E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel Robusto
Experience the masterpiece that earned Cigar Aficionado’s highest honor as the 2020 Cigar of the Year with an extraordinary 98-point rating. The E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel delivers an unforgettable smoking journey through bold, complex flavors that showcase Ernesto Perez-Carrillo’s legendary blending expertise.
- Award-winning excellence: 2020 Cigar of the Year with 98 points from Cigar Aficionado
- Complex flavor journey: Spicy oak, black cherry, licorice, and black pepper with creamy cedar undertones
- Premium Connecticut Habano: Dark, oily USA-grown wrapper delivers exceptional richness
- Full-bodied satisfaction: Bold yet balanced profile perfect for experienced enthusiasts
- Perfect robusto format: 5 x 50 size provides 60-75 minutes of premium enjoyment
- Multi-award winner: Recognized as Best Dominican Cigar by multiple prestigious publications
The Pledge Prequel represents the pinnacle of modern cigar craftsmanship, delivering flavor in bold, zesty parcels that evolve throughout your smoking experience. From the initial burst of spicy oak and black pepper to the emergence of sweet black cherry and distinctive licorice notes, this full-bodied robusto keeps revealing new dimensions. The dark Connecticut Habano wrapper, grown in the United States, provides an oily, luxurious exterior that hints at the complexity within.
Masterfully constructed at Tabacalera La Alianza in the Dominican Republic, each Pledge Prequel showcases the perfect marriage of Nicaraguan fillers with an Ecuadorian binder. The result is a remarkably smooth yet powerful smoke where cocoa nibs mingle with caramel sweetness, while leather and earth notes provide depth. Hints of espresso, vanilla, and toffee emerge as the cigar develops, culminating in a creamy cedar finish that lingers beautifully on the palate.
This soft box-pressed robusto has earned unprecedented acclaim across the industry, including recognition as Best Dominican Cigar from both Tobacco Business and Cigar Journal in 2021. The Pledge represents Ernesto Perez-Carrillo’s promise to work with only the finest tobaccos, bringing innovative blends that push boundaries while respecting tradition. Whether celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a moment of personal luxury, the Pledge Prequel delivers an experience worthy of its legendary status.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vitola | Robusto (Prequel) |
| Dimensions | 5″ x 50 Ring Gauge |
| Smoking Time | 60-75 minutes |
| Strength | Full-bodied |
| Construction | Soft box-pressed |
| Factory | Tabacalera La Alianza |
| Origin | Dominican Republic |
| Awards | 2020 Cigar of the Year (98 points) |
Summary
- Box Count: 10
- Region: Dominican Republic
- Strength: Full
- Binder: Ecuador
- Wrapper: USA Connecticut Habano
- Filler: Nicaragua
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Pledge Prequel a 98-point cigar?
The exceptional balance of bold flavors, perfect construction, and complex evolution throughout the smoke earned it Cigar Aficionado’s highest rating and 2020 Cigar of the Year.
How long does this robusto typically smoke?
The 5 x 50 format provides approximately 60-75 minutes of smoking enjoyment, perfect for an extended luxury experience.
What are the dominant flavor notes?
Expect spicy oak, black cherry, licorice, and black pepper upfront, evolving to reveal cocoa, caramel sweetness, and a creamy cedar finish.
Is this suitable for newer cigar smokers?
The full-bodied strength and complex profile make it best suited for experienced smokers who can appreciate its bold character and nuanced flavors.
What’s special about the Connecticut Habano wrapper?
This USA-grown dark wrapper is exceptionally oily and rich, providing depth and complexity while contributing to the cigar’s distinctive spicy-sweet character.
How should I cut this box-pressed cigar?
A straight cut or V-cut works perfectly with the soft box-press format, ensuring optimal draw while maintaining the cap’s integrity.
What beverages pair well with the Pledge?
The bold flavors pair excellently with aged bourbon, single malt scotch, or espresso, while the sweet notes complement cognac or aged rum.
Should I age these cigars before smoking?
While exceptional fresh, the Pledge Prequel can develop even more complexity with 6-12 months of proper humidor aging at 65-70% humidity.
| Sizes | Box – Pledge Prequel 5 x 50, 5 Pack – Pledge Prequel 5 x 50, Single -Pledge Prequel 5 x 50 |
|---|
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Justin White (verified owner) –
This is a very sound cigar, and coming from a legend like Ernie I would expect no less. That said, this is not my favorite blend of his, I would put the Encore and llegiance above it. This one is just a little too pepper forward for me, and it has a dry quality to the flavors. It’s still very good, and I’ll never turn one down, but if m buying boxes I’m going for the encore or Allegiance.
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Thiago A Ferreira (verified owner) –
Charuto é muito bom, bastante café e chocolate. Mas não é o melhor da marca. Prefiro o encore, esse sim vale cada centavo da compra. Mas ambos são charutos excelentes
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kevinbuckner (verified owner) –
Something a bit different, from beginning to end. A very pleasant experience of fine tuned hints of sweetness hidden amongst the dark complexities this cigar offers. If you see this in stock do yourself a favor and purchase a few.
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brianjthorne (verified owner) –
A wonderful cigar, with solid construction and an even burn. Intense and complex notes of dark roasted coffee, scorched earth, with hints of black cherry and 5 spice. My favorite cigar from Carrillo.
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