Meet the Rocky Patel Fifty-Five Corona - a Nicaraguan puro that defies conventional sizing with its bold 55 ring gauge packed into a compact 4-inch frame. This box-pressed parejo celebrates consistency, as every vitola in the Fifty-Five line maintains that signature 55 ring measurement. Born as a birthday tribute to Rocky's 55th, this blend transitioned from limited edition to permanent status by popular demand, crafted with specially aged tobaccos from the master's private reserves.
The cold draw delivers espresso granules and raisin sweetness. Upon lighting, charred oak dominates with black pepper tingle on retrohale. Thick smoke production belies its compact size, requiring slow cadence to prevent overheating. Ash holds firm in silver-dollar segments.
Pepper transitions to cayenne warmth as burnt caramel emerges. Noticeable mineral tang develops - reminiscent of Estelí-grown tobacco's signature flintiness. Coffee grounds texture coats the palate, accompanied by faint bakers cocoa undertones. Combustion remains razor-sharp without touch-ups.
Leather and earth tones surface at the band point, with residual sweetness clinging to the lips like molasses. Smoke turns creamier despite increased nicotine presence. Savory finish introduces umami notes akin to sun-dried tomatoes, lingering 15+ minutes post-smoke.
Rolled at Rocky's TaviCusa facility in Estelí, this blend showcases Jalapa valley's volcanic soil influence through its nutty base. The Costa Rican binder adds structural integrity, while dual Nicaraguan fillers (Seco for aroma, Viso for strength) create layered complexity. Maduro wrapper leaves undergo 18-month fermentation in pilones, explaining the oily sheen and minimal tooth.
