2024 New Cigar of the Year

As I reflect on the past year's cigar experiences, one smoke stands tall as my 2024 New Cigar of the Year: The Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust, Sin Compromiso Seleccion No. 4. With its masterful blend and impeccable construction, this cigar has left an indelible mark on my palate. In this review, I'll delve into the details of what makes this cigar truly exceptional.

The Sin Compromiso line was released in 2019 and surprisingly, a robusto was not included in the initial release. The lineup was completed when Steve Saka, master blender and owner of Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust, finalized the blend for this vitola. The Seleccion No. 4 is a 5 x 54 soft pressed prensado adorned with the brand's distinctive Spanish sleeve. 

I've long been enamored with the Sin Compromiso brand. My absolute favorite is the crown jewel of the line, the Paladin de Saka, a 7 x 52 firm pressed prensado. With all its nuances and complexities, the Sin Compromiso brand demand a leisurely pace to fully appreciate their subtleties. When this new size was announced, I couldn't wait to get one into my humidor.

The Specifics

Wrapper: “Cultivo Tonto" San Andreas Negro

Binder: Ecuador Habano “Thin Ligero”

Filler: Independent Plantation Grown Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium 

Origin: Nicaragua 

Factory: Fabrica de Tabacos Joya de Nicaragua S.A.

The Experience 

As I toast the well packed foot of the cigar with a soft flame, an aroma of fresh brownies, coming out of the oven, fill the air.

As the first third begins, cocoa and coffee are the main notes with hints of pepper and citrus. The retro-hale has a nice level of spice without being too overpowering. The finish is long, sweet and smooth. In short, a balanced smoking experience to start. 

As it transitions to the second third, the cocoa and coffee are joined by notes of cedar. The pepper recedes into the background allowing a caramel sweetness to come to the forefront. There is just enough white pepper spice on the retro-hale to keep things interesting. The burn line is sharp and the aroma is enveloping. Midway through the second, smooth and balanced is the best descriptor.

As the cigar heads into the final third, espresso, baking spice and a tobacco sweetness are the core notes. As the cocoa flavor recedes, a touch of earthiness enters and lingers on the palate. The incredible smoothness of the experience highlights the cigars elegance. 

The Conclusion

This blend is well balanced and smooth. It is bold and spicy yet approachable. The construction is masterful which leads to a straight burn line and excellent draw with copious amounts of aromatic smoke. This is definitely a box worthy purchase. When you don’t have time to enjoy a Paladin de Saka, the Seleccion No. 4 is a great alternative and that is why it is my 2024 Cigar of the Year. 

Total Smoking Time: 1:25