Sencillo Black

Sencillo is a relatively new brand that was founded by Keith K. Park in 2010 that is known for combining quality with affordability. The Platinum line was the first from the brand, and it now has some company with the release of the Sencillo Black. Park collaborated with Nestor Plasencia Jr. on the project, who holds the title of Nicaragua's largest tobacco grower.

Park spoke of Sencillo's newest addition in the official press release: “Nestor and I had been talking about doing a project together for many years. When we decided to add a Nicaraguan blend to our brand portfolio, Nestor and I worked on the Sencillo Black blend together for over a year. The cigars were ready last year, but Nestor and I decided to age them longer to deliver a more polished and flavorful taste to our customers. I am so happy that we are finally releasing Sencillo Black.”

The cigar's filler is a blend of Nicaraguan Ligero Habano Jalapa, Honduran Ligero Habano Jamastran, and Mexican Viso San Andres tobaccos. The binder is Nicaraguan Habano Jalapa, and the wrapper is Nicaraguan Habano Colorado. The five tobaccos used to construct the Black help to give it complexity and consistency. If you have tried the Sencillo Platinum in the past, you will likely enjoy the Black, as it is said to have a similar smooth profile, but with a unique flavor. As noted in the press release, think of the Platinum as Sencillo's Cabernet, and the Black as the Pinot Noir.

The Black comes in five sizes: the 5 1/4 x 50 Robusto, 5 3/4 x 52 Double Robusto, 6 3/8 x 54 Piramide, 6 x 60 Gigante, and 6 1/2 x 48 Short Churchill. While all of the sizes are similar in terms of their smooth character, each offers something a bit different in terms of flavor. The Robusto, for instance, is the boldest of the bunch with its hints of pepper. The Double Robusto offers a classic profile consisting of tobacco and leather. The Piramide is the most unique, thanks to its notes of citrus, sugar, and vanilla. The Gigante is the thickest in the line and most imposing physically, but it's also the mildest. Finally, the Short Churchill delivers subtle sweetness reminiscent of cornbread.

As you can see, the Sencillo Black is quite varied within itself, so you may want to select a few different sizes to pick out your favorite. Supply will be limited until the Black is fully released in September. The initial limited release took place near the end of last month, when 5,000 cigars total were distributed to 15 authorized Sencillo dealers. To find the authorized dealer nearest you, visit www.sencillocigars.com/main/us-dealers.htm.