AJ Fernandez Cigars: History, Legacy, and Top 10 Best Cigars to Buy

AJ Fernandez Cigars

If you’ve spent any time exploring premium cigars, chances are you’ve come across the name AJ Fernandez. Revered for his master blending skills and Cuban-inspired craftsmanship, AJ has become one of the most respected names in the cigar industry today. His blends are consistently flavorful, highly rated, and—best of.

The History of AJ Fernandez

Born in Cuba, Abdel J. Fernandez learned the art of cigar making from his grandfather, who worked with the famous San Lotano family. This foundation of Cuban tradition shaped AJ’s approach: respect for the leaf, patience in fermentation, and balance in blending.

In the early 2000s, AJ moved to Nicaragua and founded Tabacalera AJ Fernandez in Estelí. What began as a small, boutique factory quickly grew into one of the largest producers in the world. Today, AJ cultivates much of his own tobacco and crafts millions of cigars annually, not only for his own brands but also as a collaborator with icons like Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, and H. Upmann.

Why Choose AJ Fernandez Cigars?

• Seed-to-Cigar Quality: AJ grows, ferments, and ages much of his own tobacco.
• Award-Winning Blends: The cigars consistently earn 90+ ratings.
• Diverse Flavor Profiles: From smooth Connecticut's to powerhouse Nicaraguan smokes.
• Trusted by Legends: Many leading brands rely on AJ’s blending expertise.

Cigar Place Picks: Top 10 Best AJ Fernandez Cigars to Try

Whether you’re new to premium cigars or a seasoned aficionado, AJ Fernandez has something for every palate. Here are some of the best AJ Fernandez cigars you can buy:

Nicaraguan Series by AJ Fernandez Rothschild (4 ½" x 52, ●●●●○ Medium-Full)

Earth and dark chocolate dominate the opening, accented by a touch of chili pepper. Layers of creamy malted milk, caramel, and raisins bring a sweet counterpoint before nougat-like notes of almond and hazelnut appear. The second third unfolds with coffee, dark berry, and allspice, finishing with a satisfying burst of black pepper. SHOP NOW

New World Gobernador (6 ½" x 55, ●●●●○ Medium-Full)

A Nicaraguan puro filled with viso from Ometepe and ligeros from Condega and Estelí, bound in Jalapa, and wrapped in a dark Nicaraguan leaf. Begins with earthy bitterness and dark chocolate, soon balanced by the natural fruity sweetness of the maduro. Spice threads through the profile, creating impressive complexity. SHOP NOW

Punch Diablo Scamp (6 1/8" x 50, ●●●●● Full, Rated 93)

Named a Cigar Aficionado Top 25 (2019), this powerhouse opens with dense clouds of earth, oak, leather, and white pepper. Just when you expect domination, it surprises with layers of sweet cream, graham cracker, pecan, dark chocolate, and black cherry—an enthralling mix of strength and nuance. SHOP NOW

H. Upmann by AJ Fernandez Toro (6" x 54, ●●●●○ Medium-Full)

With a sweet barnyard aroma, this Sumatra-wrapped toro delivers cedar and café con leche in the first third, alongside marzipan and malted barley. Mid-smoke, floral notes fill the air with hints of cocoa and spice, before closing with espresso, black pepper, and cherry stem. SHOP NOW

New World Puro Especial Toro (6 ½" x 52, ●●●●○ Medium-Full, Rated 93)

Cigar Aficionado’s #12 of 2017. This Nicaraguan puro offers flawless construction and a voluminous draw. Expect a core of earthy tobacco with nuts, oak, and chili pepper, accented by subtle sweetness. Each puff lingers with spicy white pepper, leading to a creamy, satisfying finish. SHOP NOW

San Lotano Connecticut Robusto (5" x 52, ●●○○○ Mild-Medium)

Not your average Connecticut. Earth and aged tobacco take the lead, supported by cedar, nuts, and spice with a creamy undertone. While mild-to-medium in strength, it delivers flavor usually found in darker wrappers, all with excellent construction and consistent burn. SHOP NOW

Bellas Artes Toro (6" x 54, ●●●●○ Medium-Full)

Ruddy and toothy, this toro engages immediately with white pepper and cream. As the burn line progresses, flavors expand into wheat toast, black coffee, honey, raisin, and cinnamon—an elegant and evolving experience from start to finish. SHOP NOW

New World Cameroon Churchill (7" x 48, ●●●○○ Medium)

Box-pressed and wrapped in AJ’s first use of Cameroon leaf, paired with Nicaraguan fillers from his own farms. Starts mellow with cedar, earth, rye, and marzipan sweetness. Midway, roasted coffee and warming spices emerge, giving way to smooth waves of chocolate and caramel through the finish. SHOP NOW

Enclave Churchill (7" x 52, ●●●●○ Medium-Full, Rated 92)

Cigar Aficionado’s #20 of 2016. This Churchill greets you with chocolatey creaminess layered over spice. The profile builds toward full, yet always maintains balance with its sweetness. Complex and inviting from first puff to last. SHOP NOW

Romeo y Julieta Crafted by AJ Fernandez Churchill (7" x 50, ●●●●○ Medium-Full)

A collaboration that showcases both tradition and innovation. Opens sweet and spicy before unfolding into cocoa, mocha, and earthy tobacco. Billowing smoke and an easy draw highlight the perfect marriage of classic maduro richness with AJ’s bold Nicaraguan flair. SHOP NOW

Want to try them all before you buy a box? Get the AJ 10 Stick Sampler!

Why You Should Try AJ Fernandez Cigars

AJ Fernandez has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and passion. Whether you’re exploring cigars for the first time or seeking a bold new experience, there’s an AJ blend to match your palate. His cigars range from smooth and mellow to bold and full-bodied, making them an essential addition to any humidor.

From heritage-inspired classics like San Lotano to groundbreaking hits like New World, AJ Fernandez has proven time and again that he’s not just following tradition—he’s redefining it for a new generation of cigar lovers.

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