Ernesto Perez-Carrillo has crafted his most intense cigar yet with the E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel, a 5” x 50 Robusto that claimed Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of 2020 title, following his 2018 triumph with Encore. His secret to securing two top honors in such a short time lies in his relentless pursuit of perfection. For Pledge, Carrillo began with six high-quality blends, meticulously refining them until only the finest remained, asking himself, “Is this worthy to follow La Historia and Encore?” The result is a masterful blend of Nicaraguan fillers, an Ecuadorian binder, and a hand-picked Connecticut Stalk Cut Habano wrapper, delivering a complex profile of savory sweetness, thick creamy smoke, and a peppery, spicy finish. Originally set for a March 2020 release, the launch was delayed six months due to the pandemic, but the wait was worth it. This bold, flavorful cigar would have been a must-buy even without the accolade, but its top ranking confirms its excellence. Carrillo’s dedication to quality and precision shines through, making the Pledge Prequel a standout for cigar enthusiasts. Order your box today to experience this award-winning smoke firsthand.