This 5×50 Dominican powerhouse comes box-pressed with an oily Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro wrapper, delivering LFD's signature intensity. At $8.28 per stick in 20-count boxes, the Matatan Maduro isn't for beginners - its full-bodied profile demands slow smoking to tame the pepper spike.
Initial draws hit with black pepper that clings to the throat. Earthy notes emerge around the 1" mark - think damp forest floor mixed with espresso grounds. Retrohale brings unexpected caramel sweetness through the nasal burn.
At 30% burned, the smoke thickens into leather and dark chocolate territory. Watch for occasional tar buildup requiring purges. Ash holds firm in 1.5" segments showing quality roll.
Last third introduces mineral tang reminiscent of volcanic soil. Strength accumulates noticeably - novice smokers should stop here. Veteran smokers get rewarded with walnut skin bitterness balancing earlier sweetness.
The box-pressed format feels substantial in hand. Wrapper veins run tight with visible oil sheen. Draw resistance sits at medium - no need for perfect draw tools. Burn line stays razor-sharp when smoked slowly (75+ minute smoke time recommended).
