Is it possible to grow Cameroonian tobacco in Honduras? That’s the perplexing question JRE Tobacco owner Julio R. Eiroa set out to answer some years ago when he planted tobacco seeds from Cameroon on his farms in Honduras’ Jamastran Valley, where JRE grows most of its tobacco.
Indeed, Eiroa isn’t the only grower to have wondered if the inimitable qualities of Cameroonian leaves could be had outside of western central Africa.
As opposed to most growers of Cameroonian seeds (including those in the African country itself), however, Eiroa’s handling of his plants was markedly different; Eiroa “babied” his Cameroonian seedlings. He nurtured them, whereas others would tend to these plants far less often and expose them to the elements more, resulting in the familiar mottled and toothy appearance that their leaves are known for. By contrast, Eiroa’s Cameroonian leaves are clean-looking and reddish in color — some observers have even asked if they’re actually the product of true Cameroonian seeds.
But those who know Eiroa know that the time he takes with his Cameroonian crops isn’t unique; Eiroa applies the same care and dedication to all the tobaccos he raises, including the grade-A “Authentic Corojo”-seed leaves that make up the binders and fillers of the Aladino Cameroon series of cigars, of which this vitola — the Elegante — is one of the most celebrated.
Making use of the aforementioned Cameroonian-seed tobacco for its wrappers, the Aladino Cameroon Elegante is a long, tan, medium-strength panetela with a consistent draw, an even burn, and superior construction. Starting out woody and peppery, it develops flavors of earth, black cherry, and almond before delivering a hazelnut-hinted finish.
Cigar Aficionado accorded the Elegante a 90 rating — one of the numerous accolades this series and this vitola have won. Available in boxes of 20, it’s one of the best tastes of Cameroon you can get outside of Cameroon. Pick up a box today, and see if you don’t agree.