Foundation The Upsetters Small Axe

Foundation The Upsetters Small Axe

The Small Axe exemplifies Foundation Cigar Company’s revolutionary approach to Caribbean tobacco traditions, delivering the rare Jamaican cow tongue leaf in a perfectly proportioned 4.5 x 40 petit corona format. Named after Bob Marley’s powerful anthem of resilience, this Connecticut Shade-wrapped expression channels the spirit of Jamaica through Nicholas Melillo’s masterful interpretation of centuries-old Caribbean atmospheric herbal fusion techniques.

Key Features

• Compact 4.5 x 40 petit corona format perfect for shorter smoking sessions
• Genuine Connecticut Shade wrapper delivers exceptional smoothness and elegance
• Rare Jamaican cow tongue tobacco creates distinctive floral and botanical notes
• Caribbean atmospheric herbal fusion process enhances natural sweetness
• Mild to medium-bodied strength accessible to various experience levels
• Approximately 45-minute smoking duration fits perfectly into busy schedules
• Box count of 30 cigars for extensive exploration of this unique blend

Detailed Description

The Small Axe represents Foundation’s most approachable entry into the world of Jamaican tobacco, wrapped in a pristine USA Connecticut Shade leaf that displays the golden-brown hues characteristic of premium shade-grown tobacco. This petit corona showcases impeccable construction with minimal veining and a silky texture that speaks to the careful selection process behind every leaf. The Caribbean atmospheric herbal fusion technique, passed down through generations of island tobacco masters, infuses the blend with aromatic complexity that transcends typical Connecticut-wrapped cigars.

Upon lighting, the Small Axe reveals layers of cream, honey, and distinctive floral notes reminiscent of honeysuckle and botanical gardens. The Jamaican cow tongue tobacco contributes an exotic sweetness that interplays beautifully with subtle hints of Earl Grey tea, citrus undertones, and delicate baking spices. The profile evolves through each third, introducing nuances of toasted bread, orange zest, and a gentle pepper presence on the retrohale that never overwhelms the palate.

What sets the Small Axe apart is its ability to deliver complexity typically reserved for larger formats while maintaining perfect balance throughout its 45-minute journey. The mild to medium-bodied strength makes it ideal for morning enjoyment or as an introduction to the unique character of Jamaican tobacco. The draw remains consistently smooth, producing aromatic smoke that carries subtle notes of tea tree oil and marshmallow sweetness, particularly noticeable in the final third.

Nicholas Melillo’s vision for The Upsetters line shines through this petit corona, which proves that small cigars can deliver profound experiences. The integration of Jamaican cow tongue tobacco with carefully selected Nicaraguan fillers creates a harmonious blend that appeals equally to adventurous smokers seeking new territories and traditionalists who appreciate exceptional craftsmanship. The Small Axe stands as testament to the power of cultural preservation through premium tobacco, bringing forgotten Caribbean traditions to contemporary cigar culture.

Technical Specifications

Summary

• Box Count: 30
• Region: Nicaragua
• Strength: Mild-Medium
• Binder: Nicaragua
• Wrapper: USA Connecticut Shade
• Filler: Jamaica and Nicaragua

What distinguishes the Small Axe from other petit coronas?

The Small Axe features rare Jamaican cow tongue tobacco processed through Caribbean atmospheric herbal fusion, creating distinctive floral and botanical notes rarely found in traditional petit coronas. This ancient technique produces natural sweetness and aromatic complexity that sets it apart from conventional Connecticut-wrapped cigars.

How long does the Small Axe take to smoke?

The 4.5 x 40 petit corona format typically provides approximately 45 minutes of smoking enjoyment. The compact size makes it ideal for shorter smoking sessions while still delivering a complete flavor evolution from start to finish.

Is this cigar suitable for beginners?

Yes, the mild to medium-bodied strength and smooth Connecticut Shade wrapper make the Small Axe particularly approachable for newer smokers. The natural sweetness and creamy profile provide an excellent introduction to premium cigars without overwhelming the palate.

What flavors characterize the Small Axe experience?

Expect prominent notes of cream, honey, and distinctive floral elements including honeysuckle. Secondary flavors include Earl Grey tea, citrus, toasted bread, orange zest, marshmallow sweetness, and gentle baking spices with subtle pepper on the retrohale.

How does the Connecticut Shade wrapper affect the blend?

The USA Connecticut Shade wrapper contributes exceptional smoothness and natural sweetness while allowing the exotic Jamaican tobacco to shine through. It provides a creamy canvas that perfectly complements the Caribbean atmospheric herbal fusion process.

Does the Small Axe require any special storage?

Store the Small Axe like any premium cigar at 65-70% humidity and 65-70°F. The Caribbean atmospheric herbal fusion process is stable and doesn’t require different storage conditions from standard premium cigars.

What makes this a good morning cigar?

The mild to medium body, natural sweetness, and approachable 45-minute smoking time make the Small Axe ideal for morning enjoyment. The gentle flavor profile pairs excellently with coffee or tea without overwhelming breakfast flavors.

How does the Small Axe compare to the Django?

While both feature Jamaican cow tongue tobacco, the Small Axe offers a milder, more delicate experience with its Connecticut Shade wrapper compared to the Django’s fuller-bodied Nicaragua Sumatra wrapper. The Small Axe emphasizes floral and tea notes while the Django delivers more robust pepper and citrus characteristics.