Black Star Line Cigars has teamed up with Cigar Dojo for the Yasuke. This is Cigar Dojo’s latest collaboration and the first Cigar Dojo cigar with Black Star Line Cigars. The Aganorsa factory will produce the cigar, which will be sold through South Florida retailer Smoke Inn.

While few historical documents exist, Yasuke is believed to be the first black samurai. He served the Japanese daimyō Oda Nobunaga from 1581 to 1582.

Blend-wise, the Yasuke uses Nicaraguan Corojo 2012 for both the wrapper and binder grown on the Aganora farms. The filler also features Nicaraguan tobaccos from Aganorsa’s Jalapa and Estelí regions but incorporates Mexican tobacco. The cigar comes in one size—a 6 x 52 Toro. A total of 300 ten-count bundles were produced. Pricing is $12.50 SRP/cigar or $125.00 SRP/bundle. The cigars go on sale at Smoke Inn on October 4th, 2024.

The cigar also comes with a pigtail cap, representing the chonmage (topknot) hairstyle.

“Partnering with Black Star Line Cigars allowed us to explore a fascinating intersection of cultures,” said Eric Guttormson, owner of Cigar Dojo, in a press release. “Yasuke’s story is a testament to the universal language of respect and skill, transcending racial and cultural boundaries. We wanted to capture that essence in this cigar.”

Aric Bey, founder of Black Star Line Cigars, added, “This collaboration with The Dojo is more than just creating a great cigar. It’s about telling a story that resonates with our commitment to diversity and excellence in the cigar industry. Yasuke’s legacy as the first black samurai perfectly encapsulates our mission.”

At a glance, here is a look at the Yasuke:

Blend and Origin

Wrapper: Nicaraguan Corojo 2012
Binder: Nicaraguan Corojo 2012
Filler: Nicaragua (Jalapa, Estelí), Mexico (San Andrés)
County of Origin: Nicaragua
Factory: Agricola Ganadera Norteña S.A.

Vitolas Offered

Toro: 6 x 52

Photo Credit: Supplied by Black Star Line Cigars