The Foundation Menelik was an event-only cigar. Then they became limited production. However that production was missing a size that I always thought would be perfect for the cigar. A Corona Gorda. Small Batch Cigar made that size a reality with this Exclusive cigar made specifically for California retailer Maxamar, the parent company of Small Batch.
As far as the name, Menelik was believed to be the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheeba. The name translates to Son of the Wise Man.
Cigar Review: Foundation Menelik
Size: 5 5/8 x 46 (Corona Gorda)
Wrapper: Mexican San Andres
Binder: Nicaragua Corojo ’99 (Jalapa)
Fillers: Nicaragua (Condega, Esteli, Jalapa)
Factory: Agricola Ganadera Nortena S.A.
Release Date: April 2017 (This Release: 9/2024)
Box Count: 12
The Cigar: The Menelik features a Maltese Cross that serves as the logo. The same cross now serves as the logo for the rebranded Wise Man Maduro & Wise Man Corojo. Often synonymous with the Fire Department the Maltese Cross is a symbol of protection and a badge of honor. The San Andres wrapper is toothy with not many oils present. The cap of the cigar has a firm pigtail and tlooks like it has an abundance of pectin to hold it in place. In the hand the cigar is firm with no voids of tobacco and is a bit light in weight.
The Notes: The cold draw serves up an abundance of leather with a subtle mocha while the aroma from the wrapper and foot is slightly floral and earthy. On the initial light there is a subtle sweetness with a touch of spice.
Smoking the first third of the Menelik Corona Gorda there are notes of cocoa and nuts which dominate the palate. The cigar produces a hefty amount of smoke in resting position which has a nice amount of pepper to it. That pepper is also evident on the retrohale which has a lingering charred wood component on the somewhat lengthy finish.
Moving into the second third the cigar takes on more of a mocha flavor profile with some roasted nuts. As we cross over the half way points notes of roasted peppers emerge with and an earthy finish. The finish has a touch of sweetness to it with a hint of anise while the retrohale still serves up pepper with a lingering sweetness.
The last third of the Menelik Corona Gorda continues to be outstanding with a subtle earthy base coat that sees hints of nuts, berries and mocha. The finish of the cigar is woodsy and smooth. The balance is among the best I have experienced in a cigar and I do not want to put this down. The retrohale sees some white pepper and leather with a subtle vanilla undertone.
Conclusion: My only knock on the Menelik Corona Gorda is that it is a limited edition. But you can get them over at Small Batch Cigar where they are exclusive to them. Use the coupon code BARRELBURNER (you must be logged into their site for it to work) and save 10% on your entire purchase. These 12 count boxes are worthy of a box purchase. With nice flavor transitions throughout the cigar delivers an experience that stands out amongst the Foundation Cigar Company portfolio.
Score: 94
Price: $15.00
