Foundation’s Nicholas Melillo Creates Two Cigars To Honor His Grandfathers

Foundation Cigar Company and Founder/Master Blender Nicholas Melillo have announced the Charter Oak Pegnataro Connecticut Shade and Charter Oak Pasquale Connecticut Broadleaf cigars. These blends serve not only as a heartfelt tribute to Melillo’s grandfathers, who played a pivotal role in igniting his passion for tobacco, but also celebrate the opening of Foundation’s new office on a 300-acre farm in the renowned Connecticut River Valley.

“My love for handmade cigars exists only because of my grandfather’s. One was an avid CT Broadleaf smoker and the other loved CT shade. These blends are completely different than the core line of Charter Oak. They are richer and more complex,” explains Melillo .“The Charter Oak core line would have been their everyday cigar and these new blends would be for the weekend or a special occasion. These blends are deeply personal to me, as they honor the legacies of my grandfathers. The CT Broadleaf and CT Shade wrappers represent their distinct personalities, allowing me to celebrate their individuality through exceptional cigars that bear their names.”

The Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Pasquale showcases a captivating Maduro wrapper derived from the renowned Connecticut Broadleaf seed. It is being marketed as delivering a full-bodied profile with deep earthy undertones, balanced by notes of sweetness and strength, making it a bold selection for enthusiasts in search of a robust and indulgent smoke.

The Charter Oak CT Shade Pegnataro features a Connecticut Shade wrapper and is said to surprise the palate with its depth of flavor despite its milder profile. Delicate hints of cedar, almond, and a subtle sweetness are all listed as notes that one can expect from this medium-bodied cigar. Foundation suggests that this blend is ideal for those seeking a nuanced and flavorful blend.

The Pegnataro and Pasquale will be both be available at select retailers nationwide starting in early Fall 2023 after making their debut at next month’s Premium Cigar Association trade show. Priced at $13.00 per cigar and $156 per 12-count box, this limited quarterly release consists of only 500 boxes.

Foundation’s portfolio of blends is available from Privada Cigar Club.