Let's dive straight into this Nicaraguan power stick - the H. Upmann Nicaragua AJ Fernandez Heritage Churchill. Measuring 7"x54 with a hefty Brazilian Mata Fina wrapper, this box-pressed Churchill packs medium-full intensity perfect for late afternoon sessions. At around $10 per stick in 20-count boxes, it's positioned as an approachable daily smoke for fans of AJ Fernandez blends.
Black pepper and smoldering cedar hit immediately with AJ Fernandez's signature earthy undertones. The dark wrapper delivers roasted coffee bean aromas, though I noticed slightly tight draw resistance in my sample.
Flavors mellow into semi-sweet chocolate territory with baking spices emerging - think nutmeg and cinnamon. Smoke production kicks up noticeably, requiring slower pacing to prevent overheating.
Leather and mineral notes dominate the home stretch. While nicotine strength remains manageable, some tar buildup occurs past the band point. Tip: purge every 10 minutes for cleaner flavor.
The triple-cap head shows AJ's Nicaraguan craftsmanship - firm but not rock-hard roll that maintains structural integrity down to the nub. Our test samples burned straight with 1-2 minor touchups required. Impressive ash retention averaging 1.5" before flaking.
Pair this bold blend with aged rum (5+ years) to complement the natural sweetness. Avoid coffee pairings that might amplify bitterness in later thirds. Rest 6-12 months if you prefer smoother transitions between flavor stages.
