Foundation The Tabernacle Knight Commander Perfecto

The Tabernacle Knight Commander Perfecto by Foundation Cigar Company is a powerful expression of artistry, heritage, and purpose—blending premium Nicaraguan craftsmanship with philanthropic intention. Created by Nicholas Melillo, this 6¾ x 52 Perfecto format cigar celebrates Melillo’s appointment to the Ethiopian Order of the Star of Honor, an elite distinction reflecting his humanitarian contributions to the region.

This extremely limited release—produced in just 700 boxes per year—is handcrafted at AJ Fernandez’s factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, using only the most select tobaccos. What makes this cigar truly exceptional is not just the blend, but its mission: every wholesale dollar from the sale of the Knight Commander supports charitable projects in Ethiopia, including education initiatives, historical preservation, and humanitarian relief.

Wrapped in a dark, oily Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, the Knight Commander delivers rich layers of complexity that unfold slowly and elegantly throughout the smoke. Beneath the broadleaf is a Mexican San Andrés binder that adds a bold earthiness, while the filler blend features aged Nicaraguan tobaccos from Estelí and Jalapa, offering the deep body and balance that has become synonymous with Foundation’s Tabernacle line.

From the first draw, expect immediate notes of cocoa, espresso, earth, and cedar. The smoke is dense and chewy, coating the palate with a subtle sweetness balanced by pepper and baking spice. As the cigar evolves, leather, coffee, and woodsy depth take over with seamless transitions between thirds. The construction is flawless, with an even burn, creamy smoke texture, and cool finish that lingers long after the final puff.

The Perfecto format is as rare as it is complex. Its tapered head and foot demand precise rolling technique—something only the most skilled torcedores in Nicaragua can execute. The Knight Commander proves itself worthy of its name with visual beauty, aroma, structure, and story all in perfect sync. This isn’t just a cigar—it’s an homage to legacy, heritage, and social impact.

For aficionados who collect rare cigars, value global significance, or simply seek the very best in Connecticut Broadleaf expressions, the Knight Commander Perfecto is an unmissable release. It rivals legendary vitolas from the likes of Padron 1926 and Davidoff Nicaragua in terms of flavor depth, but stands alone in its philanthropic mission.

Pair this full-bodied cigar with a well-aged bourbon or single malt whisky to enhance the richness of the broadleaf wrapper. For collectors, it makes a statement alongside other standout Foundation releases such as the Tabernacle Havana Seed CT No. 142, the original Wise Man Maduro, or the Menelik.

Whether you’re a seasoned Foundation loyalist or discovering this brand for the first time, the Knight Commander is a masterclass in premium cigar blending and an example of what it means to smoke with purpose. From the luxurious cedar-aged box to the meaningful backstory behind its name, every element of this release speaks to excellence.

As one of the most sought-after Foundation cigars available today, quantities are extremely limited—and we proudly feature the Knight Commander Perfecto as part of our rare and aged cigar collection here at The Tobacconist of Greenwich. All cigars are stored in our climate-controlled humidor and shipped with care to ensure freshness upon arrival.