La Gran Llave

If previous to now we would have proclaimed La Gran Llave cigars as being 'by A.J. Fernandez!', it would have been technically true, but misleading. An explanation is in order: La Gran Llave smokes were originally launched by the La Gran Llave cigar company, formed by Michael Argenti (of the now-defunct Berger and Argenti) and Angel Aguayo. These fine smokes were always blended and crafted at A.J.'s amazing Nicaraguan factory, but Fernandez recently had the opportunity to take ownership of the brand, so it is now part of his core stable of excellent stogies. Containing a choice recipe of juicy Nicaraguan tobacco each La Gran Llave is finished by an oily and dark Mexican San Andres wrapper to provide a sweet, robust flavor. (See other cigars by A.J. Fernandez) Delightfully aromatic, with a smooth feel and considerable heft, a La Gran Llave vitola is a joy to hold and even more of a one to smoke. Wrapping a steady knuckle around the red, gold, and black double bands give the anticipating smoker something to hold on to once the initial delicious rush of earthiness, backed by black pepper and cocoa, come pouring through the barrel straight to the pleasure center of the brain. The strength of each stick rises gradually from medium to a touch below full as the razor-straight burn slowly marches towards the nub, the smoke adding dimensions of espresso, oak, leather, and cherry stem all the while. Savory and true right off the truck, odds are better than good these smokes will age gracefully, as long as you can keep yourself from grabbing one at every chance. La Gran Llave cigars have always been great, but now that A.J. Fernandez is in complete control, expect even better things out of the brand. It is what the man does.