In the depths of Estelí, Nicaragua, the soil is blessed by warmth and centuries of cultivation. It’s not a coincidence that tobacco thrives there–through cultural practice, patience, and hands that understand the depths of the land.

From this rich Nicaraguan soil comes the Villiger 1888 Gran Reserva, a cigar that offers a lasting celebration of tradition. This blend is not an ordinary smoke. It’s a cigar distinguished for its rich, flavorful and sun-kissed tobacco, and by a very slow aging process.

There is something remarkable about the Villiger 1888 Gran Reserva because it is a cigar in sync with Mother Nature. Every leaf in this cigar carries the Nicaraguan legacy—from its cool mountain breezes and sun-drenched fields to the quiet patience of nature itself. This is not just a product of tobacco craftsmanship; it’s a product of climate, soil, and time. Mother Nature does the major heavy lifting long before any hands begin to roll. Then, craftsmanship enters the scene, and it begins with a particular respect, an understanding that the earth has already done something extraordinary. All the rollers do is honor it.

All the tobacco used in this blend are aged a minimum of two years, the fillers, the binder and the wrapper, maturing them to perfection. After the cigars are rolled, they go to the cedar aging rooms and they rest there for a minimum of 12 months, allowing the tobacco to marry, to harmonize, to develop new layers of textures and flavors, to become one exceptional blend.

Once you light up a Villiger 1888 Gran Reserva, the celebration begins. The first notes are rich and grounding, containing hints of leather and espresso. Then, the taste palate shifts as almond biscotti, anise, and caramel swirl together in a balanced blend. This leaves a lingering taste until nougat impressions round out the cigar’s finish.

Cigar Aficionado awarded it a 93, calling it a “symphony of detail and dimension.” Cigar Snob gave it a 91, praising its ultra-flavorful blend of sweet pepper, mocha, roasted almonds, and creamy smoothness.

But these accolades only tell part of the story. Smoking this cigar isn’t just about the flavorful coatings—it’s about the memory. Each puff provides a sense of déjà vu: warm, intimate, and comforting. It is a celebration of Nicaragua's tradition, landscapes, and concept of time. And that’s what makes the Villiger 1888 Gran Reserva truly unforgettable.