AJ Fernandez El Pulpo Lancero

The A.J. Fernandez Amar Robusto combines the strength of Nicaraguan tobacco with a personal story from the A.J. Fernandez company. The Amar series was launched in 2026 following the severe fire that had struck parts of the production facility in Estelí in 2025. The range is intended as a token of gratitude to employees, business partners and aficionados who supported the company during this difficult time. The name itself embodies this idea: ‘Amar’ means ‘to love’ in Spanish and also alludes to the Arabic word for the moon, a reference to A.J. Fernandez’s Cuban-Lebanese roots. The Robusto combines this story with a medium-bodied to full-bodied, well-balanced flavour profile.

A.J. Fernandez Amar Robusto in a full-bodied 54 ring gauge

Measuring 5 1/2 inches in length – approximately 140 mm – and with a ring gauge of 54, the Robusto has a diameter of around 21.4 mm. This makes it slightly larger than many classic Robustos, offering plenty of space for the Nicaraguan blend. The wrapper, binder and filler are all sourced entirely from Nicaragua, with a Habano wrapper finishing off the cigar. The Amar is crafted at the San Lotano factory in Ocotal. The compact format ensures concentrated aromas and a rich smoke, without making the cigar feel unnecessarily heavy.

Creamy spice with wood and a delicate sweetness

In the first third, the Robusto presents itself as spicy and creamy. Pepper, hay, herbs and roasted nuts characterise the opening. The profile then becomes rounder, revealing cedar wood, floral notes, almonds and subtle hints of honey and orange. As the cigar progresses, leather, roasted coffee and darker woody nuances emerge. Towards the end, hints of cocoa, dark chocolate and a nutty sweetness may emerge. The intensity ranges from medium to full-bodied and builds in a controlled manner.

A personalised blend with plenty of character

The Amar Robusto is aimed at aficionados who enjoy Nicaraguan cigars with distinct spice, yet who also value balance and a creamy texture. Thanks to its compact size, the flavours develop relatively quickly, whilst the generous ring gauge provides enough tobacco for a full-bodied and multi-faceted smoke. The meticulous craftsmanship, the all-Nicaraguan tobacco blend and the emotional story behind the range make the Amar a distinctive addition to the A.J. Fernandez portfolio.

Tasting Report

Cigar exterior: reddish-brown, silky and slightly oily.
Cigar interior: Firm and evenly rolled.
Smoke: Creamy with plenty of smoke volume.
Flavour: Pepper, cedar, roasted nuts, herbs, honey, coffee, leather and dark chocolate.
Burn: Clean, steady and even.