Year of the Horse

Plasencia’s Year of the Horse – Review

The Plasencia Year of the Horse 2026 continues the brand’s Lunar Series tradition with a cigar that emphasizes elegance, balance, and ceremonial intent over brute force. Like its predecessors, this release is designed to feel deliberate and composed—an occasion cigar that rewards patience and attentiveness rather than speed or excess.

Produced in Nicaragua by Plasencia Cigars, the Year of the Horse 2026 is a limited-production Lunar New Year release built entirely with Plasencia-grown Nicaraguan tobaccos. Crafted as a celebratory expression rather than a standard-production staple, the blend leans into refinement and harmony, positioning itself as a premium, once-a-year offering meant to be smoked thoughtfully and without distraction.

Pre-Light Experience

Appearance: Dark, well-pressed wrapper with a healthy sheen of natural oils and clean seams. Presentation is polished and intentional, consistent with the Lunar Series aesthetic.
Aroma (Wrapper & Foot): Sweet cedar, cocoa powder, baking spice, and a soft floral note hovering in the background.
Cold Draw: Slight resistance with flavors of sweet wood, light spice, and a hint of dried fruit.

Flavor Breakdown

First Third:
The cigar opens smooth and controlled with sweet cedar, cocoa, and a gentle baking spice. A subtle dried fruit note—reminiscent of raisin or date—adds warmth without tipping into sweetness. The retrohale is refined, offering mild white pepper rather than sharp heat..

Second Third:
The profile broadens as toasted nuts, cream, and a faint buttered pastry note emerge, giving the cigar a rounder, silkier mouthfeel. Cocoa deepens slightly while spice remains measured. Balance is the defining trait here, with flavors layering rather than competing.

Final Third:
Earth and seasoned wood take a more prominent role, supported by lingering cocoa and a clean mineral finish. Strength builds modestly, but the cigar remains composed and never aggressive if smoked at a steady pace.

Body & Strength

Body: Medium-Full
Strength: Medium
Complexity: Moderate

Rather than relying on dramatic transitions, the Year of the Horse focuses on texture, harmony, and gradual deepening of flavor, making it a contemplative smoking experience.

Construction & Burn

Burn: Even and deliberate, with a slow, cool burn rate.
Draw: Slight resistance, ideal for controlled smoke production.
Ash: Firm and compact, holding in dense segments.

Overall Impression

The Plasencia Year of the Horse 2026 succeeds by staying true to the Lunar Series philosophy. It is polished, balanced, and intentionally restrained, favoring cohesion over spectacle. Smokers expecting intensity or sharp transitions may find it understated, but those who appreciate refinement and structure will find this release deeply satisfying.

Pairing Suggestions

Aged rum, cognac, lightly sweetened tea, or a refined bourbon. Best enjoyed in the evening with time set aside.

Final Score

Score: 93/ 100
Value Assessment: Excellent*

*note that this is an expensive cigar and as it does have excellent quality however may not meet $50 price point. Look for deals when purchasing this stick.

A refined, ceremonial cigar that emphasizes balance and elegance, making it a worthy and thoughtful entry in Plasencia’s Lunar Series.