Understanding the Blend of Ashton VSG Cigars: The Ultimate Guide

From the beginning, Ashton VSG cigars have stood out as a benchmark in the world of premium cigars, thanks to their prestigious origins and pedigree. As one of the first cigars to set a new standard for non-Cuban luxury cigars, Ashton VSG quickly established itself as a foundational experience for many aficionados.

Ashton VSG cigars are renowned for their dark Ecuadorian Sumatra wrappers and aged Dominican fillers. The cigars are made from a blend of premium Dominican long-filler tobaccos aged four to five years, sourced from the Fuentes, whose reputation for quality and craftsmanship is unmatched. This guide breaks down their unique flavors and offers recommendations based on construction quality, value, and smoking experience. These cigars are best enjoyed in only the company of friends, reinforcing their premium and exclusive nature. Ashton VSG cigars are sought after by experienced cigar fans for their luxury appeal. Ashton VSG has received multiple ratings of 90+ points from Cigar Aficionado. Notably, Ashton VSG is considered one of the first full-bodied luxury cigars outside of Cuba and paved the way for other full-bodied luxury cigars in the market. Ashton Cigars have been one of the industry’s leading producers of upscale, luxury, and premium cigars since 1985. As an iconic brand, Ashton holds a unique place in the cigar industry and is known for innovating many techniques and policies still used today.

Overview of Ashton Virgin Sun Grown (VSG) Cigars

The Ashton VSG line, a brainchild of Robert Levin and Carlos Fuente Jr., has been a staple in the cigar industry since its launch in 1999. Robert Levin began creating his own brand with years of experience from his family’s cigar store and mail-order business. The collaboration began in 1985 and has since blossomed into a collection of cigars that are revered for their consistency and quality. Robert Levin founded the Ashton brand in 1985 after partnering with Carlos Fuente Sr. and Carlito Fuente. Each cigar in the Ashton VSG series features a dark Ecuador Sumatra wrapper, which ashton vsg hails from a special estate in Ecuador known for its unique climatic conditions, and a blend of vintage long-leaf tobaccos from the Dominican Republic, resulting in a rich and intricate flavor profile. Ashton VSG cigars are produced in limited quantity to ensure exceptional quality, using rare tobaccos and careful craftsmanship. Ashton has produced several distinguished blends over its history, including the Ashton Classic, Ashton Aged Maduro, and Ashton Cabinet Selection.

The text with incorporated keyword: Before being consumed, many foods undergo a process where they are fermented extensively to enhance their flavors and nutritional value.

This guide highlights some standout cigars from the Ashton VSG line: Ashton ESG has been rated 94 points and featured in the ‘Top 25’ list by Cigar Aficionado on multiple occasions. The Ashton Symmetry has generated a lot of excitement and praise in the cigar community for its unique blend and exceptional smoking experience.

• Best for Flavor Complexity: Ashton VSG Belicoso No. 1

• Best for Construction Quality: Ashton VSG Eclipse

• Best for Full-Bodied Experience: Ashton VSG Torpedo

• Best for Value: Ashton VSG Robusto

• Best for Special Occasions: Ashton VSG Sorcerer

History and Background

The Ashton Virgin Sun Grown (VSG) cigar has a storied history that began in 1999, marking the first time this blend was introduced and representing a significant milestone in the evolution of the Ashton brand. Initially launched during the Cigar Boom era, the VSG line quickly distinguished itself as a premium offering, thanks to the meticulous craftsmanship of Carlos Fuente Jr. of Tabacalera Fuente. Ashton ESG competes with the Fuente Fuente Opus X in terms of flavor profile and construction. This collaboration between Robert Levin and Carlos Fuente Jr. has been instrumental in creating a modern, fuller-bodied blend that stands out in the crowded cigar market. Ashton VSG has been ranked in the ‘Top 25 Cigars of the Year’ multiple times by Cigar Aficionado, further cementing its reputation as a classic. Ashton ESG, another notable line, was created to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Ashton in 2005, showcasing the brand’s legacy. The first time Ashton ESG cigars hit the market was in 2006, initially offered in a 6.75-by-49 Churchill size called the 20-Year Salute.

The Ashton VSG cigars are crafted using 4 and 5-year-old Dominican tobacco, which is carefully aged to develop its rich and complex flavors. The prized Sumatra-seed wrapper, sourced from a private estate in Ecuador, adds a unique characteristic to the cigar. The Fuente family uses only the finest and often rare tobaccos for Ashton cigars. The Oliva family, renowned for their expertise as long-established tobacco growers, also contributes to the exceptional quality of the blend. This wrapper, grown under the region’s delicate cloud cover, is a key element that sets the Ashton VSG apart from other cigars. The Ecuadorian sun-grown leaf wrapper is oily and bursting with flavor, further enhancing the cigar’s appeal. The result is a cigar that not only honors its heritage but also pushes the boundaries of flavor and quality in the industry. The Fuente family employs only the finest tobaccos for each Ashton cigar, contributing to their high premium prices. Ashton ESG is crafted using a purely Dominican blend of aged filler tobaccos. Ashton Aged Maduro is considered one of the best Maduro cigars available.

Characteristics and Flavor Profile

The Ashton VSG cigar is celebrated for its full-bodied flavor and remarkable richness, making it a favorite among discerning cigar enthusiasts. The flavor profile is a symphony of spicy and chewy notes, with prominent hints of cedar, earth, espresso bean, black pepper, and leather. There is also a bit of sweetness and a bit of spice, along with notes of oak, which add further depth to its complexity. Each puff reveals layers of complexity, thanks to the dark and lustrous sheen of the wrapper, which is a testament to the extensive fermentation process overseen by the Fuente family.

The feel of the Ashton VSG is luxurious, with a smooth texture and excellent construction that enhances the overall smoking experience. The Virgin Sun Grown wrapper, cultivated in a private estate in Ecuador, benefits from the region’s unique climate. The delicate cloud cover filters the sunlight, allowing the wrapper to develop its distinctive characteristics. This careful cultivation process results in a cigar that offers a nuanced and satisfying smoking experience. The Ashton VSG’s flavor profile is both bold and balanced, providing a rich, full-bodied flavor that lingers on the palate and invites you to savor every moment. Overall, the Ashton VSG provides a good smoking experience with a positive impression, making it especially appealing to discerning smokers. Similarly, Ashton ESG stands for ‘Estate Sun Grown’ and features a wrapper harvested in direct sunlight. Ashton ESG is produced in limited batches due to the rarity and age of the tobaccos used. The Ashton Symmetry is the most well-rounded cigar in the Ashton portfolio.

Sun Grown Tobacco Benefits

The secret behind the remarkable depth and complexity of Ashton Virgin Sun Grown (VSG) cigars lies in their use of sun grown tobacco. Unlike shade-grown leaves, sun grown tobacco is cultivated under direct sunlight, allowing the plants to develop thicker, more resilient leaves packed with natural oils. This process results in a richer, more robust flavor profile that has become a hallmark of the finest cigars in the world.

Ashton VSG cigars showcase the very best of sun grown tobacco, delivering a symphony of flavors that includes cedar, earth, espresso, black pepper, and leather. The sun’s influence on the tobacco leaf brings out a boldness and complexity that simply can’t be replicated by other growing methods. The result is a cigar that is not only full-bodied and satisfying, but also layered with subtle nuances that keep the palate engaged from start to finish.

The thicker sun grown wrapper used in Ashton Virgin Sun Grown cigars also stands up beautifully to the fermentation and aging process, ensuring that each cigar matures into a smooth, well-balanced smoke. This dedication to using sun grown tobacco has helped Ashton VSG earn its reputation as one of the most sought-after cigars among aficionados, and a shining example of what makes the Ashton brand a leader in the cigar world. For those who appreciate cigars with rich, earthy undertones and a touch of peppery spice, the Ashton VSG is a must-try.

Cigar Sizes and Shapes

The Ashton VSG cigar line offers a variety of classic shapes and sizes, each designed to provide a unique smoking experience while maintaining the high standards of quality that Ashton is known for. The available sizes include the Belicoso #1, Corona Gorda, Eclipse (Tubo), Enchantment, Illusion, Pegasus, Robusto, Sorcerer, Spellbound, Torpedo, Tres Mystique, and Wizard. Additionally, Ashton VSG is available in a dozen handcrafted sizes, including box-pressed variations, offering even more options for enthusiasts.

Each size and shape brings its own distinct characteristics to the smoking experience. For instance, the Belicoso #1 is renowned for its flavor complexity, while the Eclipse (Tubo) is celebrated for its construction quality. The Robusto offers great value, and the Sorcerer is perfect for special occasions with its lengthy smoking duration. The appearance and aroma at the foot of the cigar can also vary between vitolas, with some offering a richer aroma or a different burn profile at the foot, which can influence the initial flavor experience. Despite the differences in size and shape, all Ashton VSG cigars share the same high-quality tobaccos and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a premium smoking experience no matter which one you choose. Whether you prefer a shorter, more intense smoke or a longer, more leisurely session, there’s an Ashton VSG cigar to suit your taste preferences.

Best for Flavor Complexity: Ashton VSG Belicoso No. 1

This section is a review of the Ashton VSG Belicoso No. 1.

Specifications:

• Size 5 1/4 x 52

• Shape Belicoso

• Sophisticated flavor profile

• Notes of aged tobacco, leather, and spices

• Balanced and complex

• Can be too robust for beginners

• Higher price point

When it comes to flavor complexity, the Ashton VSG Belicoso No. 1 stands out as a masterpiece. This cigar offers a sophisticated flavor experience that is both intricate and balanced, making it ideal for those who appreciate a nuanced smoking session. To my mind, the flavor profile includes earthy notes, cedar, leather, espresso, and rich spices, all of which are enhanced by the dark chocolatey Ecuadorian Sumatra-seed wrapper. The blend of aged Dominican binders and fillers, aged between 5 to 7 years, contributes to the cigar’s rich and complex character.

From the first draw, the Belicoso No. 1 envelops you in hearty flavors and a full-bodied experience. The initial notes of earth and cedar give way to hints of leather and espresso, with a subtle spice that lingers on the palate. This cigar is perfect for a relaxing evening, perhaps paired with a fine scotch, as its intricate flavors unfold over time.

However, its robust strength might be overwhelming for novice smokers, and its higher price point could be a deterrent for those on a budget.

Best for Construction Quality: Ashton VSG Eclipse

Specifications:

• Size 6 x 52

• Shape Toro

• Presented in a tube

• Aged Dominican tobacco with an Ecuadorian wrapper

• High construction quality

• Consistent and straight burn

• Unique packaging

• Requires a slight touch-up at the end

• Tube packaging not preferred by all

Those who value construction quality will find the Ashton VSG Eclipse an excellent choice. Crafted at the renowned Fuente family factory in the Dominican Republic, this cigar exemplifies the high standards of the Ashton brand. The Eclipse is the only cigar in the VSG line that comes in a tube, adding a layer of sophistication and protection. The use of aged Dominican tobacco and an Ecuadorian wrapper ensures a well-constructed cigar that burns straight and consistently.

Smoking the Eclipse is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each Ashton VSG cigar. From the moment you light it, you’ll notice the even burn and the rich aroma of cedar. While it may require a slight touch-up towards the end, the overall experience is one of high quality and consistency. The unique tube packaging also makes it a great gift option, though some might prefer the traditional box presentation.

Best for Full-Bodied Experience: Ashton VSG Torpedo

Specifications:

• 6½ inches long with a 55-ring gauge

• Shape Torpedo

• Smoking duration of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes

• Full-bodied flavor and robust flavor profile

• Pronounced spices and pepper notes

• Well-balanced and evolving flavors

• Sparse smoke output

• May be too intense for some smokers

For those seeking a full-bodied smoking experience, the Ashton VSG Torpedo is the ultimate choice. Recognized as one of the top-rated full-bodied cigars in the world, the Torpedo offers a robust smoking session that is both intense and satisfying. The initial flavors include pronounced spices, nuts, damp earth, and a hint of pepper, creating a powerful first third.

As you progress, flavors of wood and espresso coffee emerge, with pepper notes continuing to add depth and complexity. The Torpedo’s construction allows for fine control of smoke intensity, ensuring a well-balanced and evolving flavor profile. The final third reveals dominant flavors of coffee, spices, and walnut, maintaining the cigar’s full-bodied character.

Despite its rich flavor profile, the sparse smoke output might be a drawback for some, and the intensity may be overwhelming for those unaccustomed to full-bodied cigars.

Best for Value: Ashton VSG Robusto

Specifications:

• 5 ½ by 50

• Smoking session lasting between 45 minutes to 1 hour

• Affordable price

• High-quality construction

• Rich flavor profile

• Shorter smoking duration

• May lack the complexity of larger cigars

For cigar enthusiasts looking for the best value, the Ashton VSG Robusto is a standout option. Priced around $15.65 each, with a box of 24 costing about $337.95, the Robusto offers a premium smoking experience at an accessible price point. This cigar features an oily Ecuadorian wrapper and aged Dominican binders and fillers, ensuring a rich and satisfying flavor profile.

The Robusto measures 5 ½ by 52, making it perfect for a shorter smoking session of around 45 minutes to 1 hour. Despite its relatively shorter duration, the cigar delivers a burst of hearty flavors that are typical of the Ashton VSG line. However, it may lack the complexity and depth of larger cigars in the VSG series, making it more suited for casual settings or when you have limited time.

Best for Special Occasions: Ashton VSG Sorcerer

Specifications:

• 7 inches with a 49-ring gauge

• Ideal for lengthy smoking sessions

• Perfect for special occasions

• Long smoking duration

• Rich and complex flavor profile

• May be too long for some smokers

• Requires a significant time commitment

When it comes to special occasions, the Ashton VSG Sorcerer is the perfect choice. This Churchill-sized cigar, measuring 7 inches with a 49-ring gauge, is designed for a lengthy and indulgent smoking experience. Priced around $12.50 per cigar, with a box of 24 costing approximately $300, the Sorcerer offers a premium experience that is well worth the investment.

The Sorcerer’s rich and complex flavor profile, combined with its long smoking duration, makes it ideal for celebrations and memorable moments. The dark and lustrous sheen of the wrapper adds to its visual appeal, while the perfect draw ensures an enjoyable smoking session from start to finish. However, its size and length may be too much for some smokers, requiring a significant time commitment to fully appreciate.

Comparison with Other Ashton Cigar Lines

Ashton VSG cigars are just one shining star in the constellation of premium cigars produced by the iconic Ashton brand. Each Ashton line is crafted with a unique blend of tobaccos and a distinct approach to flavor, offering something special for every cigar aficionado.

The Ashton Classic line is renowned for its smooth, mild-to-medium body and creamy, approachable flavor profile, making it a favorite among those who prefer a gentler introduction to the world of cigars. Ashton Aged Maduro, on the other hand, is celebrated for its rich, sweet notes and velvety texture, thanks to its carefully aged Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper.

The Ashton Estate Sun Grown (ESG) line takes the sun grown concept to new heights, using rare Dominican wrappers grown exclusively for Ashton on a private estate. This results in a refined, elegant smoke with a sophisticated balance of flavors.

What sets the Ashton VSG apart is its bold, full-bodied character and the complexity brought by its Ecuadorian sun grown wrapper. The VSG is often considered the most robust and nuanced of the Ashton family, delivering a rich tapestry of flavors that includes cedar, earth, and pepper, all wrapped in a smooth, luxurious finish. For those seeking a cigar that offers both power and refinement, the Ashton VSG stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Whether you’re drawn to the classic smoothness of the Ashton Classic, the sweet richness of the Aged Maduro, or the sophisticated balance of the ESG, exploring the Ashton portfolio is a journey through some of the finest cigars produced in the world today. The Ashton VSG, with its sun grown pedigree and complex flavor, is a must-experience for anyone serious about cigars.

How to Choose the Perfect Ashton VSG Cigar

Choosing the perfect Ashton VSG cigar involves considering several factors to ensure a satisfying smoking experience. First and foremost, think about your personal preferences in flavor profiles, strength, and texture. Ashton VSG cigars are known for their full-bodied character, so they may appeal more to seasoned smokers who appreciate robust flavors.

Next, take into account the occasion for smoking. Certain Ashton VSG cigars, like the Sorcerer, are better suited for special occasions, while others, like the Robusto, are ideal for more casual settings. Evaluate the construction quality of the cigar, as a well-constructed cigar ensures a better smoking experience and is less likely to have issues like uneven burning.

Lastly, research reviews and ratings to gain insight into which Ashton VSG cigars are favored by other enthusiasts. As you read reviews, remember that your own opinion and preferences are just as important—what works for others may not always suit your taste. Experiment with different vitolas, as varying sizes can alter the smoking experience and highlight different flavor notes. These considerations will help you choose an Ashton VSG cigar that aligns with your taste and the occasion.

Summary

In summary, the Ashton Virgin Sun Grown (VSG) line offers a variety of cigars that cater to different preferences and occasions. From the flavor complexity of the Belicoso No. 1 to the construction quality of the Eclipse, and the full-bodied experience of the Torpedo, there is something for every cigar enthusiast. The Robusto stands out as the best value option, while the Sorcerer is perfect for special occasions.

As you explore the Ashton VSG series, remember to consider your personal preferences, the occasion, and the cigar’s construction quality. By doing so, you can enjoy a premium smoking experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Happy smoking!

Frequently Asked Questions