Yet another potent blend coming from Tabacalera Fernandez, Man O’ War Ruination pushes the envelope for full-bodied blends by perfectly matching strength, flavor, and body for a complex, yet balanced experience.
Man O’ War was developed by Abdel “AJ” Fernandez, a protégé of Don Alejandro Robaina, the man who is considered to be the “Godfather” of tobacco. After spending most of his life studying in Cuba under Don Alejandro, Abdel Fernandez moved to Nicaragua to begin producing his own cigars. After only 6 years, Abdel currently produces Rocky Patel’s Fusion, Indian Tabac 10th Anniversary, Padilla Habano, and Sol Cubano Cuban Cabinet.
Man O’ War Ruination features a hearty concoction of Cuban-seed Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos. Further more, these tobaccos are mostly ligero leaves, which add a ton of spice to the blend allowing for a bold, robust experience. The wrapper is an oily Habano Ecuadorian leaf, chosen for balance since it features nuances of black pepper with a sweet aftertaste. This blend is incredibly rich with flavors ranging from earth and leather to hints of oak. Ruination is an excellent addition to the Man O’ War line, and a must try for all fans of full-bodied, perfectly balanced blends.
Origin: Nicaragua
Size: 5.7 x 56
Ring: 56
Wrapper: Nicaragua
Binder: Costa Rica
Filler: Costa Rica, Honduras, Mexico
Price: ~$11.00 each
Smoke Time: 55 min
More info about purchasing: Man O’ War Ruination Cigars
I’ve read a lot of reviews for this cigar that showed nothing but love for the Man O’ War Ruination Belicoso. But, I have to disagree. This cigar just didn’t do it for me. Am I in the minority? Did I get a bad batch? Needless to say, this cigar was, in a word, “uneventful” bordering on bland. Now, for the full review.
At first glance, the cigar is a big stick coming in at 5.7 inches with a ring size of 56. Definitely, a manly cigar. The dark, oily wrapper looked delicious with just a few veins here and there. The cap was firm and my guillotine cutter went through it with no problem. The first puff was warm and inviting exhibiting a medium-full bodied taste. Just a hint of spice and not very over-powering. Almost tasted woodsy. The ash was dark and held firm up to 2″ before tapping off. The draw was easy and the smoke was steady. The first third of the cigar was enjoyable. This is when it turned.
The flavor changes to more on the medium-mild side in the second third of the cigar. No bold flavors and the woodsy tones were more prominent. Although many reviews classify this cigar as a full-bodied taste, I would have to lean more on the medium side. Almost bordering on medium-mild for two-thirds of the stick. I was waiting for another flavor change to occur, but it never materialized. It could be that the cigar was rolled a bit tight as the smoke was never abundant. The draw and construction were excellent to the end.
Overall, I enjoyed the first third of the cigar and couldn’t wait for it to end after that. I would definitely try the Ruination cigars again as I’ve read many good things about them. It’s a good choice for beginner cigar smokers in my opinion. But, it fell a bit short for me because of the bland taste. Am I in the minority?
Appearance : 
( 17/20 )
Construction : ( 27/30 )
Flavor : ( 21/35 )
Burn : ( 15/15 )
Overall Rating : 80/100
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I’ve read a number of reviews after I smoked this cigar, for me it was the best cigar I’d smoked in over 2 mos. I do think that due to the size and nature of the filler used in this cigar, that storage is key. After ordering, I kept it in a 68/70 environment for about 2 mos, and it was a pure joy to smoke. I hope you can bring yourself to try another.
Nice review and thanks.