The Plasencia family has grown tobacco in Nicaragua for five generations, and the Alma Fuerte (Spanish for 'strong soul') shows what happens when a grower has access to the best land and knows how to use it. This is a full-bodied smoke built from Nicaraguan Criollo 98 leaf grown across four regions: Estelí, Condega, Jalapa, and the volcanic island of Ometepe. The construction is solid, with a consistent draw and even burn that holds through the entire stick.
Flavor: The profile opens with earth and dark cocoa, then builds into black pepper, roasted nuts, and a mineral quality that comes from the volcanic Ometepe tobacco. The finish carries wood, lingering spice, and a thread of sweetness that balances the strength.
Pairings: Pour a full-bodied bourbon (something with a high rye content works well) or an aged rum to match the cigar's intensity. If you prefer coffee, a strong espresso pulls out the cocoa and roasted nut notes. For food, grilled red meat or aged manchego will stand up to the pepper and earth without getting lost.
This is a cigar for the evening when you have time to sit with something that demands attention. The Alma Fuerte rewards patience and works best when you can focus on the layers as they develop.
- Strength:
- Medium-Full
- Wrapper:
- Nicaraguan Criollo 98
- Filler:
- Nicaraguan
