Since its release as an event-only cigar in 2016, the Menelik has been an elusive brand within the Foundation Cigars portfolio. Now, eight years later, Foundation Menelik is a regular production line that comes in two sizes: Robusto and Toro.
The blend consists of a Mexican San Andrés wrapper, over Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos. Both sizes are sold in 12-ct boxes, and they are produced at the Aganorsa Leaf Factory in Estelí, Nicaragua.
The cigars come dressed in a Maduro-colored wrapper leaf. The construction is excellent. The cigar is box-pressed with a particular head finish, with a curl that is less curly than the traditional pigtail.
- Country of Origin: Nicaragua
- Size: 52 x 114 mm (4 ½″)
- Wrapper: Mexico
- Binder: Nicaragua
- Filler: Nicaragua
- Price: $ 13.5 | € –
Foundation Menelik Robusto: The cold draw reveals intense cocoa aromas. The opening releases earthy notes with soft, spicy nuances.
The first third continues on earthy notes, which are accompanied by hints of cinnamon. The strength is medium (3/5).
The central section does not present significant variations, either in terms of flavor profile or strength (3/5).
In the third and last section, the aromas perceived are confirmed, with earth and cinnamon, the latter now more present. The bouquet is now enriched with vegetal notes, which gradually give way to balsamic herbs approaching the finish. The strength increases, reaching a medium-plus level (3.5/5).
Overall, the Foundation Menelik Robusto releases a balanced and harmonious smoke. Still, its evolution is somewhat limited: you have to wait for the final third for the profile to become broader. It has good flavor intensity.