Alfonso Anejo No.3
Summary
The Alfonso Añejo No.3 is a distinguished vitola from the ultra-premium Añejos line by Selected Tobacco, a brand conceived by Nelson Alfonso. These cigars are renowned for their exceptional presentation and an extensive aging regimen, which includes an impressive five years in both cedar and French oak aging rooms. This meticulous dedication to aging aims to deliver a truly luxurious and vintage smoking experience, setting a high standard for complexity and refinement within the cigar world.
Specification
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Brand: Alfonso
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Line: Añejos No.3 / Extra Añejo No.3
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Size: No. 3 (Toro)
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Length: 6.0 inches
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Ring Gauge: 54
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Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut
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Binder: Ecuadorian Connecticut
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Filler: Nicaraguan Ligero, Peruvian
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Strength: Medium
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Origin: Costa Rica
Flavor Profile
The Alfonso Añejo No.3 offers a profound and evolving flavor journey. Initial draws typically reveal notes of natural tobacco, creamy textures, cedar, black pepper, and a subtle hint of peanut. As the cigar progresses, the profile often transitions to more prominent cream and cedar, frequently accompanied by a pleasant berry sweetness on the finish. Further into the smoke, expect an intricate blend of pepper, caramel, sourdough, creamy dessert notes, and bready undertones, complemented by woody elements, nutmeg, cinnamon, milk chocolate, and occasional citrus zest. The retrohale usually presents a clear presence of cedar and black pepper, with hints of honey and graham cracker emerging in the latter half, particularly benefiting from the longer smoking time of this vitola.
Construction
The Alfonso Añejo No.3 exemplifies impeccable construction, a hallmark of the Alfonso brand. Each cigar is solidly and flawlessly rolled, featuring a pristine and often oily Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. Smokers can anticipate an excellent, consistent burn and a smooth draw, typically requiring minimal correction. The cigar produces a generous volume of thick, creamy smoke, ensuring a highly satisfying and even smoking experience from ignition to finish, which is crucial for a larger format cigar.
Pairing Suggestion
To best complement the rich and intricate flavors of the Alfonso Añejo No.3, consider pairing it with a medium roast coffee to accentuate its creamy and earthy notes. For those preferring spirits, an aged rum or a fine single malt Scotch whisky can elevate its complex profile, standing up well to the longer smoke. Alternatively, a sweet Moscato d'Asti offers a delightful counterpoint, enhancing the cigar's subtle sweetness and balancing its more robust characteristics over an extended period.
