The La Estancia brand was released back in 2014 by the Meerapfel family. The Meerapfel family has been in the tobacco business for more than 140 years and is headed by Jeremiah and Joshua Meerapfel. They are probably most known for their Cameroon tobacco and their long time relationship with the Fuente family. The Edicion Exclusiva reached the market in late 2018, and the Meerapfel brothers spared no costs and troubles to create this special cigar, using only the best of the best tobaccos.
The line consists of three sizes named after their ring gauge, the 52, 56, and 60. They are sold in high-end black lacquered 10 count boxes.
The holographic bands underline the fact that this is more than just a premium cigar, and it contrasts well with the shiny Colorado shaded wrapper. It is smooth and oily to the touch, with minimal veins present. Construction and craftsmanship are flawless, and the cigar is finished with a pig-tail cap.
- Country of Origin: Honduras
- Size: 56 x 165 mm (6.5″)
- Wrapper: N/A
- Binder: N/A
- Filler: N/A
- Price: $29 – € 28
La Estancia Edicion Exclusiva 56: the cold draw brings a complex mix of cedarwood, spices, and coffee to the palate. Once lit, the cigar opens with an ample note of cream, cedarwood, and nuts.
Further into the first third, hazelnut and cedarwood are at the top of the flavor profile. Cream, cocoa, and even some vanilla notes follow. Strength is medium-light (2/5).
In the second third, the cigar becomes sweeter and amplifies cream, cedarwood, and hazelnut notes. While the vanilla note from the first third has disappeared, but the aroma of coffee, cinnamon, and leather has taken its place. Strength is constant (2/5).
The final third continues with the deep and complex flavor profile, consisting of cedarwood, hazelnut, cream, coffee, cocoa, and leather. The cinnamon morphs into a black pepper spice in this last third, and the strength reaches the medium level (3/5).
Overall, the La Estancia Edicion Exclusiva 56 is an elegant and balanced cigar that is creamy from the first to the last puff. The flavor profile is ample, deep, and complex. It is not a surprise that this cigar was placed in last year’s awards—a refined smoke for special occasions.