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Nicaraguan Cigars
Bold, peppery Nicaraguan tobacco in robusto and toro sizes.
Why Nicaraguan tobacco tastes the way it does
Volcanic soil, particularly around Estelí and Jalapa, produces leaf with more strength and pepper than Dominican or Honduran tobacco. A Nicaraguan puro — where wrapper, binder and filler all come from Nicaragua — is usually the boldest cigar on any shelf.
The formats
Robusto at around 50 ring gauge for 45 minutes to an hour, and toro, slightly longer, where the flavour has more room to develop and shift.
What to expect
Pepper on the front, earth and wood underneath, and a finish that lingers. These are cigars for after a substantial meal rather than a first cigar of the day, and they overpower most drinks other than coffee or something dark and strong.
Pairing
Black coffee, dark spirits, or nothing. A delicate drink disappears next to a full Nicaraguan.
Care
65 to 70% humidity and a stable 18 to 21°C. If you keep cigars in a cupboard in a UAE apartment, they are drying out even if they feel fine to the touch.
Frequently asked questions
Why are Nicaraguan cigars stronger?
The volcanic soil produces leaf with more body and pepper than Dominican or Honduran tobacco.
What is a puro?
A cigar where the wrapper, binder and filler all come from the same country.
How long does a robusto last?
Typically 45 minutes to an hour.
What should I drink with one?
Black coffee or a dark spirit. Lighter drinks are overwhelmed.
Are they good for beginners?
Rarely. Start with a milder Connecticut or Dominican cigar and work up.