Nicholas Melillo announced his latest release, a two-size extension to the Tabernacle line, Melillo has again drawn on biblical inspiration to represent his life in tobacco and his commitment to the industry. Beginning next month, Foundation will begin shipping two new Perfectos: David (5 x 54) and Goliath (5 x 58) in 25 count boxes.
“Anyone who has smoked Connecticut cigar brands of old knows the Perfecto is a classic size,” said Melillo. “Back in the day it was the vitola of choice for connoisseurs,” he added. “When it came time to create a line extension to the Tabernacle, the blend in these two sizes could not be ignored.”
From the inception of the Tabernacle line, the artwork has paid tribute to the Solomonic Dynasty of Ethiopia featuring the likeness of Haile Selassie I, the kingdom’s monarch from 1930-1974. The biblical victory of David over Goliath has particular resonance with Ethiopia’s proud history as the only African nation to fend off colonial conquest.
“Foundation’s art director, Thief Operandi, and I have always admired Ethiopian art and have studied it closely,” said Melillo. “Haile Selassie and the crown of Ethiopia trace its root to King David – and the story of his battle with Goliath is timeless.”
The David and Goliath in kind will feature the same Connecticut Broadleaf over the San Andres binder and fillers from the Jamastrán in Honduras and the Jalapa and Estelí valleys in Nicaragua.
Says Melillo, “The Tabernacle blend in these two sizes deliver depth, complexity, body, and flavor. These sizes are special because they complement an amazing blend of some of the best tobaccos in the world.”
The David and Goliath will begin shipping to retailers in early October.
Box MSRP (25 count): David $300.00, Goliath $350.00
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