Cigar Review: AJ Fernandez 20th Anniversary
Introduction
The AJ Fernandez 20th Anniversary cigar isn’t just a milestone—it’s a statement. Released to celebrate two decades of AJ’s work in the cigar industry, this limited-edition Nicaraguan puro pulls from his finest estate-grown tobaccos, presented in an immaculate black piano-gloss box and wrapped under a cedar sleeve. The 6 × 56 toro is a commanding vitola, rolled by AJ’s most skilled torcedores. Even before the first draw, it looks and feels like a cigar worthy of the anniversary it honors.
Tonight marks my third experience with this blend, and my expectations are high. The first time was unforgettable, the second proved it wasn’t a fluke, and now I’m here to see if the 20th can go three for three.
Pre-Light Impressions
Visually, the cigar is stunning. The oily, nearly black wrapper shows a lively mix of smooth and toothy texture. The cedar sleeve not only heightens presentation but leaves behind a faint, lingering aroma that blends beautifully with the barnyard, leather, and aged wood notes on the wrapper. The foot offers a touch of ripe fruit—somewhere between prune and plum—alongside baking spice leaning toward nutmeg.
A straight cut revealed a smooth cold draw with just the right amount of resistance. Subtle sweetness came through with traces of nutmeg and earth, hinting at complexity before the flame.
First Third
From the first light, the cigar makes its presence known. The room note surprises with a wave of fresh-baked brownies. In the mouth, thick, luxurious smoke carries flavors of chocolate cake, dark spice (somewhere in the star anise/allspice family), and a bready richness. The retrohale is an absolute blast—pepper hitting like a fire hydrant burst, a stark contrast to the smooth chocolate on the palate.
Construction is flawless: razor-sharp burn, firm white ash, and smoke output that’s among the most voluminous I’ve ever experienced. Even early on, the 20th Anniversary shows itself to be a full-bodied powerhouse, yet with an undercurrent of sweetness that makes its strength feel inviting rather than abrasive.
Second Third
A sudden transition shifts the profile from bold luxury to refined restraint. The pepper on the retro eases off, and the body leans into dark roast coffee, cedar, and a touch of bitterness. The smoke lightens slightly, and sweetness retreats to the background, giving this stage a more serious, grounded tone.
This middle act feels contemplative, almost like a calm stretch after a thrilling ride—steady currents replacing crashing waves. Yet the flavors remain dynamic, with occasional returns of the mid-palate sweetness and spice. The bands come off easily, revealing the inside of the main band stamped with what appears to be AJ’s own autograph—a fitting personal touch.
Final Third
The transition into the last third sees espresso deepness, joined by woody notes that lean toward oak or walnut. A fleeting syrupy aftertaste—maybe hazelnut—offers a soft counterpoint before fading. The retrohale sends short bursts of spice rather than a sustained blast, while the strength quietly mounts, eventually bringing a numbing sensation to the palate, no doubt an indication of the nicotine strength in this smoke.
By the end, the cigar is all dark character—espresso, wood, and a lingering bitterness—holding its structure and poise even as the flavors narrow and abandon its sweet tones. It feels like a life lived in three stages: vibrant and fearless in youth, confident and balanced in middle age, and dignified in maturity. The sweetness of early days may be faint now, but the character remains the same.
Conclusion
The AJ Fernandez 20th Anniversary is more than just a commemorative blend—it’s a masterclass in construction, flavor progression, and power. Few cigars demand your full attention like this one; it’s not for multitasking, and it rewards being smoked with full presence (and a full stomach). From its decadent opening to its refined middle and commanding finish, it delivers a complete, intentional journey.
It’s a shame this was a one-time production, because every time I’ve smoked it, it has met or exceeded expectations. AJ knocked this one out of the park. If you can find it, savor it—you may not get many more chances.
The Retrohale Score: A (93)
A commanding, full-bodied anniversary cigar that balances power with refinement. Its bold, chocolate-rich opening, nuanced middle, and dignified finish create a complete, memorable journey. Flawless construction and immense smoke output make it one of AJ’s finest works, though a slight loss of sweetness in the final stretch keeps it from an even higher score.