AshMap
Overview
The Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo stands as a compelling argument for the proposition that exceptional craftsmanship need not command an exceptional price. Released in 2019 as a dedicated showcase for Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, this line from the prodigious A.J. Fernandez operation in Estelí, Nicaragua, distills the essence of maduro complexity into a format that respects both the leaf and the smoker’s time. At 6 x 52, the torpedo vitola is a deliberate choice: the tapered cap concentrates the initial volley of flavor with precision, while the belicoso profile allows the blend to evolve through a measured, unhurried burn. The wrapper itself is a study in contrasts — a deep, almost black maduro, slightly toothy with a restrained oily sheen, it signals the richness within without the ostentation of a high-gloss finish. Beneath it, a Honduran binder cradles a core of Nicaraguan and Honduran long-fillers, aged under the watchful eye of a team that has helped define modern Nicaraguan cigar making. The result is a smoke that occupies a sweet spot in the premium tier: accessible enough for the curious enthusiast, yet layered enough to reward the seasoned palate. From the first third’s dark chocolate, espresso, and wet earth — punctuated by the characteristic molasses-and-dried-fig sweetness of Connecticut Broadleaf — to a second third where leather, roasted coffee, and a deepening cocoa bitterness allow the earthy Nicaraguan tobacco to assert its voice, the blend remains in constant, engaging dialogue. The final third builds with charred oak, dark espresso, and black pepper, finishing long and rich without a trace of harshness. Throughout, the construction is exemplary for a cigar in this price bracket: a clean-cut torpedo cap yields a slightly restricted, highly flavorful draw; the burn line holds steady; ash forms dense grey columns lasting over an inch; and the smoke pours cool and generous. In a landscape where Broadleaf maduro offerings often command $15 or more, the Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo quietly redefines the value benchmark — a testament to Fernandez’s ability to marry wrapper sweetness with complex filler integration at an accessible price point.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro — Maduro |
|---|---|
| Binder | Honduran |
| Filler | Nicaraguan and Honduran long-fillers, aged tobaccos selected by A.J. Fernandez's team |
| Country of Origin | Estelí, Nicaragua |
| Vitola / Shape | Torpedo |
| Size | 6 x 52 |
| Strength | Medium-Full |
| Price | $10–$14 per cigar |
| Tier | Premium |
| Aging | Tobaccos aged prior to rolling; no extended post-roll aging program publicly disclosed |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The torpedo cut opens with a rich wave of dark chocolate, espresso, and wet earth. A pronounced sweetness characteristic of Connecticut Broadleaf emerges early — think dark molasses and dried fig. Cedar and a hint of black pepper on the retrohale give structure to the sweetness.
Second Third
The mid-section transitions toward leather, roasted coffee bean, and a deepening cocoa bitterness. The sweetness from the wrapper tempers slightly as earthy Nicaraguan tobacco asserts itself. Subtle notes of dried fruit — raisin and date — linger in the finish.
Final Third
The final third builds body and depth, introducing notes of charred oak, dark espresso, and black pepper. The burn remains controlled and the sweetness resurfaces in the retrohale as a faint caramel. The finish is long, rich, and satisfying without harshness.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is excellent for the price point — the torpedo cap cuts cleanly, offering a slightly restricted yet highly flavorful draw. The burn line is even, ash holds firm in dense grey columns for 1 to 1.5 inches, and the smoke output is generous and cool.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Aged rum — particularly a Nicaraguan or Barbadian expression such as Ron Abuelo 12 Años or Mount Gay XO; alternatively a wheated bourbon like W.L. Weller 12
Wine
Zinfandel or a robust Malbec from Mendoza — the dark fruit and spice complement the wrapper's molasses sweetness
Non-Alcoholic
A double shot Americano or a cold brew concentrate — the coffee notes in the cigar harmonize and amplify the roast profile
Who Should Smoke This?
This cigar is built for the mid-level aficionado who wants to understand why Connecticut Broadleaf maduro commands such reverence, without exceeding a $15 ceiling. It rewards the smoker who appreciates flavor layers — dark chocolate, espresso, molasses, leather — over sheer nicotine force. The 60-to-75-minute smoke fits an unhurried afternoon or early evening, making it ideal for a contemplative break or a relaxed conversation. It is not a beginner’s cigar in the sense of mildness, but a capable novice with patience for medium-full body will find it an excellent education in balance. Experienced smokers will recognize the deft blending and construction that mark a true value proposition.
Bottom Line
The Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo delivers one of the strongest value propositions in the Broadleaf maduro category — a rich, complex, and impeccably constructed cigar that never breaks the $15 mark. It is the definitive introduction to Connecticut Broadleaf sweetness for the thinking smoker, and a quiet masterpiece of accessible luxury from A.J. Fernandez.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Enclave Broadleaf cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo a strong cigar?
It is rated medium-full (4/5), offering a satisfying body and flavor depth without overwhelming the palate. The strength builds gradually through the final third but remains balanced, never crossing into harshness.
What does Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo taste like?
The profile opens with dark chocolate, espresso, wet earth, and distinct Connecticut Broadleaf sweetness — dark molasses and dried fig. The middle third brings leather, roasted coffee, and cocoa bitterness, with raisin and date notes. The final third introduces charred oak, dark espresso, and black pepper, with a faint caramel sweetness on the retrohale.
How long does Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo take to smoke?
Expect a smoking time of 60 to 75 minutes, depending on your pace. The torpedo format and excellent construction allow for a slow, even burn.
What is the best pairing for Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo?
Aged rum — particularly Nicaraguan or Barbadian expressions like Ron Abuelo 12 Años or Mount Gay XO — is an ideal match. Wheated bourbon (W.L. Weller 12) also works beautifully. For wine, choose Zinfandel or a robust Malbec. A double-shot Americano or cold brew concentrate is an excellent non-alcoholic pairing.
Is Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo good for beginners?
It is medium-full in strength and flavor, so a novice smoker should approach with some experience. However, a patient beginner who wants to explore the Broadleaf maduro category will find it a rewarding and educational smoke.
Where can I buy Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo?
It is available through most major online cigar retailers and select brick-and-mortar shops. Given its popularity, purchasing by the box (20 cigars) is common for dedicated enthusiasts.
What is the price of Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo?
The suggested retail price ranges from $10 to $14 per cigar, placing it firmly in the accessible premium tier.
Is Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo worth aging?
The tobaccos are aged prior to rolling, and the blend is well-balanced fresh. No extended post-roll aging program is publicly disclosed. Smoking within two years is recommended to capture the wrapper’s sweet character and the fillers’ lively complexity.
What wrapper does Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo use?
It uses a Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper, deep dark brown verging on black, slightly toothy with a restrained oily sheen.
Where is Enclave Broadleaf Torpedo made?
It is hand-rolled in Estelí, Nicaragua, at A.J. Fernandez's own production facilities.