This hefty Dominican-made Churchill from Romeo y Julieta defies expectations with its 7-inch length and 56 ring girth. Priced around $11 per stick in boxes of 20, it sports a dark Ecuadorian Habano wrapper hugging Dominican Piloto/Olor fillers. While RyJ purists might do a double-take at the non-Cuban origin, the Grupo de Maestros blending team delivers a full-bodied punch that demands attention.
The initial puffs hit with black pepper spice that settles into roasted coffee beans within minutes. Noticeable tar accumulation on the lips - keep a drink handy. Burn line stays sharp despite the thick ring gauge, though smoke production stays moderate.
Earthiness emerges through charred oak and molasses sweetness. Retrohale brings cinnamon zing that cuts through the density. Watch for occasional tunneling requiring touch-ups, especially in humid climates.
Leather and dark chocolate dominate as nicotine strength peaks. The last two inches develop mineral bitterness typical of Dominican puros - time your cutoff before the 6-inch mark for optimal experience.
The oily wrapper maintains structural integrity despite multiple relights. Cap holds firm through V-cut application. Ashes flake more than Cuban counterparts but hold for 1.5-2" segments. Box date codes from 2021-2023 show improved consistency in draw resistance.
