Renowned for his dynamic presence in the culinary world, Guy Fieri has also made a significant mark in the realm of cigar aficionados. Last year, he graced the cover of Cigar Aficionado magazine, a testament to his deep-seated love for cigars. Beyond mere appreciation, Fieri has ventured into the cigar industry with his brand, the Knuckle Sandwich, developed in collaboration with Erik Espinosa of Espinosa Premium Cigars. This partnership has birthed the Knuckle Sandwich 56, a limited-edition cigar launched to commemorate Fieri’s 56th birthday.
The inception of the Knuckle Sandwich brand was a blend of Fieri’s passion for cigars and Espinosa’s expertise in cigar making. The Knuckle Sandwich 56 is the product of this synergy, designed to offer a unique smoking experience. This year’s release follows the success of the previous edition, with Espinosa amplifying production to meet the overwhelming demand. Production has surged from a modest 555 boxes to 1,500, making the Knuckle Sandwich 56 more accessible to enthusiasts.
Erik Espinosa reflects on the initial launch, highlighting the cigar’s unexpected acclaim. It quickly became a sought-after “unicorn cigar,” with aficionados clamoring for more. In response, Espinosa and Fieri decided to continue the tradition, enhancing the blend and design to celebrate Fieri’s birthday in grand style.
The Knuckle Sandwich 56 stands out with its robust dimensions—6 inches long and a 56-ring gauge, a slight increase from last year’s model. It retains the acclaimed Nicaraguan filler and binder tobacco blend, enveloped in a premium Mexican wrapper from the San Andrés Valley. This meticulous blend ensures a rich and complex smoking experience, priced at $16 per cigar, reflecting its premium quality.
Crafted in the esteemed San Lotano Factory in Ocotal, Nicaragua, by A.J. Fernandez, the Knuckle Sandwich 56 is a testament to cigar-making art. It embodies the spirit of celebration and the passion for crafting exceptional cigars that Fieri and Espinosa share.
As the Knuckle Sandwich 56 makes its way to aficionados, it continues to build on the legacy of its creators. Guy Fieri’s influence extends beyond the kitchen into the world of cigars, where his enthusiasm and innovative spirit ignite a new appreciation for the craft. The Knuckle Sandwich 56 is not just a cigar; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, collaboration, and the joy of savoring life’s finer moments.