NEW CIGAR ARRIVAL! Aksum Claro Robusto
Aksum Claro Robusto – #12 Cigar of the Year, Rated 93 by Cigar Aficionado
Selected by Cigar Aficionado as the #12 Cigar of the Year for 2024 and boasting an impressive 93 rating, the Aksum Claro Robusto is a standout smoke from Foundation Cigars. While the brand might not always dominate the conversation, its commitment to quality and flavor has long earned it a spot in the humidors of serious cigar lovers.
A Legacy Reborn: From Metapa to Aksum
Aksum Claro Robusto is a refined rebrand of the blend once known as Metapa Claro. Though the name has changed, its popularity hasn’t waned—this remains one of Foundation’s most in-demand cigars. Developed under the watchful eye of Nicholas Melillo and rolled by AJ Fernandez in Nicaragua, Aksum Claro continues to build upon its already impressive legacy.
Inspired by Ancient History
The name Aksum draws inspiration from the Aksumite Kingdom, an ancient civilization near what is now Ethiopia. According to Ethiopian legend, Menelik I—the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba—brought the Ark of the Covenant to Aksum, where local lore claims it still resides, guarded by a single priest. It’s a bold tale, and Aksum Claro rises to meet it with a blend just as rich in depth and mystique.
A Blend of Balance and Boldness
The cigar’s construction is just as impressive as its backstory:
- - Filler: Nicaraguan
- - Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf
- - Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sumatra Claro, cultivated in volcanic soil
On paper, it may sound simple. But once lit, the blend transforms into a complex and rewarding smoke. It’s no wonder Cigar Aficionado awarded it multiple 90+ scores, peaking at 93, and a coveted spot in the Top 25 Cigars of the Year.
Flavor Profile & Smoking Experience
Every 5" x 50 Robusto comes impeccably rolled and packaged in a sophisticated cedar chest with a black and gold lid. The band, rich in red and blue, proudly displays a portrait of Ras Makonnen, a 19th-century Ethiopian governor, tying the cigar’s visual appeal to its historic theme.
From the first draw, you’re met with bold Nicaraguan pepper, quickly followed by notes of espresso, roasted nuts, and woody undertones. A deep, earthy tobacco core ties the flavors together, while the finish leaves a lively white pepper tingle on the tongue. Construction is flawless, delivering a smooth, easy draw every time.
Who Should Smoke This Cigar?
Aksum Claro is not for the beginner. It’s crafted for the seasoned smoker—someone with a refined palate and the patience to truly appreciate a nuanced blend. This medium-to-full-bodied stick pairs beautifully with:
- - Bourbon or dark rum after work
- - Coffee or espresso after dinner
If you’ve enjoyed cigars like the New World Dorado or San Lotano, you’re likely to fall for this one too. Crafted by AJ Fernandez and layered with bold, complex flavor, Aksum Claro is a cigar that rewards attention—and respect.
A Cigar Worthy of Its Legend
The Aksum Claro Robusto may honor a tale about one of the world’s most sacred treasures, but let’s be honest: this cigar is a treasure in its own right. From its legendary roots to its top-tier performance, it’s a modern classic that deserves a place in any aficionado’s rotation. SHOP NOW
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