Let's talk about this fat boy - the EP Carrillo Sumatra Gordo. This 6x60 torpedo-sized stick comes in boxes of 24, packing enough girth to keep your hands busy for a solid 90-minute smoke. Priced at around $10 per cigar, it's positioned as an affordable luxury in the medium-bodied category. The Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper shines with oily perfection, hiding a multinational blend of Nicaraguan/Honduran binder and Dominican/Nicaraguan fillers.
The initial puffs hit with cedar notes and roasted almonds. There's noticeable sweetness here - think caramel drizzle on a cafe mocha. Smoke production surprised me for such a thick stick; not overwhelming but consistent. The draw? Like sucking milkshake through a wide straw.
At the halfway mark, white pepper spice kicks in without throat irritation. The sweetness dials back to reveal espresso grounds and baking chocolate. Ash holds strong for nearly two inches - decent construction despite the intimidating ring gauge.
The last third brings leathery depth with occasional mineral notes. Some nicotine strength creeps up around the nub, though less than expected from the size. I clocked 1 hour 40 minutes smoke time with no relights needed.
The domed cap cuts cleanly with a v-cutter. While the 60-ring feels massive initially, the box-pressed shape settles comfortably between fingers. Watch the burn line - the thick diameter tends to canoe slightly in windy conditions. Pair with black coffee or bourbon to amplify the sweeter notes.
