The third release of Sensei’s Sensational Sarsaparilla, the project between Espinosa Premium Cigars and Cigar Dojo, is on its way to stores across the country.

The cigar debuted in 2014 as a 5 1/2 x 52 belicoso vitola, and this latest release returns to that same vitola. The blend remains the same as well, using a Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Nicaraguan binder, and fillers from the Condega and Estelí regions of Nicaragua, and which inspired the cigar’s name, as it is said to offer a distinct flavor of sarsaparilla root beer.

“The original Sarsaparilla was the first Dojo collaboration where we had full control of the final product,” said Eric Guttormson, owner of Cigar Dojo, via a press release, adding that “the Espinosa team let us run wild with the branding, marketing, and promotion, as well as picking the final blend.”

While the size and blend remain the same, the packaging has received a noticeable upgrade. While the first version came in paper-wrapped bundles, it is now available in 10-count boxes, which will be available as an ongoing, seasonal production as opposed to a limited edition, one-and-done production. It is also now available to all retailers, having been previously released as retailer exclusives. The cigars, which have an MSRP of $10 each and $99.95 per box, began shipping on Tuesday, according to Hector Alfonso Sr., director of operations for Espinosa Premium Cigars.

“Bro, when you think of Cigar Dojo and Espinosa Cigars, your first thought is Sarsaparilla,” said Erik Espinosa, owner of Espinosa Premium Cigars, via a press release. “It’s the one that started it all. It’s time for everyone to get a turn with this cigar.”

Sensei’s Sensational Sarsaparilla also made an appearance in October 2016, released in a 6 x 50 toro vitola.

Image courtesy of Espinosa Premium Cigars/Cigar Dojo.

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Patrick Lagreid

I strive to capture the essence of a cigar and the people behind them in my work – every cigar you light up is the culmination of the work of countless people and often represents generations of struggle and stories. For me, it’s about so much more than the cigar – it’s about the story behind it, the experience of enjoying the work of artisans and the way that a good cigar can bring people together. In addition to my work with halfwheel, I’m the public address announcer for the Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks during spring training, as well as for the Salt River Rafters of the Arizona Fall League, the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, the G-League's Valley Suns, and previously the Arizona Rattlers of the Indoor Football League. I also work in a number of roles for Major League Baseball, plus I'm a voice over artist. Prior to joining halfwheel, I covered the Phoenix and national cigar scene for Examiner.com, and was an editor for Cigar Snob magazine.