Byron

Origin Costa Rica
Wrapper Ecuador
Binder Undisclosed
Filler Undisclosed, Dominican, Peruvian
Strength Medium-Full

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.

Byron is the second line introduced by Selected Tobacco after their famed Atabey brand, and it’s no less impressive than its predecessor. The brand takes its name from the old Cuban brand Lord Byron (which was named after the world renowned poet). It’s also a special brand for ST’s Nelson Alfonso as it was his great-great-great grandfather who originally created the brand. As with Atabey the blend is mostly shrouded in secrecy. We do know that the filler contains some Dominican tobaccos, Peruvian Ligero, and an undisclosed type of tobacco, and the binder is also of undisclosed origin. The wrapper is an Ecuadorian Shade leaf that is perfectly applied. All Byron 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. Tasting notes include flavors of natural tobacco, sweet cream, and cedar along with hints of dried fruits, peanut butter, and cocoa. Byron is a fantastic follow-up to the Atabey line, and it too is a masterclass in balance and quality.