Alexander J. Gonzalez from The Cigar Guys Podcast interviews Jeff Borysiewicz and Steve Saka regarding their collaboration cigar the Black Angus. The Black Angus cigar uses Florida Sun Grown Tobacco in the blend, making it the first DTT cigar to use Florida Tobacco. This interview was conducted at the Corona Cigar Co. Tampa location in the J.C. Newman V.I.P. Lounge.
Behind the Creation of the Black Angus Cigar: A Collaboration Between Jeff Borysiewicz and Steve Saka
In the world of premium cigars, few collaborations generate the level of anticipation and excitement as the partnership between Jeff Borysiewicz, the founder of Florida Sun Grown (FSG) tobacco, and renowned master blender Steve Saka. Together, they have crafted the Black Angus cigar, a unique, limited-edition offering that combines Florida-grown tobacco with Saka’s expertise in cigar blending and design. Here’s a closer look at the origins, production process, and distinctive qualities that make the Black Angus a must-try for aficionados.
The Genesis of the Black Angus Cigar
Jeff Borysiewicz’s Florida Sun Grown (FSG) farm, established in 2013 in Claremont, Florida, is the foundation of the Black Angus cigar. As one of the few tobacco farms in the United States, FSG has gained attention for its distinctive flavor profile and premium quality.
The collaboration began when Steve Saka visited the FSG farm, drawn by curiosity about its unique tobacco. Recognizing the potential of the raw material, Jeff and Steve embarked on a creative journey to craft a cigar that would highlight FSG tobacco’s distinctive qualities. For Jeff, this collaboration was akin to a “farm-to-table” approach, where his tobacco became the raw canvas for a master blender’s artistry.
The Black Angus name and theme also pay homage to Jeff’s experience as a rancher, reflecting his personal connection to the land and its environment, including the Black Angus cattle grazing nearby.
The Artistic Process
Jeff gave Steve complete creative freedom to craft the Black Angus cigar. While Jeff provided the tobacco, Steve took charge of the blending, design, and packaging. The result is a cigar that seamlessly marries Jeff’s agricultural expertise with Steve’s mastery in blending.
Steve’s artistic process began with the challenging yet rewarding task of working with FSG’s unique Corona leaves. Despite their thick and coarse nature, Steve saw potential in their “twangy” flavor and set out to balance that distinctiveness with a blend that would appeal to a broad range of cigar enthusiasts.
Crafting the Blend
Creating the Black Angus blend was no small feat. It took over a year of careful fermentation and experimentation to develop a cigar that met Steve’s high standards. The final blend is an intricate composition of premium tobaccos:
• Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés Negro.
• Binder: Ecuadorian Habano.
• Fillers: A mix of Nicaraguan tobaccos and FSG Corona leaves serving as the ligero, adding strength and depth to the flavor profile.
The result is a cigar with a savory, meaty flavor that evolves as it burns. It starts with a mild-to-medium strength and gradually builds in complexity, offering something for both seasoned FSG fans and those new to its unique flavor.
Production and Availability
Due to the limited supply of FSG tobacco, the Black Angus is produced in small quantities, making it a rare find for cigar enthusiasts. The initial production run included just 800 boxes of cigars, derived from 100 pounds of FSG tobacco. With the remaining tobacco, an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 more cigars can be produced, but further production would require over two years to ferment and age additional tobacco.
Expanding the Black Angus line into different sizes or vitolas is also unlikely due to the limited availability of FSG Corona leaves, emphasizing the exclusivity of this blend.
Tasting Notes
The Black Angus delivers a flavor profile that’s both bold and refined. Key characteristics include:
• Flavor: A savory, meaty taste that builds in complexity as the cigar progresses.
• Strength: Starts mild-to-medium and intensifies as it burns, creating a dynamic smoking experience.
• Audience: Appeals to a wide range of smokers, from FSG enthusiasts to those seeking a rare and flavorful premium cigar.
Pairing Recommendations
To fully enjoy the Black Angus, consider pairing it with complementary beverages and foods:
• Beverages: Sweeter bourbons, Highland or Speyside scotches, or añejo tequilas enhance the cigar’s flavors.
• Foods: Desserts with high fat content, like dark chocolate or rich pastries, provide a delightful balance.
• Coffee: A versatile pairing option, coffee complements the Black Angus at any time of day.
Conclusion
The Black Angus cigar represents a harmonious collaboration between Jeff Borysiewicz and Steve Saka. It’s a testament to the artistry involved in blending premium tobaccos and the dedication to crafting something truly unique. For those lucky enough to secure one of these limited-edition cigars, the Black Angus offers an unforgettable smoking experience that highlights the best of Florida Sun Grown tobacco and Saka’s blending mastery. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar enthusiast or new to FSG, the Black Angus is a cigar worth savoring.
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