Gatekeeper by Alec & Bradley comes by way of second-generation cigarmakers Alec and Bradley Rubin, sons of Alec Bradley Cigar Co. owner, Alan Rubin. Following the duo's freshman release of the Bind Faith cigar in 2018, the Rubins sought to up the ante on their second go-round, partnering with the venerable Ernesto Perez-Carrillo (of La Gloria Cubana and E.P. Carrillo fame) for production.
Not only did Carrillo provide his valuable insight during the cigar's blending phases, but his own Tabacalera La Alianza S.A. factory in the Dominican Republic is handling production. This allows Gatekeeper to showcase a much different profile than that of parent company, Alec Bradley Cigar Co., offering for a peek into the unique style of Alec and Bradley Rubin.
As Ernesto Perez-Carrillo is often dubbed "the godfather of boutique cigars," he is considered somewhat of a gatekeeper to new opportunities in the premium cigar arena. Therefore Alec & Bradley's Gatekeeper was born, featuring an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and fillers of Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. The cigar is medium in body and blended for flavor first and foremost. This includes lively characteristics of brown sugar, graham cracker, caramel, zesty cabinet spices, and floral sweetness.
The Alec & Bradley Gatekeeper was awarded 7th place in Cigar Dojo’s Cigar of the Year 2019