Let's cut to the chase - the Charter Oak Habano Grande Robusto (152×52) delivers Connecticut heritage in a $6.50-per-stick package that punches above its weight. Foundation's 20-count boxes showcase Nicaraguan craftsmanship through a Connecticut Habano wrapper hugging Estelí/Jalapa fillers. Perfectly rolled with triple-fermented leaves, this medium-strength stick transitions from peppery kick to dessert-worthy finale without breaking your humidor budget.
The cold draw hits with black pepper and cedar. Initial puffs unleash toasted cashews and mineral undertones - think licking a granite counter after sprinkling brown sugar. Smoke output stays moderate, needing occasional touch-ups.
Leather and baking spices take center stage at the halfway point. Retrohale reveals cinnamon-dusted espresso beans with lingering caramel sweetness. Watch for tight ash that holds 1.5" before dropping.
Nicaraguan terroir shouts loudest here - cocoa powder and charred oak dominate. The last inch brings predictable bitterness (nitrogen-heavy fertilizers?) requiring early dismissal. Pair with aged rum to balance the earthy finale.
The oily Ecuadorian wrapper shows minimal veins but develops micro-cracks in low humidity. TABSA's rollers nailed the draw - firm resistance like drinking thick milkshake. Box code "JCF 23" specimens burned straighter than earlier batches.
Dry-box for 6 hours before lighting to tame Jalapa's sweetness. These reward patient aging - my 18-month-old singles developed mushroom umami missing from fresh rolls.
