Blog

It’s a warm afternoon, and I’m back from a hearty family lunch—steak sandwiches, laughter, the whole deal. Now, I’m ready to kick back on the patio to do some work and revisit an old friend, the Tabernacle Broadleaf Goliath Perfecto. This 5 x 58 beast, priced at $14, is a bold smoke I’ve enjoyed before, perfect for unwinding. I clip the cap, light up, and settle in for a relaxing ride.

Let’s see if this big Perfecto still delivers the goods.

The Roots

Crafted at Tabacalera AJ Fernandez Cigars de Nicaragua S.A. in Estelí, Nicaragua, the Tabernacle Broadleaf Goliath Perfecto is a 5 x 58 vitola in Nicholas Melillo’s Tabernacle line, released in October 2020. Priced at $14 per cigar ($350 for a 25-count box), it features a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, Mexican San Andrés binder, and Honduran and Nicaraguan fillers. Known for its full-bodied intensity, this cigar, alongside its smaller sibling David (5 x 54), showcases AJ Fernandez’s craftsmanship, blending earthy depth with complex spice and sweetness.

The Experience: From Start to Finish

First Look: Pre-Light Impressions

Post-lunch, I settle in with the Tabernacle Broadleaf Goliath Perfecto, a 5 x 58 stick that feels substantial yet balanced. Its Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper is dark, oily, and slightly gritty, with fine veins and an espresso hue. The perfecto shape tapers elegantly, with a flawless triple cap. The wrapper aroma delivers damp earth, dark chocolate, and a hint of anise. The foot adds leather and roasted nuts, while the cold draw offers creamy cocoa, cedar, and a peppery zing, setting up a bold, relaxing smoke.

I light it up, ready to sink into the moment.

Foot to Cap: The Flavor Journey

The first third hits with a blast of black pepper and dry earth, like a forest floor after rain. Dark chocolate and leather follow, with a subtle anise sweetness softening the edge. The smoke’s dense, coating the palate, with a firm gray ash holding an inch. The burn’s even, though the perfecto’s taper requires steady puffs early on. Compared to the David Perfecto, the Goliath’s thicker ring gauge amplifies the intensity, rivaling Foundation’s Menelik but with more sweetness.

The second third shifts as cocoa and roasted walnut take center stage, joined by a gritty earthiness and espresso. Black pepper lingers on the retrohale, adding a spicy kick, while a creamy anise note smooths the profile. The burn steadies, needing no touch-ups, with the ash holding 1.5 inches. The Goliath’s richer than the David, with a sweeter, bolder core, akin to a dark chocolate truffle with a peppery twist.

The final third ramps up with espresso, charred leather, and earthy sweetness, like dark berries. Pepper intensifies, with a slight grating in the throat, but it’s minor against the cigar’s depth. The burn’s flawless to the nub, delivering an 80-minute smoke. Compared to the David, the Goliath’s fuller, with a longer, earthier finish, perfect for my post-lunch unwind.

Build & Burn: The Craftsmanship

The Goliath’s construction is stellar, with a firm, well-packed roll and a pristine triple cap. The Broadleaf wrapper’s oily, with tight seams and minimal veins, showcasing AJ Fernandez’s skill. The draw’s medium, pumping out thick, cool smoke for 80 minutes. The burn’s even, with a gray-white ash holding strong. A few glue spots on the foot add rustic charm. At $14, it’s a premium smoke that delivers.

Flavor Deep Dive: What’s Cooking

The Goliath Perfecto opens with black pepper, dry earth, and dark chocolate, balanced by anise sweetness. The second third shifts to creamy cocoa, walnut, and espresso, with pepper on the retrohale adding zest. The final third blends espresso, charred leather, and sweet berries, with a robust, earthy finish. Bolder than the David Perfecto, it’s less intense than Menelik but richer, a full-bodied treat for a slow unwind.

Strength & Body: The Power Within

The Goliath’s full strength builds steadily, delivering a nicotine kick by the end, ideal for seasoned smokers. The body’s full, with dense, creamy smoke carrying earth, cocoa, and spice. It’s punchier than the David Perfecto but smoother than Foundation’s Menelik, perfect for my post-lunch relaxation. The 80-minute burn suits a slow, contemplative session.

Perfect Pairings: Elevate the Experience

These pairings enhance the Goliath’s 80-minute vibe:

• Drinks: Woodford Reserve bourbon (matches leather, earth); espresso (echoes cocoa); stout (complements nutty notes).
• Foods: Dark chocolate truffles (pairs with cocoa); grilled ribeye (enhances leather); roasted hazelnuts (boosts sweetness).

Grab these for a bold, relaxing smoke.

Value: Worth the Price?

At $14 per cigar ($350 for 25), the Goliath offers solid value for a full-bodied smoke. Its complex cocoa, leather, and spice rival pricier cigars like Foundation’s Menelik ($15). The AJ Fernandez craftsmanship and 80-minute burn justify the cost. Compared to the David ($12), it’s bolder, making the box a worthy splurge for aficionados.

Our Rating:

The Tabernacle Broadleaf Goliath Perfecto earns a Refined rating. Its bold cocoa, leather, and spice deliver a full-bodied, 80-minute smoke with impeccable construction. At $14, it’s a powerhouse for seasoned smokers craving depth and intensity.

Final Thoughts

The Goliath’s nub fades, wrapping an 80-minute smoke that eased me into relaxation. Its earthy cocoa, leather, and spicy depth were as bold as I remembered. AJ Fernandez’s craftsmanship shines, making this $14 stick a go-to for bold, contemplative moments.

Own the Smoke: Make It Yours

The Goliath Perfecto is for seasoned smokers craving a full-bodied, 80-minute smoke with cocoa, spice, and depth. Its regular production makes it accessible at premium retailers. Light it up with a bourbon for a bold unwind or share it with friends. Own the moment.

Great smokes are to be shared!

See you next time.