
Foundation Cigars: Compare Prices from 19 Retailers
Craft Cigars by Nicholas Melillo. From Tabernacle to Wise Man









Foundation Cigar Company was founded in 2017 by Nicholas Melillo, a former tobacco agronomist who spent years working for General Cigar and Quesada Cigars before striking out on his own. Melillo's deep knowledge of tobacco agronomy. He literally studied the plants in the field. Gives Foundation an edge that few boutique brands can match. The Tabernacle earned a spot on Cigar Aficionado's Top 25 list in its debut year, and the portfolio has continued to grow with critically acclaimed releases. CigarFinder compares Foundation prices across 17+ trusted retailers.
About Foundation Cigars
Nicholas Melillo is not your typical cigar brand owner. He is a trained tobacco agronomist who spent years studying leaf in the fields of the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Connecticut before ever blending a cigar. This scientific understanding of tobacco, combined with a passionate palate, gives Foundation cigars a depth that reflects true expertise.
Foundation's cigars are produced at the Aganorsa Leaf factory (TABSA) in Estelí, Nicaragua. One of the most respected boutique factories in the country. The Tabernacle is the flagship. A rich, full-bodied Connecticut Broadleaf-wrapped Nicaraguan blend that earned a spot on Cigar Aficionado's Top 25 in 2017. The Tabernacle Havana Seed CT No. 142 uses a rare Havana seed Connecticut wrapper for a different expression.
The Wise Man Maduro is a bold San Andres-wrapped powerhouse. Highclere Castle is a refined, mild-to-medium cigar inspired by the real Highclere Castle (of Downton Abbey fame), produced in collaboration with the Carnarvon family. Olmec features a dark Mexican San Andres wrapper with ancient Mesoamerican-inspired branding. Charter Oak is the everyday value line delivering premium quality under $5.
Foundation Cigars Quick Facts
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Founded: 2017
Popular Lines: The Tabernacle, Wise Man Maduro, Charter Oak, Highclere Castle, Olmec, El Gueguense, Metapa
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nicholas Melillo?
Nicholas Melillo is a trained tobacco agronomist who worked for General Cigar and Quesada Cigars before founding Foundation Cigar Company in 2017. His scientific background in tobacco agriculture gives him a unique perspective on cigar blending that few in the industry can match.
What is the best Foundation cigar?
The Tabernacle is the flagship and most acclaimed. A rich, full-bodied Connecticut Broadleaf cigar that made Cigar Aficionado's Top 25 in its debut year. Wise Man Maduro is the choice for maximum boldness. Highclere Castle is the most refined and approachable. Charter Oak is the best value.
Is Foundation related to Charter Oak?
Yes, Charter Oak is Foundation Cigar Company's value line. While the Tabernacle and Wise Man use premium-priced tobaccos, Charter Oak delivers the same quality standards at an everyday price point under $5 per cigar.
Where are Foundation cigars made?
Foundation cigars are produced at the Aganorsa Leaf factory (TABSA) in Estelí, Nicaragua. Aganorsa is one of Nicaragua's largest tobacco growers, and their factory is home to many acclaimed boutique brands.
Where can I buy Foundation cigars at the best price?
CigarFinder compares Foundation cigar prices across 17+ trusted online retailers. Browse the products above sorted by price and check our coupon codes for additional savings.
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