The name Alma Fuerte translates to Strong Soul and the cigar which was released to rave reviews has seen the release of the Robustus 1. It is our understanding that the cigar has been released in limited numbers with a full release expected at the 2019 IPCPR trade show in Las Vegas. The cigar joins existing sizes Néstor IV (6 1/4 x 54 Toro), Generación V: (7 x 58 Salomon) and Sixto II: 6 x 60 (Hexágano).
Cigar Review: Plasencia Alma Fuerte
Wrapper: Nicaragua (Jalapa)
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Length: 5.25″
Ring Gauge: 52
Size: Robustus I (Robusto)
The Look: Packaged in 10 count boxes, each box features a piece that separates from the packaging and serves as an ashtray. It’s complete with 4 cutouts for cigars and a metal Plasencia logo at the center. As for the most important part, the cigars feature three bands. The first being a thin band of black and gold with the letter P in a circle repeated. The second band uses the same colors and sees Plasencia boldly stated with Alma Fuerte in a smaller font. Finally, the foot band is reversed with letters of black on gold denoting Alma Fuerte. The Jalapa grown wrapper is loaded with oils and this box pressed cigar is firm with no voids of tobacco and a well packed foot.
The Notes: The aroma off the foot has a cocoa sweetness with a touch of earth, while the cold draw offers up a moss like earthy component. Based on the cold draw I would love to pair this with a peaty scotch such as Laphroaig. Once the cigar is lit some of the peat from the cold draw carries over to the first couple of puffs.
As we move into the first third the peat notes disappear as the cigar develop notes of chocolate with hints of coffee and a subtle earth. There is a plum sweetness that lingers in the background and on the finish of the cigar which also sees a touch of spice on the retrohale.
The second third of the cigar sees the chocolate note transition into cocoa while the coffee notes remain. The plum sweetness is still hanging around in the background of this delicious smoke that continues to show some subtle spice on the retrohale along with a chocolate aroma.
As we close the experience known as the Plasencia Alma Fuerte Robustus 1 the primary notes stay that of cocoa, mocha, and coffee all of which battle for supremacy as the cigar comes to a close. The retrohale sees some white pepper linger on the nose with a mocha finish.
The Finish: Plasencia has long made cigars for other companies, but in 2017 when they stepped into the limelight with their own brand they did it with an exclamation point. The Robustus 1 is my favorite size in terms of flavor, but when it comes to appearance the Sixto II Hexagon shaped cigar stands on it’s own in a crowded industry. This is a cigar that should be enjoyed with time devoted to it. Kick back, pour your favorite libation be it a coffee stout, single malt scotch or even a peaty scotch. It’s a vacation from the stress of life that you deserve.
Score: 95
Price: $18.79 / $167.99 (Box of 10)
Plasencia Alma Fuerte Robustus 1
Plasencia Alma Fuerte Robustus Foot
Plasencia Alma Fuerte Robustus Burn
