Meet the Cohiba Nicaragua N52 En Crystale - a box-pressed robusto that's been making waves in cigar circles since its 2020 release. Packaged in crystal-clear tubes, these 5½" x 52 sticks pack Nicaraguan firepower wrapped in Honduran sunshine. At $142.49 for 8 pieces, it's positioning itself as an affordable luxury for those who like their smokes with volcanic soil character and proper nicotine kick.
The first third hits with Estelí's signature black pepper spray, settling into earthy leather notes after about half-inch burn. Midway through, look for transitions - dark chocolate emerges as Jalapa's sweeter leaves balance the blend. The final third gets serious with coffee bean bitterness and unexpected caramel sweetness fighting for dominance. Smoke production's moderate but nicotine build-up sneaks up faster than typical New World cigars.
That oily Colorado Oscuro wrapper isn't just for show. Triple-cap stays intact through multiple relights, though the box-press loses its sharp edges after 15 minutes. Burn line stays surprisingly even given the thick 52 ring gauge. Expect solid ash retention - three taps max per third if you're nursing it slowly.
Halfwheel's 2023 review nailed it - "the working man's Cohiba." Construction consistency impresses (96% burn score across 50 samples), though some find the Honduran wrapper overpowers Nicaraguan fillers. Best paired with aged rum to cut through the mid-smoke spice. Not for morning coffee sessions - this cigar demands your full attention post-lunch.
