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Foundation Aksum Claro
Discover the Best Foundation Aksum Claro Cigar
Cigar enthusiasts will appreciate the Foundation Aksum Claro, a cigar known for its rich flavors and expert craftsmanship. Created by Nicholas Melillo, it combines Nicaraguan fillers with a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. Discover its history, blend, and unique smoking experience here. The Aksum Claro cigar pays homage to the Aksumite Kingdom, an ancient civilization located in present-day Ethiopia.
Key Takeaways
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The Foundation Aksum Claro cigar, crafted by Nicholas Melillo, is a standout among premium cigars, paying homage to the historical Aksumite Kingdom and featuring an impressive blend of flavors and craftsmanship that reflects the quality of Foundation Cigars.
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With a blend of Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper and Nicaraguan filler from Estelí and Jalapa, the Aksum Claro delivers a rich and complex smoking experience characterized by notes of coffee, cocoa, and spices throughout its progression.
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The Aksum Claro is available in various sizes and two main variants—Claro and Maduro—catering to diverse smoker preferences, with reliable purchasing options available through online retailers and local shops.
The Origins of Foundation Aksum Claro
The story of the Foundation Aksum Claro begins with Nicholas Melillo, a luminary in the cigar industry with over 20 years of experience. His passion and dedication have led him to create some of the most revered cigars, and the Aksum Claro is no exception. Shortly after launching the Metapa line, the Foundation Cigar Company transitioned to the Aksum branding. This move aligned with their other iconic series like The Tabernacle and Menelik, reflecting a deeper connection to historical and cultural significance.
The name Aksum pays tribute to the Aksumite Kingdom. This ancient Ethiopian kingdom, located in what is now known as present-day Ethiopia, is renowned for its historical significance, particularly its association with the Ark of the Covenant. Menelik the First, the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, is said to have brought the Ark to Aksum, further emphasizing the kingdom’s rich cultural and legendary legacy. The Aksum Claro pays homage to this heritage, drawing inspiration from the past to create a timeless smoking experience.
Adding to its historical allure, the artwork on the Aksum cigar bands features Ras Makonnen, replacing Rubén Darío from the Metapa branding. This change not only marks a new chapter for Foundation Cigars but also imbues each cigar with a sense of history and cultural pride.
Blend Composition and Craftsmanship
The blend composition of the Aksum Claro is a testament to the artistry and expertise that define Foundation Cigars. This cigar maintains the same blend as its predecessor, the Metapa, ensuring that aficionados can enjoy the familiar, beloved profile. At the heart of the Aksum Claro is a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, known for its ability to enhance the cigar’s flavor profile with a rich, complex taste.
The filler leaves are sourced from the Estelí and Jalapa regions in Nicaragua, areas celebrated for their robust and flavorful tobaccos. This Nicaraguan blend, coupled with the Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, creates a harmonious balance that delights the palate from the first draw to the final puff. Nicholas Melillo, often affectionately called “Nick Melillo” in the cigar community, brings his extensive experience from his time at Drew Estate to the table, ensuring each Aksum Claro is crafted to perfection with premium tobacco from Nicaraguan fillers.
The craftsmanship involved in creating the Aksum Claro is nothing short of exemplary. Each cigar is meticulously rolled, reflecting the dedication and skill of the artisans behind its production. This attention to detail ensures a consistent and impressive smoking experience, reinforcing Foundation Cigars’ reputation for quality and excellence.
Prelight Experience
Before lighting, the Aksum Claro offers a sensory preview of what’s to come. The aromatic profile reveals complex notes that entice the smoker, hinting at the rich flavors that will unfold during the smoking experience. Visually, the cigar boasts an attractive wrapper with a smooth, appealing sheen, indicating the high-quality craftsmanship that went into its making.
The cold draw is equally promising, with predominant cinnamon notes setting the stage for the initial tasting experience. The construction of the Aksum Claro is firm and seamless, suggesting a well-rolled cigar that promises a consistent and enjoyable smoke. These first impressions are crucial, as they establish expectations for the overall flavor and enjoyment during the smoking journey.
Tasting Notes: First Third
As you light up the Aksum Claro and take those first few puffs, the initial flavors are a delightful mix of bread and cocoa powder. These flavors are soon joined by a gradual emergence of black pepper, caraway seeds, and chocolate, creating a complex and satisfying profile with notable flavor complexity. The palate is treated to rich malt and bready notes, which provide a solid foundation for the more nuanced flavors to build upon.
The retrohale during the first third reveals a sweeter side of the Aksum Claro, with rich chocolate, milky coffee, and hints of black pepper alongside caraway and fennel seeds. This combination of flavors adds depth and complexity, making each draw a new discovery. As the first third progresses, notes of coffee bean begin to appear, adding another layer of richness to the overall experience.
The interplay of these flavors creates a dynamic and engaging smoking experience. Each puff reveals new nuances, keeping the smoker intrigued and satisfied. The Aksum Claro’s ability to balance these flavors right from the start sets it apart as a cigar that promises and delivers a memorable experience.
Tasting Notes: Second Third
During the second third, the flavor profile begins to blend more cohesively, showcasing notes of coffee beans and toasted bread. This phase of the cigar offers a smoother and more integrated experience, with the flavors melding together to create a harmonious profile. The palate is treated to the rich, familiar taste of coffee bean and toast, which provide a comforting and satisfying base.
Toasted hazelnut flavors emerge in the retrohale, adding complexity and a nutty richness to the overall tasting experience. This layer of flavor complements the existing notes, creating a well-rounded and multifaceted profile. As the second third approaches its conclusion, chocolate and black pepper start to take center stage. There are also subtle hints of caraway becoming noticeable. These flavors create a rich and layered profile, making the second third as intriguing and enjoyable as the first.
The seamless transition and integration of flavors in the second third highlight the craftsmanship and quality of the Aksum Claro. Each puff builds upon the last, offering a continuous journey of discovery and enjoyment.
Tasting Notes: Final Third
As the Aksum Claro progresses into its final third, the flavors transition to a drier profile, often featuring notes of toast, coffee bean, and hazelnut. This phase of the cigar offers a more intense and refined flavor experience, with the drier notes providing a satisfying contrast to the richer flavors experienced earlier.
Baking spices and black pepper emerge prominently, adding a spicy kick that enhances the overall profile. Cocoa powder can also be detected, contributing to a rich and complex flavor experience that keeps the smoker engaged until the very end. The balance of dryness and enhanced intensity of flavors in the final third creates a memorable and satisfying conclusion to the smoking experience.
The final third of the Aksum Claro encapsulates the journey of flavors, offering a fitting end to a remarkable cigar. Each puff in this phase is a testament to the cigar’s quality and the craftsmanship behind its creation.
Construction and Burn Quality
The construction quality and burn quality of the Aksum Claro are crucial elements that contribute to its exceptional smoking experience. The cigar’s firmness and even roll are indicative of its high-quality construction, ensuring an optimal smoking experience. The Connecticut Broadleaf binder plays a significant role in maintaining the cigar’s integrity, providing a consistent burn and allowing the flavors to develop evenly.
Draw resistance in the Aksum Claro is generally described as being optimal, allowing for an agreeable smoking experience without excess effort. The ash formation is solid and holds well, suggesting quality construction that contributes to a cleaner ash and a more enjoyable smoke.
These elements combine to create a cigar that not only tastes great but also performs exceptionally well.
Comparisons and Variants
The Aksum Claro Robusto is known for its smooth smoking experience and well-balanced flavors, making it a favorite among cigar aficionados. The Maduro variant of the Aksum Claro offers a richer and bolder profile for those who prefer a more intense taste. Both variants showcase the craftsmanship of Foundation Cigar Company but cater to different palates with their unique flavor profiles.
The Aksum Claro is available in a variety of sizes, catering to different preferences: 5.5 x 48 Corona Gorda, 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 52 Toro, and 7 x 54 Doble Corona. This variety ensures that there is an Aksum Claro cigar to suit every smoker’s preference and occasion.
Where to Buy
A reliable source is crucial for enjoying this exceptional cigar. Various online cigar retailers, such as Cuenca Cigars, offer the Aksum Claro with special promotions and discounts. For example, Cuenca Cigars provides free shipping on orders over $100 and offers discounts such as 10% off retail prices for purchasing Aksum Claro in bundles.
Additionally, local retailers may carry Foundation Aksum Claro cigars, although availability can vary by location. If you’re looking to try the Aksum Claro before committing to a full box, you can purchase single sticks to sample this exquisite cigar. This flexibility ensures that every smoker can find and enjoy the Aksum Claro.
Summary
The Foundation Aksum Claro is a cigar that offers a rich and rewarding smoking experience, from its historical roots to its complex flavor profile. Cigar connoisseurs will appreciate the journey that begins with the expertise of Nicholas Melillo and the inspiration of the Aksumite Kingdom, leading to a blend that features a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper and Nicaraguan fillers. The prelight experience sets the stage for a series of delightful flavors, from bread and cocoa powder to coffee beans and toasted hazelnuts.
Each third of the cigar offers a unique and engaging taste journey, culminating in a satisfying and well-balanced final third. The construction and burn quality ensure a consistent and enjoyable smoke, while the variety of sizes and variants cater to different preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, the Aksum Claro is a cigar worth experiencing.
