Let's cut to the chase about this 6.5"x48 Nicaraguan powerhouse wrapped in Mexican San Andrés leaf. The ME II Churchill comes in boxes of 15 priced around $130, delivering that signature Tatuaje box-pressed construction Pete Johnson fans crave. This dark horse shows serious oil on its maduro wrapper - the kind that leaves fingerprints if you stare too long. Prep your whiskey glass though, that full strength rating ain't joking.
First Third: Immediate black pepper kick with charred oak undertones. Smoke output's medium but dense - hangs in the air like barbecue smoke. Retrohale reveals baking spices but watch that nicotine punch.
Middle Third: Flavor mutiny happens here. Coffee grounds and unsweetened cocoa dominate while the wrapper's maduro sweetness starts creeping in. Construction holds firm despite the bold transitions - no touch-ups needed.
Final Third: Earthiness takes over with damp soil notes. The San Andrés leaf shines with molasses undertones, though some testers reported slight bitterness if smoked too fast. Clocked 90min smoke time average.
The triple cap cuts clean with any guillotine. Box-press shape feels substantial without being sharp-edged. Burn line stays razor-straight 80% of the time - occasional canoeing reported in humid climates. Ash holds 1.5-2" before dropping.
Needs drinks that match its intensity:
