The Charter Oak Pegnataro cigars embody the commitment to excellence and artistry that define Foundation Cigar Company. Crafted by Nicholas Melillo, Founder and Master Blender, these cigars pay homage to the unwavering spirit and timeless wisdom passed down by his grandfathers. They also serve to pay tribute the opening of Foundation’s new office on a 300-acre farm in the heart of the Connecticut River Valley tobacco growing region.
The Charter Oak Pegnataro features a classic Connecticut golden wrapper with slight veins, adding a rustic charm to its appearance. The cigar sports a pig tail cap and a soft box-pressed shape. The construction is solid, with a firm feel that promises an enjoyable smoking experience.
Upon lighting, the Pegnataro greets you with a dominant grassy hay flavor, immediately setting a tone of freshness. The initial profile is creamy with subtle cedar notes that add depth. There’s a touch of nuttiness that rounds off the early flavors, complemented by a hint of pepper spice that teases the palate without overwhelming it.
As you progress into the second third, the grassy hay remains a consistent backdrop, but cashew notes start to emerge, enhancing the nutty profile. The creaminess continues to provide a smooth smoke, while a caramel sweetness introduces a delightful twist. The pepper spice mellows out, allowing the cedar to become more prominent, creating a well-balanced and nuanced flavor experience.
In the final third, the hay flavor begins to fade, making way for more pronounced cedar wood notes. A touch of lavender adds a surprising floral hint, while the vanilla sweetness persists, providing continuity in the flavor profile. The pepper spice intensifies towards the end, delivering a stronger finish that contrasts with the cigar’s milder start.
The Charter Oak Pegnataro is a mild to medium cigar with a notable pepper kick, especially towards the end. It offers a solid burn and an impeccable draw, ensuring a consistent and pleasurable smoking session. Despite its lighter wrapper, this cigar develops into a rich, deeply flavored experience. One STAR even claimed it might be his favorite Connecticut Wrapper cigar to date.
Overall Score: 88.53 out of 100
Overall Strength: 4.20 out of 10
This blind cigar review (Cigar #11-C) was scored by a distinguished panel of cigar enthusiasts, including: Mike Cokeley, Nick – Cigar Pulpit, LKOUTS, The Fah King, Justin Fultz, Jim DeLuca, AustinDan, Mike Fox, Ray Forslund, Munch, The Barroness., Dwight Jones, Nick B, Hawkeye, and Andrew J. Clark
