The history of this superb company is impressive, to say the least.
Illusione was founded with one thing in mind—to bring back the flavor, character, and quality of pre-Sandinista Nicaraguan tobacco. This had to be done, because the Sandinista regime had a terrible impact on the cigar industry. However, this was not irreversible. The cigar master grower Arcenio Ramos of Cuba came to Nicaragua to re-cultivate the legendary fields of the Jalapa Valley and the Esteli region. His partners in the venture, Chandito and Cuban agronomist Jacinto, form an impeccable team of cigar makers that have resurrected these previously neglected fields to their former glory.
All Illusione’s are made from first generation Corojo ’99 and Criollo ’98 seed tobacco. All are wrapped in Café Colorado wrappers and triple-capped in the old Cuban style. This makes them a favorite of veteran smokers who prefer the old Cuban blends, but they are also a rising favorite of new smokers. In 2007, Illusione was rated number 7 cigar of the year in Cigar Aficionado’s top 25.
There are a number of blends to choose from.
888
This is a medium to full-bodied cigar. It tastes of spice and earth and has a long finish. It has been called necessary and sufficient. Cigar Aficionado gave this cigar a 91.
4/2 G
This is a full body cigar by Illusione with a mature character.
68
This is another full bodied cigar with an earthy taste that is somewhat peppery and sweet.
F9
This has been called a perfectly balanced smoke by many. It has a medium to full bodied strength.
88
This Illusione tastes of leather and spice. It is also rich with a flavor of Earth and is noted for its medium to full bodied strength.
2/3
This is called a social smoke. It has a mild to medium strength that is rich in character.
CG4
Also called the white horse, this Illusione has been called clean, bold, bright, and superbly complete.
MJ12
This is called the Majestic, and it has tastes of leather, cinnamon, and a long finish that make it a classic connoisseur’s cigar.
2
This Illusione has a sweet, soulful taste of earth.
1
Known also as the Dark Prince, this cigar is balanced and elegant. It has a complex, progressive strength that makes for an absolutely fine cigar.
MK
This is a classic cigar for connoisseurs. It has hints of leather, cinnamon, and a long finish. There is a sweet touch to it as well due to the high caliber of Viso used in this Illusione blend.
HL
Short for the Holy Lance, you can expect a rich floral and something of a mild exotic spicy aroma and a good, comfortable, medium finish on the palate.