Olmec Maduro Grande – Cigar Aficionado #22 Cigar of the Year 2025

The Olmecs are the early Americas’ most mysterious and ancient civilizations. The Olmecs pre-date the Mayans and Aztecs and are considered the “mother culture” of Mesoamerica. They are the first to create mathematically precise pyramids, calendars, and, as far as we know, the first to smoke cigars. The Heart Land of the Olmecs is the tropical lowlands of modern-day Mexican states of Veracruz, Tabasco, and San Andrés Tuxtla. Today, this is the same region that grows some of the finest San Andrès Negro wrapper tobacco. This seed variety is considered one of the oldest seed varieties in the world.

“I have admired the Olmec civilization since I first traveled to San Andrès to purchase tobacco back in 2006. This brand is unique on every level, from the blend to the packaging, and is a great addition to our portfolio.” Foundation Master Blender Nicholas Melillo.

Olmec cigars contain the finest Nicaraguan filler tobaccos from the Esteli and Jalapa valleys. After fermentation, these filler tobaccos are bale aged for three years before arriving on the production floor. The San Andrés Negro wrapper tobacco comes from the rich volcanic soil of the land of the Olmecs. It is fermented slowly at low temperatures to preserve the natural oils that give flavor. The blend delivers a full-bodied smoking experience with rich cacao flavors, dark espresso, and spice without being too aggressive.

Brand: Foundation Cigar Co.
Strength: Medium-Full
Size: 6.0 x 60
Wrapper: Mexico

Updated by TORO on: 02-11-2026 11:12:43 AM