Foundation Cigars

Foundation Cigars operates from Nicaragua using tobaccos from prime growing regions. The brand produces over ten hand-rolled lines developed through multi-year blending processes. Their portfolio includes Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro, Corojo, and San Andrés Maduro wrappers paired with Nicaraguan fillers.

Production Details

Established in 2015 by Nicholas Melillo (former production lead at Drew Estate), the company debuted with El Güegüense - a Nicaraguan puro featuring Criollo and Corojo tobaccos. This release earned a 2016 Cigar Aficionado Top 25 designation.

Notable Blends

  • Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Toro: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper with Nicaraguan fillers. Flavor components include mineral-rich soil tones and caramelized sugars.
  • Highclere Castle Victorian Robusto: Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper with aged Nicaraguan tobaccos. Exhibits baking spice and oak characteristics.
  • The Wise Man Robusto: Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper over Nicaraguan Corojo/Criollo fillers. Combines dark fruit sweetness with black pepper spice.
  • The Tabernacle Broadleaf Torpedo: Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper with Ligero-heavy Nicaraguan filler. Delivers espresso and charred wood notes.

Construction Characteristics

All lines feature triple-seam caps and uniform bunching for consistent airflow. Primary binders include Nicaraguan Habano and Indonesian Sumatra varieties. Aging processes range from 2-5 years across different blends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What defines Foundation's blending?

Nick Melillo's Connecticut-rooted expertise: The Tabernacle uses rare Corojo 99 wrapper, El Güegüense features Estelí Jalapa fillers.

Can I get The Tabernacle in UK?

Yes, Broadleaf and Maduro lines ship MHRA-compliant from London with humidity packs for British climate.

What makes Highclere Castle special?

English estate-grown wrapper concept - uses Ecuadorian Habano hybrid aged in Scotch barrels, honoring Carnarvon family tradition.

How are cigars shipped to Australia?

From Sydney in climate-controlled packaging with plain compliance, using volcanic soil in shipping boxes to maintain terroir essence.

What's unique about Olmec?

Mexican San Andres wrapper fermented 24 months - creates maduro notes of dark cocoa and espresso without added sweeteners.

How to authenticate?

Verify laser-etched foot bands, box codes matching Foundation database, and triple-sealed packaging with UV security features.