The Legendary and Elusive Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Eye of the Shark Cigar

The Legendary Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Eye of the Shark Cigar

The Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Eye of the Shark is arguably one of the most famous and coveted cigars amongst aficionados. Originally released in 2007 in limited quantities, this Dominican puro has achieved an almost mythical status in the cigar world. Let's take a closer look at what makes the Eye of the Shark such a legendary smoke.

The History Behind the Eye of the Shark

The Arturo Fuente cigar company was founded in 1912 by Arturo Fuente Sr. in Tampa, Florida. After facing setbacks due to the Great Depression and Cuban Revolution, the company relocated to the Dominican Republic in 1980. Under the leadership of Carlos “Carlito” Fuente Jr., Arturo Fuente Cigars became one of the most respected cigar makers in the world.

The Arturo Fuente Don Carlos line was created in the 1990s as a tribute to Don Carlos Fuente Sr. The blend features rare Dominican tobacco aged up to 12 years. In 2007, the Eye of the Shark was introduced as an ultra-limited offering under the Don Carlos line. It gained instant popularity among Fuente fans.

What Makes the Eye of the Shark Special?

The Eye of the Shark stands out for several reasons:

• Rarity - Only released in small batches periodically, which adds to its mystic.
• Aged tobacco - The filler and binder tobaccos are aged for up to 12 years, creating complex flavors.
• Flavor profile - Notes of coffee, cocoa, cinnamon and wood with a spicy finish.
• Quality construction - Handmade with a shaggy foot and closed foot, denoting a factory exclusive.
• Unique presentation - Packaged in boxes made from Dominican Republic coffin wood.

The interplay between the ultra-aged tobaccos and flawless construction produces an unforgettable smoking experience. Each puff delivers evolving notes of spice and chocolate. Even the appearance stands out, with an unfinished foot on one side mimicking a shark's tail.

Where to Find the Eye of the Shark

Part of the cigar's allure is its elusiveness. Retailers are rarely able to order it directly. Small allotments sometimes appear at Arturo Fuente lounges or are given as gifts to select dealers. Aficionados have been known to camp outside cigar shops when they learn a shipment is arriving.

Secondary cigar markets often command astronomical prices for the Eye of the Shark, sometimes exceeding $50 per cigar. Given its rarity, many Fuente fans consider it a bucket-list smoke or a special occasion treat rather than an everyday cigar.

Other Notable Fuente Cigars

Although the Eye of the Shark receives the most hype, Arturo Fuente Cigars has many other celebrated premiums in its portfolio:

• OpusX - Their rarest and most famous line. The ForbiddenX is the most sought-after.
• Hemingway - A mellower, crowd-pleasing flagship cigar named after author Ernest Hemingway.
• Don Carlos - The Eye of the Shark's core line. Features rare vintage tobaccos.
• Añejo - Aged at least 5 years. The Añejo 77 Shark is a special Eye of the Shark offshoot.
• Gran Reserva - A budget-friendly handmade featuring aged tobaccos.

It's clear why Arturo Fuente holds such prestige in the premium cigar industry. Their commitment to rare vintage tobaccos, flawless construction, and constant innovation has built a legendary portfolio of smokes.

The Allure of the Arturo Fuente Eye of the Shark

When it comes to rare, sought-after cigars, few light up aficionados' eyes quite like the Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Eye of the Shark. This Dominican puro has achieved cult status since its limited debut in 2007, commanding prices over $50 when found. With its ultra-aged tobaccos, flawless construction, evolving flavor profile, and unique rarity, it's no surprise why this shark has captured the imagination of cigar enthusiasts across the globe.

FAQs

What makes the Eye of the Shark cigar so special?

The Eye of the Shark uses ultra-aged tobaccos up to 12 years old for complex flavors. It has flawless construction and a unique shaggy foot. It's produced in small batches, adding to its rarity and mystique.

What's the flavor profile like?

Expect notes of coffee, cocoa, cinnamon, and wood, with a spicy finish. The aged tobaccos create evolving flavors throughout the smoke.

Where can I buy the Eye of the Shark?

It's rarely available for retail purchase. Small allotments sometimes appear at Arturo Fuente lounges or select cigar shops. Secondary resale markets command very high prices.

What is the best Arturo Fuente cigar?

The OpusX line is considered their rarest and most sought-after. However, the Eye of the Shark has achieved an almost mythic reputation.

Are Fuente cigars expensive?

Their premium lines like OpusX and Eye of the Shark are very expensive. But they also offer more affordable handmade options like the Gran Reserva.