At InterTabac, E.P. Carrillo showcased the Aura E.P. Carrillo Shengxiao Limited Edition, a new cigar, or should we say, a new set of cigars for the Asian market. A box contains 12 cigars, all with a different blend, blended to go with the 12 zodiac characters. The cigars are all torpedoes, measuring 6 1/8×52. Most of the 2500 boxes made will go to the Asian markets, but a small portion will be allocated to the American market. Each handcrafted, mahogany box will include a humidifier and a set of cards that offer details on the individual cigar blends and their corresponding animal personalities.

“Blending the Aura cigar requires the right energy (Aura) and state of mind,”  said Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, alluding to the brand slogan “Driven by Energy.” In Chinese culture, Shengxiao represents the animal personality that corresponds to the year we’re born. The blending process for Aura, and ultimately the smoking experience, is intended to represent balance between the mind, body and energy.

The new brand series was made in collaboration with Singapore-based distributor Cigar Specialist International. Only 2,500 boxes of the limited-edition series were produced and they’re expected to ship to retailers in the next few weeks.