Foundation Cigar Company is reintroducing the Highclere Castle Senetjer as an annual limited release. Available this November at select tobacconists, Senetjer celebrates the partnership between Foundation Cigars and Highclere Castle. Originally created for the 100th anniversary of King Tutankhamun’s tomb discovery, it is now an annual release.
The tomb was uncovered by archaeologist Howard Carter and the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, ancestor of the current owner of Highclere Castle. “King Tut’s tomb is one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time,” said Nicholas Melillo, owner of Foundation Cigars. Due to strong demand, 700 boxes will be released each November.
Named after the ancient Egyptian word for “incense,” the Senetjer’s presentation box is inspired by King Tut’s tomb and includes a scarab replica. This symbolizes transformation and enhances the release’s historical significance.
George Herbert, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon, noted that the blend pays tribute to his family’s cigar tradition dating back to the Roaring Twenties. Egyptologists Colleen and John Darnell helped with the historical elements, translating Highclere Castle into ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs for the box.
The Senetjer cigar measures 52 x 171 mm (6 3/4″) and features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, a Brazilian Mata Fina binder, and undisclosed aged fillers. Priced at $33 per cigar or $396 per box, the Senetjer begins shipping this week to select Foundation tobacconists nationwide.