Let's talk about the PDR 1878 Medium Roast Cafe Corona - a 5.25" x44 Dominican stick that's become my go-to morning smoke. At $127.58 for a box of 20, it's priced right for weekly indulgence. The Ecuadorian Claro wrapper feels slightly oily to the touch after two weeks in my 69% humidor, and that signature coffee-infused aroma hits you before you even cut the cap.
The first inch delivers instant coffee grounds flavor - think fresh espresso beans without the acidity. There's a subtle sweetness reminiscent of brown sugar that tempers the intensity. Burn line stays razor-sharp, producing medium-density smoke that doesn't overwhelm in small spaces.
At the halfway point, the Dominican Criollo 98 binder comes alive with toasted almond notes. The coffee character shifts toward dark chocolate mocha, accompanied by a cedar undertone I associate with well-aged cabinets. Draw remains perfect without corrections, though the ash starts flaking around the 1" mark.
The last third introduces black pepper spice that lingers on the tongue. While nicotine strength stays manageable, I notice increased tar buildup on the lips. Those Nicaraguan fillers reveal themselves through earthy leather notes, though the coffee infusion becomes more synthetic tasting near the nub.
Rolled in Santiago's PDR factory using Dominican Criollo 98 leaves, this blend shows its Cibao Valley terroir through volcanic soil minerality. The Ecuadorian wrapper adds just enough sweetness to balance the coffee infusion process. While not as complex as non-flavored counterparts, it maintains better tobacco integrity than most infused cigars.
