The premium, cooperative cigar known as the K by Karen Berger 25th Anniversary by AJ Fernandez Toro (often referred to using the brand's 'K' naming system) was created to honour Karen Berger and her late husband, Henry "Kiki" Berger, for more than 25 years of cigar-making tradition.

The Cigar's Backstory

Karen Berger took over their business when her husband passed away in 2014 in order to carry on his heritage. In 2016, she launched her own collection, K by Karen Berger. She collaborated with the renowned master blender AJ Fernandez, her farming neighbour in Estelí, Nicaragua, for this historic 25th anniversary endeavour. Fernandez's plant, Tabacalera AJ Fernandez Cigars de Nicaragua S.A., is where the cigar is rolled.

First Third: Bold black pepper and rich dirt are the opening dominant notes. Dark cocoa and a noticeable bitterness from espresso beans are undercurrents. Texture: A robust, full-bodied smoke that awakens the palate with a crisp, peppery retrohale.

The Transition in the Second Third Smooth baking spices (such as cinnamon and nutmeg) and creamy cedar are the dominant notes.Undercurrents: A milder white pepper gradually replaces the original black pepper. Texture: The profile gets considerably creamier and softer, counterbalancing the initial heavy earthiness.

The Finale Dominant in the Final Third Notes: Deep molasses sweetness, leather, and dark chocolate. Undercurrents: A note of charred oak and a hint of black pepper reappear in the end. Texture: This is when the strength reaches its pinnacle, providing a powerful, warm, and full-bodied finish without turning bitter.