AJ Fernandez is arguably one of the most recognizable names in the cigar industry. Blends from AJ Fernandez are almost universally admired everyone in the cigar community. This review of the newest cigar from AJ Fernandez, The Goat, was a treat to review. Have a read, and consider adding this to your rotation.
The Goat has a very unique, and eye catching appearance. The band is red and gold, with a boldly designed goat right in the center. The design itself is memorable, and pretty badass to say the least. There is also a secondary band with the AJ Fernandez name. The cigar itself is a gorgeous dark brown. The wrapper is a bit toothy, and has a few veins showing throughout.
The Goat is constructed with Nicaraguan Filler, Nicaraguan Corojo Binder, and Mexican San Andreas Maduro Wrapper. After cutting, the draw is smooth and easy, allowing the smoke to hit the palate perfectly. There is a decent smoke output, and the ash is sturdy and light gray. After ashing, the foot of the cigar doesn't flake too much. While the burn can be a bit jagged, it's consistent throughout the smoke, so there shouldn't be any need to touch it up.
The Goat's flavor profile is delicious, and a bit complex. The cold draw may provide notes of dried fruit and cocoa powder. At first light, the cigar may have notes of baker's chocolate, black pepper, and earth.
The first third may have strong notes of earth and black pepper. There may also be notes of baker's chocolate, espresso, and oak. There is also a subtle note of toffee that hits the palate. The retrohale may have notes of red pepper and apricot, along with an aroma of dark chocolate.
The second third may have notes of earth and baker's chocolate on the forefront. There may also be notes of black pepper and leather, along with a subtle note of cinnamon. The retrohale of the second third may keep the notes of red pepper and dark chocolate, along with espresso.
The final third may have notes of black pepper and oak. These may be accompanied by notes of leather, dark chocolate, and dark brown sugar. There are also very subtle notes of salt and a hint of nuttiness. The retrohale of the final third may have that continued note of red pepper, cinnamon, and espresso.
The Goat is priced at $16.67 for a single, and $200 for a box of 12. Is the price a bit steep? Yes. Is the cigar worth it based on the flavor profile and construction? Absolutely. Even if this is a special occasion cigar, it is well worth trying at least once.
This cigar is a fuller bodied smoke, so it's more suited for an intermediate or veteran cigar smoker.
GC Rating: 93
Thanks to the Wooden Indian Tobacco Shop for sponsoring this review of the AJ Fernandez Goat. If you'd like to try The Goat, or anything else from the AJ Fernandez catalog, visit woodenindiantobacco.com, or click the picture and use the coupon code.
