E.P. Carrillo Pledge

E.P. Carrillo Pledge is one of the most anticipated and coveted releases in the history of the brand. The third installment in the acclaimed Perez-Carrillo series—following La Historia and Encore—Pledge is widely regarded as the crowning achievement of Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, often called “The Godfather of Boutique Cigars.” Hand-rolled exclusively by the expert torcedors at Tabacalera La Alianza in the Dominican Republic, Pledge features a meticulously crafted blend of ultra-premium tobaccos from three countries: Nicaraguan filler, an Ecuadorian binder, and a rich, dark Connecticut Habano wrapper grown in the U.S.A. Its predecessors set a high bar—La Historia earned a 95 rating and ranked No. 2 in 2014, while Encore reached a 96 rating and topped the charts in 2018. Pledge not only met those expectations in 2020, but surpassed them, achieving a historic 98 rating and claiming the No. 1 spot in the year’s top 25. This is a cigar collectors and aficionados alike are eager to experience. Presented in classic Perez-Carrillo style, Pledge comes in lacquered cedar boxes of 10, adorned with luxurious blue and gold artwork and finished with a golden ribbon around each cigar’s foot. The construction is flawless: an effortless draw produces dense, billowing smoke, a crisp, even burn, and firm, gray ash. The box-press design adds a refined feel in the hand and a comfortable draw in the mouth. On the palate, Pledge opens with bold black pepper and lively Nicaraguan spice, gradually giving way to a smooth blend of earthy tobacco, toasted nuts, and rich espresso. Hints of cinnamon, cocoa, and subtle bread notes weave throughout, while the retrohale delivers a distinctly sweet finish. Medium-full-bodied, Pledge maintains perfect balance from start to finish. Pledge, like all cigars in the Perez-Carrillo series, is designed for experienced connoisseurs. Its sophisticated and multi-layered profile rewards those with a refined palate. Ideal for pairing with red wine, cognac, or bold coffee, it elevates any special occasion. While standing proudly alongside La Historia and Encore, Pledge also rivals other ultra-premium cigars such as Padron 1964 and Diamond Crown Maximus. With each release, Ernesto Perez-Carrillo continues to showcase his unparalleled blending skill and rich heritage. Highly sought-after and limited in availability, Pledge is a must-have for any serious cigar enthusiast eager to experience one of the finest cigars of our era.