No. 15 Cigar of the Year 2025 – Enclave by Eladio Diaz

Well regarded as a juggernaut in both farming and manufacturing, A.J. Fernández and his A.J. Fernandez Cigar Company are, unsurprisingly, known for showcasing Fernández’s own tobaccos throughout the majority of their lineup. But the AJF brand also likes to feature other perspectives. The first such example was the San Lotano Dominicano of 2019, where A.J. partnered with Jochy Blanco and his Dominican-based Tabacalera Palma factory, showing off a new side of the San Lotano line. A similar tactic was used with 2025’s Enclave by Eladio Diaz, this time allowing Master Blender Eladio Díaz to put his own spin on the Enclave line. Best known for his work at Davidoff, Díaz opened his own factory in 2021, with Enclave likely standing as the facility’s most prominent line to date. The blend centers on Ecuadorian and Dominican tobaccos (somewhat of a signature style from Eladio), making for a bright and tangy experience that stands in clear contrast to the brand’s more muscular, Nicaraguan-driven offerings. Medium in body, the profile operates in the realm of milk, nuts, and bready elements (with some delicate cabinet spice tossed into the mix), accented by a fermented, kefir-like twang that keeps the experience lively.

Enclave by Eladio Diaz Breakdown

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