Alec Bradley Prensado: The Honduran Dark Horse
The 2011 Cigar of the Year that put Honduras back on the premium map
Score Breakdown
When the Alec Bradley Prensado won Cigar Aficionado's Cigar of the Year in 2011, it was a watershed moment for Honduran tobacco. We revisit this landmark blend.
The Alec Bradley Prensado's 2011 Cigar of the Year win was a genuine surprise to the cigar world. Honduras had long been overshadowed by Cuba, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic in the premium cigar conversation. The Prensado changed that narrative permanently.
The Blend
"Prensado" means "pressed" in Spanish, referring to the box-pressed shape that gives this cigar its distinctive square profile. The wrapper is a Guatemalan Habano, the binder is Honduran, and the filler is a complex blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos.
Construction
The box-pressed construction is executed perfectly. The Guatemalan wrapper is dark and oily, with a beautiful reddish-brown hue. The square profile feels comfortable in the hand and burns evenly throughout.
Flavor
The Prensado opens with a distinctive combination of dark chocolate, espresso, and Honduran earth. The Guatemalan wrapper contributes a unique sweetness that sets this cigar apart from other full-bodied blends.
As the cigar progresses, notes of leather, dried fruit, and a subtle spice develop. The complexity is impressive — this is a cigar that rewards patience and attention.
The final third delivers a satisfying crescendo of chocolate and coffee, with a long, complex finish.
Score: 93/100
The Alec Bradley Prensado remains one of the great value propositions in premium cigars — a full-bodied, complex smoke at an accessible price point.
Tasting Notes
First Third
The Prensado opens with a distinctive combination of dark chocolate and espresso, immediately establishing its full-bodied character. The Guatemalan Habano wrapper contributes a unique sweetness that sets this cigar apart from other Central American blends.
Second Third
The middle third reveals the blend's considerable complexity. Notes of leather and dried fruit develop alongside a subtle spice. The box-pressed shape concentrates the flavors beautifully, and the caramel sweetness from the Guatemalan wrapper becomes more pronounced.
Final Third
The final third delivers a satisfying crescendo of chocolate and coffee. The complexity that has been building throughout the cigar reaches its peak, and the finish is long and deeply satisfying.
Pairing Recommendations
Maker's Mark Bourbon
The approachable bourbon's wheat-forward sweetness creates a perfect harmony with the Prensado's Guatemalan wrapper character.
Dos Equis Amber Lager
The Mexican amber lager's caramel malt notes complement the Prensado's sweetness while providing a refreshing contrast.
Guatemalan Dark Roast Coffee
A geographic connection that creates a natural flavor harmony — Guatemalan coffee with a Guatemalan-wrapped cigar.
Final Verdict
The Alec Bradley Prensado remains one of the great value propositions in premium cigars. The 2011 Cigar of the Year award was not a fluke — this is a full-bodied, complex smoke that delivers at a price point well below its quality level. It is the benchmark Honduran cigar.
Expert Pro Tip
The box-pressed shape is not just aesthetic — it actually affects the smoke. The square profile creates a slightly different draw and burn pattern than a round cigar of the same blend. Smoke it slowly to appreciate the full complexity.
Buying Guide
The Prensado retails for $9–$12 per stick — exceptional value for a cigar of this quality. Available at all major retailers. Buy a box of 24 for the best per-stick price.
Reviewed By
James Caldwell
Contributing Reviewer
James is a retired sommelier who turned his sensory expertise to the world of premium tobacco. His background in wine tasting gives his reviews a unique analytical depth. He focuses particularly on Honduran and Ecuadorian blends.
Recommended Products
Alec Bradley Prensado Robusto 5-Pack
Five of the 2011 Cigar of the Year. The Robusto is the classic expression of the Prensado blend.
Boveda 69% RH 2-Way Humidity Control (12-Pack)
The most reliable humidity control solution. Keep your Prensado collection in perfect condition.
