A.J. Fernandez New World Decenio

When Abdel Josef Fernandez, better known as A.J. Fernandez, emigrated from Cuba in 2003, his journey beyond the world of Habanos began in a small garage in Estelí, northern Nicaragua. With passion and perseverance, he created his first own blends, which quickly caught the attention of aficionados and other cigar producers. From these humble beginnings, an impressive career took shape: today, he is considered one of the most successful producers in the industry, now primarily crafting his own cigars—although he initially rolled for international giants such as the Scandinavian Tobacco Group STG and its subsidiary Cigars International. With a steadily growing portfolio, he is now also represented in Germany with a wide range of A.J. Fernandez cigars and enjoys success around the globe.

A.J. Fernandez Decenio: Anniversary Line from Nicaragua

The Decenio cigars were created as a tribute to the tenth anniversary of the New World brand within his portfolio. The original New World Oscuro cigars have been available here since 2014, so the 10-year mark (Decenio being the Spanish word for decade) lines up quite well. They combine the craftsmanship of the Tabacalera Fernandez with a carefully balanced blend: a filler of the finest Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos is paired with a binder from Nicaragua and finished with a dark, premium San Andrés wrapper from Mexico. Each vitola is, of course, traditionally handmade, embodying the values for which Nicaraguan cigars are appreciated today – quality, authenticity, and character.

Robust Elegance with a Peppery Note

I chose a Toro as a sample cigar. Its wrapper has a slightly oily sheen, looks very refined, smooth, and finely textured. The first puffs taste classically Nicaraguan, with the famously earthy barnyard notes, along with plenty of leather. As the smoke progresses, the A.J. Fernandez Decenio Toro develops a rather intense pepperiness that, for my personal taste, is a bit overwhelming. But personal preference is always subjective, and no doubt these creations from A.J. will once again find enthusiastic fans. This line is clearly aimed more at seasoned connoisseurs than at beginners seeking a balanced and rather “mild” cigar.