This box-pressed 5¼"×58 monster from Saga's storybook series demands attention. The Mexican San Andreas Maduro wrapper glistens with oily perfection, hiding a 4-country tobacco blend that includes rare Dominican Olor. At $9.60 per stick, it's positioned as special occasion smoke rather than daily driver - but does it deliver?
The cold draw hints at molasses-dipped leather. Initial puffs explode with black pepper spice that lingers on the tongue. Heavy wood smoke dominates - think charred hickory chips rather than smooth cedar. Retrohale brings burnt caramel sweetness fighting through the peppery assault.
Spice mellows into mulled wine territory - cinnamon stick and clove notes emerge. Coffee grounds texture coats the palate. Noticeable nicotine kick starts creeping in around the halfway mark. Burn stays razor-sharp despite the massive ring gauge.
Dark chocolate bitterness takes over with occasional floral whispers (violets?). Smoke becomes denser, requiring slower draws to prevent overheating. Tar buildup becomes apparent in last inch. Best enjoyed down to band point rather than nubbed.
A flavor-packed bruiser that justifies its "special occasion" pricing through boldness rather than nuance. The massive 58 ring gauge manages surprisingly even combustion. Best paired with dark rum to counterbalance the intense spice. Not for morning smokes or nicotine-sensitive palates.
