Description
Size: 5 x 54
Vitola: Short Robusto
Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: San Andrés
Fillers: Nicaraguan (Estelí and Jalapa), Honduran
Flavor Notes: Dense earth, dark cocoa, black pepper, sweet molasses, charred wood
Pairing Notes: Outstanding with espresso, dark rum, or a barrel strength bourbon
Manufacturer: Foundation Cigar Company
Privada Storytelling
Nick Melillo built The Tabernacle line as a tribute to heritage, faith, and the sacred respect he carries for Broadleaf. The David vitola, named in contrast to the towering Goliath, is the compact powerhouse of the series. Small in stature but mighty in intention, this cigar smokes like a quiet warrior stepping out of the shadows with the confidence of someone who already won the fight.
In typical Foundation fashion, every leaf feels chosen with reverence. The Broadleaf wrapper is thick, dark, and oily, carrying the unmistakable aroma that only true Connecticut soil can produce. Light it and the room shifts. The air gets heavier, richer, almost ceremonial. The David reminds you that size never measures impact. Craft does. Purpose does. And Nick pours both into every inch of this blend.
Flavor Journey
It opens with deep earth and dark cocoa wrapped in a wave of pepper that hits quickly but settles smoothly. Within the first inch the sweetness unfolds into molasses and toasted wood, giving that iconic Broadleaf profile its depth. The middle third becomes creamier yet remains bold, with savory undertones from the San Andrés binder. The finish is long, earthy, spiced, and undeniably satisfying for anyone who craves heavy hitting flavor in a short format.
Why It Belongs in Privada
Because Broadleaf done right is a rare art, and Nick Melillo is one of the few masters left who treat it like a sacred craft. The David is the perfect example of small format excellence, delivering complexity and weight without the time commitment of a larger vitola. It’s the kind of cigar Privada members appreciate — bold, boutique, and built with purpose.
Production Notes
Crafted at Tabacalera AJ Fernandez in Nicaragua under Nick’s strict selection of Broadleaf that undergoes long fermentation for sweetness and density. The Nicaraguan and Honduran fillers are aged to ensure balance beneath the powerful wrapper, creating that unmistakable Tabernacle depth.
Highlights
Authentic, deeply fermented Connecticut Broadleaf
Compact size with full power delivery
Signature Foundation complexity
One of the richest short robustos in the modern boutique world
