New World by AJ Fernandez Oscuro Gobernador Toro 6 1/2″ * 55

New World takes its name from the discovery of tobacco on Columbus’s 1492 voyage, and it was AJ Fernandez’s first collaboration with his father Ismael. The Oscuro is its darkest blend. The Gobernador is the box-pressed 6 1/2 x 55 toro, a dark Nicaraguan Oscuro wrapper over a Jalapa binder with Nicaraguan filler from Ometepe, Condega, and Esteli. Medium to full, it opens on cedar, espresso, and black pepper, then works through leather and earth over a long, even burn the box press keeps in line. Rolled at Tabacalera Fernandez in Esteli, it is one of AJ’s best values. Pairs well with coffee, bourbon, or a porter.