From Halfwheel.com, “In April, Foundation Cigar Co. added a new cigar to its line-up, this time in the form of an event only cigar. Called Menelik, it is named after the ancient ruler of Ethiopia who is said to be the son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. While it may leave you scratching your head why owner Nicholas Melillo would name a cigar after an old ruler from Biblical times, let’s look into it a little further.
Menelik also went by the name Ebna la-Hakim, which is Arabic for Son of the Wise. This alone would tie the cigar into the rest of Melillo’s brands such as El Güegüense, which is a play off the main character of the Nahuatl word huehuewhich translates into wise man. In addition, Menelik I was the first descendant of Solomon to rule during the Solomonic Dynasty, while Haile Selassie I was the last. Haile Selassie I is considered to be the returned messiah in Rastafarianism, and Melillo has said himself he is an admirer of Jamaican culture, which is where the Rastafari movement was founded.
Ken Riddle (verified owner) –
Got a five pack. This is a fantastic little smoke. I’m gonna get a box! Thanks benefit from some humidor time.
David Lee (verified owner) –
Good stick. Was a bit harsh on the light up but smoothed out soon after. By the last third, was really good.
Kenneth Humphreys (verified owner) –
A nice sweet caramel in the first third that fades to almond, cherry and oak in the second and final third. A bit strong for my taste as I’m not a seasoned smoker but an enjoyable stick overall. The background story is a cool bonus as a fan of Jamaican music and history.