Rafael Nodal and AJ Fernandez strike another chord with the Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Concerto Vibrato, a bold Nicaraguan puro that harmonizes craftsmanship, balance, and full-bodied flavor. Built entirely from tobaccos cultivated on AJ’s prized farms—including a stunning Criollo ’98 wrapper from the renowned Finca La Lilia—this cigar lives up to the pedigree of its award-winning predecessors.
The Concerto Vibrato is a beauty to behold—softly box-pressed, dark brown, and cloaked in an oily sheen that promises richness to come. The construction is flawless, with a firm feel and seamless wrapper that reflects expert hands at work.
From the first draw, the cigar opens with a bold hit of pepper, awakening the palate like the first sizzle of a grilled ribeye seasoned with salt, black pepper, and just a twist of lime. As the smoke develops, it rolls into red and black pepper layered over butter-sautéed vegetables, introducing jalapeño spice and touches of cedar that give the profile an invigorating, savory character.
The pepper lingers but mellows slightly, allowing more earth-driven notes to take the lead. A subtle butterscotch sweetness marks the transition, momentarily softening the profile before bitter cocoa—evocative of raw cacao bean—adds depth. The vegetal tone continues, echoing sautéed greens and green bell peppers, rounded by a touch of pink Himalayan salt. It’s both rustic and refined.
In the final act, the Concerto Vibrato brings espresso coffee into the mix, accompanied by baking spices and an earthy peat-like undertone. The salt and pepper spice persists but is more restrained, allowing the balance and smooth draw to shine through until the final puff.
The Aging Room Concerto Vibrato is a bold, spicy, and earthy cigar that delivers full-bodied flavor in a smooth, controlled manner. It doesn’t aim to be overly complex, but it doesn’t need to be—it’s satisfying, flavorful, and expertly made. With its easy draw and top-tier construction, this cigar is perfect for a late afternoon break or as a post-dinner indulgence. A masterful performance by Nodal and Fernandez—one that deserves an encore.
This blind review (Cigar #24-D) was conducted by the Cigar Review Team comprising of: Sam Frishman, Tyler Ceola, JB Smith, Rob Brown, Rick Galletta, Jim “The Star” Boner, Bret Curry, Mike Conklin, George Hillman, J. Dwyane Corn, & Esubio G
