On the heels of announcing their forthcoming King Tutankhamun themed release, Foundation’s focus has turned to the Olmecs. The inspiration for Foundation’s newest core line, the Olmecs are the early Americas’ most mysterious and ancient civilizations. They pre-date the Mayans and Aztecs and are considered the “mother culture” of Mesoamerica. They are the first to create mathematically precise pyramids, calendars, and, as far as we know, the first to smoke cigars! The Heart Land of the Olmecs is the tropical lowlands of modern-day Mexican states of Veracruz, Tabasco, and San Andrés Tuxtla. Today, this is the same region that grows some of the finest San Andrès Negro wrapper tobacco. This seed variety is considered one of the oldest seed varieties in the world.
Foundation Master Blender Nicholas Melillo shares that “I have admired the Olmec civilization since I first traveled to San Andrès to purchase tobacco back in 2006. This brand is unique on every level, from the blend to the packaging, and is a great addition to our portfolio.”
For this project, Melillo chose Nicaraguan filler tobaccos from the Esteli and Jalapa valleys. After fermentation, these filler tobaccos are bale aged for three years before arriving on the production floor. The San Andrés Negro wrapper tobacco comes from the rich volcanic soil of the land of the Olmecs. It is fermented slowly at low temperatures to preserve the natural oils that give flavor. The blend is intended to deliver a full-bodied smoking experience with rich cacao flavors, dark espresso, and spice without being too aggressive.
Olmec cigars will debut at this year’s PCA trade show in Las Vegas and ship to tobacconists throughout the country in late summer/early fall. They will be available in 12ct boxes, with two wrapper options available – San Andrés Maduro and Claro.
5.5 x 48 Corona Gorda Claro / Maduro $12.50 per unit/ $150.00 per box
5 x 50 Robusto Claro/Maduro $13.50 per unit/$162.00 per box
6 x 52 Toro Claro/Maduro $14.50 per unit/$174.00 per box
6 x 60 Grande Claro / Maduro $15.50 per unit/$186.00 per box
7 x 52 DB Corona Claro/Maduro $16.00 per unit/$192.00 per box