It’s that time of year when Arturo Fuente begins sending out their limited release products. While the primary focus is on the Opus X, I get more giddy when the Anejo is released. It’s a blend based on the Opus X however it features an 5 year aged Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper that spends some time in a cognac cask giving it a very distinct flavor profile.
Cigar: Arturo Funte Anejo
Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: Dominican Republic
Filler: Dominican Republic
Length: 5 5/8″
Ring Gauge: 46
Size: No. 46 (Corona Gorda)
The Look: The Arturo Fuente Anejo comes packed in 25 count boxes that is visually stunning when opening the box. Featuring a cedar wrap and red foot band the cigars pop with a wonderful contrast of the dark Broadleaf wrapper showing just above the band. Once the cedar sleeve is removed, a beautifully gritty wrapper just begs to be smoked. The cigars are well rolled with no voids of tobacco and a spongy foot with a heft weight.
The Notes: The cold draw of the Anejo features warm cinnamon, molasses and brown sugar. Maybe its the fact it snowed last night, or the cold draw of the cigar but it reminds me of Christmas, specifically Christmas cookie. The aroma off the foot and wrapper is non-existent, but I am not the least bit concerned. Once the cigar is lit the first note is oak.
As we progress into the first third of the Anejo notes of brown sugar become the dominant flavor profile with nuances of oak, earth and a subtle pepper on the retrohale and moderate finish.
The second third sees the brown sugar remain, as hints of fig begin to emerge along with a slight touch of molasses. The cigar is wonderfully sweet, but it also has an element of earth that prevents it from getting too sweet. As the cigar progresses past the half way point some notes of cocoa make it on to the finish, while the retrohale serves up a touch of anise.
The last third of the Anejo sees the earthy components become the dominant profile as the sweetness slides into the background lingering ever so slightly on the finish. The retrohale enhances the earthiness and the prolonged finish is enjoyable.
The Finish: For me the biggest difference between Anejo and Opus X, is Anejo is ready to smoke now. Granted aging an Anejo enhances the experience but to me it isn’t as necessary. The complexity and flavors make this one of my anticipated limited edition releases each year and while most want to get their hands on “The Shark,” I am more than happy with the 46, 48, 50 or the elusive 888. For the last 5 years, the Anejo has been a box purchase for me.
Score: 94
Price: $10.19 / $225.99
Arturo Fuente Anejo No. 46
Arturo Fuente Anejo No. 46 Foot
Arturo Fuente Anejo No. 46 Burn
