The box makes a wonderful gift for cigar lovers you know, whether beginners just getting into the craft or aficionados with a storied history of the leaf. Like anywhere else, Christmas in the Dominican Republic is a season of vibrant, festive traditions.

“From the joyful sounds of Aguinaldos echoing through neighborhoods to the warmth of La Cena Navideña shared among families, this unique season reflects the spirit of togetherness and celebration,” says Iturbides Zaldivar, La Aurora’s Director of Sales and Marketing.

The bundle is uniquely curated “to embody that spirit, offering cigar lovers a taste of Dominican excellence wrapped in the festive soul of the holidays.”

What’s In the La Aurora Holiday Box?

You get 10 cigars total, two each of the following:

• La Aurora Original Blend Connecticut 1987 
• La Aurora Preferido 1903 Cameroon 
• La Aurora Family Creed Fuerte Sol 
• La Aurora 120th Anniversary 
• La Aurora ADN Dominicano

If you do the math, that works out to about $13 per cigar which is a pretty good price. Especially since you’re getting the new Family Creed Fuerte Sol and the delicious La Aurora 120th Anniversary in the mix.

I had a chance to review the Fuerte Sol and I came away with a positive experience, to say the least. Featuring a thick, beautiful Mexican San Andres wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and mixed fillers from the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Pennsylvania it’s a notch up, pepper especially, from what La Aurora generally proffers. It’s a delectable treat, with flavors like cedar, wood, cocoa, baking spices, toasted marshmallow, caramel, subtle earth, anise and licorice. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

The post La Aurora gets festive with a holiday bundle appeared first on The BS Lounge.

Iturbides Zaldivar, Director of Sales & Marketing at La Aurora says this re-release is “a very special product for me.”

“It represents our commitment to U.S. retailers and our desire to craft products that not only stay true to our roots in the Dominican Republic but represent the growing and changing palates of U.S. cigar aficionados.”

What is La Aurora Especiales?

Manuel Ynoa, La Aurora’s master blender, considered the input of over 100 cigar retailers before developing the blend for the original Especiales. The retailers involved visited and worked directly with the flavor genius over the course of six years. Six years of experimentation is a long time.

How did it turn out?

Especiales is a medium-bodied experiential smoke with a luscious Ecuadorian Cameroon wrapper, Dominican binder, and fillers from the Dominican Republic and United States. The 2025 cigar is a similar blend to the 2022 release of the cigar. Enthusiasts and aficionados describe the flavor notes as woodsy, with sweet cedar, nuttiness, coffee, spice, and light pepper.

Speaking on his side of the equation, Joshua Habursky, Chief Executive Officer of the Premium Cigar Association, says that he is “proud” of the collaboration.

“This is the second year that we are launching a major collaboration at our fall fundraiser, and we are very proud of the company we are collaborating with and the product itself. Over the past year the PCA team has worked with La Aurora on an Alliance exclusive cigar and they are hosting our pairing as part of the FIU Luxury Marketing Class this November. This is another win-win for both La Aurora, the association, and our retail membership.”

Last year’s fundraiser racked up nearly $40,000 to go towards ongoing advocacy efforts in the industry. It will certainly be interesting to see how things play out this year. Of course, I’m more excited for the launch of the Especiales.

How do I get one?

Anyone attending the PCA Fall Fundraiser on September 11 will have a chance to try the cigar as part of an exclusive pairing event. You can buy tickets for that here.

As mentioned after the fundraiser, La Aurora Especiales will ship out to retailers in October. Additionally, $0.50 from every cigar sold will go towards PCA to support its advocacy mission to protect and ensure the security of tobacco retailers and manufacturers.

La Aurora Especiales will be available in the following formats:

• La Aurora Especiales Robusto (5 x 50) — MSRP: $13.50
• La Aurora Especiales Toro (5 3/4 x 54) — MSRP: $14.50
• La Aurora Especiales Corona Gorda (6 x 47) — MSRP: $14
• La Aurora Especiales Gran Toro (6 x 58) — MSRP: $15

Excited to give this one a try myself!

The post La Aurora Especiales relaunching thanks to partnership with PCA appeared first on The BS Lounge.

But that brings us to our spotlight topic for today and the focus of the Friday Brand Feature: Kafie 1901, its excellent lineup of cigars, and, as always, where you can pick them up to try. If you haven’t yet, light up a stogie with me, pour an ice-cold beverage and let’s dance.

What about the Kafie 1901 cigars lineup?

Starting with its Luxury Core Line and sweeping out to Stiltsville, Liga de La Casa, and Naked Cigars, there are quite a few choices under the Kafie 1901 belt. The Luxury Core Line, for example, has an eponymous variety with Maduro, Connecticut, San Andres, Sumatra, and Natural wrappers. The Kafie 1901 San Andres from the Core Luxury Line is actually made by my guys La Aurora in the Dominican Republic. Dr. Kafie and Manuel Ynoa — La Aurora’s master blender — worked together to create the Serie L Natural, as well.

The Stiltsville line features 5-to-6-year-aged tobacco that was resting in 32-year-old white oak Anejo rum barrels. It comes in a single blend, with a triple-fermented Pennsylvania Broadleaf wrapper, but two primary sizes, robusto and toro. Crafted and inspired by the iconic spirit of Miami, it’s smooth, complex, and bold in character. The sweet tip gives way to more toasty flavors. The unique aging process elevates those flavors more.

For sweet cigar lovers, the Liga de La Casa line features Maduro, Connecticut, and Natural finished cigars. Meanwhile, the Naked series comes in the same three wrapper blends: Connecticut, Natural, and Maduro. But there are no sweet tips on these bad boys.

It’s family-owned. Iconic. And while most cigars are handcrafted, there’s a small, yet impressive boutique feel. Even more so when you consider Dr. Gaby Kafie is a retired physician. One who is now dedicated to providing formative and encapsulating tobacco and coffee experiences. Speaking of coffee.

Kafie 1901 also makes delicious coffee beans

If you’re looking for premium, artisan coffees from various wordly regions, Kafie 1901 has that covered too. With blends taking inspiration from Honduras, Columbia, Brazil, Sumatra and Ethiopia, you can find your perfect blend of roast, dark or otherwise, brimming with natural flavors.

Imagine pairing Kafie 1901 coffee and cigars for the ultimate experience? That’s pretty much the idea behind the brand’s venture. As Dr. Kafie says, “When purpose meets passion, the result is excellence.”

What else can you tell us about Kafie 1901 cigars?

Founded in 2013 as a family-owned business and by a retired physician after the brand was so named, Kafie 1901 began crafting iconic tobacco-laden premium cigars to commemorate the life of Dr. Gaby Kafie’s father, Don Fernando Kafie. You can read more about the Kafie family on the brand’s site. They’ve undergone incredible socio-cultural transformation and growth, from the early 1900s on. Realistically, that’s true since the family has been around, which is even before that. Each member is described as being “eccentric, talented, motivated, hard working, visionary, and humble.”

“We are comprised of Empresarios (business men/women), Doctors, Lawyers, Architects, Engineers, Artists, Song Writers, Poets, and much more. Some of our cousins here in the United States proudly serve in different branches of the military.“

That very much describes Dr. Gaby Kafie’s own trajectory, from physician, helping others thrive and survive, to today’s cigar founder and connoisseur.

The original blend was the Kafie 1901 Don Fernando (DF) Maduro. From there, it launched the Kafie 1901 Connecticut in 2014, Sumatra in 2015, San Andres in 2016, and the rest is history.

When discussing innovative and inspiring stories, Dr. Gaby Kafie’s surfaces top of mind. After moving all cigar production to the La Aurora Factory in 2021, while still managing to delight customers for many years prior, it’s clear the dedication to the craft and love of the leaf is a priority.

Where can you buy Kafie 1901 cigars to try some?

While based out of Miami, Florida, and available across the state at many small shops and retailers, luckily, Kafie 1901 cigars are easy to find at many other places as well. For example, Best Cigar Prices, Smoke Inn, and Neptune Cigars all carry Kafie 1901 varieties.

Per usual, depending on where you live, they may be a little more difficult to find, especially out west. But I’m sure if you live in those areas you already know some ways to get your hands on boutique or less-accessible brand cigars by now. You can always reach out to me, too. I live in Florida, so. Bangarang.

The post Friday Brand Feature: Kafie 1901 Cigars appeared first on The BS Lounge.

Thanks to a virtual tasting with the La Aurora crew, I had the opportunity to pufferate on a Family Series Fuerte Sol — the latest cigar from the brand — along with a pour of the legendary E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario Dominican rum. The cigar is delicious. The rum is tasty. There’s a lot to love about both and the pairing, especially since the flavors mesh well. They play off each other and bring out new, unique flavors as any good pairing should.

But here, now, we’re going to talk about the rum specifically. Why was the opportunity exciting? What is this rum and what makes it worthy of discussing? What kind of flavors did I experience or pick up? Pour yourself a cold glass, light one up if you do that, and let’s get to talking.

Exploring E. León Jimenes

E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario is not new, it’s actually been around for a bit, bottled for the first time in 2013. Inside is a complex, dark, Dominican rum aged for 10 years. Originally crafted to mark the 110 year anniversary of La Aurora, the company’s cigar brand, this rum was part of a collaboration with Ron Barceló. Some of you might recognize that name.

La Aurora considers it one of its finest creations, precisely why we sipped on some alongside the Fuerte Sol. The goal of this particular spirit was to complement the brand’s cigars, bringing out the best in both premium products. In my opinion, it succeeds at doing that very thing. The caveat, of course, is that the darker and more robust flavors tend to pair best with a stronger medium to full-bodied cigar.

If you’re not familiar with the brand’s history, La Aurora was founded by Eduardo León Jimenes in Don Pedro, Guazumal in the province of Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, back in 1903. Over the next century, the León family grew its influence in the region, eventually forming the Leon Jimenes Group. Today, they make a variety of products, not just cigars under La Aurora, but also beer, liquor, coffee, and more.

Dominican rum, refined

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

• Profile: Dark and sweet
• Primary Flavors: Toffee, caramel, spices, and floral notes
• Best Prepared: Neat or on the rocks

For eight years, this blend is aged in American white oak casks, before being transferred for the last two years, and finished in virgin French oak casks (sherry). So, it’s aged a total of ten years, and only 3,000 bottles are produced each year.

Unlike most rums, which are dominated by sweet, bright flavors and undertones of spice, this rum is complex, exhilarating, and, dare I say, rewarding. Immediately, you’ll taste toffee, caramel, roasted almonds and nuttiness, and a creamy lingering sweetness, like molasses, but not quite as potent. It’s delicious, and on a clean palate it would be good enough, but when pairing with a cigar, like you’re meant to, everything is elevated.

Additional flavors include spices, coffee, wood or oak, cinnamon, floral notes, citrus, and even some vanilla. The nose is also fantastic. It’s thick, concentrated and aromatic even before you draw some into your mouth and across your tongue. As any taste-enthusiast knows, it’s also about slightly inhaling those flavors through your nose, what us cigar smokers refer to as retrohaling. You’re not actually inhaling in the traditional sense, more like pulling the scents through your nasal cavity and out of your nostrils. It’s the same technique tasters use with wine, whiskey, bourbon and other delicious mixtures — you’re meant to “nose” the glass first.

Wrapping up the tasting

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

This is not my first rodeo. I actually had some of the E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario rum when I visited La Aurora in the Dominican Republic. One of the nights, after dinner, I was spoiled because the crew let me take the rest of the bottle back to my room. I enjoyed the evening with lit cigars, from La Aurora, of course, and the rum, and some absolutely phenomenal views. I assure you, I’m not just biased because of that history. This is delicious rum.

But after diving in with this pour, I was right back to that original experience, just in the comfort of my home. This rum is a delight and a stand out if you like these sorts of spirits. It’s actually not too expensive either, considering it’s aged 10 years. Most comparable brands would be asking upwards of $300 a bottle for something like this.

A guilty pleasure of mine is Kraken rum, which is pretty sweet. I know, I know, I’ll probably catch a lot of flak for saying that. But the point I’m making is that this Dominican rum is much smoother, with a similar profile, and also a sweetness that’s just right — not too sweet. It pairs exceptionally well with cigars, La Aurora’s or otherwise, and the bottles are relatively accessible price-wise, though you may have trouble finding them at your local liquor spot in some places. If you do find a bottle or two, don’t hesitate, give it a try.

MSRP: ~$125 per bottle

Recommended Buy: Yes, absolutely, if you like spiced or dark rum.

The post E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario: Smoothing it out with rum appeared first on The BS Lounge.

But it also makes sense to do a dedicated review on the numerous Fuerte Sol sticks I smoked. So, here we are. In the vein of my other reviews, this one will be relatively short and sweet with a focus on guidance. If you want to try this cigar, or something similar, I aim to provide you with an overview and some options. I want supportive more than competitive or score-based.

If you don’t already have something lit, light up, pour a glass, and let’s get smoky.

Storage and burn

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

While I don’t normally disclose how many I smoke, in this case I smoked three myself, spaced out over the course of a few weeks. I also gave a Fuerte Sol to my brother-in-law. All of them smoked well, with no burn issues, no tunneling or no concerns to speak of.

If you’ve read any of my other reviews, you’ll probably roll your eyes here — because you’ve heard it several times — but I like to share how I store my cigars. I keep my humidor’s relative humidity (RH) between 64 and 67 and the temps in my house stay around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. That will give you some idea as to the conditions they’re stored in and hopefully, it will allow you to compare if and when you have your own experience.

I always let my cigars rest and the Fuerte Sol had a chance to rest for a couple of weeks in the shortest span.

As an aside, I do have to say the bands on this cigar are incredible. The design is so so good with a La Aurora family creed etched on the secondary band and a marble-like finish to it, all wrapped in golds, browns, and tan shades. Sorry, had to let my inner fanboy out for a sec there, let’s get back to it.

In terms of construction, they cut well. I used straight cuts, V cuts, and a punch for good measure. Although, Ynoa would probably have my head, he likes straight cuts. I prefer straight cuts myself, but for a review it’s always good to try a few options.

There were no burn issues to speak of, as mentioned. I had a flawless ash line for each Fuerte Sol I burned through. Very few trimmings came loose after a cut, which means they’re not too dry, and the wrapper stayed intact — no rolling or peeling off — it also means I cut it good, and they were well-constructed.

Now, on to the flavors.

Flavors and experience

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

La Aurora has been around for over 100 years at this point. I mean, obviously with the 120th Anniversary cigar, which is absolutely phenomenal. You could argue two things knowing that information. The brand really knows what it’s doing because it’s been around forever. Alternatively, the brand has been doing the same thing forever with little deviation. In such a competitive market, with so many unique blends and experiences, that last bit won’t turn out well.

That’s why the La Aurora team is taking things in a different direction from its usual haunts, filling in the gaps in its portfolio. While the 120th was a slight move in the right direction, the Fuerte Sol is a much bigger step. It’s bold, full-bodied and way out of line with most of what they carry. That’s not to say they don’t have other full-bodied blends, but this one is nothing short of a standout.

Featuring a thick, beautiful Mexican San Andres wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and mixed fillers from the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Pennsylvania it’s a notch up, pepper especially, from what La Aurora generally proffers.

Common flavors shared during the tasting, and in discussions with others, included cedar, wood, cocoa, baking spices, toasted marshmallow, caramel, and some subtle earth. I also, personally, tasted Anise and licorice undertones, but I was also sipping a Leon Jimenes 110 Aniversario Dominican rum with it, which is dark and super sweet. Some of those bolder baking spices toned down a little when I opted for a carbonated sweet beverage like Pepsi.

It’s a delectable treat, much like the La Aurora 120th Anniversary, but what I love about the Fuerte Sol is that I can place it pretty much anywhere in my lineup. Since it’s stronger and more full-bodied, I don’t have to smoke it first thing I can place it as a second or even third cigar in the evening, depending on what I have with it. That’s certainly not something I’ve come to expect from La Aurora, but it’s a welcome change. I hope they produce more blends like this.

La Aurora Fuerte Sol review: Closing statements

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

I enjoy most of what La Aurora puts out, and I have a history with the brand, so you’re probably expecting me to speak positively either way. But genuinely, the Fuerte Sol is a fantastic cigar, it’s flavorful, it’s bolder than the brand’s normal lineup, and the spices stick around — which is not something you generally get with Dominican tobacco or cigars. That’s not meant to be an insult. Dominican cigars tend to be milder and more relaxing, but it’s great to see blenders stepping out of that cliche.

Like the 120th Anniversary, the Fuerte Sol will maintain a residence in my humidor, but as long as it’s available, in much bigger quantities. I could see myself smoking this regularly, and by that I mean often. I’d be interested to see what the rest of you think.

Briley specifics

• Recommended: Yes
• Would I smoke it again? Yes, I already do.
• Will I buy more? Yes, I already have.
• My preferred size: Robusto

La Aurora Family Creed Fuerte Sol specs

• Profile: Full-bodied
• Approximate smoking time: 1 to 1.5 hours
• Box count: 20
• MSRP: $360 or ~$18 per stick (Toro size)

If you like this, you might also like: La Aurora 120th Anniversary, La Aurora ADN, La Aurora Hors D’age, Boneshaker Full Body Cast, Arturo Fuente Sun Grown, Casa Carrillo Pledge, Casa Carrillo Endure, H. Upmann Hispaniola, JR Cigars Revival 70s, La Gloria Cubana Serie R No. 6, Padron 1964 Anniversary Series.

You’ll notice that my format is meant to be short and sweet, like this Outcast Cigars review, or the previous Aganorsa Rare Leaf Maduro review. I don’t intend to keep up with the big leagues, I’m one guy. There won’t be any scores. However, I do want these reviews to be a resource for those looking for similar smokes or experiences.

The post La Aurora Family Creed Series Fuerte Sol review appeared first on The BS Lounge.

The latest release, the La Aurora Family Creed Series: Fuerte Sol, proves they understand the highs and lows of the cigar industry — from one extreme to another. I mean, you’d expect that to be the case with over a century in the industry, but stranger things have happened.

Just what the hell am I talking about? Pull up a chair, grab a drink or a snack, light one up and let’s get talking.

An established relationship

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

As you likely know, if you’re here, I have a history with La Aurora. I had the unique opportunity to visit the Dominican Republic and tour the facilities and tobacco fields. But even before that, I was familiar with the brand and have long supported Dominican tobacco, something that’s not common in the industry.

There are a lot of people that don’t like Dominican cigars or tobacco, for whatever reason. Either they think it’s too mild, especially when compared to Nicaraguan-sourced cigars, or they don’t like the flavor profile and quality of the cigars. For me, La Aurora has always been a standout and its most recent offerings are no exception. From the 107 to the delicious 120th anniversary, La Aurora’s cigars are a staple in my humidor.

I tend to smoke stronger cigars

But let’s not forget, I’m also a big fan of Aganorsa. I love Nicaraguan-grown tobaccos and I usually smoke stronger, full-bodied cigars. That’s a significant contrast to most Dominican cigars, even those from EP Carrillo (now Casa Carrillo). I might work some Dominican-sourced offerings in there, but they’re hardly the only types of cigars I smoke. And if I’m being real, I have to be in the mood for something mellower, I’d usually grab AJ, Aganorsa, or bolder, spicier blends out of my humidor.

The point I’m trying to make here is that I smoke a wide variety of cigars from various brands and regions, and I’m not just a one-trick pony. And although I have a storied history with the brand, I’m not above calling out some bullshit — from any brand. I’m talking about those marketing gimmicks where they promise something special or unique and it’s a Fugazi.

Let me be clear, La Aurora’s Fuerte Sol has none of that behind it. Intrinsically, it’s unique compared to the brand’s current portfolio, and takes things in an entirely new direction, legitimately.

Fuerte Sol tasting with Manuel Ynoa and the La Aurora team

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Alongside a few big names in the media camp, I sat down on a virtual call with some other enthusiasts, the La Aurora team and the brand’s master blender, Manual Ynoa — the man responsible for most of its cigar creations.

I had done this before with the launch of the 120th Anniversary, which is delicious, by the way. This time, we were tasting both the Fuerte Sol and the new E. Leon Jimenes 110 Anniversario dominican rum (about $100 for 750ml). The idea was to test out the pairings between the two and see how the flavor profiles and experience complement one another.

These virtual tastings with La Aurora are always a treat. It’s not just about pushing their new cigars or products, but they walk you through the development process, the brains behind the operation, and much more.

What happens during a virtual tasting?

You get a backstage view of everything going on at the company, and there’s a lot going on for sure. But also, it’s a chance for Ynoa and the rest of the team to interact with people who have an affinity for the brand and its cigars. We all get the unique opportunity to share our experiences, thoughts, and sort-of a mini review. The goal for La Aurora there is to collect valuable feedback for future iterations.

Guided, we lit up the Fuerte Sol and tried a pouring of the rum. We discussed the flavors, what’s in each product, what the initial goals were for the La Aurora team, and what they were trying to achieve with them, and then we had a candid round of questions and feedback.

What struck me the most was the experience of the Fuerte Sol. Don’t get me wrong, the rum is excellent. It’s a dark, sweet pairing that would go smoothly with almost anything cigar wise, but it particularly brings out the darker notes of the Fuerte Sol.

Why the La Aurora Family Creed Fuerte Sol is “different”

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Even before you light it up, if you just peek at the description, you’ll know right away the brand has gone in a slightly different direction here. The Fuerte Sol wrapper is a delightfully brown Mexican San Andrés leaf, but the fillers are mixed with Dominican, Nicaraguan, and Pennsylvania tobaccos. This is not a Dominican puro, and it’s quite a bit stronger for it.

It’s bolder than La Aurora’s usual portfolio. Don’t get me wrong, the 120th is delicious, the 107 and Maduro variety tend to be medium to full-bodied, and the ADN and Hors D’age are also stand-outs. But the Fuerte Sol is a spicy, peppery delight.

It’s medium to full-bodied with flavors like dried fruit and raisins, lots of leather, baking spices, pepper, and even notes of rum or liqueur. Where before I might smoke a La Aurora cigar at the beginning of my session, the Fuerte Sol, I’d be happy to smoke in the middle or even at the end, depending on what I chose as my lineup.

It’s an excellent merger of Dominican DNA and Nicaraguan and mixed tobaccos that put the brand on par with some of its competitors, at least in the bolder space. It also fills a gap in the La Aurora portfolio for someone that likes their cigars stronger and more fulfilling.

On the call, it was also made clear that some of the La Aurora crew felt this might be too much of a bold move in a different direction — a big departure — and there was a question whether cigar audiences would like the change or not. Personally, I think they hit it out of the ballpark and I’m excited to see where this goes from here.

It took over 70 tries to find the right blend

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

This wasn’t an overnight success. Ynoa and the team shared that they tested and blew through over 70 different blends before settling on the one used in the Fuerte Sol. It’s a quick glimpse behind the curtain, so to speak, at what it takes to find an exceptional crafting. We often don’t see that from the consumer side. We just see a single cigar blend launched and we might take it for granted, heaping it with praise or otherwise. But usually, there’s a lot of work done to get to that point, including hundreds if not thousands of burned, tasted, and smoked cigar potentials.

While they have nothing concrete to announce yet, La Aurora did toy with the idea of releasing some of those other blends the team was fond of during testing. They also made it clear the Family Creed series will continue, so there will be more releases in that product line.

For now, I just think it’s inspiring this tiger is changing its stripes. I, for one, am excited to see the entire industry moving in new, semi-experimental directions. It’s great to see my guys — La Aurora — one of the brands leading that pack.

The La Aurora Family Creed Fuerte Sol is already out in Robusto (5 by 50) and Toro (5.8 by 54) sizes, although sold out currently at most retailers. They also have a Gran Toro (6 by 58) size releasing soon.

In Robusto size, the Fuerte Sol is about $310 for a box of 20, or $16, give or take for a single. Neptune Cigars has them for reasonable prices if you want to give them a try.

The post Over 120 years in, La Aurora is still innovating with Fuerte Sol: I’m here for it appeared first on The BS Lounge.

The La Aurora 120th is absolutely delicious. Brimming with cinnamon, gingerbread, anise, baked dough, cedar, and toasty flavors, it’s a medium to full-bodied cigar that’s relaxing, almost sanctimoniously so. It’s a Dominican puro, featuring a Habano 92 wrapper, with Corojo, Olor, and Piloto Cubano fillers.

Every time I get a chance to have one, I take it. You should, too.

La Aurora says the Lancero has a “sweetness that enters the fold with a sweet cocoa and creamy coffee bean, soon evolving into a smooth vanilla finish.” It eventually “transitions to dry fruit and rich tropical notes, with subtle hints of wild honey and rich earth.”

La Aurora 120 Aniversario Lancero is a limited release

Source: La Aurora

Limited to 750 boxes on its initial run, the 120 Lancero will be available to buy from retailers sometime mid-summer. The MSRP is about $18 per cigar. That puts the box of 20 at about $360. That’s pretty much the same price as the core 120th Anniversary line.

Why a Lancero? I was wondering the same. Not in a bad or mocking way, just curious why this particular format. La Aurora’s Master Blender, Manuel Ynoa, has the deets.

“Entrusted to only our most seasoned rollers, the lancero is a format I have come to love due to the challenge in crafting each blend.”

He explains it’s tough to get right.

“Blender and Roller must work hand in hand to ensure a flawless product, and this collection defines the La Aurora brand and the quality for which it stands.”

He also explains that the flavor and experience change a little, and why.

“Furthermore, the lancero necessitates less filler, and as a result, each blend takes on a life of its own that differs in nuanced ways from the other formats in the line, making for a truly unique experience to share with others.”

Lancero cigars tend to be a pretty popular format amongst hardcore cigar enthusiasts, and the way Ynoa explains it, I can see why. Either way, I’m excited and interested in trying the new size, which really isn’t a different blend at all, but will still provide a unique experience because of the way it’s crafted.

The post La Aurora 120 Aniversario Lancero is coming this summer appeared first on The BS Lounge.

Some of the brand’s cheaper cigars are hit or miss, but once you get into premium territory, they offer some real bangers. The La Aurora 120th Anniversary is absolutely phenomenal. The ADN Dominicano? Yes, please. The Hors D’age? If you see some, get some. Don’t hesitate. They have some new releases coming too, like the Fuerte Sol, which I’m really looking forward to trying.

But what some may not realize is that they also make some delicious rum and spirits under the León Jimenes brand. And that brings us to the heart of the recent announcement.

La Aurora is opening a new Miami distribution center

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

La Aurora and Caribbean Sunrise Spirits are opening a Miami Distribution Center, scheduled to do so officially on June 10th. It will significantly expand the capabilities of both companies and allow them to “function more efficiently,” enabling customized support for trusted partners, retailers and distributors here in the U.S..

Greyci Tineo, La Aurora USA and Caribbean Sunrise Spirits COO says the distribution “journey” actually started “back in April 2023, using a 3PL down in Houston to distribute our premium products.”

Tineo shares that the new facility “fits our strategic plan of reinforcing our commitment to faster service by increasing our inventory levels.”

While a warehouse and distribution center is typically better news for retailers, it makes a difference for consumers because it likely means La Aurora’s cigars and related offerings will be more accessible. La Aurora also makes and sells León Jimenes-brand cigars and the rum, as they’re all under the León family umbrella. A hugely influential family in the Dominican Republic.

La Aurora, Neptune Cigars, and Angurria team up for a monumental cultural mural in Little Havana

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

To celebrate the new opening, and the rich culture of Miami, the Latin identity, and Little Havana, La Aurora has teamed up with Neptune Cigars and Dominican artist Omar García, better known as “Angurria.”

They’ve come together to produce and unveil a cultural mosaic of Miami, painted on the façade of Neptune Cigars’ new warehouse on 7th Street in Little Havana. Titled “Puentes de Aerosol,” the mural honors the city’s historic role as a new home for uprooted communities. Miami is “a sanctuary for those escaping political unrest while holding tightly to their roots.”

The monumental — and it is massive — mural is 1,890 square feet, and located smack dab in the middle of one of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods. It seemed fitting to locate the mural here, with nearly 60,000 passerby daily, and as a center of cultural pride and resilience.

More than a mural; a ‘love letter’ to Latin identity

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

Taking shape over seven months, with careful planning, many passionate and involved meetings, and a commitment from all partners, the mural is now set in stone, if you will. Brought to life in just six days, across 60 hours of meticulous labor by a team of more than nine, its beauty is unmatched.

The Associate Brand Manager of La Aurora USA — and a veritable genius I had the chance to meet — Elvis Batista makes it clear, “this project is more than a mural.”

 “It is a love letter to Latin identity, to the journey of migration, and to the enduring power of culture. The mural on Calle 7 is a testament to the beauty of collaboration and the magic that happens when art, tradition, and community come together.”

“It’s a celebration of who we are — as people, as Latinos, as craftsmen — and of the deep and unbreakable bond between our culture and this city. At the heart of this collaboration is the celebration of heritage: La Aurora’s proud Dominican roots, the city of Miami’s cultural tapestry, and Neptune Cigars’ deep ties to the South Florida cigar community. Together, we brought Angurria’s compelling artistic vision to life, giving the community a mural that is both personal and universal — one that speaks to the immigrant story, the love of craft, and the pursuit of the American dream.”

The mural’s official unveiling will take place on June 10th, with representatives from all partners in attendance, including La Aurora, Neptune Cigars, Angurria Studio, the Miami Mayor and more. It will mark an immense moment of celebration for the community, sparking unity, gratitude, and respect — the perfect opportunity to honor the story behind the art and community that inspired the vision.

The post La Aurora has big news: New Miami warehouse and community mural appeared first on The BS Lounge.

Some people would speak ill of Dominican tobacco and Dominican-sourced cigars, and let me just say, I hear you. But one thing I always counter with is that there are brands trying to change the norm. La Aurora is one of them and this cigar, the Fuerte Sol, is an excellent representation of that idea. Oh, and so is the Small Batch Lot No. 7, or the new Hors d’Age. But I digress.

Enough small talk, what’s in the Fuerte Sol?

Featuring a complex, intriguing blend of Pennsylvania, Dominican and Nicaraguan filler tobaccos, the Fuerte Sol is sealed inside a dark, oily, and beautiful Mexican San Andrés wrapper. It’s also “harmonized” by a Nicaraguan binder. Together, that blend will introduce flavor notes like cedar, spices, cocoa, toasted nuts, oak, and citrus. The profile is creamy-sweet, with a strength of medium to full-bodied. It’s very much in line with what La Aurora has released, including the 120th Anniversary — which you need to try if you haven’t already.

The Fuerte Sol will debut in two sizes: a box-pressed robusto coming in at 5 inches by 50, and a box-pressed toro coming in at 5.75 inches by 54. La Aurora says they’ll debut a third format in quarter four later this year, the box-pressed gran toro at 6 inches by 58.

The price of the Fuerte Sol, available in boxes of 20, will range from $15.50 to $18.50 per cigar. That’s still quite reasonable, where most brands want to charge much more. Here’s the estimated breakdown:

• Robusto — $310 per box or $15.50 per cigar
• Toro — $360 per box or $18 per cigar
• Gran Toro — $370 per box or $18.50 per cigar

What else do you have to share about the La Aurora Fuerte Sol?

Source: Briley Kenney / The BS Lounge

Guillermo León, President of La Aurora — who I got to meet, by the way — makes it clear that La Aurora does intend to innovate with the Fuerte Sol, per usual.

“The Family Creed Series is a new commitment to the U.S. market as we continue to innovate and listen to our consumers, as well as stay true to the Family Creed that has led our business for decades.”

That’s a hard line to toe. The brand aims to remain true to its roots while exploring innovative, unique blends that introduce new experiences. Combining the old and new is no small feat.

 “To honor our family creed, we are launching a new cigar blend line that embodies the very essence of our legacy. This collection is not just a tribute to our past but a statement about our future—crafted with precision, sourced from the finest tobaccos, and blended with an understanding of both tradition and the evolving tastes of the modern connoisseur. Innovation and persistence were the keystones of this creation, as we refined every detail to ensure a cigar that speaks to both heritage and progress. Through this line, we are not just offering a product; we are shaping the future of our company, proving that legacy is not about standing still, but about continuously setting new standards for excellence.”

The Fuerte Sol shows how traditional centuries-old craftsmanship and innovative techniques can blend seamlessly.

I’m very excited to give this new release a try, and I’ll be damned if I’m not going to make that known.

A new Treasure Box is coming, too

La Aurora has also announced new packaging for its Preferidos Treasure Box. Now packaged in attractive tubo and named after precious gems, the box contains a sampling of the entire brand’s portfolio. The six Preferidos blends include Perfecto formats at 5 inches by 54: Connecticut (Sapphire), Cameroon (Platinum), Sumatra – Ecuador (Emerald), Connecticut Broadleaf (Diamond), Maduro – Brazil (Ruby), and Corojo – Ecuador (Gold).

The new Treasure Boxes will be available to retailers in early May at an estimated cost of $171 per box.

If you’re headed to PCA 2025 from April 11 to 14, you can find La Aurora at Booth 4328. You can also have a taste of the E. León Jimenes 110 Aniversario and the new E. León Jimenes 1903 Rums. They are both delicious.

The post La Aurora’s Fuerte Sol is the first edition of the Family Creed series and it sounds phenomenal appeared first on The BS Lounge.

What is the La Aurora Small Batch Lot No. 7?

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

Pulled directly from La Aurora’s prestigious aging room in the Dominican Republic, Small Batch Lot No. 7 will be available in a Vintage Robusto format — 4.5 inches by 50. It features a complex mashup of tobaccos from the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Peru. Now we’re talking!

The double binder is a Dominican and Cameroon blend. Together, those add both strength and sweetness. The wrapper is a Mexican San Andrés for those rich, toasty flavors. Then, of course, the filler is a blend of Dominican, Peruvian, and Nicaraguan tobaccos.

They’re arriving in boxes of ten, each aged a total of 21 years. Dear lord that’s an incredible set of age on the tobacco. La Aurora says that’s actually one of the longest ages they’ve ever done for a Small Batch Lot.

Exclusively available at PCA 2025, Small Batch Lot No. 7 will release in a limited run of 180 boxes and the company expects them to sell out. The suggested MSRP is $150 per box, which prices them at about $15 per cigar. That’s not a bad price at all. If you are attending PCA 2025 in April, I highly suggest seeking some of these out.

La Aurora will be at Booth 4328 during the show, which runs from April 11 to 14.

Tell me more about La Aurora Small Batch

Source: La Aurora

Source: La Aurora

As the name implies, the Small Batch series always includes a limited run of aged or unique tobaccos, generally chosen by Manuel Inoa, the brand’s exceptional master blender.

Of course, Inoa himself does a superb job of explaining what Small Batch is and why it exists:

“Small Batch is a series that is very special to me. Not only because I created it, but it is literally in the name. These cigars will only ever exist in small batches: each release features distinct tasting notes rooted in tobaccos that have been aged and are unable to be blended and rolled in large-scale quantities.”

Inoa goes on to say, “Lot No. 7 is especially important to us as it is a vintage robusto that boasts one of the longest ages in all our small batch lots at 21 years and is being released as a PCA Alliance Exclusive.”

Every Small Batch run from the brand has a unique story. What La Aurora describes as “a selection of leaves and notes […] crafted specifically for limited editions or other small-scale projects.”

Many of the blends have been “treasured in limited quantities in their aging room, with some having been aged up to 21 years,” not unlike this new Small Batch lot.

“As a result, unique cigars are being released within the Small Batch line, each representing a different exploration from years past of Master Blender Manuel Inoa. Every edition will have an individual format, blend, and unrepeatable tasting notes due to their advanced ages. Recent Small Batch releases have sold out in less than 2 weeks.”

Suffice it to say, the small batch releases provide incredible opportunities to try some rare, aged tobacco and, usually, in a unique blend that you won’t find anywhere else. That exclusivity definitely has my taste buds sparked. Plus, the blend La Aurora and Manuel Inoa have described sounds phenomenal. We’ll just have to wait and see.

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