Joya de Nicaragua Numero Uno L'Ambassadeur

The Joya de Nicaragua Número Uno L'Ambassadeur is an exquisite cigar that was originally developed as a diplomatic gift for heads of state and dignitaries. Since its official launch, it has received numerous awards and is regarded as a masterpiece of the art of cigar-making.

Origin and Production

This cigar is hand-rolled in Nicaragua by the renowned Joya de Nicaragua factory. It consists of a select blend of Nicaraguan filler and binder tobaccos, wrapped in a fine Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. This combination gives the cigar its unique character and outstanding quality.

Format and Design

The L’Ambassadeur comes in the elegant Lonsdale format, measuring 6 5/8 inches (168 mm) in length with a ring gauge of 44. A distinctive feature is the ornate pigtail at the head of the cigar, which highlights its artisanal perfection. The band features a simple yet striking design in a rich blue that immediately catches the eye.

Flavour and Aroma

The Número Uno L’Ambassadeur offers a mild to medium-bodied smoking experience with remarkable complexity and elegance. Creamy notes dominate the flavour profile, complemented by subtle sweetness, woody nuances and a hint of pepper. This harmonious blend creates a refined and balanced aroma that delights even the most discerning aficionados.

Special features

Originally, this cigar was not intended for the public market, but was presented by Nicaraguan ambassadors to diplomats on official occasions. In 2018, it was unveiled to a select audience for the first time and promptly received the highest ratings in the history of Joya de Nicaragua. Today, it forms part of the ‘Obras Maestras’ range, which represents the brand’s ultra-premium cigars.

Awards

The L’Ambassadeur has received numerous accolades, including:

• Cigar Aficionado’s Top 25 Cigars of 2020: 6th place with a score of 95 points.
• Cigar Dojo’s Cigar of the Year 2019: 1st place.
• Halfwheel: #1 in the TOP 25, 94 points.
• Blind Man’s Puff: 93 points
• Cigar Snob: 92 points

Tasting notes

Cigar appearance: Fine wrapper with a silky sheen.
Cigar construction: Medium roll, well-made.
Smoke: Sweet and creamy with plenty of smoke volume.
Flavour: Wood , pepper and leather dominate, accompanied by grass, chocolate, earth and toast.
Burn: Good burn

Ratings

What Cigar Aficionado has to say

“It’s easy enough to make a mild cigar, but it’s difficult to create a mild cigar that’s actually interesting and full of flavour. Joya de Nicaragua, Nicaragua’s oldest manufacturer of premium cigars, has achieved this feat with its Número Uno L’Ambassadeur, a mild cigar with character and understated elegance. The story behind the brand is that the L’Ambassadeur was not previously available on the open market and was intended as a diplomatic gift for dignitaries and heads of state. If this sounds familiar, it’s because the Cuban brand Cohiba has a similar history. Regardless of its former status, the Número Uno L’Ambassadeur is now available to everyone, whether you’re an international envoy or simply prefer milder cigars. The draw is impeccable and gives the cigar a creamy, toasty smoke that is subtly reminiscent of vanilla, almonds and cinnamon. No single flavour competes for dominance on the palate. Rather, each note dances delicately like a well-choreographed ballet suite. It may come as a surprise that a manufacturer known for producing full-bodied Nicaraguan cigars has decided to go in the opposite direction, but the Joya de Nicaragua Número Uno L’Ambassadeur is a masterful exercise in restraint. And with so many strong, full-bodied cigars grabbing the lion’s share of the press, it’s always nice to see a cigar with nuance and subtlety stand out in our reviews.” Cigar Aficionado, 1 January 2021