Introduction to Viva La Vida Jester By AJ Fernandez
The Viva La Vida Jester cigar, meticulously crafted by the celebrated AJ Fernandez, stands as a beacon within the premium cigar market, recognized for its superior quality and distinctive flavor nuances that distinguish it from its contemporaries. This boutique cigar draws its prestige from the innovative spirit of Billy and Gus Fakih, who pivoted from their successful tenure as proprietors of the iconic Cigar Inn stores in Manhattan to the creators of the Viva La Vida brand.
Their journey from retail magnates to brand visionaries underscores a profound narrative of passion and dedication to the art of cigar making. In a bold departure from conventional packaging, Viva La Vida Jester cigars are presented in eye-catching packs of five. This choice not only defies the traditional box packaging but also perfectly embodies the blend’s commitment to delivering a profound smoking experience infused with a playful aesthetic. This packaging strategy signals a harmonious blend of sophisticated craftsmanship and a light-hearted approach to enjoying life’s finer pleasures.
The Mastermind Behind the Blend
AJ Fernandez stands as a luminary in the cigar industry, a reputation he has meticulously cultivated through relentless dedication and an unparalleled understanding of tobacco cultivation and blending. His creation, the Viva La Vida Jester, serves as a showcase for his mastery, employing a unique blend of Nicaraguan tobacco alongside a wrapper grown in his own esteemed fields. This choice of materials is a deliberate one, reflecting Fernandez’s commitment to quality and his knack for selecting the perfect tobacco leaves to create a harmonious and memorable smoking experience.
Fernandez’s influence on the Viva La Vida Jester is profound, extending beyond mere selection of ingredients to a careful, hands-on approach in every step of the cigar’s creation. This blend, in particular, is a testament to his expertise, embodying a rich tapestry of flavors that appeal to the discerning palate of seasoned cigar enthusiasts. The resulting cigar is not just a product but an experience, marked by a balanced interplay of boldness and subtlety that has become a hallmark of Fernandez’s creations. It stands as a prime example of how his meticulous attention to detail and deep respect for the craft can elevate a cigar to a work of art, offering smokers a complex, satisfying journey from start to finish.
Description and Flavor Profile
The Viva La Vida Jester cigar, cloaked in a Habano Oscuro wrapper, exudes a distinct richness and complexity that sets it apart. This wrapper not only enhances the cigar’s aesthetic appeal but also plays a pivotal role in defining its flavor profile. The core of the cigar is meticulously blended with Corojo 99 and Criollo 98 binders and fillers, orchestrating a symphony of flavors that include the boldness of spice, the earthiness of leather, the robustness of wood, and the delicate touch of floral notes. This intricate blend ensures a smoking experience that is richly layered, offering a journey through varying taste dimensions that cater to the palate of the discerning smoker.
As the Viva La Vida Jester unfolds, smokers are invited into a world where each puff reveals a new facet of its character. From the initial bold spice and leather notes to a more nuanced interplay of wood and floral aromas, the cigar offers a dynamic flavor evolution. This progression demonstrates the artistry and skill behind its creation, highlighting the blend’s ability to balance intensity with subtlety. Such a harmonious blend guarantees a smoking experience that is not only full-bodied but also rich in complexities and nuances, making each smoking session a memorable adventure.
Reviews and Ratings
The Viva La Vida Jester by AJ Fernandez has garnered notable praise within the cigar community, a testament to its exceptional quality, which is highlighted by a prestigious rating of 94 from Cigar Aficionado. This high rating is not just a number; it represents a seal of approval from one of the most respected entities in the cigar world, affirming the Jester’s superior craftsmanship and the richness of its flavor profile. Such accolades set the Jester apart, making it a sought-after choice for both aficionados and novices seeking a premium smoking experience.
Cigar enthusiasts have consistently commended the Viva La Vida Jester for its impeccable construction and the intricate journey of flavors it provides. From the outset, smokers are greeted with robust notes of pepper and leather, which slowly transition into a more nuanced and refined floral finish. This evolution of taste throughout the smoking experience underscores the skillful blend of tobaccos selected by AJ Fernandez, showcasing his expertise in creating cigars that provide a complex, yet harmonious flavor journey. The combination of these elements ensures that the Viva La Vida Jester not only stands out in its category but also offers a memorable and engaging smoking experience that resonates deeply with those who appreciate the art of cigar making.
The Story Behind Viva La Vida
The transformation of Billy and Gus Fakih from the proprietors of the renowned Cigar Inn stores in the bustling heart of Manhattan to the creators of the distinguished Viva La Vida brand and Artesano Del Tobacco, is a testament to their unwavering devotion and enthusiasm for the art of cigar making. This remarkable journey highlights not only their profound understanding and appreciation of the cigar culture but also their ambition to leave a unique imprint on the industry.
The Viva La Vida line, which proudly includes the Jester cigar, is a direct reflection of the Fakih brothers’ commitment to excellence and their desire to craft cigars that resonate with aficionados on a personal level. Their partnership with the esteemed AJ Fernandez in creating these cigars further cements the blend’s reputation for quality and complexity.
Choosing to package the Jester cigars in vibrant packs of five goes beyond mere aesthetics; it serves as a symbol of the brand’s overarching philosophy. This design choice embodies the spirit of celebration, intertwining the joy of life’s moments with the meticulous craftsmanship of each cigar. It’s a deliberate nod to the idea that cigars are not just products but experiences meant to be savored and shared. The festive packaging invites enthusiasts to indulge in the rich, nuanced flavors of the Jester, while also embracing the communal pleasure and conviviality that cigar smoking brings. Through this thoughtful presentation, the Fakih brothers successfully marry superior craftsmanship with a playful, celebratory essence, encapsulating the very heart of the Viva La Vida ethos.