Fratello
Brand Overview
History of the Brand: Fratello Cigars was founded by Omar de Frias, a former NASA engineer, who turned his passion for cigars into a business. The brand started with a focus on creating unique blends that reflect his diverse background. Fratello quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to cigar making.
Founding Year: 2013
Overall Reputation in the Cigar Industry: Fratello has carved out a niche for itself with its distinctive blends and packaging. The Brand is respected for its quality and creativity, often receiving high marks from Cigar reviewers. It’s known for pushing boundaries with its flavor profiles and has a growing fan base among both new and seasoned cigar enthusiasts. However, some traditionalists might find Fratello’s approach too unconventional.
History
Release Date: October 2013
Fratello Cigars was launched with the Navetta line, named after the Italian word for “shuttle,” reflecting Omar’s NASA background. “I wanted to bring something new to the table, something that would stand out,” Omar de Frias has said. The brand has since expanded its portfolio, each line reflecting a personal story or theme from Omar’s life.
Fratello Attributes
Concept & Inspiration: Fratello cigars are inspired by Omar de Frias’s life experiences, from his engineering career to his travels. Each cigar line tells a story, making them not just a smoke but an experience. The brand aims to blend tradition with innovation.
General Characteristics: Medium to full body, complex flavors, unique packaging, innovative blends
Tasting Notes: Cocoa, leather, spice, coffee, nuts
Notable Fratello Ratings
- Fratello Navetta, 92, Cigar Aficionado
- Fratello Bianco, 91, Cigar Journal
Summary: Fratello cigars are generally well-regarded for their quality and unique flavor profiles, often scoring high in reviews for their complexity and craftsmanship.
Tobacco Details
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano, Connecticut Shade
Binder: Nicaraguan, Indonesian
Filler: Nicaraguan, Dominican, Peruvian
Aging Process and Notes: Fratello cigars undergo a meticulous aging process, with some blends aged for up to 18 months to develop their flavors fully.
Strength Estimate: Medium to Full
Production and Quality
Manufacturing: Hand-rolled
Quality Checks: Each cigar undergoes multiple quality checks, from the selection of leaves to the final roll, ensuring consistency and excellence in every stick.
Unique Packing
Fratello cigars are known for their distinctive packaging, often featuring space-themed designs or unique box shapes that reflect the theme of each line.
Who Will Appreciate Fratello?
Target Audience: Enthusiasts looking for a story behind their smoke, those who appreciate innovation in cigar making, and fans of medium to full-bodied cigars.
Pricing Strategy: Fratello positions itself in the mid to upper-tier price range, reflecting the quality and uniqueness of their product.
Type of Smoker: Experienced, Expert
Pairings
- Single malt Scotch
- Espresso
- Dark chocolate
Conclusion
Fratello Cigars stands out in the cigar world for its innovative approach, blending personal stories with high-quality Tobacco. The brand’s reputation for creativity and craftsmanship makes it appealing to those who seek more than just a smoke but an experience. While it might not appeal to all due to its unconventional nature, for those who appreciate a narrative with their cigar, Fratello offers a unique and enjoyable journey.
FAQ:
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Q: Where can I buy Fratello cigars?
A: You can purchase Fratello cigars at Hiland’s Cigars, known for their excellent customer service, fast shipping, and competitive prices.
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Q: Are Fratello cigars suitable for beginners?
A: While Fratello offers some milder options, their cigars are generally more appreciated by those with some experience due to their complex flavor profiles.
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Q: How should I store Fratello cigars?
A: Store them in a humidor at 65-70% humidity to maintain their quality. Fratello cigars benefit from proper aging.
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Q: What makes Fratello cigars unique?
A: Fratello cigars are unique due to their thematic lines, innovative blends, and the personal touch of the creator, Omar de Frias.
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Q: Can I find Fratello cigars at a discount?
A: Yes, Hiland’s Cigars often has promotions and discounts on Fratello cigars, making it a great place to buy them at a reduced price.