffs, the strength reveals itself as strong, accompanied by dominant aromas of spices, chocolate, and nuts. The smoke volume is medium, creating a rich and enveloping atmosphere.
This intense first third sets the stage for the tasting experience, fully engaging the senses in the discovery of the aromas.
7.Second Third
As it evolves, secondary aromas of wood, coffee, and dried fruit come to the forefront, enriching the complexity. The balance remains very good, allowing for a smooth appreciation of the flavors.
This phase of aromatic revelation showcases the evolution of the blend, essential for appreciating the depth and nuance of the cigar.
8.The Finish
The gray color of the ash reflects the minerality of the tobacco, while the finish leaves a comforting, slightly bitter sensation and a pleasant salivation. The finish is notable, prolonging the pleasure.
Observing the finish and the retention of the ash allows for an assessment of the quality of the leaf drying and confirms the complexity of the blend, thus concluding a memorable tasting experience.