Alfonso Gran Selección Estelares Cigar Review
The Alfonso Gran Selección is the highly anticipated follow-up to the acclaimed Alfonso Añejo, bringing a new level of refinement to the Selected Tobacco portfolio. Crafted with an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper over a Peruvian binder and a blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers, this cigar undergoes a meticulous five-year aging process in cedar-lined rooms, followed by a final stage of refinement in French Oak. The result is a cigar that embodies balance, complexity, and smoothness.
Right from the start, the Alfonso Gran Selección impresses with its dark brown, almost chocolate-colored wrapper. A glossy, oily sheen enhances its visual appeal, while a slight toothiness reminiscent of fine leather adds texture. The construction is impeccable, with a firm pack that suggests expert craftsmanship.
The initial puffs introduce a refined combination of cedar and fresh-baked bread, complemented by dark cocoa powder and a touch of black pepper. Hints of graham cracker and Nutter Butter cookie emerge, adding a nostalgic sweetness to the mix. There’s also a subtle touch of hay and cherry that lingers on the palate, creating a remarkably clean finish. The balance of richness without overpowering intensity sets the tone for what’s to come.
As the cigar progresses, black pepper takes center stage, ramping up in intensity. The dark cocoa evolves into more of a baker’s chocolate profile, pairing beautifully with cinnamon graham crackers dusted with a light sprinkle of sugar. Deeper flavors of barbecue molasses appear, adding a savory dimension, while subtle notes of plum and fruit tartness introduce a welcome contrast. Smoke output is generous, enhancing the overall experience.
Cedar remains a consistent presence, but the spice level increases dramatically, shifting toward a bold red pepper heat. A unique pretzel-like note develops, intertwined with classic leather and salted almonds. The growing intensity of spice adds excitement, yet the cigar remains refined, never veering into harshness.
The Alfonso Gran Selección Estelares delivers a slow, even burn with an effortless draw. The spicy elements add a layer of intrigue without overpowering the cigar’s refined character. Each transition is noticeable yet smooth, a testament to the quality of the aged tobacco. This is a cigar that demands your attention, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a relaxing yet engaging smoking experience.
Overall Score: 91.63 out of 100
Overall Strength Score: 4.63 out of 10
This blind cigar review (Cigar #19-C) was scored by a distinguished panel of cigar enthusiasts, including: Nick – The Cigar Pulpit, LKOUTS, Mike Cokeley, Jim DeLuca, AustinDan, Mike Fox, Ray Forslund, Dwight Jones, Nick B, Hawkeye, Byron Robinson, and Vito T.
