In 2017 A.J. Fernandez launched, commissioned by Altadis USA, the H. Upmann 1844 Nicaragua line in the States. The Churchill can also be classified as Double Robusto, according to the International Shape.
• Country of Origin: Nicaragua
• Size: 54 x 178 mm (7″)
• Wrapper: Ecuador Sumatra
• Binder: Nicaragua
• Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua
• Price: $8
Visually, the Churchill comes in bright and reddish Maduro shaded color. The wrapper is quite smooth to the touch, with veins present but not pronounced. The general manufacturing aspect is more than satisfactory.
Upmann 1844 Nicaragua Churchill: on the nose, the cigar is expresses itself with aromas of hazelnut and spices, with nuances of barnyard.
The opening is salty and soon the cigar is reveals notes of dried fruits, walnut, spices and a light woodiness. Strength is medium (3/5).
In the middle section, the flavors remain unchanged, while a tannic and astringent sensation appears, which needs to be countered with a sip of water. The aromatic evolution continues with powerful mineral notes, but also with less pronounced metal and woody characters. Strength increases and becomes medium-full (4/5).
The last third is characterized by a very marked saltiness. The evolution of the flavors are a bit contracted, with the addition of cocoa, that joins the woody and metallic hints. Strength increases and reaches the maximum level of our scale (5/5).
In conclusion, due to the long smoking period (almost two hours), we must acknowledge the H. Upmann 1844 Nicaragua Churchill of a general complexity and aromatic intensity that express themselves on an excellent levels. However, the tannins of the middle section and the pronounced saltiness of the last third, that can’t be quite defined as balanced. Overall, however, it is an interesting and rewarding smoke, especially if you decide to light this cigar after a good meal.
Rating: 87