AJ Fernandez El Pulpo Lancero

The A.J. Fernandez Amar Torito is the slimmest and, at the same time, longest format in the Amar series, offering a particularly exciting interpretation of the all-Nicaraguan blend. Launched in 2026, the range was created as an expression of gratitude and a fresh start following the fire at the A.J. Fernandez factory in Estelí in 2025. The name ‘Amar’ combines personal and cultural elements from the history of A.J. Fernandez. In Spanish, it means ‘to love’, whilst the moon symbolism refers to his Lebanese family roots. The Torito combines this personal history with a medium-bodied to full-bodied smoking profile full of sweetness, spices, wood and roasted notes.

A.J. Fernandez Amar Torito, size 6 1/2 x 50

With a length of around 165 mm and a ring gauge of 50, the Torito has a diameter of approximately 19.8 mm. Due to the slimmer ring gauge, the ratio between the wrapper and the filler is slightly more pronounced than in the wider Amar formats. This can contribute to a focused, lively flavour profile. The cigar is a genuine Nicaraguan puro: the Habano wrapper, binder and filler tobaccos all come from Nicaragua. It is crafted by A.J. Fernandez at the San Lotano factory in Ocotal.

Cocoa, cinnamon and cedar

A detailed tasting description of the Torito initially notes cocoa, baking spices, cedar and a pleasant sweetness. These are joined by black pepper and, later, cinnamon notes. As the smoke progresses, notes of pecan, roasted coffee, bread and darker woody notes can be detected. Cigar Aficionado also describes a combination of pecan, honey, chilli, oak and cinnamon, before the cigar finishes with a strong cedar character. Despite its spiciness, the Torito remains well-balanced and comes across as aromatic rather than aggressive.

A particularly well-balanced size in the Amar series

The long size makes the Torito an interesting choice for aficionados who prefer a slower and clearly structured development. Cigar Dojo cites a smoking time of around two hours and particularly praises the interplay of sweetness, spice and wood. Cigar Aficionado also awarded the Torito 91 points. This format thus demonstrates particularly clearly that Amar is not primarily designed for maximum strength, but rather for balance, aromatic richness and a varied smoking experience.

Tasting Report

Cigar exterior: reddish-brown, smooth and elegant.
Cigar interior: Neatly and compactly rolled.
Smoke: Creamy, slightly sweet, generous smoke volume.
Flavour: Cocoa, cedar, cinnamon, pecan, honey, coffee, pepper and subtle baking spices.
Burn: Very even and razor-sharp.