Issue: Cigar Aficionado, Jan 01, 2013

Score: 91

If ever there was an ergonomic cigar, the San Lotano Oval is it. Semi-pressed and contoured, the Oval is named for its ovular head, flat body and dramatically rounded edges that allow the cigar to sit very comfortably in the mouth. It’s made by A. J. Fernandez, who has been making third-party brands for quite some time. Fernandez eventually branched out on his own and started the San Lotano line in 2010, which hesays is named for his family’s brand in Cuba before the revolution. His factory is located in Estelí. In 2011, Fernandez brought the unique San Lotano Oval to market, taking into consideration both function and form. The robust flavors are informed by a Habano 2000 wrapper from Ecuador combined with a leathery, woody-tasting blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobacco that leaves a pleasant, dried-cherry aftertaste.

Issue: Cigar Insider, Mar 20, 2012

Score: 91

Crafted with a very round head and ovular edges, the flat corona is rich with steady notes of leather, wood and dried cherry. The draw is even and lush throughout.