Traditions are the roots that keep culture thriving. Four generations of cigar-making are captured in the Pledge line. This is just another chapter in an already distinguished lineage.

The Pledge blend by E.P. Carrillo has certainly enjoyed its fair share of recognition, and we couldn’t be more humbled by the accolades it has received. While we might playfully acknowledge the impressive list of honors and high ratings, our true focus remains on delivering exceptional cigars that delight your senses. We are grateful for the support and appreciation from the cigar community, and we promise to continue working diligently to craft premium cigars that are deserving of your praise. Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey.

Pledge is the highest rated Cigar Aficionado Cigar of the Year for 2020.
Pledge earned a 98-point rating by Cigar Aficionado.
From the first draw to the last, the Pledge line boasts a luscious profile and a magical clash of flavors balancing sweetness with spice in an end-to-end smooth experience.

“Our Boldest Expression in a Cigar”

Ernesto’s Favorite From The Series
“Pledge Apogee because it is hearty and a perfect balance between spice and strength”

Full Strength Profile: Full
Taste: Full-Flavored
Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: USA
Filler: Nicaragua
Binder: Ecuador

Prequel: 5 X 50
Sojourn: 6 X 52
Apogee: 6 1/4 X 58

Awards:
Prequel: #1 rated cigar of 2020 by Cigar Aficionado-Rated 98 by Cigar Aficionado
Prequel: Tobacco Business Best Dominican Cigar of 2021
Prequel: Cigar Journal Best Dominican Cigar of 2021
Prequel: Cigar Dojo Cigar of the Year 2020
Sojourn: Rated 91 by Cigar Aficionado Magazine
Apogee: Rated 93 by Cigar Aficionado Magazine and #11 Cigar on Top 25 list for Cigar Aficionado

What Makes a Good Cigar?

Cigars have been around for centuries and are viewed as more sophisticated and luxurious than cigarettes. Unlike most manufactured products, premium cigars are 100% natural and handmade.

During production, the tobacco leaves are sorted and then piled in a way that allows them to ferment at a consistent rate. This is what gives a cigar its taste and aroma. It’s also what sets premium cigars apart from cheap mass-produced ones. Cigars are never dyed or treated with ripening accelerants or preservatives. Adding to this authenticity is a natural process that takes time, called “tertiary aging” or aeration. This additional aging helps to dissipate any acidity in the tobacco and brings it to its peak of flavor.

Many premium cigars are rated by independent organizations for appearance, burn, smoke, aroma, and flavor. The most popular rating system is from Cigar Aficionado, which assigns a cigar an overall rating of 1-100.

While the rating system is a great tool, only you can decide what a cigar is to your liking. The best thing to do is look for cigars that have a good smoke, a smooth draw, and an excellent aroma. You should also check that the cigar is well made, and that it has a nice even tobacco fill. You can do this by squeezing the cigar lightly and noting any spots that are lighter or darker than others.

Another important factor is the cigar’s body, which is determined by the amount of nicotine it contains. The level of strength varies and is usually noted with a graphic or in the cigar description online or in a store. Mild, medium and full bodied cigars are available to satisfy the broadest range of smokers.