The LFD Reserva Especial Belicoso comes packing heat in a sexy 4.5" x 52 figurado shape. At $231.12 per box of 24, this Dominican powerhouse resurrects the original blend that put LFD on the map back in '97. Don't let the Connecticut wrapper fool you - this ain't your grandpa's mild smoke.
Right off the foot, you get black coffee grounds and dark chocolate bitterness. The draw's perfect - not too tight, not too loose. Smoke production's decent but not billowy. Watch out for that nicotine kick sneaking up early.
The sweetness finally appears around the halfway mark - think burnt caramel drizzled over cedar planks. Pepper spice dials back, replaced by leathery undertones. Ash holds strong in perfect concentric circles.
Last third brings cocoa powder and roasted almonds. Mineral notes pop up near the nub, with increased oiliness on the lips. Cut it before the 1" mark unless you want tongue numbness.
Let these babies rest at least 2 years if possible - fresh rolls can have slight ammonia sharpness. Pair with bold drinks: Islay Scotch or Cuban coffee works best. The dark maduro-esque wrapper (thanks to Brazilian Arapiraca leaf) develops beautiful oils with age.
