Buenaventura cigars are new to the pages of Cigar Aficionado, and likely to be unknown to many of you reading this entry. The brand is small and rather new, having made its market debut in October 2012. It comes from Andreas Throuvalas, a former European cigar retailer and the owner of the boutique company Curivari Cigars International. Curivari cigars got their start in Europe, and had no U.S. distribution until Throuvalas brought the brand to America in 2010. They have had a small but dedicated following, and have their share of scores in the high 80s. Buenaventuras have an old-school look, with vintage-style cigar bands and simple yet elegant packaging. The smokes are Nicaraguan puros, made with a mixture of tobaccos from Jalapa, Estelí and Condega. Curivari makes all of its cigars with Nicaraguan tobaccos, but it typically shies away from using tobacco from Condega, which might explain the standout nature of the Buenaventura blend. Buenaventura means "good luck," and we felt fortunate enjoying the Buenaventura BV560. The pressed cigar delivered a medium-bodied flavor profile with a decidedly creamy texture to the smoke, notes of roasted peanuts and a flavorful finish smacking of graham crackers. As an added bonus to the remarkable flavor, the cigar retails for less than $6.00, making it one of the least expensive cigars in our entire Top 25.

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