Artesano Del Tobacco El Pulpo Cigar. This magnificent blend has infatuated everyone from brick and mortar shops to consumers to cigar media. Known for their Viva La Vida Cigars, Billy and Gus Fakhi, owners of Artesano Del Tobacco, made their initially splash with the Viva La Vida Club 500 and Diadames. However, who would have known what they had planned with El Pulpo Bleicoso, not to mention the Toro Grande and Robusto Grande? Surprisingly, and I say Surprisingly because they usually don’t cover boutique brands, Cigar Aficionado Magazine reviewed all three sizes. What is no surprise is the high core they gave the Belicoso – 94 rating! A well-deserved rating, the El Pulpo Cigar is definitely in the running for my pick this year.
El Pulpo Cigar is released in three different sizes;
Artesano del Tobacco El Pulpo Robusto Grande 5×56
Artesano del Tobacco El Pulpo Toro Grande 6×56
Artesano del Tobacco El Pulpo Belicoso Grande 6 3/4×58.
Presented in a stark box press and placed in ten-count boxes, El Pulpo delivers a flavor that coats the palate with its complexity and richness. Full notes of hot cocoa, pepper, toasted nuts, coffee beans, chi tea, and sweetness envelope the smoking experience. While each size offers a different experience, I feel the Belicoso has an exceptional fullness, with the tapered end focusing the smoke to the center of your palate.
To celebrate the company’s achievements, Artesano has released several challenge coins meant for all the supporters of the brand. These are heavy-weight coins engraved with either the Viva la Vida Cigar logo or the El Pulpo Cigar label. In terms of swag, I think these have been done right. They, unfortunately, are very difficult to get ahold of. Currently, at Oak Glen Tobacconist we have a select sampler that features the full portfolio at 30% off + one of those coins! This is a great way to experience the full lineup and get an exceptional piece of swag while you are at! All are available now! Check out Artesano Del Tobacco’s Viva la Vida and El Pulpo cigars!