When an iconic Cuban marque meets Nicaraguan craftsmanship magic happens. The H.Upmann by AJ Fernandez Robusto packs 5"x52 dimensions into a $9.25/stick masterpiece, delivering a medium-bodied smoke that'll make Connecticut lovers rethink their loyalties. Let's dissect this collab gem.
Cold draw serves baking spices - think nutmeg on French toast. Initial puffs bring white pepper zing softened by cashew butter. The Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper works overtime here, keeping things smooth despite the Nicaraguan core.
AJ's signature kicks in - charred oak and dark roast coffee emerge. Watch for caramelized sugar notes around the halfway point, like the crust on crème brûlée. Smoke output increases noticeably - this ain't your grandpa's mild Connecticut.
Volcanic soil minerals surface alongside 70% dark chocolate bitterness. Retrohale reveals why this scored 93pts - there's aged leather complexity usually found in $20 sticks. Nub it carefully though - heavy nicotine creeps in past the band.
How it stacks against similar Connecticut/Nicaragua hybrids:
Pair this with Nicaraguan rum like Flor de Caña 7-Year - the molasses sweetness counters the earthy finish beautifully. Morning smoke? Try cold brew coffee to amplify the cocoa notes.
