The only thing that really needs to be said about the San Lotano Oval Maduro is the name of its maker, A.J. Fernandez as he is one of the hottest blenders in the business with a stable of box worthy buys in his barn. For those in the know this will be enough to provoke adding a box or two to their order, but for the uninitiated it may take some more persuading. Perhaps his most captivating is the San Lotano line, and of these, the Oval is top dog. A 96-rated cigar considered one of the top releases in 2011, the San Lotano Oval is loaded with A.J.'s own secret blend of Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos hiding behind a Habano 2000 wrapper, all of it pressed into the unique rounded shape for which it it named.

Not nearly as full-bodied as might be expected, the San Lotano Oval is still best appreciated by more experienced smokers. Grab a drink, anything from a vodka tonic to a robust red wine to a half bottle of lukewarm water, a seat and get to smoking. You won't regret it. While you're at it, take the time to wager on some of A.J. Fernandez's other offerings as well: Man O' War, Diesel, or Nica Libre.