AshMap
Overview
The Ashton Symmetry Torpedo represents a rare convergence of restraint and complexity—a cigar that rewards patience without demanding it. Introduced in 2016 as a core premium offering distinct from the storied Cabinet and VSG lines, Symmetry was conceived to bridge the gap between Ashton’s celebrated elegance and the deeper, more contemplative profiles sought by seasoned aficionados. This Torpedo vitola, measuring 6.125 inches by a 52-ring gauge, is hand-rolled at Tabacalera de García in Santiago, Dominican Republic, a facility synonymous with General Cigar’s exacting standards. Its construction marries a classic Cuban-style tapered head with a box-pressed body, a duality that speaks to both tradition and innovation. The wrapper is an Ecuadorian Habano of Colorado shade—a medium-brown leaf with a warm reddish hue, silky to the touch and faintly oily, suggesting the careful aging that defines this blend. Beneath it lies a Dominican binder and a filler composed of Dominican long-fillers sourced primarily from the Cibao Valley, all aged a minimum of three years before rolling, with additional rest in box form post-production. This patient methodology yields a cigar that is medium in strength—a deliberate 3 out of 5—yet rich in layered expression. From the first light, the Symmetry Torpedo unfolds with refined elegance: creamy cedar and toasted almond lead, punctuated by a subtle white pepper on the retrohale and a light sweetness reminiscent of raw cashew and baking spice. It is a profile that invites rather than confronts. As the smoke progresses, the narrative deepens. The second third introduces dark roasted coffee, milk chocolate, and a distinct leather note, while the cedar matures from raw to a dried, aged character. Earthiness grounds the complexity without overwhelming, and the draw remains generous, producing a creamy smoke that carries the sweetness forward. In the final third, the intensity concentrates into espresso, dark cocoa, and dried fruit—subtle raisin or fig undertones emerge as the combustion temperature rises. The pepper from the retrohale reasserts itself cleanly, and the finish lingers with cedar and mocha, never straying from the medium-strength axis that defines the smoke. This is a cigar that understands balance as an art form. Aficionados who dismiss Ashton’s offerings as too mild risk overlooking the nuance that Carlos Fuente Sr.’s leaf selection brings to this blend. The Torpedo vitola is the sweet spot of the Symmetry line—the tapered head adds complexity to an already sophisticated draw, while the box-pressed body ensures a consistent, unhurried burn. It stands as one of the more underappreciated achievements in Dominican production, a cigar for those who value refinement over raw power, and a testament to the notion that subtlety, when executed with precision, can be as arresting as any bold statement.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Ecuadorian Habano — Colorado |
|---|---|
| Binder | Dominican Republic |
| Filler | Dominican Republic aged long-fillers, primarily from the Cibao Valley |
| Country of Origin | Santiago, Dominican Republic — Tabacalera de García (General Cigar facilities) |
| Vitola / Shape | Torpedo |
| Size | 6.125 x 52 |
| Strength | Medium |
| Price | $18–$23 per cigar |
| Tier | Premium |
| Aging | Tobaccos aged a minimum of three years before rolling; boxes are given additional aging time post-rolling before release |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The Symmetry Torpedo opens with a refined elegance — creamy cedar and toasted almond lead, backed by a subtle white pepper on the retrohale. There is a light sweetness, reminiscent of raw cashew and baking spice, that integrates beautifully with the Ecuadorian wrapper's contribution.
Second Third
The midpoint sees the profile deepen considerably. Dark roasted coffee, milk chocolate, and a distinct leather note emerge, while the cedar transitions from raw to more of a dried, aged character. Earthiness rounds out the complexity without dominating, and the draw produces a generous creamy smoke that carries the sweetness forward.
Final Third
The final third brings a satisfying concentration of espresso, dark cocoa, and dried fruit — subtle raisin or fig undertones surface as combustion temperature climbs. The pepper from the retrohale reasserts itself cleanly, and the finish is long with lingering cedar and mocha. Strength remains squarely medium throughout — never aggressive, never flat.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is exemplary — the Symmetry line is known for its near-flawless draw and an even, slow burn that produces a firm, light-grey ash holding reliably for an inch or more. The torpedo head requires a precise cut but rewards with an exceptionally consistent draw from first to last puff.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Aged Dominican or Barbadian rum — Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva or Mount Gay XO complement the chocolate and almond notes without overpowering; a well-balanced single malt Speyside Scotch such as Glenfarclas 15 also pairs superbly
Wine
Rioja Reserva — the oak-driven vanilla and red fruit of a Tempranillo-based Rioja mirrors the cedar sweetness and leather in the cigar's midpoint; alternatively a Côtes du Rhône Grenache blend
Non-Alcoholic
A medium-roast Colombian pour-over or a latte — the milk fat in coffee amplifies the creamy cedar and cocoa notes; a Ceylon black tea with a splash of whole milk also works beautifully
Who Should Smoke This?
This cigar is for the aficionado who has graduated from seeking strength and now craves nuance. The Symmetry Torpedo suits the experienced smoker who appreciates a medium-bodied profile with layered complexity—someone who can discern the transition from creamy cedar to dark cocoa without needing a punch of nicotine to stay engaged. It is equally appropriate for the dedicated enthusiast looking to introduce a discerning newcomer to premium cigars, as its refined character offers accessibility without sacrificing depth. Occasion-wise, it fits an unhurried afternoon or evening session of 60 to 75 minutes—special enough for a celebratory moment, yet approachable enough for a thoughtful weekday indulgence when you want something above everyday fare. Pair it with a contemplative spirit or a quiet conversation; this is not a cigar for distraction.
Bottom Line
The Ashton Symmetry Torpedo is a masterclass in balance—medium in strength but deep in character, it rewards the patient smoker with a symphony of cedar, cocoa, and dried fruit. If you seek refinement over brute force, this is your cigar. One of the most underappreciated lines in Dominican production, and the Torpedo is its definitive expression.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Ashton Symmetry cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ashton Symmetry Torpedo a strong cigar?
No. The Ashton Symmetry Torpedo is classified as medium in strength, rated 3 out of 5. It delivers a balanced, refined profile that never becomes aggressive or overpowering, making it suitable for both experienced aficionados and those who prefer a more moderate nicotine experience.
What does Ashton Symmetry Torpedo taste like?
The flavor profile evolves across three distinct thirds. It opens with creamy cedar, toasted almond, and a subtle white pepper on the retrohale, accompanied by a light sweetness of raw cashew and baking spice. The second third deepens into dark roasted coffee, milk chocolate, and leather, with aged cedar and earthiness. The final third concentrates into espresso, dark cocoa, and dried fruit notes like raisin or fig, finishing with lingering cedar and mocha.
How long does Ashton Symmetry Torpedo take to smoke?
Expect a smoking time of 60 to 75 minutes. The torpedo head demands a precise cut, but the construction rewards with an even, slow burn and a consistent draw from first to last puff.
What is the best pairing for Ashton Symmetry Torpedo?
For spirits, an aged Dominican or Barbadian rum such as Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva or Mount Gay XO complements the chocolate and almond notes. A well-balanced Speyside single malt Scotch like Glenfarclas 15 also pairs superbly. For wine, a Rioja Reserva mirrors the cedar sweetness and leather, while a Côtes du Rhône Grenache blend works well. Non-alcoholic options include a medium-roast Colombian pour-over, a latte, or a Ceylon black tea with a splash of whole milk.
Is Ashton Symmetry Torpedo good for beginners?
Yes, with proper guidance. Its medium strength and refined, non-aggressive flavor profile make it accessible for a discerning newcomer who is ready to explore complexity beyond standard offerings. However, its price point ($18–$23) and 60–75 minute smoking time mean it is best approached as a special session rather than an everyday smoke for beginners.
Where can I buy Ashton Symmetry Torpedo?
Ashton Symmetry Torpedo is available at premium cigar retailers, both brick-and-mortar and online. Due to its premium tier and limited production, it is recommended to check with authorized Ashton dealers or specialty cigar shops that carry General Cigar products.
What is the price of Ashton Symmetry Torpedo?
The price typically ranges from $18 to $23 per cigar, placing it in the premium tier. Prices may vary by retailer, location, and applicable taxes.
Is Ashton Symmetry Torpedo worth aging?
Yes. The tobaccos in the Symmetry blend are aged a minimum of three years before rolling, and boxes receive additional rest post-rolling before release. Further aging in a properly maintained humidor can continue to marry the flavors, softening any remaining edges and deepening the dried fruit and cocoa notes. It is a cigar that rewards patience but is also enjoyable upon purchase.
What wrapper does Ashton Symmetry Torpedo use?
The wrapper is an Ecuadorian Habano leaf in the Colorado shade. It presents a medium-brown color with a warm reddish hue, a silky texture, and a slightly oily surface, contributing to the cigar's refined sweetness and subtle pepper notes.
Where is Ashton Symmetry Torpedo made?
It is hand-rolled at Tabacalera de García in Santiago, Dominican Republic, the General Cigar facility known for its premium production standards. The filler tobaccos are sourced primarily from the Cibao Valley in the Dominican Republic.