My Father & Tatuaje’s La Union Red

My Father & Tatuaje La Union Red Prominente Especial

Two decades of partnership between Pete Johnson and the Garcia family culminates in this extraordinary commemorative release. La Union Red represents a rare moment when two of Nicaragua’s most influential cigar makers join forces to create something that transcends their individual legacies. Each of these 7.25 x 50 Prominente Especial cigars showcases the distinct blending philosophies that have defined both brands since their first collaboration in 2003 at El Rey de los Habanos in Miami.

• Limited edition box containing 40 cigars, 20 of each master’s unique blend
• Pete Johnson’s creation features Ecuador Sumatra wrapper with closed foot construction
• Garcia family’s interpretation wrapped in Connecticut Broadleaf with traditional open foot
• Both blends incorporate rare Pelo d’Oro tobacco within Nicaraguan long fillers
• Each cigar showcases the traditional Cuban 109 style tapered head
• Includes collectible Xikar Xi1 Perfect Cut cutter with box purchase
• Crafted at My Father Cigars S.A. factory in Estelí, Nicaragua

A Historic Collaboration

The La Union Red edition marks the second release in this celebratory series, following the acclaimed Black humidor. This partnership traces back to when Jose “Pepin” Garcia first arrived in Miami after leaving Cuba, establishing the foundation for what would become one of the cigar industry’s most productive collaborations. Pete Johnson entrusted the Garcia family with producing Tatuaje from the very beginning, a decision that helped launch both brands into prominence within the premium cigar market.

The inclusion of Pelo d’Oro tobacco adds historical significance to these blends. This golden leaf varietal, once prized in Cuban agriculture, remains notoriously difficult to cultivate due to its susceptibility to disease and specific growing requirements. The Garcia family’s successful cultivation of this tobacco at their Nicaraguan farms represents a technical achievement that few producers have managed to replicate.

Contrasting Wrapper Expressions

Pete Johnson’s blend utilizes Ecuador Sumatra wrapper leaf, known for producing a refined smoking experience with herbal undertones, subtle spice, and natural sweetness. The closed foot construction allows the Nicaraguan filler blend to introduce itself before the wrapper’s influence becomes apparent, creating an evolving flavor progression throughout the smoke.

The Garcia family’s interpretation employs Connecticut Broadleaf, a sun grown wrapper that delivers bold earth tones, dark chocolate notes, and natural molasses sweetness. The traditional open foot construction immediately presents the full complexity of the wrapper and filler marriage, establishing the cigar’s character from the first draw.

Summary

• Box Count: 40
• Region: Nicaragua
• Strength: Full
• Binder: Nicaragua
• Wrapper: Ecuador Sumatra, Connecticut Broadleaf
• Filler: Nicaragua with Pelo d’Oro

What makes La Union Red different from the Black edition?

La Union Red features Ecuador Sumatra and Connecticut Broadleaf wrappers, creating a fuller bodied experience compared to the Black edition’s Nicaragua Corojo 99 and Ecuador Habano wrappers. The Red edition delivers more pronounced strength and bolder flavor profiles from both blenders.

How should I store these limited edition cigars?

Maintain humidity between 65 and 68 percent with temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The thin Ecuador Sumatra wrapper on Pete Johnson’s blend requires consistent humidity to prevent cracking, while the heartier Connecticut Broadleaf can tolerate slight variations.

Which blend should I smoke first?

Begin with Pete Johnson’s Ecuador Sumatra blend if you prefer a more refined, evolving smoke with herbal and spice notes. Start with the Garcia family’s Connecticut Broadleaf version if you enjoy bold, immediate flavors with dark chocolate and earth characteristics.

What is Pelo d’Oro tobacco?

Pelo d’Oro translates to “golden hair” and refers to a rare Cuban seed tobacco varietal known for its golden color during growth. This tobacco adds subtle sweetness and complexity but remains extremely difficult to cultivate due to disease susceptibility.

Can I purchase individual cigars instead of the full box?

Some retailers offer 2 packs containing one of each blend for collectors who want to sample both interpretations without committing to the full 40 count box. The Xikar cutter only comes with complete box purchases.

What distinguishes the 109 style cap?

The Cuban 109 cap features a tapered, pointed head that requires careful construction. This traditional finishing technique creates an elegant appearance and allows for a more controlled cut, preserving the cigar’s structural integrity during smoking.

How long do these cigars typically smoke?

Expect approximately 90 to 110 minutes of smoking time for the 7.25 x 50 format, depending on your smoking pace. The substantial ring gauge and length provide ample opportunity to experience the full flavor evolution of each blend.

Are these cigars appropriate for newer smokers?

Both blends deliver full strength profiles best suited for experienced palates. The complex flavor transitions and potent nicotine content may overwhelm those accustomed to milder cigars. Consider starting with regular production My Father or Tatuaje offerings before exploring La Union.