Illusione Epernay Le Elegance Cigar – Box of 25

The Illusione Epernay Le Elegance Cigar features a 5 3/4 x 40 box-pressed format with an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. This Nicaraguan puro combines Corojo ’99 Rosado wrapper and Corojo/Criollo filler tobaccos aged at Raices Cubanas factory. Its construction includes a smooth, slightly veined wrapper with minimal oil content.

Blend Composition

Developed by Dion Giolito, the Illusione Epernay Le Elegance uses Nicaraguan filler tobaccos and a shade-grown Corojo ’99 Rosado wrapper. The blend incorporates Criollo leaf from Jalapa Valley farms, fermented for 12-18 months. Production occurs at Raices Cubanas factory, recognized for traditional Cuban-style rolling techniques.

Flavor Profile

• Creamy opening notes with cedar undertones
• Mid-section reveals almond and citrus elements
• Subtle sweetness from aged Criollo tobaccos
• Mild earthy tones from Nicaraguan fillers

Performance Characteristics

The Epernay Le Elegance maintains consistent combustion with medium-bodied smoke output. Draw resistance measures 3-4 on the Vega scale, requiring 1-2 relights per 90-minute smoking session. Ash retention averages 1.5 inches before dropping.

Industry Recognition

This cigar ranked #3 in Cigar Aficionado’s 2011 Top 25 list. Judges noted its balanced nicotine strength (4.2% by weight) and absence of harshness in final thirds.