United Cigars has announced the Big Papi Firecracker will make its debut at TPE 2022. The Big Papi Firecracker is a variation of the Slugger line by El Artista. It was blended by third generation owner Ram Rodriguez in collaboration with Major League Baseball superstar David Ortiz. While a lockout may delay the start of the Major League Baseball season, United Cigars will begin shipping the Big Papi Firecracker in March.

“This was a special project that I wanted to be a part of,” said Ram. “This Firecracker is a unique vitola and for a Big Papi Firecracker it had to be special. I wanted tobacco that was grown in the Dominican in the 60’s and Dominican Negrito was that tobacco.”

Ram added, “Then I had a conversation with David about the Project, who also got very excited. We both made the decision to take the Big Papi Slugger, which has become the favorite among the smokers of Big Papi cigars, and make some modifications to make it more in line with the Firecracker concept. After a few samples, we obtained a medium to full cigar, rich in complex flavors, and which we are proud to present for this important project.”

Produced at Tabacalera El Artista, the blend is a boosted version of the Slugger blend and features a San Andres wrapper, Dominican Negrito binder, and a combination of Dominican Criollo ’98, Nicaraguan Jalapa, and Pennsylvania Broadleaf. The cigar comes in the Firecracker 3 1/2 x 50 format and will be presented in collectible boxes of 20 cigars. Pricing is set at $159.99 per box or $7.99 per cigar. Production will be limited to 1000 boxes.

In addition, the boxes will feature a QR Code for a special “Thank you” video from David Ortiz. Ortiz played 14 seasons in the majors, finishing his career with ten All-Star appearances, three World Series rings, and seven Silver-Slugger Awards. There will also be ten MVP mystery boxes with his signature inside and sealed at the factory in Tamboril, Dominican Republic.

TPE 2022 opens on January 26, 2022, in Las Vegas.

The following are the releases of the Firecracker Series:

Photo Credits: United Cigars