Macanudo 1968

Macanudo is no strange name to anyone that has dabbled at all in the world of premium cigars. A monster of the industry, they have been one of the top brands over the past several decades due to their ability to pack so much flavor into a mild, user-friendly cigar. However, when it comes to Macanudo 1968, it's a whole new ballgame. This ultra-premium offering, released in 2008 and crafted to celebrate Macanudo's first 4 decades in business, is geared towards long-time connoisseurs that want something more from their cigars. Made in the Dominican Republic, this stick contains a 2-country filler blend from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. Nicaraguan leaves from Esteli and Ometepe give the 1968 a bold, earthy body when combined with the silky-smooth attributes of the Dominican fillers and rare Connecticut Habano binder. The star of the show, however, is the unique Honduran Olancho San Agustin wrapper leaf, one that almost appears to be a maduro but is just dark, mature, and very, very well-aged. This incredible combination of barrel-aged tobaccos works together to create a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that Macanudo, up until the time of its release, had never been known for. Widely accepted as the "Connoisseur's Macanudo," the Macanudo 1968 has earned several very respectable 90 ratings in Cigar Aficionado. From the dark, luxurious black dress box to the crisp and classic gold and black bands, the packaging seems to go so well with the amazing flavor offered by the blend. Quality construction means a productive draw and a sharp burn line and guarantees each puff oozes with creamy white smoke. Rich cedar is the introductory note, soon followed by a rush of Nicaraguan white pepper. The cigar's earthy core is speckled with notes of cocoa, coffee, and cinnamon, and the finish is smooth and spicy. Medium-full-bodied and packed with flavor, it's easy to see why Macanudo 1968 has become such a respected cigar. This blend is for the mature pallet. From the delicate balance to the complex flavor profile, no beginner would be able to truly appreciate just how amazing 1968 really is. This cigar pairs well with coffee, red wine, or dark beer, and makes for a great way to celebrate life's special moments. On par with such medium-full-bodied dark beauties as Arturo Fuente Maduro or Don Pepin Black Label, the 1968 sits at the sweet spot for body, strength, and balance. Whether you are a long-time Macanudo fan or just love bold, rich, premium sticks, Macanudo 1968 fits the bill. As many have said over the years, it ain't your grandfather's Macanudo!