This box-pressed belicoso from Romeo y Julieta's Nicaraguan line hits like a coffee-fueled freight train. At 6 1/8" with a 52 ring gauge, the Reserva Real Nicaragua No 2 packs enough Estelí-grown tobacco to make your eyebrows sweat. Priced around $10/stick in boxes of 25, it's that rare blend that actually justifies the "full strength" warning label.
Cedar and baking spices punch through immediately, with an oily smoke texture that clings to the palate. The Habano wrapper delivers trademark Nicaraguan pepper - think black peppercorn crushed between granite slabs.
Dark chocolate emerges as the binder kicks in, blending with stewed plum notes. Smoke output thickens noticeably - dense enough to leave visible trails in still air. Retrohale reveals bitter orange peel and a mineral tang from Estelí's volcanic soil.
Espresso bitterness dominates as combustion approaches the band. Leather and charred meat notes develop, with nicotine buildup requiring slower pacing. Savory finish leaves lingering black tea tannins on the tongue.
The Colorado-maduro wrapper feels slightly toothy under finger pressure. Triple cap holds firm through multiple relights. Burn line stays razor-straight despite the box-press shape - testament to AJ Fernandez's rolling team in Estelí.
Grown exclusively in Nicaraguan tobacco valleys (Estelí, Condega, Jalapa) and rolled at Tabacalera Fernandez. The Jalapa wrapper leaf contributes sweetness to balance Estelí's signature pepper blast. Minimum 90-day aging recommended to mellow the volcanic soil minerality.
