Aganorsa Leaf. After the brilliant vaping experiment at the House of Smoke with Fabien Ziegler from Aganorsa Leaf I wanted to find out more (you can find the link to the experiment under Resources on the topic). At the House Of Smike in Basel, Fabien showed us how balance is created in a cigar - he let us taste how creamy Estelí tobacco combines with strong jalapa. This experience made me curious: who is the man behind Aganorsa Leaf? And what does he think about tobacco, patience and forbidden blends? In the following interview, Fabien reveals exciting insights into the world of Aganorsa Leaf.

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Fabien Ziegler is amused by the questions.

Which Aganorsa cigar would you personally never smoke - and why?

"Are the questions too sensitive?" I ask. You can see his answer in his reaction 😄 Aganorsa Leaf

"Are the questions too sensitive?" I ask. - "No, no!" he replied.

I actually like almost all cigars from Aganorsa Leaf. They are made from the best Nicaraguan tobaccos. But: The Aganorsa Leaf Rare Leaf Corojo I probably wouldn't smoke any more. The reason is that I prefer mild to medium-strength cigars. The Rare Leaf Corojo is the strongest cigar we make - and except after a very sumptuous dinner, I wouldn't consider it. However, for those who love strong, full-bodied cigars, it is a great smoke.

What has cultivating the vast tobacco fields of Aganorsa taught you about patience?

Concentration while answering my questions.

Eduardo Fernandez, the owner of Aganorsa Leaf, is Cuban and has learned how the Cubans grow and ferment tobacco. With the help of Arsenio Ramos, he has succeeded in cultivating the best possible tobaccos in Nicaragua. We grow pure seed tobacco, not hybrids. Our three main varieties are Corojo 99, Criollo 98 and Corojo 2012. What tobacco needs to become an outstanding product are a few, but decisive factors: plenty of sun, sufficient water, no wind - and above all time.

At Aganorsa, I have seen and tasted what time does to tobacco. For example: We ferment without adding water. We let the humidity work its magic. The reward for this patience is a tobacco full of aromas, spice and earthy notes. Eduardo always says: "We are tobacco whisperers. We let the tobacco decide when it's ready - we never rush it!" The fact that we are the largest tobacco grower in Nicaragua (and number two in the world behind Plasencia) allows us to be patient.

If Aganorsa Cigars were a person - what character would it have?

"Mr. Aganorsa" would be your best friend. Always there to help. Someone you can count on, patient, never hasty, but always ready. He gives you space when you need it, is reliable and consistent - these qualities characterize his character.

What moment in cultivation or blending inspires you every time?

Fabien Ziegler immerses himself more and more in the questions and his answers.

I am most pleased when I can introduce the Aganorsa line to new cigar smokers. Many stick to the same four or five cigars and don't try many new things. Younger generations are more open, they read a lot online. When I see an aficionado smoking an Aganorsa cigar for the first time and learning about our history at the same time - that makes me happy. I invite all readers to try an Aganorsa Leaf. Follow us on Facebook at the Aganorsa Acolyte-group and become part of the worldwide family of Aganorsa smokers. You won't be disappointed - welcome to the family! 👉 You can find the links under Resources on the topic.

Is there a bold or "forbidden" blend that you would never release, but that you secretly dream of?

We are not collectors, we have enough tobacco and are constantly trying out new blends. Some are worthwhile, others remain experiments that never see the light of day. The "forbidden" cigar at Aganorsa is the Supreme Leaf. We love making them because they showcase the best of our Nicaraguan tobacco. Medium-bodied, medium to full flavor, lots of earthy notes, gentle spice - it leaves you wanting more.

👉 Review Aganorsa Leaf Supreme Leaf Euro Toro - 91 points enjoyment

For the international market, we produce two sizes that are regularly available: Inter Robusto (5 1/4 x 54) and Euro Toro (6 x 50). In the USA, on the other hand, we only release the Supreme Leaf on a single day each year. 3000 boxes, each year in a different size - and always sold out immediately.

Closing words from Fabien

Aganorsa Leaf has a rich history in Nicaragua and the USA. Internationally, we have only been present for two years. We sell a lot of tobacco to other brands - you've probably smoked cigars with Aganorsa tobacco without knowing it. I invite you to try an Aganorsa Leaf in a specialist shop. Perhaps you will find a "new friend" in it. I look forward to meeting you on social media or at one of our events and dinners around the world.