• One of the most consistently satisfying hand rolled cigars in the world, the mild to medium body of Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva cigars boasts a nutty core and subtle hints of spice, while the Cameroon wrapper provides a smooth smoke all the way through.
• 5 x 38
• Petit Corona
• Dominican
• Box of 25 Cigars

The Arturo Fuente Cigar Company is an absolute icon in the world of fine tobacco. With over a hundred years of experience, the Fuente family has mastered the art of cigar making and their flagship series Gran Reserva is proof. The Gran Reserva is made entirely by hand in the Tabacalera Fuente. The Dominican tobaccos used are specially-selected, private family reserve tobaccos from the farm at Chateau de la Fuente.

A blend of rich Dominican long leaf filler and binder are hand rolled in a genuine African Cameroon wrapper leaf. The cigars are then aged in Spanish cedar vaults to bring about the Fuente’s signature “marriage of flavors.”

The mild to medium bodied stick is smooth, with a peppery spice offered by the Cameroon wrapper. Floral notes, and a touch of sweetness, reach the palate but never overpowers it.

The Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva Natural is a great smoke for any time of the day or any momentous  occasion. Gran Reserva is mild enough to be enjoyed in the morning and, certainly, bold enough for after dinner. A medium-bodied red wine would make a wonderful pairing with the Gran Reserva.

A California Pinot Noir from Sonoma or Napa Valley is great choice. While on a wine tour through these grape growing regions, I explored many varieties and vintages at several wineries. One in particular, V. Sattuie in St. Helena, Napa has old-world Italian charm with more than 60 types of wines. The beautiful grounds are perfect for picnics. V.Sattui offers wine and barrel tasting tours along with food pairings and a deli for fresh food and cheese to take to the picnic grounds. Their 2013 Reserve Stock Pinot Noir is fruity, with plum and dark cherry flavors, and has an earthy complexity. The winery paired this beauty with a handmade Chevre from Harley Farms Goat Dairy. At home, the Pinot Noir and the Gran Reserva Petit Corona made an ingenious pairing.

“Autumn is the second spring … when every leaf is a flower.” – Albert Camus