The Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Personal Reserve Robusto - “The Man’s 80th”

Arturo Fuente is a brand synonymous with excellence, in both their quality control and their perseverance in the cigar industry. Having been in the industry for over 100 years, it is fair to say they know how to cigar. In 2015, Don Carlos had been operating Arturo Fuente cigar company for 57 years (after the passing of Don Arturo), been producing the Don Carlos blend for 30, and turned 80 years old. Two special cigars were released that year- the much heralded Don Carlos Eye of the Shark, and the Don Carlos Private Reserve. Ever since 2015, the Private reserve has been rereleased in small quantities, in which the blend changes slightly. We were lucky enough to get our hands on a box this year’s take!

The Personal Reserve Robusto stands at 5 & 1/4 inches x 50 RG. The wrapper is an African Cameroon, which is Don Carlos’ wrapper of choice. The binder and filler are aged Dominican tobaccos that have been hand picked and aged up to 10 years by the Fuentes. The cigar is medium to medium-full in both strength and body. Notes of smooth pepper, sweetness, caramel, and vanilla with traces of barnyard are observed through the cigar.

Like I said, the Fuentes know how to cigar. The presentation in these boxes is top notch. Separate trays of 10 cigars can be found in the 20 count boxes. Boxes also come with a pair of smoking gloves, with the blend name inscribed. Being a special, limited blend one can expect to pay around 500$ on the American market for a box of 20- if you can find them.