Bongani is the first cigar brand born in Africa, founded in 2016 by former banker Kamal Moukheiber. The cigars are handrolled in Maputo, Mozambique, by a team of rollers trained under the guidance of Dominican Republic experts. The 458 Short Gordo is the smallest of the three formats in the range.
The cigar is dressed in an oily Colorado wrapper that is smooth to the touch. Construction is good with a uniform filling.
- Country of Origin: Mozambique
- Size: 58 x 102 mm (4″)
- Wrapper: Cameroon
- Binder: Mozambique
- Filler: Mozambique, Zimbabwe
- Price: $13.9 | €12.9
Bongani 458 Short Gordo: the cold draw reveals earthy aromas. Once lit, the opening delivers a combination of earth and coffee notes.
The first half continues along the same path, centered on earth and coffee, complemented by a subtle balsamic nuance. Strength is medium (3/5).
During the second half, the flavor profile remains largely unchanged. A slight bitterness emerges and gradually becomes more noticeable. Strength increases, reaching a medium-plus level (4/5).
Overall, the Bongani 458 Short Gordo is a cigar with a rather linear flavor profile. While the earth and coffee notes remain pleasant throughout the smoke, the light bitterness that develops in the latter stages limits the overall complexity and enjoyment.