Gurkha Year of The Dragon | By Oliva Figurado 6 | Box of 10

When Gurka Cigar Group announced a limited release of its Year of the Dragon smoke at the end of 2023, all 1500 boxes were sold out almost instantly. A special edition product sealed tightly in a beautiful, piano red box and adorned with a golden, etched dragon appeared to be the start and the finish of a unique cigar that was crafted in the Dominican Republic by the wildly popular El Artista. According to Chinese Culture, those who are born in the year of dragon possess many positive personality traits. These include, intelligent, charismatic and confident with high standards and tendencies to excel in everything they do. True to their ambitious nature, little did we know that this first offering was just the tip of the iceberg. Before long, Gurkha made it known that the Year of the Dragon would be celebrated throughout 2024 with releases not just in partnership with El Artista, but alongside more of the most revered names in the business. A first-of-its-kind production, the Year of the Dragon showcased the finest artistry, branding, design and tobacco in the business, along with the depth of love and camaraderie that comes with supposed rivals or competitors coming together to make something truly special. The result, as Gurkha announced, was five cigars in total, the first of which were collaborations with cigar industry giant AJ Fernandez and the next with the legendary E.P. Carrillo team. Smokes made by Oliva and Oscar Valladares, each receiving its own limited-edition run and its own distinct, bold box color, followed suit.The Year of the Dragon universe encompasses many different flavor profiles, strengths and countries from which to source some perfectly aged and cured tobacco. The Fernandez, for instance, is an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper surrounding a 100% Nicaraguan binder and filler, producing a medium to full bodied smoke that produces a distinct spiciness and earthiness. While the Ernesto Pérez-Carrillo blend utilizes a Mexican San Andres wrapper, Ecuadorian Connecticut binder and filler from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. Still medium to full bodied, the Carrillo is a bit darker in complexion, a stormier mixture that also produces some surprising floral notes. True aficionados should shop online for the JR collection of Gurkha Year of the Dragon knowing full well that something like this may never come around again. Each line is limited edition. Each line comes with its own unique backstory and blend. Each line comes regally pressed and boxed in its own special color, which will serve as a collector’s item for years to come. The Year of the Dragon only comes around once every 12 years in China. But at JR Cigar, you should treat it like a once in a lifetime experience.