NO. 1 CIGAR OF THE YEAR 2021 – FERIO TEGO ELEGANCIA

The Ferio Tego Elegancia is one of two debut offerings from freshman brand Ferio Tego. This includes the Ferio Tego Generoso and the Ferio Tego Elegancia, with the former coming out of Nicaragua and the latter the Dominican Republic. The cigars were inspired by co-founder Michael Herklots and his experience as a sommelier, showcasing two unique smoking experiences that have been compared to the winery practice of offering a Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon together. Both cigars are rolled in a singular toro format and packaged in ultra-premium boxes that are intended to double as functioning humidors. With the Elegancia, Ferio Tego partnered with Master Blender Manuel Quesada and his factory in Licey, Dominican Republic. In terms of recipe, an Ecuadorian (presumed Connecticut) wrapper surrounds binder/fillers from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, aimed at showcasing a milder profile without compromising on texture and body. This goal is executed like few other such blends can, boasting a thick and frothy texture, which serves to amplify nuanced complexities that seem to fly under the radar on far too many cigars in the style. The smoke is big and mouthwatering, with Cubanesque qualities of cedar, floral musk, cashew butter, and sweet caramel bars.