4/5 stars | Evening smoke | Temp: 60s | Outdoors | Mood: Decent, Focused
The Zarahemla is one of Apostate Cigars’ signature releases and is notable for being their first box‐pressed cigar.
The Apostate Brand was formed when two church members broke away from their religion… largely as a response to the strict cultural and religious norms they grew up with. In Utah, where the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints discourage tobacco use, the founders—Brandon Oveson and Kendrick Woolstenhulme—felt a strong pull toward something that allowed them to express their individuality. This internal conflict between the expectations of their upbringing and their personal passion for premium cigars ignited a spark of rebellion. Instead of conforming to a tradition that forbade what they loved, they decided to channel that defiance into creating a brand that celebrates both exceptional craftsmanship and the freedom to choose. This act of breaking away is what ultimately gave birth to Apostate Cigars—a name that itself serves as a nod to their courageous departure from conventional norms.
Product Details
- Size & Vitola: It comes as a 5.5 × 54 box‐pressed robusto, which gives it a distinctive shape and feel.
- Construction:
- Wrapper: U.S.A. Pennsylvania Broadleaf
- Binder: African Cameroon
- Filler: A blend sourced from the Dominican Republic and Mexico
- Production: Crafted by hand at Tabacalera Palma in the Dominican Republic.
Inspiration & Branding
The cigar is named after Zarahemla—a once-mighty ancient city referenced in the Book of Mormon. This nod to historical and scriptural themes is in keeping with the brand’s rebellious twist on tradition, given that Apostate Cigars is known for its tongue-in-cheek reference to their Mormon heritage.
Flavor Profile & Smoking Experience
Reviewers have noted:
- Initial Notes: A prominent kick of cinnamon accompanied by natural sweetness on the draw.
- Mid-Smoke: As the cigar burns, exotic spice and subtle nutty undertones begin to emerge.
- Final Third: There’s a gentle transition with hints of dark chocolate and a lingering nuttiness.
- Overall: It offers a medium-plus strength smoking experience with a well-formed burn and a balanced flavor profile that evolves throughout the smoke.
Market Position & Reception
Priced around $13 per cigar (typically sold in bundles of 12), The Zarahemla has been well received by cigar enthusiasts for its construction, flavor complexity, and the unique narrative behind its name. It’s part of Apostate’s core lineup and represents a modern twist on premium cigar craftsmanship.
