Balmoral Anejo XO Oscuro

The Balmoral Anejo XO Oscuro cigars are an extension of the premium cigar line from Balmoral, which was introduced to the German market in June 2018. The “regular” (now discontinued) longfiller series named Royal Selection Claro, Royal Selection Maduro, and Royal Selection Reserva were elevated in 2012 with the premium line Balmoral Anejo XO, originally called 18 Years. Since then, these have sold very well and received numerous top ratings from cigar magazines.

Balmoral Anejo XO Oscuro Cigars: A New Highlight in the Premium Line

The Balmoral Anejo XO Oscuro presented here is once again slightly darker and richer in flavor than its older “sister.” The wrapper is a Mexican San Andres Negro Stalk Cut, while the binder is also a Dominican Olor. The filler consists of Nicaraguan Jalapa, Dominican Olor, and some exclusive Brazilian Mata Norte.

In terms of flavor, aficionados can expect complex notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and black pepper, all underpinned by a smooth, natural sweetness. With numerous vitolas available, there is certainly something for every preference and desired smoking time. The cigars are once again packaged in very heavy and solid wooden boxes, which we already remember fondly from the “other” XO lines.

The Evolution of Balmoral Cigars: From AGIO to STG

Behind this brand was the family-owned company AGIO Cigars, which was led by the Wintermans family until 2019. Since then, the company has been integrated into the tobacco group STG (Scandinavian Tobacco Group) following an acquisition. Son Boris and father Art were and remain passionate tobacco experts and once again achieved a real success—now the experts at STG will take the cigar brand to new heights. Admittedly, when the XO premium cigars were first introduced in 2012, we were initially somewhat skeptical whether this endeavor would succeed—but we have definitely been proven wrong. Here you can find an overview of all Balmoral cigars available in Germany.