Foundation’s Olmec Features Dark Mexican Wrapper From San Andrés
In a tribute to Mexico and its ancient Mesoamerican people, Foundation Cigars is releasing a new brand called Olmec, which showcases a Mexican San Andrés wrapper. According to anthropological history, the Olmecs were the first major civilization in Mexico, and occupied the tropical lowlands of modern-day Tabasco and Veracruz, including the San Andrés region where tobacco is currently grown.
“I have admired the Olmec civilization since I first traveled to San Andrès to purchase tobacco back in 2006,” said brand owner Nick Melillo.
Made in Nicaragua by A.J. Fernandez, Olmec is a regular-production line rolled with Mexican San Andrés wrappers around Nicaraguan binders and fillers. It’s offered in two versions: Claro or Maduro. According to Melillo, the Maduro is slightly stronger.
Both versions come in five sizes: Corona Gorda, measuring 5 1/2 inches by 48 ring gauge; Robusto, at 5 by 50; Toro, at 6 by 52; a 6-by-60 Grande; and a Double Corona that measures 7 by 52. They have suggested retail prices of $12.50 to $16 and are packaged in 12-count boxes. The smokes will not be wrapped in cellophane, and they will be on display next week at the PCA trade show.
For a vertical brand tasting of Foundation’s Olmec line, which should ship by late summer or early fall, see a future issue of Cigar Insider.
