Atabey
- Origin Costa Rica
- Wrapper Eciador Connecticut
- Binder Undisclosed
- Filler Undisclosed/Peruvian
- Strength Medium
Selected Tobacco is not a well known name in the cigar industry, but they have quickly gained a reputation for creating outstanding super premium cigars. The company currently offers 3 unique lines including Atabey, Byron, and Bandolero (with more on the way) all envisioned and blended by Nelson Alfonso. If you’re not familiar with his name, Alfonso was the visionary behind the Cohiba Behike and many other special edition Havanas. In 2010, he decided it was time to move on and relocated to Costa Rica. He established his own factory and launched his first blends in 2012. It took a lot of work to convince people this was not another brand with amazing packaging and mediocre cigars. Instead he has quietly and steadily built a worthy following for his brands.
Atabey is the name for the goddess of Taino Indians who lived in Cuba. The Tainos would smoke a primitive form of a cigar while praying to their goddess. That spiritual ceremony was known as the Cohiba and the tribe’s communication to Atabey was done through their spiritual guide, the Behike. All Atabey cigars are produced in limited quantities and every cigar is laid to rest for a minimum of 5 years after rolling to ensure proper combustion and exquisite character. The blend is mostly shrouded in secrecy, but we know there are Peruvian tobaccos in the filler and an Ecuadorian Shade wrapper is employed. Tasting notes include flavors of cedar, leather, and caramel with hints of plum, pepper, and salted nuts. Atabey is a masterclass in balance and quality. It’s no wonder this brand has developed such a devoted following so quickly.