Boom, let's dive straight in!
This week was a rather interesting one, I was able to deep dive in to a brand this week and sample two smokes in their portfolio! put your running shoes on because you're gonna want to try these for yourself!
For those of you who are in the know, the name E.P. Carrillo needs no introduction, a true legend in the cigar world. but for those who want to learn more, here is a little breakdown on who this man is.
Ernesto Perez-Carrillo was born in Havana, Cuba in 1951. His father, Ernesto Perez-Carrillo Sr., was the founder of the famed El Credito Cigar Company, which was known for producing the La Gloria Cubana brand. Growing up around tobacco and cigars, Ernesto Jr. developed a deep passion for the art of cigar making.
In 1959, when Fidel Castro came to power in Cuba, Ernesto Sr. made the difficult decision to leave the country and move his family to Miami, Florida. There, he continued to produce cigars under the La Gloria Cubana name, but the family was forced to start from scratch in a new country.
In the early 1980s, Ernesto Jr. began to work with his father in the family business. He learned the art of cigar making from the ground up, working in every aspect of the production process, from rolling to blending to packaging. In 1992, Ernesto Jr. took over the company from his father, and under his leadership, La Gloria Cubana became one of the most successful and respected brands in the industry.
In 2009, Ernesto Jr. made the decision to sell La Gloria Cubana to General Cigar Company, and he embarked on a new chapter in his career. He founded E.P. Carrillo Cigar Company, which he named in honor of his father.
With his new company, Ernesto was free to experiment and innovate, creating new blends and flavors that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the cigar industry.
Today, E.P. Carrillo is one of the most respected names in the cigar world. Ernesto Perez-Carrillo's cigars have won numerous awards and accolades, and he is widely recognized as one of the greatest master blenders of all time.
From his humble beginnings in Havana to his current status as a legend in the industry, Ernesto Perez-Carrillo's journey is a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and dedication.
I was lucky enough to be able to dig in to the rather interesting E.P. Carrillo Pledge Robusto. The cigar was released in 2020 and is the second addition to the E.P. Carrillo Pledge line. From what I understand, it was created as a tribute to the pledge that Ernesto Perez-Carrillo made to the cigar industry, promising to create only the highest quality cigars.
E,P, Carrillo Pledge Prequel Robusto
The E.P. Carrillo Pledge features a dark, oily Connecticut Havana seed wrapper that is both visually appealing and indicative of the cigar's rich, full-bodied flavour profile. The wrapper is paired with a Nicaraguan binder and a carefully selected blend of Nicaraguan fillers, creating a complex and flavorful smoke.
It must be said, this is perhaps one of the few cigars that I hesitated lighting, solely due to the presentation of the cigar being so artistic, from the band to the yellow ribbon around the foot, it is clear that no corners have been cut.
E,P, Carrillo Pledge Prequel Robusto
Upon lighting, The Pledge delivers a burst of rich and intense flavors, this is not for the faint of heart. The initial notes are spicy and robust, with a hint of pepper and a touch of sweetness. As the cigar burns, the flavours deepen and become more complex, with notes of coffee, leather and pepper coming to the forefront.
One of the standout features of the Pledge is it's excellent construction. The cigar is rolled to perfection, with a smooth and consistent draw that allows the smoker to fully appreciate the nuances of the flavor profile. The cigar burns evenly and produces a sturdy ash that holds well, a beautiful and elegant tip of the hat to the roller!.
E,P, Carrillo Pledge Prequel Robusto
In terms of strength, the E.P. Carrillo Pledge cigar is a full-bodied smoke that is best suited to experienced smokers who enjoy a bold and unabashed cigar. The strength is well-balanced with the deep flavors, creating a truly exceptional smoking experience.
Overall, the E.P. Carrillo Pledge cigar is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of Ernesto Perez-Carrillo. With its rich and energetic flavor profile, excellent construction, and full-bodied strength, this cigar is a must-try for any serious cigar aficionado.
Moving on to the next sublime smoke, the E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic is a no joke cigar that has captured the attention of cigar enthusiasts worldwide. Crafted again by the esteemed Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, this cigar offers a smoking experience that is both complex and sophisticated, featuring a blend of aged Nicaraguan tobaccos and an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper that delivers a perfect balance of flavours.
E,P, Carrillo Encore Majestic Robusto
What must be mentioned is the effort the team at E.P. Carrillo put in to these truly magnificent boxes, both the Pledge and Majestic are really impressive pieces of craftsmanship. From the varnish on the outside, to the individual presentation inside the box, everything has been prudently designed to make the moment you reach in to your box to smoke a real occasion and time to celebrate.
Upon first inspection, it is evident that the Encore Majestic is constructed with meticulous attention to detail. The cigar boasts a firmness that is neither too hard nor too soft, with just the right amount of give when squeezed. The wrapper is an exquisite milk chocolate colour with the perfect oily sheen to it. As far as I'm concerned, this is a cigar with my name written on it.
E,P, Carrillo Encore Majestic Robusto
Upon lighting, the initial draw is smooth and easy, allowing the smoker to appreciate the complexity of the flavor profile. The Nicaraguan tobaccos have been blended to perfection to provide a balanced delivery of spice and pepper, which is complemented by the sweetness of the Corojo wrapper.
As the cigar burns, the flavor profile evolves, with notes of earth and wood joining the mix, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is both complex and satisfying.
E,P, Carrillo Encore Majestic Robusto
The construction of the Encore Majestic is impeccable, with an even burn and a solid ash that holds together throughout the smoke. But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Majestic is its long and satisfying finish. The richness of the smoke lingers on the tongue, leaving a subtle aftertaste that is both pleasing and memorable. It is a testament to the skill and expertise of Ernesto Perez-Carrillo.
Those who smoke with me regularly know I seldom smoke a cigar down to the nub, this is one that has joined that very elite club. The one problem I found with this smoke was I wanted it to be longer!
A cigar that mirrors its name without flaw, a legitimately majestic experience.
great photography and great writing! Those boxes and cigars do look like a work of art, very pretty stuff.
Brilliant piece, I havent tried either but will look to pick some up, with the new cuban prices I have no choice but to look else where!
Love EP, it was the first cigar I shared with my brother and will always have a place in my heart. Great write up, it is genuine and your passion can be seen.