Let's talk about the Villiger 1888 Corona - a 6"x43 parejo that'll set you back about $6 per stick in 20-count boxes. Wrapped in oily Ecuadorian Sumatra leaf, this medium-strength Dominican-made cigar punches above its price point with construction that stays razor-sharp from first light to nub. The draw's smoother than a Swiss watch mechanism, just like you'd expect from a brand that's been around since Bismarck was kicking.
The foot lights up with cedar shavings and roasted almonds - not madhouse complex, but the sort of comfort flavors that pair perfectly with morning coffee. Smoke output stays moderate, needing just gentle puffs to keep the even burn line marching forward.
At the halfway mark, unsweetened cocoa powder emerges through the nose, backed by that distinct Dominican "twang". The ash holds strong for 1.5"+ if you're careful, though the heat builds faster than I'd like past the 45-minute mark.
The last two inches amp up the pepper without getting harsh. Leather and earth notes dominate now, with just a whisper of caramelized sugar in the retrohale. Watch for tar buildup in the last inch - smart money puts this one down with about 15 minutes left.
The triple cap peels cleanly with most cutters, though I prefer a V-cut here to concentrate the draw. While not quite box-press tight, the roll density feels Goldilocks-right - no soft spots or plugging issues in the samples I tried. Wrapper veins stay discreet under that coffee-brown cloak.
Rest these for 6-8 weeks in 65% humidity to mellow the initial peppery edge. Pair with espresso or amber ale to complement the nutty core without overwhelming the delicate balance.
