Ashton Symmetry — Heritage & History

Ashton Symmetry emerged from a rare collaboration between two of the Dominican Republic's most storied cigar families: the Fuentes and the Newmans. Introduced in 2014, it was the first cigar to be jointly produced at both Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia in Santiago and General Cigar's MATASA factory in La Romana, a feat that required harmonizing two distinct production philosophies. The blend was developed by Carlos Fuente Sr. and Robert Levin, with the goal of creating a cigar that balanced the elegance of Ashton's classic lines with a deeper, more complex profile. The name 'Symmetry' reflects the balance achieved between the Ecuadorian Habano wrapper and the aged Dominican fillers. The line quickly gained recognition for its refined character, with the Belicoso and Lancero becoming benchmarks for medium-bodied sophistication. What sets Symmetry apart is its dual-factory origin—a logistical and artistic achievement that no other brand has replicated, making it a true collector's piece.

Blending Philosophy

Ashton Symmetry's blending approach is defined by a pursuit of equilibrium through contrast. The cigars use an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper that is aged for an extended period, which imparts a smoothness that belies its depth. The fillers are a mix of Dominican and Nicaraguan long-leaf tobaccos, with the proportions adjusted per vitola to ensure a consistent medium-bodied profile across the range. The construction is meticulous, with a focus on achieving an even burn and a draw that allows the flavors to unfold gradually. The Maduro Robusto, for instance, uses a San Andres-style dark leaf that is aged longer than typical, adding a layer of sweetness that offsets the natural pepper of the blend. This attention to balance—rather than intensity—is what defines the Symmetry line, making each cigar a study in controlled complexity.

Flavor Profile

Smokers of Ashton Symmetry consistently encounter a core profile of cedar and leather, underscored by a subtle white pepper that lingers on the retrohale. The Natural Toro opens with a gentle sweetness reminiscent of dried fruit, which transitions into a creamy mid-section with notes of toasted nuts and a hint of cocoa. The Maduro Robusto, being medium-full, introduces dark cocoa and espresso, with a earthy undertone that deepens in the final third. Across the range, there is a hallmark of balance—never harsh, always refined. The Lancero amplifies the pepper and spice, while the Churchill offers a more mellow, elongated experience with increased creaminess. The Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper, used on the Petit Corona, brings a milder, slightly floral character, making it an accessible entry point. Overall, the brand's flavor spectrum is anchored in wood and spice, with variations in sweetness and body depending on the wrapper and vitola.

Best for Beginners

For those new to Ashton Symmetry, the Petit Corona is the ideal starting point. At $9–$13, it offers a low-risk introduction to the brand's character. Its mild-medium strength and shorter format (approximately 45 minutes) make it approachable, while still delivering the signature cedar and leather notes with a gentle white pepper finish. The Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper ensures a smooth, creamy smoke that won't overwhelm, making it a perfect gateway to the fuller expressions of the line.

Ashton Symmetry Cigar Lineup

Explore 12 Ashton Symmetry cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

  • Belicoso — Belicoso, Medium · $18–$23 per cigar
  • Churchill — Churchill, Medium · $18–$24 per cigar
  • Corona — Corona, Medium · $14–$18 per cigar
  • Gran Toro — Gran Toro, Medium · $20–$25 per cigar
  • Lancero — Lancero, Medium · $20–$25 per cigar
  • Lonsdale — Lonsdale, Medium · $18–$24 per cigar
  • Maduro Robusto — Robusto, Medium-Full · $14–$18 per cigar
  • Natural Toro — Toro, Mild-Medium · $18–$23 per cigar
  • Petit Corona — Petit Corona, Mild-Medium · $9–$13 per cigar
  • Robusto — Robusto, Medium · $18–$22 per cigar
  • Toro — Toro, Medium · $18–$22 per cigar
  • Torpedo — Torpedo, Medium · $18–$23 per cigar

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Ashton Symmetry cigars made?

Ashton Symmetry cigars are made in the Dominican Republic, with production split between two renowned factories: Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia in Santiago and General Cigar's MATASA facility in La Romana. This dual-origin approach is unique to the brand.

What is Ashton Symmetry known for?

Ashton Symmetry is known for being the first cigar to be jointly produced by the Fuente and Newman families, combining their respective expertise. It is also celebrated for its balanced, medium-bodied profile and its use of aged Ecuadorian Habano wrappers.

Are Ashton Symmetry cigars strong?

No, Ashton Symmetry cigars are generally medium-bodied, with the Maduro Robusto being the strongest at medium-full. The Natural Toro and Petit Corona are milder, falling into the mild-medium range.

What is the best Ashton Symmetry cigar for beginners?

The Petit Corona is the best choice for beginners due to its mild-medium strength, lower price point, and shorter smoking time. It offers a gentle introduction to the brand's flavor profile without overwhelming the palate.

How much do Ashton Symmetry cigars cost?

Prices range from $9–$13 for the Petit Corona up to $20–$25 for the Gran Toro and Lancero. Most vitolas fall in the $18–$24 range, reflecting the premium positioning of the brand.

What wrapper does Ashton Symmetry use?

Ashton Symmetry uses a variety of wrappers, including Ecuadorian Habano, Ecuadorian Sun-Grown, Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade, and a Dominican Republic Maduro that is an aged San Andres-style dark leaf. The specific wrapper varies by vitola.

Are Ashton Symmetry cigars Cuban?

No, Ashton Symmetry cigars are not Cuban. They are made entirely in the Dominican Republic, using tobaccos from various regions, including Ecuador and Nicaragua. They are not affiliated with Cuban cigar production.

Where can I buy Ashton Symmetry cigars?

Ashton Symmetry cigars are available at premium cigar retailers, both brick-and-mortar and online. Due to their limited production, they may not be in stock everywhere, so it's advisable to check with authorized Ashton dealers or reputable online shops.