Since its inception in 1985, the Ashton brand has become synonymous with high-quality cigars treasured by both long-time connoisseurs and discerning neophytes. The creation of Robert Levin, who was searching for a way to revitalize his second-generation family cigar business, Ashton established itself swiftly as a denominator of the good life.
Ashton has produced an astounding number of truly superb limited-release cigars. However, it is difficult to outdo the complexity and fundamental delight found in its original. The Ashton original is notable for its mild but complex flavor, with a hint of cashew and wood. It is but a promise of what lies in others that now share its name and reputation.
Ashton cigars are all constructed around the same honored foundation, a finely aged Dominican filler. The legendary Connecticut shade leaf was the original wrapper, but in the past decade or so there have been limited-edition releases utilizing Connecticut broadleaf, Ecuadorian “cloud leaf,” and the rare Cameroon leaf. All these fine components are crafted into dense, easy-to-light, smooth-drawing cigars, a delight to aficionados and a relief to novices.
The legendary Ashton quality is in large part due to the expertise of the Fuente family, world-famous premium cigar manufacturers responsible for most (but not all) of the blends offered by the brand. Thanks to their high standards and generations of expertise, the Ashton quality never falters even in the face of increasing popularity.
The Ashton line is one that can be appreciated by nearly everyone. Having a mild to medium taste, they won’t overwhelm the unknowing and won’t bore the adventurous. While they vary by category, Ashtons tend to have a mild to medium finish as well, making them very desirable as after-dinner smokes.