Foundation Menelik
Discover the bold artistry of Foundation Menelik—a once event-exclusive cigar, now a limited production gem cherished by aficionados. With a rich Mexican San Andrés wrapper and a Nicaraguan Corojo 99 binder from Jalapa, this medium-full bodied cigar features fillers from Nicaragua’s top regions: Estelí, Condega, and Jalapa. Menelik stands out for its balanced blend of pepper, earth, leather, oak, and subtle cocoa, making each draw a journey in depth, construction, and complexity.
Key Benefits & Features
- Limited production, formerly event-only—now available to select retailers
- Dark, flavorful Mexican San Andrés wrapper
- Nicaraguan Corojo 99 binder from Jalapa for strength and aroma
- Fillers sourced from Estelí, Condega, and Jalapa—Nicaragua’s best tobacco
- Medium-full bodied with layered notes: pepper, earth, leather, oak, cocoa powder
- Box count: 12 cigars—perfect for special occasions or stocking the humidor
- Highly rated by enthusiasts for aroma, flavor, and expert craftsmanship
- Consistent construction and rich smoke output praised in reviews
Detailed Description
Foundation Menelik is masterfully built for complexity, strength, and undeniable allure. The San Andrés wrapper imparts deep, spicy cocoa and earthy richness, while the Nicaraguan Corojo 99 binder and meticulously selected fillers create a harmonious mix of peppery spice, oak, and leather. The result is a nuanced cigar that opens with punchy, earthy zest and unfolds into velvet cocoa, balanced sweetness, and a satisfying long finish.
Aficionados note powerful flavors with well-rounded transitions—earth, cocoa powder, fresh leather, wood, and a spicy kick. The blend leans full-bodied but strikes an elegant balance, never overwhelming the palate. Cigars are consistently well-constructed, offering excellent smoke output and minimal touch-ups. Whether you’re a Foundation devotee or exploring boutique blends, Menelik sets a high bar for richness, construction, and memorable enjoyment.
Specifications
| Wrapper | Mexican San Andrés |
|---|---|
| Binder | Nicaragua (Jalapa Corojo 99) |
| Filler | Nicaragua (Estelí, Condega, Jalapa) |
| Country of Manufacture | Nicaragua |
| Strength | Medium-Full |
| Box Count | 12 |
Summary
Box Count: 12
Region: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium-Full
Binder: Jalapa Corojo 99
Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés
Filler: Nicaragua (Estelí, Condega, Jalapa)
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Foundation Menelik unique?
Originally a private event cigar, Menelik now appears in limited production with a San Andrés wrapper and Nicaraguan Corojo 99 binder, delivering bold, balanced flavor.
What is the dominant flavor profile?
Expect layered notes of pepper, earth, leather, oak, and cocoa with medium-full strength.
Who manufactures Menelik?
It is produced by Foundation Cigar Company, known for boutique, complex cigars.
Is Menelik recommended for experienced smokers?
Yes, its bold profile, nuanced transitions, and strength appeal most to seasoned lovers of robust cigars.
How is the construction and burn?
Well-constructed with dense smoke output, requiring minimal touch-ups when stored properly.
What’s the box quantity?
Each box contains 12 cigars, ideal for collectors or special occasions.
Where is Menelik made?
Handcrafted in Nicaragua—utilizing the best regional tobaccos for excellent flavor complexity.
How does the blend compare to Foundation Olmec or Sin Compromiso?
Similar in earth and cocoa foundation, Menelik balances boldness and elegance, often proving less sweet (more earthy) than some competitors.
| Selection | Box – Menelik 4 1/2 x 52, 5 Pack – Menelik 4 1/2 x 52, Single – Menelik 4 1/2 x 52, Box – Toro 6 x 52, 5 Pack – Toro 6 x 52, Single – Toro 6 x 52 |
|---|
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What others are saying
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nacan (verified owner) –
I got this one as part of my Foundation Cigars, and it has been one of my prefers so far. Very well built, great aroma and taste, for sure will repeat with this one.
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davydakid (verified owner) –
I’m starting to really enjoy Foundation. I first tried the Olmec and loved it and now the Menelik, which was equally amazing. Can’t wait to keep exploring their lines.
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ferreirav006 (verified owner) –
Bought this stick to try and glad I did it was amazing, very good smoke and Contruction was great, it was a very enjoyable cigar.
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Anonymous (verified owner) –
Love this blend. I’ve had the OG version and liked that very much. Had to try the newer toro. This was an absolutely delicious stick. Cocoa notes with leather and some earthiness. To me this wasn’t as strong as the smaller vitola. Really nice construction on this. I usually enjoy most of what foundation does. This was definitely a winner for me.
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Justin White (verified owner) –
Very punchy, spicy little cigar. Luckily there is some sweeter coca notes to balance it. Strength is an 8 out of ten, full flavor. The smoke output was awesome, but I did need to touch it up a handful of times.
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Alexander S (verified owner) –
This cigar has beautiful tasting notes of coco powder, earth and leather. It is very similar to Dunbarton Sin Compromiso blend except the Menelik has less coco notes and more of an earthy finish n the draw.
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Thiago A Ferreira (verified owner) –
The best foundation!!!!!
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