Fonseca No.1 OEP NOV 2014 (MRSCW#2)

[Edicion]

"They wrap em in toilet paper for a reason". 

For the uninitiated (which includes me) the Fonseca cigars are named after its Spanish founder Don Francisco Fonseca, and the current lineup consists of light strength cigars with tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region. All vitolas in the Fonseca portfolio are presented with the characteristic wrapped tissue feature, for both regular production but also for their special releases.

This 2014 Fonseca No.1 is from my first box, bought earlier this year from our gracious host, from what I recall sourced from the PCC aged programme. The factory name is Cazadores and measures 43 x 162 mm, more commonly known as a Lonsdale and one of the few cigars remaining Lonsdales in the HSA lineup.

The (T)issue

Let’s begin by addressing the elephant in the room – the tissue wrapper with the band on top. It is the only brand in the Habanos portfolio that is currently available with a distinct tissue paper wrapper. In fact, among all Cuban brands it should be the only one, even though custom Cuban cigars unconventionally come sometimes rolled in newspapers, this is a different thing. I am leaning towards it being a unique feature or marketing gimmick – or perhaps the story is true that Don Fonseca (allegedly a handsome fella) wanted his brand to represent and reflect elegance and class.

Some say that the tissue wrapping adds protection from damage and helps to maintain an optimal humidity level but that could just be broscience. The quality of the paper reminds me of plasticky rice papers used to wrap ginger candies.

In fact, the sleeve on my Starbucks straw has a better-quality feel to it. The paper on the straw actually has a function and purpose: to protect the straw. Will the tissue paper make a huge difference in a box or humidor? Personally, I don’t think so, on the contrary, I have seen aged examples of Fonseca cigars where the tissue paper becomes discolored with brown stains looking more like skid marks. So, while the tissue may be left on the cigars in a humidor… it must be removed before smoking. (No way...!)

The occasional Lonsdale fan, I enjoy this cigar size. It is pleasant to hold, just like a longer Petit Corona. The cigar feels well-constructed, with an overall a solid impression to it and no indications of underfilling or obstructions.

When I first opened this box, I must admit it was the best smelling cigars I had ever experienced. The individual sticks though are much lighter, yes, the wrapper has some aroma, there is a freshness to it – floral or citrusy – but nothing that reminds me of the initial box opening. The draw after cutting it is firm but acceptable. The cold draw has little to no taste – maybe that freshness again?

It is easy to light it up, but during the session I had to relight it a couple of times – nothing that bothered me to be fair. The burn was reasonably even despite being outdoors with a bit of wind.

In terms of flavors, the Fonseca No.1 must be one of the mildest and smoothest cigars to come out of Cuba, and most would agree that it is a very light cigar. It offers an elegant and delicate flavor profile, with a smooth blend of tobaccos which I prefer as a morning cigar, even on an empty stomach.

I almost get a feeling of smoking pipe tobacco from this one. It has a very pleasant and clean tobacco smell with a clean taste, some Caribbean spice blend of clove or nutmeg that forms the underlying base flavor (some might call it floral or citrusy) with hints of sweetness that shines through occasionally. I do understand it is not everyone's cup of tea though.

For the most part of the 1+ hour session, it remains the same with little development, which is not a bad thing. The band stays in place until the end accompanying whatever little flavors are left. Overall, I like the cigar and the flavors are pleasant enough for me to want to go back and smoke one soon again.

Some final thoughts. The Fonseca #1 is a straightforward cigar that gets some love, but it is not universal and not everyone appreciates it. Some say that older Fonseca No 1's are amazing – I just don’t know how much more ageing it needs before losing what little flavors are left.

The tissue wrapper presentation does make it stand out, and I am willing to say it does matter, as you not only eat with your eyes, but you also smoke with your eyes. (What?)

I have added the Fonseca No.1 to my regular rotation and if I am looking for a decent morning cigar, I know I can rely on this one to always deliver. I am also glad I “won” another box recently which I will treasure too.

Overall, this is a great cigar for my taste. Maybe not everyone's though.

[Ford2112]

I like these cigars for when I'm fishing or just having a casual morning smoke. Plus newbs like them.

[karp]

Nice review!! Not my cup of tea but I liked your write-up.

[Connoisseur Kim]

Fonseca No. 1 is one of my Korean FOH BOTL's fav CCs, sicne he likes mild CCs such as El Rey Del Mundo, Fonseca, and Hoyo de Monterrey (also enjoys Connie A). Since I'm a huge skinny fan, I hope that I can score Fonseca No. 1 box on FOH 2424 😃.