Aging Room cigars, born from the passionate vision of Rafael Nodal, have swiftly carved a distinguished place in the global cigar market. Known for their complexity and sophistication, Aging Room cigars encapsulate the essence of a boutique brand, making waves with their outstanding ratings and artisanal quality.
The Genesis of Aging Room
The journey of Aging Room began in 2010 when Rafael Nodal, a figure already well-versed in the nuances of the cigar industry, decided to channel his creative energy into a new venture. Nodal, who had cultivated a deep-seated passion for cigars in his early twenties, embarked on this endeavor after a successful career outside the tobacco world. The inception of Boutique Blends, the umbrella under which Aging Room was born, marked a turning point—signifying Nodal’s commitment to focusing exclusively on small-batch, high-quality cigar production.
A Symphony of Flavors
From its inception, Aging Room has been synonymous with innovation and quality. The brand quickly distinguished itself with the Aging Room Quattro F55, which garnered a sensational reception, earning the spot of the highest-rated non-Cuban cigar in 2013 by Cigar Aficionado. This accolade was not merely a testament to the blend’s excellence but also a clear indication of Nodal’s mastery in blending cigars that appealed both to the novices and connoisseurs.
The success story of Aging Room did not just stop with the Quattro F55. Over the years, the brand has consistently featured in Cigar Aficionado’s prestigious rankings, with several of its blends achieving 90+ ratings. Among these, the Aging Room Bin No. 1 stands out. Utilizing tobaccos aged since the late 1990s, this blend offers a deep, rich palate of flavors, showcasing the brand's commitment to complexity and maturity in its cigars.
The Craft Behind the Brand
Central to the philosophy of Aging Room is the belief in the art of aging and blending. Rafael Nodal’s approach is akin to that of a meticulous composer, carefully selecting each leaf like a note to create a harmonious symphony of flavors. This meticulous attention to detail is evident in every cigar that comes out of Aging Room’s production facilities.
The production process of Aging Room cigars is steeped in tradition yet embraces modern innovations. Collaborating with prominent figures such as Jochy Blanco and A.J. Fernandez, Nodal ensures that each cigar is not only a reflection of his vision but also a product of collective expertise from some of the industry's best.
Aging Room Today
Under the distribution umbrella of Altadis U.S.A. Inc., Aging Room has managed to expand its reach while maintaining its boutique allure. Each new release from Aging Room is an event anticipated by the cigar community, eager to experience the latest innovation from Rafael Nodal’s team.
A recent notable addition to the Aging Room family is the Havao Connecticut, a blend that contrasts with the brand's usual full-bodied profile by offering a lighter, more accessible option for those seeking refinement without overwhelming strength. Meanwhile, the Aging Room Maduro presents a bolder option, layered with rich, dark flavors that cater to a more seasoned palate.
Aging Rooming Cigars
Aging Room Bin No2 - This blend boasts a unique and complex character, crafted with tobaccos sourced from several distinct regions of Nicaragua. The result is a full-bodied experience with layers of spice, earth, and a subtle sweetness, encapsulating the essence of Nicaraguan richness in every puff.
Aging Room Core Connecticut - Designed for those who prefer a milder smoking experience without sacrificing depth, this cigar features a creamy Connecticut wrapper. It offers a smooth and balanced profile with notes of wood, cream, and a hint of spice, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely morning smoke.
Aging Room Core By Rafael Nodal - Reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship of Rafael Nodal, this core line represents the essence of Aging Room. It provides a harmonious blend of flavors, with a medium to full body that delivers nuances of coffee, nuts, and a rich, spicy finish.
Aging Room Core Habano - Encased in a robust Habano wrapper, this cigar is all about bold flavors. Expect a full-bodied smoke that delivers a complex array of peppery spice, leather, and earthy undertones, appealing to those who seek a more intense smoking experience.
Aging Room Core Maduro - This cigar is a celebration of the Maduro wrapper, known for its richness and depth. It offers a potent, full-bodied experience with flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and a hint of sweetness, ideal for the seasoned smoker looking for a robust profile.
Aging Room Pura Cepa - Made entirely from Nicaraguan tobaccos, this blend is a testament to the purity and quality of Nicaraguan soil. The Pura Cepa delivers a potent, full-bodied experience with vibrant notes of pepper, earth, and dark fruits, showcasing the best of Nicaraguan terroir.
Aging Room Quattro Connecticut - A smooth, mild to medium-bodied cigar wrapped in a Connecticut shade leaf that delivers creamy textures with hints of nuts and a subtle sweetness. It's a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate a gentler yet flavorful smoke.
Aging Room Quattro F55 Maduro - This cigar features a rich Maduro wrapper and a complex blend that scored highly among critics. It offers a robust palette of coffee, dark chocolate, and spice, making it a favorite for aficionados seeking depth and intensity.
Aging Room Quattro Maduro - Known for its deep, resonant Maduro flavors, this cigar delivers a full-bodied experience with notes of espresso, leather, and a spicy-sweet finish. It's a well-balanced yet potent choice for seasoned smokers.
Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua - A pure Nicaraguan puro, this cigar provides a powerful, full-bodied smoke with vibrant notes of pepper, earth, and a creamy complexity thanks to its all-Nicaraguan tobacco blend. It's a standout choice for those who love intense, rich cigars.
Aging Room Quattro Original - Previously known as the F55, this cigar's complex profile of coffee, dried fruits, and spice earned it top marks. Wrapped in a Sumatra leaf, it is a full-bodied cigar that delivers a sophisticated, layered smoking experience.
Aging Room Rare Collection - Crafted with rare tobaccos selected by Rafael Nodal, this limited edition offers a unique, medium to full-bodied experience. Its rich flavor profile includes nuanced notes of fruit, spice, and floral essence, appealing to connoisseurs seeking exclusivity and complexity.
Aging Room Small Batch Pelo De Oro Scherzo - This limited edition cigar is made with the rare Pelo de Oro tobacco, known for its robust and intense flavors. Expect a full-bodied smoke that brings forth bold notes of spice, cocoa, and natural tobacco sweetness.
Aging Room Solera - Inspired by the Solera method used in making wines and spirits, this blend features tobaccos aged together from different years. It provides a medium-bodied smoke with a harmonious blend of sweetness and spice, resulting in a vibrant and dynamic flavor profile.
Solera Fanfare Maduro By Aging Room - This version of the Solera uses a Maduro wrapper to enhance the richness of the blend. It delivers a full-bodied, complex experience with deep flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and hints of sweetness, perfect for those who enjoy a robust, flavorful smoke.
The Legacy and Future
Rafael Nodal’s legacy is one of relentless innovation and a profound respect for the craft of cigar making. His work with Aging Room not only elevates the smoking experience but also pushes the boundaries of what is expected in a premium cigar. With each blend, Nodal invites aficionados to partake in a sensory journey, one that is meticulously crafted and richly rewarding.
As Aging Room continues to evolve, its commitment to quality and complexity remains unchanged. For those who appreciate the artistry of a finely crafted cigar, Aging Room offers not just a smoke, but an experience—a testament to Rafael Nodal’s vision and the vibrant legacy of Boutique Blends. Whether you are a seasoned smoker or a newcomer eager to explore the depths of tobacco’s potential, Aging Room has a blend to enrich your palate and elevate your cigar smoking journey.
