The Foundry

The Foundry cigar from Foundry Tobacco Company initially grabbed my attention not for its blend but for its presentation. The branding alone nearly convinced me to buy it before even lighting it up. The entire design gives off a Steampunk vibe, a style I’ve always admired in games, literature, and art pieces. The brass gears, industrial-themed artwork, and intricate bands all evoke a Steampunk-era science-fiction feel. The ornate gear-shaped ring on the cigar I selected was the main reason I chose it. Packaging can have an impact, and in this instance, it certainly did.

Interestingly, details about the actual blend are purposely kept vague. It seems that the company likes to maintain an air of mystery around it. The fact that they are produced in the USA also piqued my interest.

Thankfully, the cigar itself turned out to be quite pleasing. It had a mild-to-medium-bodied profile with a natural tobacco essence throughout. It offered a smooth, creamy smoke with subtle earthy and woody undertones. The flavors hinted at cedar or lightly toasted wood at times, but they were delicate and difficult to pinpoint.

What truly stood out was how smooth the cigar was. The smoke remained creamy, mellow, and devoid of any harshness or bitterness from start to finish. The draw was comfortable, the burn was even, and the overall smoking experience was relaxed and enjoyable.

While it may not become one of my top cigars, flavor-wise, due to a lack of complexity, it doesn’t seem to be the main focus of this cigar. The Foundry experience seems to emphasize ambiance, presentation, and character just as much as the blend itself.

The setting may have also influenced the experience. I enjoyed this particular cigar in a casino bar, paired with a beer called Sun Long Wee Mac, which I found delightful. The combination of the cigar, beer, Steampunk design, and the casino atmosphere made the experience uniquely memorable, surpassing the cigar alone. It may not be a masterpiece, but it is undeniably stylish.