Rafael Nodal, vice president of product capability for Altadis USA, is known for his passionate approach to cigar craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from his personal journey and cultural heritage—particularly evident in the revival of the Aging Room La Bohéme cigar line. Originally debuted in 2014 as a tribute to the cigars his grandfather smoked in a small Cuban park, La Bohéme returns a decade later as part of the esteemed Aging Room brand, representing the convergence of Nodal's three passions: music, cigars, and his Cuban homeland.
The revived Aging Room La Bohéme cigar reflects a significant evolution from its Dominican predecessor. Now crafted at A.J. Fernández's renowned Nicaraguan factory—a testament to the longstanding collaboration between these two masters—the cigar features a distinctive blend of all-Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos. What truly sets this iteration apart is its unique wrapper: a first-of-its-kind hybrid of Broadleaf and Habano seed grown in Connecticut, marking an unprecedented addition to both Altadis and Nodal's portfolio, with each cigar adorned with vintage, pre-Revolution bands that pay homage to the original release.
What does the Aging Room La Bohéme cigar taste like?
The Aging Room La Bohéme cigar delivers a near-full-bodied experience, offering a sophisticated complexity that builds with each draw. The unique hybrid wrapper imparts robust notes of espresso and dark cocoa, while the Nicaraguan core contributes subtle floral nuances that dance on the palate. This harmonious blend continues with delicate hints of vanilla and toasted almond, all balanced against a backbone of earthy richness—creating what Nodal describes as "bolder flavors" that represent "a look to the future" while honoring the cigar's Cuban-inspired roots.